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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 2001-09-17 Agendas " ¡. CITY OF NORTH RICH LAND HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION SEPTEMBER 17, 2001 - 6:00 P.M. AGENDA The City Council of the City of North Richland Hills will hold a work session on Monday, September 17, 2001 at 6:00 p.m. at the North Richland Hills City Hall in the Pre-Council Room, 7301 Northeast Loop 820, North Richland Hills, Texas. AGENDA: 1. Call to Order 2. Discussion of City Image Study 3. Consensus and Direction of City Image Study e 4. *Executive Session - The Council will enter into closed executive session for deliberation regarding real property as authorized by Government Code §551. 072: a. Parks and Public Works 5. Adjournment *Closed due to subject matter as provided by the Open Meetings Law. If any action is contemplated, it will be taken in open session. ~ POSTED ¿;-/¿¡-o/ Dete cJ-.50 Jj IYl , Time e (J. CIty SecreIory By ~ · . INFORMAL REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY CO~NCIL No. IR #2001-138 f, ~ \i V Date: September 17, 2001 Subject: Review of City Image Study On Monday evening at 6: 15pm we will be having a worksession to review the elements of the City Image Study that was drafted by city staff. As most of you remember, a survey was sent to each Council member to gain your input as well as importance of each of the elements in the Image Study. We have taken that information and formulated a presentation that coincides with Council's survey comments and additional city research and hope to gain consensus as to Council priorities. Steve Norwood and Greg Vick will be the presenting the image study and additional staff from Planning, Public Works and Parks and Recreation will be available to address specific questions that may arise. The Parks and Recreation staff primarily assembled the City Image Study; however, it will the Planning Department, as well as Public Works staff that will be implementing those particular elements. The Parks and Recreation Department will serve more of a "consultant" role on the different elements. There is a substantial amount of information that needs to be discussed Monday. night and I want to be clear that Monday evening is not to formally adopt the City Image Study in any form. It is primarily to gain a general consensus of the Council's priorities as well as policies and ordinances to amend or to develop based on comments from the Council. This is very similar to the process that was taken with the Land Use Ad Hoc Committee where great concepts were brought forward to Council, and then were prioritized and specific policies were drafted for Council approval. I would encourage you to bring your copy of the City Image Study as that document will be referred to during the presentation. If you do not have your Image Study please contact staff and we can have a copy delivered to you, or give you one at the meeting. However, the majority of the presentation will be explaining in some detail what the different elements are comprised of -- pointing out different discussion issues, costs and concerns that need to be addressed. We want to provide ample time to discuss with Council the individual elements and to arrive at a consensus on each. Finally, City staff will be making suggestions for how to go forward after Council has given direction on the elements. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me, and we look forward to seeing you at 6:15pm Monday, September 17. (By the way, dinner will be provided) ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS - . CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS CITY COUNCIL, WORK SESSION SEPTEMBER 17,2001 - 6:15 PM WORKING AGENDA 1. Introduction - Larry J. Cunningham 2. City Image Presentation A. Elements - Steve Norwood · Burial of Overhead Utilities when Possible · Replacing Asphalt Streets with Concrete · Medians and Micro-Medians · Improved Parking Lot Screening · Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Street Name Signs · Create a Loop 820 Task Force to Guide TxDOT Design of the Highway's Expansion · Locating Sidewalks to the Curb Resulting in a Larger Parkway · Replacing Aging Wood Privacy Fence with Masonry Walls e REVIEW, DISCUSS AND GENERAL CONSENSUS 3. Break B. Remaining Elements - Greg Vick · Reduced Visual Clutter by Consolidating or Eliminating Unnecessary Traffic Signs · Uniform Street Lights and Decorative Banners · Redesigned Bridges · Modify the Use of Earthen Channels by Implementing Terraced Drainageways with Pilot Channels · Redesigned Traffic Signs (Stop Signs, Yield Signs, etc.) · Additional City Entry Signs · Substitution of Chain Link Fence Along Drainageways · Implementation of a Street Tree Theme · Implement a More Significant Public Art Program and Stronger Public Art Funding · Special Intersection Pavement Treatments REVIEW, DISCUSS AND GENERAL CONSENSUS 4. Wrap Up and Council Direction to Staff e 5. Adjourn · City Image Study A. The Elements (1=Least Important, 10=Most Important) Page 25 Burial of Overhead Utilities when Possible 8.75 29 Replacing Asphalt Streets with Concrete 8.50 19 Medians and Micro-Medians 7.50 22 Improved Parking Lot Screening 7.43 10 Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Street Name Signs 7.38 35 Create a Loop 820 Task force to Guide TxDot Design of the 7.13 Highway's Expansion 17 Locating Sidewalks to the Curb Resulting in a Larger Parkway 7.00 28 Replacing Aging Wood Privacy Fence with Masonry Walls 7.00 26 Reduced Visual Clutter by Consolidating or Eliminating Unnecessary 6.88 Traffic Signs 9 Uniform Street Lights and Decorative Banners 6.75 13 Redesigned Bridges 6.63 33 Modify the Use of Earthen Channels by Implementing Terraced 6.50 Drainageways with Pilot Channels 15 Redesigned Traffic Signs (Stop Signs, Yield Signs, etc.) 6.38 4 Additional City Entry Signs 6.14 32 Substitution of Chain Link Fence Along Drainageways 6.00 17 Implementation of a Street Tree Theme 5.88 e 39 Implement a More Significant Public Art Program and Stronger 5.88 Public Art Funding 6 Special Intersection Pavement Treatments 1.90 B. Are there any elements of the City Image Study that you believe are not feasible or are unnecessary? Pavement Treatments 4 All Are Necessary 3 Loop 820 Belongs to the State 1 Burying Utility Lines in Established Neighborhoods 1 Redesigned Bridges 1 Replacing Aging Wood with Mansonry Walls 1 C. Which One of the Following Thoroughfares are Most Important in Implementing the City Image Study? (This is a comparative ranking with the lowest number being most important.) Davis 1.57 Rufe Snow 2.37 Grapevine Highway 2.63 Loop820 3.25 Mid-Cities 3.75 e North Tarrant Parkway 3.88 Precinct Line 4.50 - · D. Which of the following Collector Streets are most important in implementing the City Image Study? Holiday Lane 7 Glenview Drive 6 Main Street 6 Smithfield Road 5 Starnes Drive 3 Maplewood Drive 2 Bedford Euless Road 1 Harwood Road 1 Industrial Park Drive 1 Chapman Road 1 Amundson Drive 1 Rumfield Drive 1 Shady Gove Road 1 Bursey Road 1 Booth Calloway Road 0 Tecnol Boulevard 0 Hightower 0 E. Which approach makes more sense to you? e One General Area of the City at a Time 4 Implementing One Element at a Time 2 One Thoroughfare at a Time 2 One Intersection at a Time 0 Other 0 F. What are some challenges you foresee in implementing City Image Enhancement Projects? Funding 6 Impact on Future Councils 1 Impact on Traffic 1 G. List any specific information that you would like to see presented in an upcoming City image workshop. No Comment 3 Timetable/Items that Can Be Implemented Next Budget Year 2 Cost of Items including Signs! Funding Source 2 Non-Measurable Benefits. Impact on Economic Development 1 East-West Thoroughfares 1 H. Which Projects are Important to You? Please list in order of priority. e The Redevelopment of Rufe Snow and Davis were listed more than any other item by Council Members. - · Rufe Snow was ranked as higher priority than Davis. Other streets that need improvements were Smithfield and Main Street, Mid-Cities, Precinct Line, and N.E. Tarrant Blvd. Street beautification, street scaping, and landscaping among medians was ranked as the third most important item among Council Members. Medians that Council Members were interested in landscaping were along Grapevine Highway, Rufe Snow to Haltom City, and NRH City Lines. The fOllowing items were only listed once by Council Members, they are put in order of priority. 1) Concrete Streets and Paving 2) Masonry Walls, Lot Screening, and Street Signs 3) Expansion of Fine Arts Program 4) Bury Overhead Utilities One Council Member listed Improvements by Intersection, the fOllowing are the intersections in order of priority. e 1) Rufe Snow 2) Davis and N. Tarrant Parkway 3) Glenviewand Grapevine Highway 4) Loop 820 and Grapevine Highway 5) Grapevine Highway, Loop 820, and Bedford-Eu/ess Road 6) Grapevine Highway from Loop 820 to G/enview e \ NORTH RICHLAND HILLS . City Image Study e Nothing is quite as imp 0 r tan t as fi r s t impressions. This is especially true of a city's image, which offers a glimpse of the lifestyle and ambience of a city. e C IT Y o F C H 0 ICE ~,.I,I ùu.r\;..e J'~ \i,dD61 v\''1~-''1 · e e NORTH RICHLAND HILLS In concert with the City Council Goals and Objectives pursuant to quality development and quality redevelopment and reinvestment, the Parks and Recreation Department began work on a "Streetscape Study" to provide recommendations intended to en- hance the image of the City and the improve the quality of life for the community. The study was initially designed to raise the standards of streetscape through landscaping, which in turn would instill community pride, enhance our City's image and improve the "livability" of our community. The preliminary research, collection and analysis of base information for this study led to the understanding that, in addition to purely streetscape, other aspects of urban growth inhibit the image of a community. We discovered that visual clutter, too much concrete, sterile bridges:md drainage ways, and lack of a sense of place all inhibit the livability of a city. Solely addressing streetscape landscaping would be akin to applying a "Band-Aid" in hopes of improving our City's image. The City Image Study therefore takes an objective and sometimes-critical look at our- selves by identifying these aspects of urban growth that inhibit the livability of our com- munity. Each aspect is examined, and in response, a recommendation for enhancing our image is proposed. Many of the recommendations reflect changes in "policy" through revisions or amend- ments to current ordinances, while other recommendations will require funding alloca- tions. The Cost Estimate section of the study is designed to provide relative cost ranges for implementing the proposed recommendations. Similar to the City's Thoroughfare Plan and Park System Master Plan, we realize that cost estimate totals for implementing an entire long-range plan can be foreboding. This information should be approached with the understanding that any long-term plan can be accomplished "one piece at a time". C IT Y o F CHOICE · - -r current constraint to achieving an acceptable city image : urban growth livability inhibitor ~ UGLI Cities, such as North Richland Hills, with a 1960 sand 70 s legacy of land use and traffic planning often find themselves spread out and unprepared to create the intimate and viable pedestrian and visual spaces they desire. In fact, road- ways and shopping areas designed solely for vehicular convenience and imme- diate accessibility do just the opposite. It takes bold and sometimes unpopular positions to achieve the greater good. The hard decisions to spend financial resources for a new streetscape is usually a difficult proposition for most communities. It often is motivated first by eco- nomic goals, and secondly by aesthetic objectives. If cities want to lure customers back through revenue generating activities that increase tax dollars and property values, the physical setting needs to be attrac- tive and inviting. While expanding economic opportunities by redevelopment, a community may also look to enhance its image by creating a sense of place on a street that is deteriorating or nondescript. Other aspects of urban growth, in addition to purely streetscape, quite often inhibit the image and ensuing livability of a community. Lack of a sense of place, visual clutter, too much concrete, and sterile bridges and drainage ways all inhibit the livability of a community. These Urban Growth Livability In- hibitors (UGLI's) and the resulting recommendations for enhancing the city's image are the focus of this study. We will identify and examine each inhibitor, and in response provide a Progressive Recommendation Enhancing Tomorrow's Image (PRETI). PRETI progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image ~ solution designed to create a superior city image current constraint to achieving an acceptable city image urban growth livability inhibitor 16 monotony UGLI 4 where am i? 8 identi ty? 24 visual clutter 30 concrete rivers 34 the great wall 38 cuI ture gap . e e solution designed to create a superior city image progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image PRETI a new look 9 synergy 17 less is more 25 green streams 31 the scenic route 35 the state of the art 39 SUPPLEMENTAL policy issues 42 . cost estJ.mates 48 appendix 50 current constraint to achieving an acceptable city imáge urban growth livability inhibitor UGLI · Nothing separates North Rich/and Hills from surrounding cities · Nothing signifies you have arrived in North Rich/and Hills LEGEND _ MAJOR ARTERIAL @ TYPE A ENTRY PORTAL .. MINOR ARTERIAL @ TYPE 8 ENTRY PORTAL _ COLLECTOR © TYPE C ENTRY PORTAL ... SPECIAL INTERSECTIONS Figure 1 - City Entry Portals o Currently, there is no distinction between North Rìchland Hills and its neighbors. Bordered by six other cities, it is difficult to discern where one ends and the next begins. Nowhere is the city's name prominently displayed. To combat lack of identity, areas of the city have been located that present opportunities to con- vey sense of entry. (See Figure 1) These areas pri- marily occur near the intersections of major thor- oughfares located in proximity to the city limits. Signage, landscaping and paving patterns should be utilized at these locations to distinguish North Rich- land Hills from its neighbors. City Entry Signs One ofthe most effective methods of estab- lishing identity is signage. Three types of city entry signs have been designed to accommodate varying site conditions. All ofthe signs have backlit acrylic logos on aluminum faces supported by a masonry structure within a matching stone planter. City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image PRETI · Identify major entry portals to the city · Locate appropriately sized city entry signs in major entry portals · Utilize paving patterns and landscaping to define entry spaces The following intersections are identified as Type A Portals: · North Tarrant Parkway at Precinct Line Road · Bursey Road at Rufe Snow Drive · Mid-Cities Boulevard at Rufe Snow Drive . · Mid-Cities Boulevard at Precinct Line Road . · Rumfield Road at Precinct Line Road · Harwood Road at Campus Road · Bedford-Euless Road at Nevada Trail · Glenview Drive near Royal Court · Grapevine Highway (26) at Rufe Snow Drive · Glenview Drive at Booth Calloway Road The Type A Entry Portal includes City Entry Sign Type A which is the smallest ofthe three and is oriented vertically. (See Figure 2) These signs will be located in planting areas oflow groundcover. The stone planter at the base ofthe sign will contain low shrubs - so not to block the lettering on the sign. N®RTH RICHLAND HILLS e -~ ~--..~ ~ .~.. Figure 2 - City Entry Sign Type A City of North Rich/and Hills Where no existing trees conflict, ornamental trees will be planted on each bordering R.O.W. The following intersections are identified as Type B Portals: · Grapevine Highway (26) near Campus Drive · North Tarrant Parkway at Little Bear Creek Park · Grapevine Highway (26) near Richland Plaza City Entry Sign Type B is included in the Type B Entry Portal. This sign has a low profile sign panel announcing the name of the city. The sign will have a stone planter around the base filled with low shrubs. (See Figure 3) The sign will be sur- rounded by a low groundcover. Within the groundcover will be wall-washer lights for main column and banner. Where no existing trees con- flict, there will be a row oflarge evergreen trees and infonnal groups of flowering trees on each end of 6 ® the evergreens. The Type C Entry Portal includes a Type C City Entry Sign. This sign is to be used only along Loop 820 due to its large scale. The Type C sign lacks the rail and banner associated with the other two which allows large grasses to be planted in the beds to help scale down its mass. (See Figure 4) N®RTH RICHLAND HILLS Figure 4 - City Entry Sign Type C ~ ~ J ~r::Q¡J M/D- C-/TIE-5 (j)-,- ~ Street pavers along with landscaping should be used in conjunction with the entry signs to help define each portal, accentuate intersections and de- lineate space. (See Figure 5) Special Intersections Major intersections shall be different from the standard intersection through the use of concrete pavers, integrally colored concrete, and sand blasted concrete finishes. (See Figure 6) The scope of work in each intersection should include all areas within and including the crosswalks. A less expensive option would be to only replace the area within the circle design and use paint instead of pavers to define the crosswalks. It would also be possible to use patterned concrete instead of pavers in the star area. Though these options are less J.-A~f? 'fJ1f!P€ TI<~ ~ a;u Pef!ENN /,AI.. C:d/..ð~ q~{/#t::>CðV~R ð:J~E/<: a:;¡.,¡c¡er:rt: p !I.It:f?~ F ~¡'¡/lM6NT;rt. CiMSS Figure 5 - City Entry Portal at Mid-Cities Boulevard near Rufe Snow ® City Image Study solution designed to create a superior city image progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image PRETI -1""""" 1 ~" , ~--, IL '0' ,nnnDDDDDDr~:-:f'D tJULJI J ijUL =-1 - CóNCI?ere. pl/Vß{Z. Cðtð?- ;-\', HI:: II Dt;e SWP~ST âJNCReTé= nNISIt C:rJ),j¿;~eTé 'pIWE/Z 'C: (/N'Il>Sü1,R øNqeTI? ¡::'/fþ'þ,tZ âJUR 'ð', (/N'Il>,ç~,R ~/'1 nNISltfiþ C:rJ),j¿;~eTé Mid-Cities Blvd. Watauga Road fS CO/ICl?eTI? ,PAVel!: ¿;ct.-Of!- À' ,(/N'Il>Sü1,R e P'/I/NTéÞ c,J?¿J55 W/lhK. Figure 6 - Special Intersection expensive the aesthetics of the intersection would be compromised somewhat with their implementation. · Rufe Snow Drive · Glenview Drive · Loop 820 (north and south) · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Hightower The special intersection treatments will occur at the following intersections: · Grapevine Highway (26) · Glenview Drive · Davis Boulevard · Harwood · Davis Boulevard · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Stames/Rumfield · North Tarrant Parkway e City of North Rich/and Hills ø urban growth livability inhibitor L-- current constraint to achieving an acceptable city imáge UGLI · Thoroughfares are unattractive and uninviting · Lack of historical references · Absence of character or continuity · Lack significant architectural style Rapid urban growth has left in its wake a landscape absent of character, identity or a sense of place. * ~~ V Randomly spaced and irregular strip com- mercial corridors leave the streetscape disjointed and sometimes confusing. The city is comprised of many such areas which lack a design theme where no sig- nificant architectural heritage exists. ~AIN~~ (:4(/I-Þ BE C #1/ ¡\,tg et> tv/TN ~éC/II1- ~n:wrs OR SI!5I1StJlMI- IKTI/IITlG'S The city's thoroughfares lack identity and unity. Constructing the city's trafficways has been motivated first by short tenn economic goals with little thought for aesthetic objectives. Roadways and shopping areas designed pri- marily for vehicular convenience and accessibility lack visual stimulation and are incompatible with pedestrian circulation. ï""4f' Finally, roadway lighting has no unified J I theme placing a variety ofluminaires on wooden or Figure 7 - Street Light in Median with Banners metal poles with no specific reason for doing so. ® ~~~ progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image PREYI · Introduce decorative streetscape lighting along major corridors · Enhance traffic signalization complementing streetscape lights · Introduce colorful elements including banners and seasonal lighting and decorations · Weave the entry sign and special intersection themes into interior loca- tions throughout the city e · Redesign traffic and directional signs Savvy communities are now spending tax dollars on improvements that can become civic trea- sures and points of pride for generations. If cities want to lure customers and developers through rev- enue generating activities that increase tax dollars and property values, the physical setting must be at- tractive and inviting. Weaving the entry sign imagery into the in- terior landscape of the city is necessary to succeed in creating a cohesive city image. Details of the entry signs can be adapted to other streetscape ele- ments including bridge treatments and bollards. In addition to introducing the special inter- section improvements (Figure 6) throughout the major intersections within the city, creating a new look is accomplished by establishing unifying ele- ments through street lights, traffic signalization, street signs, bridge structures, and decorative e bollards. City of North Rich/and Hills Streets cape Lighting Streetscape lighting is an effective method of unifying roadways and introducing a theme which establishes a city's character. The endless variety of luminaires and poles should be replaced with uni- form lamps and standards which are timeless in char- acter, sturdy, and relatively maintenance free. The street light design should be flexible enough to al- low variations such as banner mounts and duallu- minaires. (See Figure 7) The temptation to employ refractor-type roadway luminaires is an obvious device that should be avoided. With the advent of new technologies including lamps, reflectors, and optical systems, light can be delivered to its target without the associated glare of exposed sources. The use of cutoffs on road- way luminaires has had a great impact on how we drive, making driving and identification of other vehicles, pedestrians and surroundings much easier. ® An important consideration for street light- ing is color. Most street, sidewalk and facade light- ing is accomplished with metal-halide white light. Recent studies clearly have proven that peripheral vision is heightened under white sources of light. This is critical in heavy vehicular trafficked areas, such as Rufe Snow Drive. Removing unattractive overhead street lights (cobra-heads) will reduce clutter and soften the streetscape setting. Sfí/!: J.ltitfTINC¡ A WN$ p/lð,oe¡tTr t./J/é:f SHHt.I- NdT /fAY/: tJ/'t' 'SITß Sf7;..t..tq1!! ,POtl-tl Tlðl./, I 1111 ~ ..¡ )-. l- I 1(.1 14 " () I( "I I Figure 8 - Roadway Luminaire Light Distribution @ C2)---') Unifonn metal-halide street lighting should be installed along the following thoroughfares: · Rufe Snow Drive · Davis Boulevard · Precinct Line Road · North Tarrant Parkway · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Grapevine Highway (26) · Holiday Lane · Harnrood Road · Bedford-Euless Road · Glenview Drive TRAFFIC SIGNALS In order to maintain consistency of color and unity of design in all structural elements within the streetscape, it is recommended that custom traffic signal poles and mast arms be provided that match the street lights in character and color. Signal boxes should be painted or sealed with a powder coat fin- ish to match the traffic signal poles. Major Arterials The traffic signalization on major arterials should include a custom pole and mast with inte- gral street light and a backlit street name sign. (See Figure 9) A less expensive option would be to paint the pole and mast to match the street light poles and include an attachable molded pole base to produce a custom look. City Image Study solution designed to create a superior city image progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image PREYI The traffic signalization should be replaced or enhanced at the following major intersections: · Rufe Snow Drive at: · Grapevine Highway (26) · Glenview Drive · Meadowlakes · Loop 820-South and North · Dick Lewis · Industrial · Stardust · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Chapman Drive · Hightower · Starnes · Davis Boulevard · Harwood · Lola · Emerald Hills Way · College · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Cardinal · Starnes/Rumfield Road · North Tarrant Parkway $T~ N^Mes MdIlNTW ð¡..¡ ~M t7F SKjNAi- e o I\U- J1¡A.,'¡ Ofl. A.Frlf¥l.fAI.,~ :>IVtJ,.J., HAve $~ $/$/$ íJllfT I!/?~ /!!1fCI(¡"'1í. t"/rINT s,.t$V/'f.l S e.tA~i( fYI/NT rð~ 1'1~ ANt:> t./C¡1ff rIXT{/~E THE SAMe aJ,.¿J,R. e Figure 9 - Major Arterial Traffic Signalization City of North Rich/and Hills @ · Precinct Line · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Martin · North Tarrant Parkway · Grapevine Highway (26) · Glenview Drive · Road to the Mall · Rodger Line Drive · Loop 820-North and South · Strummer · Harwood · Emerald Hills Way · NRHz 0 Entrance · Precinct Line Road · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Dick Fisher (wood) · Technol · Holiday Lane · Smithfield Road · Holiday Lane · Loop 820-North and South · Hightower · Grapevine Highway (26) · Glenview Drive · Harwood Road Minor arterials will be similar to major arte- rials with the exception of the backlit street name signs which will be replaced with pole mounted blades. (See Figure 10) @ ~-J STlreer NAHes MIf/NfEl> "" f'I1¡.¿, MNN~. ¡:>A/IJT ~kSAlAt'S /'/J.It(;K, Figure 10 - Minor Arterial Traffic Signalization Minor Arterials The traffic signalization should be replaced or enhanced at the following major intersections: · Harwood · Campus · Glenview Drive · Flory · Vance · Booth-Calloway · Smithfield · Chapman Drive · Starnes City Image Study e progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image · Holiday Lane · Lola · Dick Lewis · Industrial Some intersections are still signalized with wood poles and cables. Improvements to these in- tersections should include introducing the custom decorative traffic signal pole. Bridge Enhancements . Weaving the entry sign theme into the inte- rior landscape ofthe city can readily be accomplished by introducing the portal design elements and struc- tural materials into the existing infrastructure. Like the roadways, the design and engineer- ing of bridges and culverts have been motivated by economics without regard for aesthetics. The result 'pdST C/ d.C;. tx(, C;A'P -~ IV' PRETI of this approach is reflected in sterile, nondescript bridge structures and unsightly roadside culverts. Bridge structures on major thoroughfares should be enhanced by removing oversized pipe rail- ing and capping the parapet wall with stone veneer matching the entry signs as seen in Figure J J . Bridge structures should be enhanced at the following locations: · Rufe Snow . · Cottonbelt Rail · Mid-Cities Boulevard · West of Cardinal Lane · Near Cardinal Lane · Cottonbelt Rail · East of Techno I PfZ<'f>dSÇ.t> srdNe Ell!) UJNc>moN !?éa:.SSep SIJICMe¿ ío H~Vé C;¡rr j..o~o. City of Norlh Rich/and Hills Figure 11 - Proposed Bridge Design @ ~ , " · Davis · North of Emerald Hills Way · North of Cross · North of Starnes · North of Cherokee Trail · North ofThombridge · South of Precinct Line Road Bollards · Precinct Line Road · Near Grapevine Highway (26) · North of Rum field Road Continuing the entry portal theme into the interior landscape of the city can also be accom- plished by introducing the entry sign design elements and materials into medians and rights-of-way in the form ofbollards. (See Figure 12) Bollards can be considered a form of public art which bring a sense of identity to a community. Public art is discussed further in Section 7 - The State of The Art. · North Tarrant Parkway · West of Smithfield Road These bollards should occur along or within the following major arterials: · Glenview Drive · East of Booth-Calloway · East of Flory · Rufe Snow Drive · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Davis Boulevard · North Tarrant Parkway · Grapevine Highway (26) · Loop 820 · Holiday Lane · North of Dick Lewis · Industrial r¡;:,A. vt=i- J.ItNt=S í{(.t'\Vt:/- Figure 12 - Proposed Bollard Design @ City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image Traffic Control and Street Name Signs Signage is necessary to maintain a sense of control within the street environment. Signs deemed necessary should be mounted and installed consis- tently along the major and minor thoroughfares of the city. Signs should be mounted on a square base plate and installed within a 3" square post frame. The frame and the back of these signs should be painted to match the City's standard dark blue used on the faces of the city entry signs. (See Figure 13) To improve orientation within the City the following is recommended: e 2'-0" fl( t'M CIJ~b .. <;) _1 (f¡ t-.. ~ ~ )": <;) I Ìl\ PREYI 1. Approaches to major and minor thoroughfare intersections should be announced by appropri- ate signage located 500-750 feet from the inter- section. 2. Intersections of major arterials be signed by the use of backlit sign blocks located on traffic sig- nal cross anns. (Refer to Figure 9) 3. Intersections of minor arterials be signed by the use of sign blades located on the traffic signal poles. (Refer to Figure 10) PIr/NT SIGN f?;,tLj( THe SltMe- AS THE ¡:~Mé. ," 5r({)A~ FfV'-.I1E . . . ~fttffmr:::{:tm{{r::{:::!·¡¡:·j·,:::::¡.¡·I¡:!¡jj·:,!:I-¡'·:¡·:::¡!.j::¡,!,:¡,,!:!:¡:!:!·:¡¡!:'¡¡¡¡!¡:·¡.¡i<¡¡'j!.:':.¡::.!!:¡.:.!..!:!¡.:'::j!':'>::!::::!!¡j'!'¡:i'j!:::.:i:!:·::!·!,·:·:: e City of North Rich/and Hills Figure 13 - Proposed Traffic Control Sign @ current constraint to achieving an acceptable city imäge urban growth livability inhibitor UGLI · Endless sea of concrete and asphalt · Little visual contrast · Insufficient parking lot screening Traveling along the major thoroughfares of North Richland Hills is a monotonous transit expe- rience. The physical setting along the City's thor- o1,lghfares is unattractive and uninviting. The streets appear nondescript and utilitarian. It is apparent that the infrastructure ofthe city has been designed with the singular purpose of allowing its citizens to ar- rive at point B from point A with no regard to the quality of their journey. Large expanses 0 f concrete and asphalt park- ing areas adjoined by equally large expanses of con- crete and asphalt streets discourages economic de- velopment and investment. Lack of green space and vegetation within and along thoroughfares results in a streetscape with no visual contrast. Without medians to break up monotone, curb-to-curb pavement, the streets appear drab and uninteresting. This problem is compounded when parking lots remain visually connected to thoroughfares caus- ing one to perceive an even larger "grayscape." Many existing parking lots developed prior to adop- tion of the current landscape ordinance lack appro- priate screening. Some parking lots built under the current ordinance meet all minimum requirements but still do not provide adequate screening. @ G~¡VDCðll1!~ L.--- 2 t:/C:(/~ ~ ~/.- ßØiIf04 -( -l t;; ?ðNaztffe w~ 7',zl!e 1.<1/;/ sr e'N6 <;:c¡lt!¡;¡J /NAU f'WZ.¡<J NCi ,:.I./IIE~ ¡<t¡V<J¡"'- P"'~KW""Y V"'I ~ I/!'S Figure 14 - Commercial Parkway Layout -l « t- z \\\ ~ Ij' ~",oavß'¡E: II.> \\L ( f'P./V/\Te P/'<?P'¡¿TY !Z,¿7.II/, 'lÃ"'IPS Figure 15 - Residential Parkway Layout City Image Study t I ~' , ~ ST"'~i "4= ~'I c;v!ð Z;:~~Te W;ft-l< ,I 1 f- ST~rr ) progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image PRETI · Create green space along parkways within the right-or-way · Implement a street tree theme · Introduce medians and micro-medians · Parking lot screening Parkway Landscaping Along major thoroughfares, the parkway . strip between the back of curb and adjoining prop- erty line is typically nine and a half feet. Current regulations require that a four foot sidewalk be lo- cated five feet from the back of the curb. Doing so divides the available green space into two unusable spaces. Creating attractively landscaped green space along thoroughfares begins with locating a five foot sidewalk adjacent to the curb. This creates a wider continuous parkway which provides more landscap- ing options. (See Figures 14 and 15) Street trees and architectural elements such as low walls, deco- rative bollards, and lighting should be introduced to enhance the available green space. Grade changes in the fonn oflow benns should also be implemented to further define these spaces. Street Trees streetscape. Well-selected trees of adequate size and maturity can give character and grand scale to a street. Trees influence the microclimate, enhance views, and create a sense of well-being. To succeed in creating a superior city im- age, it is essential to develop a continuity of tree types and fonns for use along all major thorough- fares throughout the city. (See Figure 16) Estab- lishing continuity ofthe street tree theme is accom- plished by limiting the plant palette to a refined com- bination of Texas natives and compatible trees. In order to give the thoroughfares of North Richland Hills identity, street trees should be lim- ited to the following palette: · Drake Elm · Red Oak · Chinese Pistachio · Live Oak · Texas Ash · Chinqapin Oak · Oklahoma Redbud · Bradford Pear · Lacebark Elm · Desert Willow · Afghan Pine · Bald Cypress Additionally, implementing the street tree e Street trees are the backbone of a good theme necessitates amending the current landscape City of North Rich/and Hills @ ~-~ LEGEND e Large Shade Tree Planting Zone . Medium Shade Tree Planing Zone tIIJ-i{ II J:: S':J .. I~H ~~ '11 I ·r ~ :v-w_,,- .~ -- ~i iill t BURSEY RD.:. 1 "-. 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',~ -- ~~ ~I~ ~ -.~~- r-I-I~ \ ~~~~-. \ sI::u ~~ \\ I ""II w'-<-~'¡' _ - \ F~:-iJ4 ~"-'Y h~ u >"'" ~j(WDR -] 111\\(( "'~W~ Figure 16 - Street Tree Plan @) City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image ordinance to require all trees within the landscape setback to be large and medium shade trees selected from those listed above. Ornamental trees should not be substituted for shade trees along thorough- fares but can be incorporated into the landscape if desired. However, ornamentals should not domi- nate the landscape setback. Medians and Micro-medians The historical practice of providing major thoroughfares with continuous left turn lanes in lieu of medians has resulted in streets that are unattrac- e tive and uninviting. Considerations for providing "immediate access" to businesses have driven decisions to ex- clude medians within major thoroughfares. Just as constructing the city's trafficways has been moti- vated first by economic goals with little thought for aesthetic objectives, the end result of excluding me- dians has left a landscape void of character and or- der. e Contrary to the popular belief that without immediate left turn access businesses suffer, it has been shown time and again that introducing land- scaped medians along with other streetscape en- hancements expands economic opportunities. The use of micro-medians can enhance the streetscape and help control traffic while still allowing maxi- mum opportunity for left turn access. Micro-medi- ans are smaller, compact islands linked together by a surface-level paving pattern which functions as a free left turn lane. These pavers should match the City of Norlh Rich/and Hills PREYI pavers used in special intersections. As seen in Fig- ure 17, the use of pavers to delineate this space cre- ates the effect of a continuous median and adds char- acter and dimension without restricting left turn ac- cess. Medians and micro-medians should be in- cluded in all new or reconstructed major thorough- fares. New thoroughfares include: · North Tarrant Parkway · Rufe Snow Drive north of Mid-Cities Medians and micro-medians should be in- troduced within these existing thoroughfares: · Rufe Snow - Loop 820 to Mid-Cities · Davis Boulevard · Precinct Line Road The concrete apexes of existing medians should be replaced with pavers to match the special intersection paving colors along the following thor- oughfares: · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Industrial · Harwood Micro-medians should be retrofitted into the following streets: · Glenview Drive · Booth-Calloway to Royal Court @) J-Af74Ø '7I(/!¡)e ífæ.'7 Ci/Z::?lNOC¿?(./ ei< ÚlUI '510//& (AI.Æ~ § g ~ /-AW¡"¡ tJ @ Figure 17 - Micro Median with Left Turn Access ~-J /"'!ð,zpNN tkL-- ¿;tJµJIZ. ¿;¡:Nc,eefE ?1IVl!'¡/?:5 . O¡.l¡oa::;¿:¡e , / ~ '15' UiW STð¡.,¡e. ~u.s ---q~tX/JJDCðf/t¥< City Image Study solution designed to create a superior city image progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image PRETI · Rufe Snow · Glenview to Corona Irrigation in Medians · Harwood · Grapevine Hwy to Davis All medians which contain landscaping should be irrigated. Care should be taken to incor- porate controllers, pumps, and freeze/rain sensors into the landscaping to make them as inconspicu- ous as possible. Any irrigation design should take advantage ofthe latest technological advances in the irrigation industry, such as the Tucor system, so that maximum efficiency of water use, expandability and ease of maintenance are considered. · Holiday · Loop 820 to Mid-Cities · Smithfield · Davis to Starnes . ~ % ~ ~ ~ en ~ ~ :. ",1 I > ,:.,1"1 I ~ :,' !:'/I ::/. 1'1 . .1.. " '. ./ ¡ . . '/ 2. ~ ... ".,\ I . '.' .j'. I I. :. :. ,t '" /!:tfifq1 ~ II ¿;iJ!ð e ~c:.ðNC.~Té: W,¡f¡...,K. f'N/</N6r ~' Ht: (MAx.1 2' 20' 141ft/. ¡O' e Figure 18 - Bermed Parking Lot Screening City of North Rich/and Hills @ Parking Lots and Parking Lot Screening Since the advent of the current landscape ordinance, site plans have been submitted and ap- proved which meet minimum requirements while not adequately screening parking areas along adja- cent thoroughfares. Current development regula- tions only require developers to submit a plan which includes "landscaping." This should be modified to specifically require a detailed landscape and irriga- tion plan. The landscape ordinance should also re- flect this requirement as it does not currently. Regu- lations with regard to parking lot screening caB be modified to better achieve the original intent of the ordinance: to enhance the City's image. Specifi- cally, four requirements of the regulations should be modified to eliminate "landscaping as an after- thought." II !I!IIj l ,. ~ . '1 ~ ...:.. 0: I , I ,'t ' I \ I I "JJ>' Hi. (/flU.) Figure 19 - Bermed Parking Lot Screening @ (3)-- ~ First Modification Current regulations do not require a detailed landscape and irrigation plan to be submitted until the contractor applies for a building permit. Inher- ently, if the site plan and landscape plan are not pro- duced concurrently, the required 15% landscaped area tends to occupy areas that are "left over." These areas can be hidden by buildings and out of view, and they can actually exceed the landscape buffer zones along thoroughfares in total area. A detailed landscape plan should be submitted with the site plan for review by the Development Review Commit- tee. Working through the landscape approval pro- cess concurrently or prior to final engineering wilJ save developers time and money and reduce the number of requests for variances. Second Modification In order to continue the street tree theme and more adequately address parking lot screening, it is recommended that the front yard landscape setback be modified to help convey a theme or character throughout the City. (See Figure 18) The landscape setback should be changed from 15' to 20'. Under current regulations, design- ers tend to delineate the 15' landscape buffer around the property to determine available developable space. Then, they design the parking lot up to the limits created by the landscape buffer. Once the parking lot and building are located, many times they discover that their site plans do not meet the per- City Image Study e progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image centage of the lot coverage for landscaping. Instead of redesigning the site plan, they offer to install larger trees for credit or request a variance. Increasing the landscape setback to 20' should resolve this prob- lem in most cases. Third Modification . The shrub only parking lot screen option should be removed in landscape setbacks along thor- oughfares. To conform with a street tree theme, the. option to provide parking screening with shrubs should be removed and parking lot screening should be accomplished with earthen berm screening (Fig- ure 18) or, where necessary, a solid low masonry wall. Combinations of berms , shrubs and retaining walls (Figure 19) are also acceptable. Berms should be kept simple in shape with a more horizontal profile than vertical. Maximum slope on berms should be 3: 1 or three foot horizon- tal for every one foot of vertical rise. Blending the new berms into the existing grade will help avoid a "lumpy look." While these modifications are an important prerequisite to improving our city's image, it is im- perative that the City appropriately enforces the land- scape ordinance. Upon observation of developments constructed under the current regulations, it is evi- dent that some requirements ofthe landscape ordi- nance present enforcement problems. City of North Rich/and Hills PRETI Fourth Modification When a commercial property is redeveloped, it is sometimes impossible for the developer to meet the requirements of the landscape ordinance. The Planning and Inspections Department is forced to compromise with the developer because they have no mechanism to offer landscaping options which would be acceptable. Regulations should be cre- ated which provide options for the developer when it is impossible to meet the requirements ofthe land- scape ordinance due to site constraints. Urban Forestry It may be necessary to create a position or modify an existing position occupied by a person with experience in landscape design and horticul- ture to review landscape plans and inspect for proper installation. It is unfair to expect a building inspec- tor to know the difference between a Yaup on Holly, considered a large shrub, and a Live Oak, a large shade tree. Both look similar when young. How- ever, a Yaupon Holly in a parking lot island does not meet the tree requirements of the landscape or- dinance. Someone in this position, such as an Urban Forester, could also implement a city-wide tree in- ventory. Using GIS technology and applications such as CITY green, it is possible to track the health of each tree in the city and calculate the benefits received by the City through its urban forest. Pro- gressive cities, such as Garland, have implemented similar plans with impressive results. @ current constraint to achieving an acceptable city image urban growth livability inhibitor ~ UGLI · Obnoxious overhead utility lines and poles · Proliferation of traffic and directional signage · Extreme variations in privacy fencing along thoroughfares · Patchwork quilt of pot hole repairs and sealed cracks In a recent study by the National Institute of Mental Health, it was discovered that visual clutter has the subconscious effect of dulling perception and creating confusion. Test subjects were repeatedly exposed to a singular stimulus and then several stimuli while their brain waves were monitored. The brain's activity was significantly less when the sub- jects were exposed to multiple images. The results of the experiments revealed "that multiple stimuli do, in fact, suppress each other." In other words, Figure 20 - Visual Clutter Rufe Snow Drive at Loop 820 @ visual clutter dulls the senses and makes interpret- ing individual elements difficult. To relate this seemingly obscure study to the City of North Richland Hills, one needs only ob- serve the myriad of overhead lines, poles, signs, fences, and patched roadways along Rufe Snow Drive. All of these elements work together to con- fuse the driver and dull his perceptions of the sur- rounding environment. (Figures 20 and 21) Figure 21 - Visual Clutter Rufe Snow Drive Near Mid-Cities Boulevard City Image Study e progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image · Bury overhead utilities PRETI · Hide remaining overhead utility poles with landscaping · Consolidate traffic and directional signs · Replace failing wooden fences with masonry walls · Discontinue use of asphalt Bury Overhead Utilities e The single greatest improvement to the over- all image of the city would be realized if all utilities were buried. Unfortunately, it is also the most ex- pensive undertaking proposed in this study. How- ever, the perceived difference created by removing the "ceiling" of wires and the poles and towers that support it would completely alter the character of the city and the daily experiences of its citizens. (See Figures 24 and 25 [pgs 28, 29}) All new construction should include the placement of all utilities underground, The only remaining opportunity to achieve this is North Tar- rant Parkway. Any substantial reconstruction of existing thoroughfares should include the hurial of overhead utilities. A long tenn overhead utility elimination plan should be developed and implemented. Potential funding sources could include TEA-2l grants. City of North Rich/and Hills Burial of overhead utilities should include the fol- lowing thoroughfares: · Rufe Snow Drive · Holiday Lane · Davis Boulevard · Smithfield Road · Precinct Line · Grapevine Highway (26) · Glenview Drive · Bedford-Euless Road · Harwood Road · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Starnes/ Rumfield Hide Utility Poles with Landscaping Where it is not possible or feasible to bury utilities, creative landscaping should be used to hide poles, signal boxes, and other vertical elements. Metal utility boxes which cannot be com- pletely screened due to need for access and visibil- @ ity should be painted to blend with the surrounding landscape. Signal boxes should be painted to match decorative traffic signals. Consolidate Signs Major contributors to visual clutter are the hundreds of directional, traffic and commercial signs which in no way relate to each other or the streetscape. These signs have but one purpose: to convey information. To achieve a better city image, ~.~ signs should also display aesthetic appeal in the con- text of their surroundings. Traffic directional signs along major and mi- nor thoroughfares should be consolidated on painted metal frames as previously recommended (Refer to Figure 13). Consideration should be given to mini- mizing sign redundancy. Creative solutions to re- duce the quantity of directional signs should be uti- lized. As seen in Figures 22 and 23, making Figure 22 - Intersection of Robins Way and Holiday Lane - Looking North @ City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image signage more efficient results in a more pleasing in- tersection. In this example, looking north from Robins Way to Holiday Lane, four signs can be elimi- nated without compromising the safety of the inter- section. e Low shrubs and groundcover can be used to make the median more pronounced therefore elimi- nating the "stay right" sign (2). In this scenario, shrubs work well because they make the exiting lane less visible to motorists turning onto Robins from the west, effectively eliminating it as an entrance. Extending the median with street-level pavers helps to further clarify vehicular circulation for those ex- iting Robins onto Holiday. Locating a light pole in the median creates a more defined intersection while PRETI providing a suitable place to mount the street name blades (5). By "announcing" the island with land- scaping and a light pole, the need for the eastbound "do not enter" sign(l) is gone. The westbound "do not enter" sign(3) can be relocated to the back of the stop sign. Finally, the "no left turn" sign( 4) is redundant and unnecessary. These modifications not only make this intersection more visually appeal- ing, but it is less confusing and easier to navigate. Each intersection in the City creates differ- ent challenges for Public Works, and one set ofpoli- cies could never include every conceivable possi- bility. However, the concept of "less is more" should be the guiding rule in directional sign layout while guarding the safety of both driver and pedestrian. e Figure 23 - Proposed Signage and Intersection Treatment at Robins Way and Holiday Lane City of North Rich/and Hills @ Replace Failing Wood Privacy Fences Aged and deteriorating privacy fences in dis- repair along residential properties which adjoin ma- jor thoroughfares contribute to the visual clutter and conveys the perception of urban blight. These fences should be replaced with ma- sonry walls in concert with the parkway landscap- ing recommendations at the following locations: · Rufe Snow Drive . Glenview Drive to Shauna (both sides) · Sunset to Avalon (east side) · Ridgetop to Moss (east side) eJ>--: ~ · Davis Boulevard · Oak Court to Elm Court (west side) · Precinct Line Road · Meandering to Amundson (west side) · Mid-Cities Boulevard · Buckingham to Sunset (north side) · Harwood · Grapevine Hwy (26) to Colorado (south) · Holiday Lane · Meadow Park to Trinidad (west side) @ Figure 24 - Rufe Snow Drive - Existing Conditions City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image Discontinue Use of Asphalt Although a fresh layer of asphalt is visually acceptable, it deteriorates much faster than concrete. Its inability to withstand heavy traffic conditions and extreme weather results in patched potholes, frequent seal coating and unsightly discoloration. These as- phalt scars create, in a sense, horizontal visual clut- ter. Worn, rutted, and uneven driving surfaces frus- trate drivers. This driving experience alone can re- flect poorly on the city's image leaving motorists with the perception of a city in disrepair. e PRETI Despite the higher initial investment, con- crete roadways and parking lots require less main- tenance and are more visually appealing. Concrete surfaces also produce less reflective heat than as- phalt resulting in better growing conditions for land- scaping in islands, medians, and parkways. The current subdivision regulations simply require a paved surface for commercial parking lots and residential streets. This requirement should be amended to reflect the recommendation to discon- tinue the use of asphalt. Concrete should be used on all newly constructed and reconstructed thorough- fares as well. e City of North Rich/and Hills Figure 25 - Rufe Snow Drive - Without Overhead Utilities @ current constraint to achieving an acceptable city imáge urban growth livability inhibitor '-- UGLI · Extensive use of concrete · Proliferation of chain link fence · Eliminate use of simple earthen channels that suffer erosion Initiated by the recommendations ofthe 1985 Drainage Master Plan, the practice of using concrete channels and flumes to convey the full 100 year storm water discharge has destroyed environmen- tally significant creek corridors, eliminated many greenbelt and open space opportunities, and pro- duced rivers of sterile concrete. The adoption ofthe Little Bear Creek Flood- plain Management Ordinance has preserved and protected the last remaining major creek corridor in the northern portion ofthe city. However, unsightly concrete lined channels topped with prison-like chain link fence dominate the city's infrastructure. Many ofthese channels and fences are highly visible from major and minor thoroughfares and are often accompanied by bridges, all of which were en- gineered with little regard to aesthetics. Managing our floodplains can be accom- plished more efficiently, quite often with less ex- pense, without using concrete channels. The City, with good intentions, has initiated the practice of using earthen channels. However, doing so has introduced new problems with erosion and mainte- nance challenges. The solution lies between the two extremes in the form ofterraced channels along with some changes to culvert and bridge design. 1 ?T¡z.eeí ¡ 1'5'-2()' wIPe '-rr;::::,,;~~'m . ~ t:?~~ '.' .:,. ........ : .' . .... :. ...., " ''':..' '. I'-J:î= ,¿" :." ::: '," '.. .".. : ' ,". :" ..::" .... ..., '. :: ' '. .,: ; ", :,.:.:.:. ..: .:':.:. '. MIN. t- Þ ,. A- I II PIP }!E. ) : '~~~',':m~~ V:~~'~ ~~/~~~'.~'~/:~/: ~~~/~/T?:~:/~7/~~/7;~~//~~://::'':~/~~h'C///:/::/~~:':~::~~::~~~~~~~~/:/~~~'-:-://:~~~":~~//~://~~~'~N7~7.'":'~/~~~':/~//?.. .~~~~.: :. ... :. ~ /f?)<T!!:ND ?(/t {/ß,.e'T5 70 ~ßI)(/æ $/Zß Œ 5r~ (/¿r(/~ß, Figure 26 - Proposed Culvert Design @ City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image PRETI · Lengthen culverts to reduce size of headwalls · Replace chain link fence with decorative fence . Utilize terraced earthen channels along with short retaining walls and pilot channels Open Drainageways and Culverts Where possible, the City should take steps to reduce the visual impact of culverts by requiring the drain pipe beneath streets to extend far enough beyond the streets to allow headwall construction . to be of a lower profile and less obtrusive. Byex- tending the culvert on either side of the street, more room is allowed for a turf-covered slope which stops at the headwall. Also, fencing can be backed away from the thoroughfare and in some cases may not be required at all. Pedestrian walks across culverts could be widened as well. (See Figure 25) lie¡ "5Tf<eer '7 t- ~F If; !7'/ e Renovating Culverts and Concrete Channels If it is not feasible to completely redevelop a culvert and/or drainageway, there are some rem- edies to reduce their visual impact to thoroughfares. Culverts and bridges can be modified by introduc- ing decorative railing and masonry veneer. Chan- nels can also be altered by installing a stone veneer or applying a darkening agent, such as Penneon, to subdue the bright concrete surface. Providing addi- tionallandscaping along culverts is also an option, Each intersection of drainageway and thoroughfare poses different challenges, but creative design can improve their impact on the City's image. !<e1,f/N//v'C¡ WAU- D/lAINMe CIIIWNP?- (3''-¥''' O¡¡:PTfI) '7:/ u-' City of North Rich/and Hills Figure 27 - Open Drainageway with Pilot Channel ® - Chain Link Fence Chain link fence around bridges and culverts serves a noble purpose. It an inexpensive way to keep pedestrians from injuring themselves by step- ping off of sudden elevation changes. Unfortunately, that is its only function as it is possibly the most visually unappealing barrier in the urban environ- ment. Whenever possible, existing chain link fenc- ing should be replaced with guardrails or alternate (5)--.. - fencing material. Guardrails should contain a com- bination of stone and painted tubular steel railings with columns which coordinate with the city entry SIgnS. There are several other options to chain link fence including wood, concrete, or aluminum split- rail fence and aluminum ornamental fence which comes in hundreds of designs and colors. All chain link fence used in this application should be removed :. f- -:=.w I 2tU III e.lll- III =íii =- ,:Ô1f =111 = I=III~II~I/!!. Earthen Channel < LOA! KET ItININ6 W It/.-L. ] ~¡¡¡= ;, II f~1 If;;' 1 \I III::II( = II~ I(= 11/=111 100' > P/WT CHANNEL- Terraced Earthen Channel @ Figure 28 - Earthen Channel VS, Terraced Earthen Channel City Image Study progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image and replaced with one of these options. Ifit is sim- ply not possible to replace chain link due to safety concerns, it should be painted a black or forest green to lessen its visual impact. Terraced Earthen Channels . When the two major categories of channel design are combined, a hybrid is formed. Terraced earthen channels take the best of both worlds by cre- ating an engineered channel that retains some natu- ral characteristics. Terracing also produces an aes- thetically pleasing product that becomes an asset instead of an eyesore. e By reducing the slope to 5: 1 on all turf ar- eas, erosion is reduced, and it is easier to create and maintain healthy stands of grass. The masonry walls tend to slow down and redirect water as it makes its way down the slope further reducing erosion. It is also possible to convey the city entry sign and bridge theme in the masonry walls. Terraced channels should include a pilot channel. A properly designed pilot channel will di- rect the constant trickle of water created by ground water and irrigation runoff. Without a pilot chan- nel, the soil will slowly wash down stream leaving a canyon in its wake. A perfect example of this massive erosion is evident along the earthen chan- nel which runs through the Thornbridge subdivision. What once was a flume which drained into the chan- nel bottom is now a waterfall suspended 4 feet above the channel's normal flow elevation. (See Figure 29) City of North Rich/and Hills PRETI Another advantage ofa pilot channel is ease of maintenance. Many earthen channels have a con- stant, though light, flow of water running through them. This flow keeps the soil in the lower portion ofthe channel saturated year-round. Thus, it is im- possible to properly maintain without dedicating massive amounts of labor to manually cut trees, weeds, and tall grasses. (See Figure 30) A concrete pilot channel eliminates soil saturation and prevents unwanted vegetation along the channel bottom. Figure 29 - Flume Along Channel Thornbridge Subdivision Figure 30 - Vegetation Growth in Channel Thornbridge Subdivision @ urban growth livability inhibitor '-- current constraint to achieving an acceptable city imàge UGLI · Loop 820 is a physical, visual and psychological barrier · Massive concrete infrastructure · Maintenance eyesore Loop 820 is a visual and physical barrier surrounded by masses of visual clutter. The rights- of-way on either side ofthe highway are maintained at a level comparable to those in rural West Texas. Thi~ level of maintenance is not compatible with a highly developed urban environment. Upgrading and unifYing this four mile strip is critical to achieving a superior city image. If the city does not get involved in the design and devel- opment of the improvements to Loop 820, North Richland Hills will be treated to a wider version of what already exists. Pedestrians are dwarfed by the massive con- crete infrastructure further alienating the northern and southern sections of the city. Figure 31 - Loop 820 - "The Great Wall" @ City Image Study the scenic route progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image PRETI · Create Task Force offering design control of Loop 820 expansion · Use landscape and design enhancements to soften hardscape · Include recommendations from City-Wide Trail System Master Plan for pedestrian and bicycle access · Provide for long term maintenance Loop 820 Design Task Force First and foremost, a task force should be . created that will work with the Texas Department of Transportation during the final design phase of the Loop 820 expansion. The purpose of the task force will be to explore the opportunities to direct the selection of design materials to be in concert with the recommendations of this study. Though the alignment and layout have been completed, mate- rial selection and details can still be altered if a lo- cal effort is initiated. The task force should be com- prised of representatives of appropriate departments and city officials. Landscape and Design Enhancements The City should make every effort to cany the unifying elements ofthe city's streetscape theme into and throughout the Loop 820 Corridor. e To facilitate the transformation of Loop 820 from "eyesore to asset," the task force should lead and direct, in coordination with the TxDOT Fort Worth District Landscape Architect, the following: City of North Rich/and Hills · Vertical Infrastructure - colors and materials · Landscape Design - plant materials and locations · Flatwork - paver selection and paving patterns · Architectural Elements - planters, bollards, lights · Irrigation Although TxDOT has initiated design on the bridge at Rufe Snow Drive, recommendations can still be incorporated into the design plans. Landscape Cost Sharing Program After the expansion is complete, there are more opportunities available to the City to enhance the rights-of-way along Loop 820. The Texas Trans- portation Commission has recognized that an aes- thetically pleasing right-of-way is an important as- set to our state highway system. The Commission has actively supported sound landscape development ofthe right-of-way and encourages cooperative land- scape development projects. They believe that the long-term success oflandscape development is con- tingent upon local community involvement. It is incumbent upon the City to drive the landscape de- velopment process. @ Both highway landscape projects and pedes- trian landscape projects are supported by the Land- scape Cost Sharing Program. Highway landscape projects are those sites which, after installation, give the visual impression of belonging to the highway route rather than being and extension of private property. The total cost of the project is shared on an equal basis. However, CID- this category of proj ects allows municipalities to use the fair market value for design services and 24 months of maintenance as "in-kind" donations to- ward its share of the project. Other in-kind dona- tions include labor and acceptable materials. Example of a Proposal: The City's proposal requests that TxDOT purchase trees, shrubs, and wildflower seed. The @ Figure 32 - Example of Landscaping in Highway Right-of-Way City Image Study e progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image plant material is to be furnished to the City who will provide for the installation and the subsequent two- year maintenance. The City will also provide the project design plan. The City proposes a value of $1,500 for the project design plan, $5,000 for plant material instal- lation activities, and $5,000 for the two-year main- tenance activities. The City's total contribution is $11,500. The City's estimate of cost for the trees, shrubs, and wildflower seed is $11,500. e IfTxDOT matches the City's total contribu- tion of$ll ,500 with an equal amount of state funds, sufficient cash is available to purchase the material, and no additional cash is required from the City. Pedestrian landscape projects give the visual impression of being an extension to adjacent pri- vate or public property outside the highway corri- dor. They also could include facilities that encour- age pedestrian use such as walkways, historic or specialized lighting systems, benches, and trash re- ceptacles. Though this category does not allow the cost of design services to count toward the city's share ofthe project cost, it does allow in-kind dona- tion by way of labor or materials. City of North Rich/and Hills PREYI Pedestrian Access The adopted City- Wìde Trail System Master Plan included recommendations for improvements to the bridges at Meadow Lakes, Rufe Snow Drive, and Holiday Lane to reduce the barrier characteris- tics of Loop 820 for pedestrians and cyclists. · Meadow Lakes Any future widening of the bridge should be done with the right-most, straight-through lanes having a width of 15 feet. · Rufe Snow Drive The bridge should be rebuilt to include wide out- side lanes of 15 feet. · Holiday Lane The planned underpass should include 15 feet wide outside lanes and safe pedestrian walkways. Long -Term Maintenance Each project installed under the Landscape Cost Sharing Program must include provisions for long-tenn maintenance. Once the project is com- pleted, the City assumes responsibility of mainte- nance for the life of the project. @ current constraint to achieving an acceptable city image ------- urban growth livability inhibitor UGLI · Little expression of culture · No public art · Lack of art in private development As one travels through the city, it is appar- ent that little has been planned to conveyor express the City's philosophies, beliefs or customs. Quite often the architectural style of build- ings and structures can be considered works of art and cultural benchmarks (i.e. Art Deco style of ar- chitecture). However, there is no predominant ar- chitectural style or historical reference in North Rich- land Hills. It is still possible to express the City's culture through public art. Currently, there is no public art program in the City. In the past, there has been no incentive for the corporate community to provide public art and no means for the City to commission it. Opportuni- ties exist throughout the City, but potential will not become reality unless public art becomes a priority. @ Public art is an essential component of the vitality, health and spirit of a city. Any designed object can be public art, if it has been placed where anyone can see it, and where it is a part of the community's everyday environment. The possible forms public art can take are almost unlimited. The experience of public art makes a public space seem more welcoming. It creates a deeper interaction with the place one is visiting, working, or living. It helps one remember the past, and it Figure 33 - Sculpture as Public Art; St. Louis City Image Study the state of the art progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image · Establish a public art program · Establish a public art fund PRETI · Encourage private developers to introduce art helps express shared values and concerns to future Public Art Program generations. . Public art makes cities more livable and more beautiful. It strengthens neighborhoods, provides color and character to public places, and brings a sense of identity to communities. It is recommended that the City establish a Public Art Program, Public Art Fund, and Public Art Committee. e Figure 34 - Public Art on a retaining wall; St. Louis City of North Rich/and Hills The Public Art Program should be designed to create opportunities for public art to express or enhance the community's identity. The activities of the Public Art Program should strive to increase public awareness and increase the variety of audi- ences reached by and participating in public art. This can be accomplished by fostering partnerships, broadening the mix of art fOTITIS and locations, and increasing access to public art through thoughtful placement and interpretation of artworks. When public art is of high quality, ancillary benefits include the sharing of community history, expression of corporate pride, enhancement of streetscapes, and cultural events surrounding the public art. Public Art Program Fund The City should create a fund to be used for the commissioning and purchase of artworks, ad- ministration of the Public Art Program, and mainte- nance of artwork. Public art programs and associ- ated funding mechanisms have been established across the country. @ Across the board, cities with public art pro- grams have established ordinances requiring one half to 2 percent of the total cost of public buildings or capital improvement projects be set aside for public art. The City of Fort Worth recently passed a public art program which sets aside 2 percent of capital proj ect funding. Other cities have passed public arts programs including Austin (1 percent), Corpus Christi (1 percent), Dallas (1.5 percent), and Hous- ton (1.75 percent). It is recommended that the City of North Richland Hills adopt a similar ordinance which sets aside 1 to 2 percent of all capital projects for the development and maintenance of public art. The recent adoption of Arts Fund Ordinance No. 2545 has initiated public art funding in the City of North Richland Hills, However, the primary funding source, revenue from the antenna lease agreement with Metricom, provides less than half of the average $40,000 needed for one work of art. It could take two to four years to generate enough money for one piece. The cost of public art varies greatly and is completely dependent on the artist, medium, and scale. Grapevine averages approximately $75,000 per piece, however the Nightwatchman atop city hall cost thousands of dollars. The Mustangs of Las Colinas cost in excess of one million, but it was pri- vately funded with the city assuming maintenance responsibilities. Cost is a matter ofpriority, budget restrictions and the direction of the Public Art Pro- gram. A commission or acquisition will run between $20,000 and $150,000 with 20% going directly to the artist and 10% retained for proj ect administra- tion costs. @ (J)- - Public Art Committee Generally, when ordinances are in place to fund public art a Public Art Committee is required. Committee selection varies by project. Many cities use city staff only or a mixture of community and city employees. It is recommended that the com- mittee selection be evaluated on a case by case ba- sis. The goal of the committee is to select the type of artwork to be commissioned or purchased, the methods of selection, and the artist to commission the ",:ork. Selection methods include open compe- tition, limited competition, invitational, and direct selection. The quality, scope and style of the work is to be determined by the committee. Goals of Arts Committee The goals of the Public Art Committee should include: · Ensure the public art is of high quality. · Create opportunities for public art to express and enhance the City's identity. · Increase public awareness of cultural arts pro- grams. · Increase the variety of audiences reached by and participating in public art. · Nurture artists as a valuable cultural and civic re- source. City Image Study e progressive recommendation enhancing tomorrow's image solution designed to create a superior city image · Increase access to public art through thoughtful placement and interpretation of art works. · Broaden the mix of art fOTITIS and locations. · Ensure that public art is a civic asset. · Use public art to enhance the streetscape, express corporate pride, and share community history. · Protect and enhances parks, open spaces and the natural environment. . · Promote cultural events surrounding the public art unveiling to give depth. Fund Usage Project funding should be sufficient to in- clude the following: · Hiring artist to develop design concepts · Acquisition or commission . Placement, installation, exhibition and display · Maintenance · Structures that enable the display or artworks (a base or adornment) · Labor of assistants, materials and contracted ser- vices required for production and installation City of North Rich/and Hills PREYI · Transportation of the work · Preparation of the site · Documentation such as slides, photos, video and plaque · Dedication of the work. Figure 35 -Public Art that is functional; San Diego @ SUPPLEMENTAL (8) City Entry Signs To enhance the sense of entry into the City, entry sign projects should include funding for land- scaping and street level paving as shown in Figure 5. Attempts should be made now to reserve land for future city entry signs to guarantee a site when fund- ing becomes available for construction. Special Intersections Any applicable standards related to thor- oughfare intersection design should be modified to reflect the recommendations herein for selected spe- cial intersection sites. Streetscape Lighting A standard street light should be selected that will be used throughout the City. Any new construc- tion, including City Image Enhancement Projects, should incorporate these street lights into the de- sign and budget of future lighting projects. A Street Light Replacement Plan should be developed that allocates funding and provides a schedule for re- placement of existing street lights with the new de- SIgn. Traffic Signalization and Street Name Signs Current standards pertaining to traffic sig- nalization should be modified to reflect the recom- mendations in this study. Backlit street name signs @ - should be included in any future projects. A plan should be developed to retrofit existing traffic sig- nals either by painting and modifying existing equip- ment or replacing the equipment all together. Back- lit street name signs can be added to the traffic sig- nals as they are revamped. A funding mechanism must also be created to implement this plan. Bridge and Culvert Enhancements Current standards for bridge and culvert de- sign should be modified to reflect the proposals herein. New construction should include these rec- ommendations. A plan and budget should be devel oped to retrofit existing bridges with masonry ve- neer. Traffic and Directional Signs Traffic signage should be redesigned and current standards modified to reflect the changes recommended. (See Figure 13) Thoroughfare Master Planning Due to the sheer magnitude of the capital required to accomplish the city image enhancements proposed in this study, implementation of improve- ments will require several years of funding alloca- tion. Not only will it be necessary to create a long range capital improvement program, but it is rec- ommended that areas of the City be prioritized and thoroughfare master plans be designed to guide re- City Image Study policy issues e development of rights-of-way. Thoroughfare mas- ter plans are also important because most ofthe City is newly developed. Many businesses have improve- ments in place that may last 20 or 30 years before redevelopment is required due to storefront deni- gration or market pressures. A long range master plan would allow the City to follow behind redevel- oping businesses and improve adjoining rights-of- way as funding becomes available. In this way, thoroughfares would eventually become seamless as the City shifts from a development-focused cor- porate community to one that concentrates on rede- velopment. . Parkway Landscaping Any regulations regarding parkway design should be modified to locate a 5 foot sidewalk along the back of the curb. A more detailed site specific plan should be developed to maximize the design potential for each right-of-way. The landscaping and architectural elements recommended in this study should be incorporated into any parkway design. Street Trees Any regulations pertaining to trees in the right-of-way along major and minor thoroughfares, including the landscape ordinance, should be modi- fied to narrow the list of trees available to be planted in these locations. Businesses should be encour- aged to replace any dead trees with trees from the list on page 17. Street tree planting should roughly follow the zones set forth in Figure 16 though this City of North Rich/and Hills zoning should remain flexible enough to take ad- vantage of opportunities to plant larger trees when possible. Medians and Micro-medians Included in any thoroughfare master plan should be provisions for including medians in ma- jor thoroughfares. When standard median design is not pennitted by site constraints, a combination of medians and micro-medians should be used. Cur- rent guidelines may have to be altered to accommo- date micro-medians, but any such issues would be addressed as thoroughfare master plans are devel- oped. Irrigation should be included in all new me- dians, and plan to retrofit existing landscaped me- dians with irrigation should be developed. Parking Lots and Parking Lot Screening Regulations regarding parking lot screening should be modified to reflect the recommendations in Section 3. Most of these changes would occur in the landscape ordinance. Landscape Ordinance Enforcement Measures should be taken to insure that the City's landscape ordinance is being properly en- forced. It may be necessary to implement a sched- ule of fees for violators. @ SUPPLEMENTAL (8) - Visual Impact of Overhead Utilities Burying overhead utilities in the City is, in most cases, a massive undertaking. However, state funding is available that could make efforts to do so feasible. Opportunities to bury utilities should be seized when possible since the impact of removing overhead power lines would have such an immedi- ate impact on the visual quality of the streetscape. When utilities cannot be buried, efforts should be taken to hide poles and control boxes with landscap- mg. Traffic Sign Consolidation Every effort should be given to reducing the number of traffic and directional signs at intersec- tions anù along thoroughfares. Though regulations cannot be developed to encompass every conceiv- able site condition, the mindset of reducing visual clutter by reducing signage should be adopted by implementing alternative creative solutions. See pages 26 and 27. Replace Unsightly Privacy Fences Along Thor- oughfares A plan to replace dilapidated privacy fences visible from major and minor thoroughfares should be developed. Masonry walls should be constructed to eliminate this problem. A uniform masonry wall design should be selected that would continue the length of a thoroughfare creating character and iden- @ tity for each street. This design would be addressed in a thoroughfare master plan. Discontinue the Use of Asphalt Current regulations pertaining to road design and parking lot design should be modified to reflect the recommendation to discontinue the use of as- phalt on driving surfaces. Long range capital im- provement programs should be modified to devote more funding to concrete construction and less money to periodic resurfacing with asphalt. Open Drainageways and Culverts Drainage channel and culvert design should be modified to incorporate the recommendations of this study. A plan should be developed to renovate existing channels and culverts to lessen their nega- tive impact on the City's image. These changes may not take effect until it is necessary to replace such structures due to age and deterioration, but plans should be in place to address the issue when the time comes to renovate the infrastructure. Such renova- tion would include the use ofterraced earthen chan- nels. The most immediate opportunities for imple- menting terraced channels will be within existing earthen channels since many of them are currently experiencing considerable erosion. City Image Study policy is Chain Link Fence A plan to replace chain link fencing around culverts and drainageways should be developed and funding made available. This is one of the least expensive projects that would have a great and im- mediate impact on the visual quality of the City. Chain link fence should be replaced by split-rail or a painted ornamental fence as recommended in Sec- tion 5. Loop 820 . Every effort should be taken to minimize the divisive nature of Loop 820. As Loop 820 is ex- panded, opportunities should be seized to allow pe- destrians safe and convenient crossing at Meadow Lakes, Rufe Snow Drive, and Holiday Lane. A task force should be fonned to work with TxDOT through the remaining stages of the expansion project. Fund- ing sources should be utilized to improve the visual impact that Loop 820 imposes on the City as dis- cussed in Section 6. Public Art The City should establish a Public Art Pro- gram, Public Art Fund, and Public Art Committee as described in Section 7. Regulations should be established for generating revenue to be dedicated to public art. Guidelines should be developed on choosing an artist, prioritizing sites to receive art- work, and how to use available funds. Research e City of North Rich/and Hills should be done to create and justify an ordinance requiring public and private funding based on capi- tal improvement expenditure. Parking Lot Lighting Requirements The City of North Richland Hills does not currently have detailed parking lot lighting require- ments. Parking lot lighting design effects the visual quality of the streetscape. Most large parking lots in the City have clusters of intense light sources clus- tered on a few towering poles. Though this method of illumination is efficient, it creates massive amounts of light pollution. Further, when the trees required in the parking lots mature, there will be parking spaces which are in complete shadow cre- ating safety concerns. Many cities have in place strict ordinances which regulate pole height and maximum light output. If the City were to implement such an ordinance, it may also be advantageous to modify the landscape ordinance as well since the design con- siderations necessary to light a parking lot with shorter poles would create an opportunity for addi- tional parking lot islands and thus additional land- scapmg. @ SUPPLEMENTAL CD) , , Special Intersections Estimate includes Demolition, Paver Installation, Concrete Installation. Does not include traffic signalization or signage. High/Low difference reflects using pavers as cross- walks versus striping. High $100,000 Low $50,000 Traffic Signalization Estimate includes Traffic Signal Lights, Poles, Mast Arms, Control Boxes, Back-Lit Street Name Signs, and Other Directional Signage. High/Low difference reflects difference between removing and replacing existing with proposed equipment versus painting and modifying existing. Cost varies due to differing intersection requirements. High $150,000 to $225,000 Low $30,000 to $60,000 Bridges and Culverts Estimate includes stone veneer and painted railing on existing structure. Prices vary due to the variety of structures within the City. High/Low difference reflects keeping existing rails or installing new lower profile rails or removing the rail. High $40,000 to $120,000 Low $30,000 to $100,000 Burial of Overhead Utilities It is nearly impossible to arrive an average cost associated with the burial of overhead utilities due to the variations in site conditions and work required. @ City Image Study cost es . Channelizing with Terraced Earthen Channels Estimate depends on site conditions. Relative Cost Range Current Cost of Concrete Channelization +30% to 70% Thoroughfares in Commercial Areas with Median Estimate Includes Light Standards, Trees, Benns, Sod, Sidewalk, Irrigation Does not include bridge treatments, intersections, or utility burial. High $225,000 per 1000' Mid $1 ï5,000 per 1000' Low $100,000 per 1000' . Thoroughfares in Residentiai Areas with Median Estimate Includes Light Standards, Trees, Median Benns, Sod, Sidewalk, Irrigation Does not include bridge treatments, intersections, or utility burial. High $170,000 per 1000' Mid $130,000 per 1000' Low $80,000 per 1000' Remaining City Entry Signs Estimate Includes Construction and Installation of City Entry Signs Low end cost represents sign installation only while high end includes landscaping and paving enhance- ments, Type A Type B Type C High $28,000 to $33,000 $39,000 to $44,000 $49,000 to $55,000 Low $20,000 $31,000 $43,000 . City of North Rich/and Hills @ .þ. OJ (") ~ o -., <: o ~ ;:)- :::0 õ' ;:)- Qj ::J Q. :r: ~ o LIGHTS ON METAL POLES 296 TOTAL · LIGHTS ON WOOD POLES 261 TOTAL STREETLIGHT POLE MAP (") ~ §" Q) co CD ;Q c:: ~ .þ. to o ~ §" Q) (Q ( ) ~ c: ~ OVERHEAD UTILITY MAP --------- ELECTRIC .............. PH 0 N E CABLE o ~ o ...., <: o ª ::u è)' ::r Qj :::J Q. * ¡;¡: .-.., laGl - lj v��ux ,u�o� ,�mao ,cc�n1� ����� �� 0 0 �� Looking fo a neral s nsus tonight detailed specifics. Similar process as the LUAHC- - great conc but have yet to be put to a rigorous test - o . .. ormal ordinances drafted. nation of, City Council's approach to r li he Bar "' e. Koh ' , Home Depot, a AJ- All of these elements are important, yet must realize all cannot be implemented immediately. Similar approach to a Parks ter Plan or Thoroughfare Plan. S i of'these are policy /ordinance driven, $$driven. Some require minimal fundin *{ q funding, 7,, _ ubstantial funding. Most require ' i nvo ement b public is andrivate sec o y p p council completedhelped priorith­ urvey e, b"ut after tonight additi al prioritizing will occ Elements of the Study 18 Recommended Elements Elements of the Study Council Priorit Element #Z Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible Elements of the Study Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible PAGE 25 8.75 =High Elements of the Study ow v� Buiy Overhe - Po ssi b l e ?� �..�� ` . ®ti! � a „r,� ` "'� ' � _• „ .rte � _ ab- var t ,ice y, sr a '" y a n Discussion Points Bury Overhead Utilities When Possible Study only add s es arterials., oordination with utility companie • Intersections onl ? Reconstruc ion projects. • Retrofit projects. 0 One of the more costly of all elements. Su Bury Overhead Utilities When Possible 0. ,,ft . . . . . . . . . .. AAMML • Amend subdivision regulations affecting new construction requiring specific placement underground or overhead on back property lin . Evaluate upcoming projects for bond pro • Place utilities underground when retrofitting ne and upgraded signalized intersections. • Pursue opportunities through TxDOT call for projects. Elements of the Study Council Prioritv Element #Z Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use ofAspha /t Elements of the Study Discontinue Use ofAspha /t PAGE 29 No Cost Difference Since Design Standards Specify Thicker Asphalt Section. 8.50 =High (i D iscussion Points Discontinue Use ofAspha /t • Current standards allow asphalt streets and commercial parking lots. • Increased cost vs. less maintenance. • Does not apply to existing developments. A Suggestions Discontinue Use of Asphalt • Amend subdivision regulations to require the use of concrete only. Elements wtumm Council Priorit Element #1 Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use of Asphalt #3 Medians and Micro - Medians e Elements of the Study Council Priority Element Medians and Micro - Medians PAGE 19 7.50 =High Eleme t e Stu o Ot Medians and Micro - Medians * #.....�.�i ..• =�••••• ;, . f qp �' ♦ __ u ::r � i GhK�iE S1GfDE TREt r� - ,�K�UND�"oYER Pte. LLGR ' ��' 4_w r - ? A V L Lh NE 5 TURN G� NE i 5Lh 1r.'' 1 R st V E L ' Lh N E _ __ —� El e me nts Stu - �Airr.IA4 u14 •.Mt Medians and Micro - Medians #-••••« • i a a ' 1 • Retrofit Median $ 11 /SF f��_ { Retrofit Micro- Median` s FLUSH $ 8 /SF (stamped) _ '� .,•� $ 13 /SF (pavers) '• New Medan No Additional Cost . D �scussi n Points Medians and Micro - Medians • City -wide vs. arterials only. Study emphasizes arterials. • Additional right -of -way? tY • Retrofit projects. • Reconstruction projects. • Potential business concern. • Design and construction sta �,. i uggeStjons Medians and Micro - Medians • Develop a plan along Rufe Snow, and coordinate with Watauga. • Examine possible streets in upcoming bond program. • Incorporate design standards with SH 260 • Amend thoroughfare plan. ment t he Council Priority Element #1 Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use of Asphalt #3 Medians and Micro-Medians #4 Improved Parking Lot Screening the Stu. 7.43 =High Improved Parking Lot Screening PAGE 22 El ements of the S Improved Parking Lot Screening Modifications 1St R equire landscape and irrigation plans to be submitted with the site plan for review by D RC. 2 Increase landscape buffer from 15' to 20'. _ O ..•.•.• •� ..... ..•.•:• ...... ... .. •'v: let�ne of t e y Improved Parking Lot Screening Modifications 1St Require landscape and irrigation plans to be submitted with the site plan for review by D RC. 2nd Increase landscape buffer from 15' to 20'. 3rd Remove the "shrub only" option for parking lot screening and promote the use of berms. 4t" Create detailed landscape guidelines for redeveloping businesses. I / I D �scuss�om Points Improved Parking Lot Screening Requirements • Additional 5' allows for construction of berm. • "Fill -in" lot variance possibilities. • Additional land for development. • No retrofit. i ions Improved Parking Lot Screening Requirements • Amend Landscape Ordinance with regard to parking lot screening to better achieve the original intent of the ordinance. Elements o the S Council Priority Element #1 Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use of Asphalt #3 Medians and Micro - Medians #4 Improved Parking Lot Screening #5 Uniform Traffic Signals & Name Signs e Ihm wN Em N n in , its of the Study Uniform Traffic Signals &Name Signs PAGE ZS 7.38 =High ts of the to Y Uniform Traffic Signals & Name Signs 5 TMT NAM L' S Nts WCD i ?/J AxAl Of at'7hNL —` �t �5 A.�VL'a L fA/`1T j�XfU�t 1"h'�" sMft sFdi�_ i 1 Elements o the S O f y EK I .:�� E FtO _T - I Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Name Signs Arteria Existing Standard $150,000 GAL VANIZED FIXTURE El ement s = t s Y .t u W Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Name Signs Arterial Existing Standard $150,000 GAL VANIZED FIXTURE New Standard $185,000 '�-` DECORA TI VE FIXTURE 2 -.W Elements of the S j O r y RuFt oNaw 1 Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Name Signs Collector Existing Standard $100,000 GALVANIZED FIXTURE New Standard $130,000 DECORATIVE FIXTURE Discussion Points Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Name Signs • Retrofit projects. • New construction projects. • Interim opportunities (paint). • Product specifications and style. Suggest Uniform Traffic Signals with Attached Name Signs • Develop specific traffic signal standards. • Coordinate with Watauga and TxDOT on Rufe Snow. • Develop a retrofit traffic signal plan for City Council approval. • Incorporate a traffic signal plan with upcoming bond and TxDOT projects. Elements affi a St Council Priorit Element #1 Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use of Asphalt #3 Medians and Micro - Medians #4 Improved Parking Lot Screening #5 Uniform Traffic Signals & Name Signs #6 Create a Loop 820 Task Force (1 of the Stuafg 7.13 =High Create a Loop 820 Task Force PAGE 35 Elements Study Create a Loop 820 Task Force r. { El ements - - __ -_ - �_-- -� Create a Loop 820 Task Force yr . . y. y m t Ele h t e Stu o Create a Loop 820 Task Force F£ Al k *-- .• p 4 t �r D �scussi n Points Create a Loop 820 Task Force t o e Minimize divisive nature ofA IN to with TxDOT. I t d ion mat . colors, bridge and wall design. i u S est�ons Create a Loop 820 Task Force Create a task force committee, .,toy Tx D OT. Include representatives from cities. Elements o S tudy Council Priority Element #1 Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use of Asphalt #3 Medians and Micro - Medians #4 Improved Parking Lot Screening #5 Uniform Traffic Signals & Name Signs #6 Create a Loop 820 Task Force #7 Locate Sidewalks Adjacent to the Curb Elements of the Study 7.00 =High Locate Sidewalks Adjacent to the Curb PAGE 17 the S ..........�4 a ocate Sidewa/ * t ^11 �F x -s Am AS ilp i i i SCUSSIon Po ts Locate Sidewalks Next to Curb Creates g Y t orks in concert with the landsca in 4 p 9 setback (additional 5') and the street theme to have attractively landscaped thoroughfares SI h An-cnstdue to sidewalk idt p uggestions Locate Sidewalks Next to Curb r Amend design o require a 6' sidewalk adjace rterials, and a 5' sidewalk adjacent to collector AN ALI um .t Elements he o to Y Council Priority Element #1 Bury Overhead Utilities Where Possible #2 Discontinue Use of Asphalt #3 Medians and Micro - Medians #4 Improved Parking Lot Screening #5 Uniform Traffic Signals & Name Signs #6 Create a Loop 820 Task Force #7 Locate Sidewalks Adjacent to the Curb #8 Replace Privacy Fencing w/ Masonry Elements of the Std 7.00 =High Rep /ace Privacy Fencing w/ Masonry PAGE 28 m n t e e tso St Replacement of Wood Privacy Fencing with Masonry � � Y �u A . Replacement with Masonr $100 L r n Dis Po Replacement of Wood Privacy Fencing with Masonry I AL r"v� issues. , Maintenance responsibi ties. • Retrofit projects. • Street reconstruction projects. .. • Color and style issues. 0 S i Replacement of Wood Privacy Fencing with Masonry rr • Consider amending 'subdivision or finance o new development adjacent to arterials a- collectors to require masonry fence as home owner association requirement .................. ......... ......... ........ . . Element; of the Study Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs Element - udy Consolidation of Traffic Signs PAGE 26 6.88 = Medium Elements o Study .?P:_ vi- I >, OUT Consolidation of Traffic Signs 4ih .�. St 2 Ala a 3 4 t`vNt j�R!t 8+1tY Consolidation of Traffic Signs _ n° X r ?4�r Nominal Cost /Potential Savings�� Conso /i n of Traffic Signs a 1 i i i Consolidation of Tr iC Signs 3, • TxDOT manual on uniform traffic code. • Addition of review process by staff on signs integral to development. 1 1 i Sugge Consolidation of Tr is Signs • Require more detail sign placement submittals. • Manage sign proliferation. Element af the Study Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #ZO Uniform Street Lights E/ nts aTiie Study Uniform Street Lights PAGE 9 6. 5 = Medium Eleme o St Uniform Street Lights and Decorative Banners �z F..r } y . 4� �AMVfRS CaULD t°�E !'lfAAGEO W /775` j' - y' $�£C7AL Cl'Fav7S o2 SFa9ScY✓AL AcriairiES a i E em n the e is S tu d y o Uniform Street Lights and Decorative Banners Existing Standard $2,500 k; COBRA FIXTURE /?ipM�/fRS COULD QE !'ffAArF-0 W /TN $AEG /AL C��iVTS Ok SEASgVAL ACT /{� /T /ES 1 i i El ements of t S Uniform Street Lights and Decorative Banners Existing Standard $2,500 COBRA FIXTURE r TigNNfRS CoULP e5E New Standard $4,500 Wow �ECi�L r;"FV oz DECORA TIVE FIXTURE` i -_ uss�on Points Uniform Street Lights & Decorative Banners • Major thoroughfares or city -wide. • Color and style. • Retrofit issues: reconstruction intersection improvements bond program • Maintenance issues Suggestions Uniform Street Lights i & Decorative Banners • Develop specific street light standards and product specifications. • Coordinate with Watauga and TxDOT for Rufe Snow. • Coordinate with other neighboring cities. • Develop retrofit street light plan for City Council approval. • Incorporate street light plan into upcoming bond projects and Tx D OT ] ro ' ects. p 0 f- -7 4ements of the St- dy Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements y%ftrW - ulflMe Study Bridge Enhancements PAGE 13 6.63 IMP, = M -i m m n Stu E e e is __ Poly Stone Veneer Over Existing Concrete Walls Addition of Decorative Rail on Parapet Walls Bridge Enhancements sra.c two c a�rr.�,s xQ JsRhK4 To x Avr - _ t f. 1 D es Ussion Points Bridge Enhancements • Minimal new bridge construction. • Primarily retrofit issues - cost variable. • Removing oversized railing, capping walls and abutments and adding decorative rails to match entry portals. • Maintenance issues. Suggesti--ns Bridge Enhancements • Develop specific policy and installation plan for retrofit projects. • Incorporate into bond projects. • Develop standards modeled after entryway portals. r" Elements t e st;- _ Co uncil Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #12 Modify Earthen Channels Elements of the Stuff Modify Earthen Channels GAGE 33 6.50 = Medium ents of the S a a ! l m t Terr ed rainage Ways / Pilot C#anne /s z k w °e p^ 44 �4 El e ment s Khe E St Ap *00 �. Using her t C6 e s r �r h'onstruction w fi 1.. st May Increase D&6 to Additional Width y i i scussion Points Implement Terraced Drainage Ways / Pilot Channels US Army Corp F �w . ws e re r enhanc es property. property. .now i S� est�on s Imp /ement Terraced Drainage Ways / Pilot Channels Amend esign rnanua ana' regulations to require terraced or s ty ;a- a- �roac r E m nt e e so 3- Y Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #12 Modify Earthen Channels #13 Redesigned Traffic Signs cements oft Redesigned Traffic Signs PAGE ZS 6.38 = Medium l e:::: en ts o th e S — P4xr 5ou zwK 3' liMAO E FAW- � b n r?lK&- TlGWAf 5160"E flat ME WSr� UAO 4V Redesigned Traffic Signs I � e ` M,cwkrFn W�raiN A .5' PR E A5 MAW W r' t 0 � 4 r Existing $30 Standard _:..�...._ New $150 Standard X3333: AV � .,__ - ... ,.....� Points •��� 1_..... ■� ... ■� l ................ Redesigned Traffic Signs • Color and style - coordinate with street lights and traffic signals. • Only on arterials and collectors. • Maintenance issues. mt/ /&� PW III_Iff • Coordinate with TXDOT. i - u est�ons Redesigned Traffic Signs • Develop a plan to retrofit on arterials and collectors. • Incorporate into bond program. • Develop policy to require developer to install on streets intersecting with arterials and collectors. Elements o the S = = s= Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #12 Modify Earthen Channels #13 Redesigned Traffic Signs #14 Additional City Entryway Signs meet of the 6m14 = Medium Additional City Entryway Signs PAGE 5 Ele ments o st u y ptr.l 1 Smaller Sign $30,000 Larger Sign $40,000 k Additional Entry Signs * ' R ' �� � sd � • a A N @RTH RICI- ILA\ -1 jj ,. I I L L �. ♦. �f *' +off i. ti� M r, IS 1"111 =111 �S _ � � m 77 9 Additional Entry Signs • Easements. • Coordinate with TxDOT. • Remaining locations. • Other portal treatments. Suggestions Additions /Entry Signs • Develop specific timeline for the remaining signs. C`= s'� Elements o the S Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #12 Modify Earthen Channels #13 Redesigned Traffic Signs #14 Additional City Entryway Signs #15 Substitution of Chain Link Fence lements of the Study 6.00 = medium Substitution of Chain Link Fence PAGE 32 r e is oaf New Nominal Cost Retrofit $20/ LF Substitution of Chain Link Fence D� - aussion Poin Substitution of Chain Link Fence along Drainage ways • Liability /safety perceptions. • Color and style. • Upgrade where visible from roadway. Suggestions Substitution of Chain Link Fence along Drainageways • Develop a retrofit plan on high visibility areas. i E m n the e e is o s dy Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 [Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #12 Modify Earthen Channels #13 Redesigned Traffic Signs #14 Additional City Entryway Signs #15 Substitution of Chain Link Fence #16 Street Tree Theme Elements c NO LI 5m88 = Me-ium Street Tree Theme PAGE 17 Adik Elements o the 5't u ;,y s e4 C Street Tree Themes 'y t � `5 • r gg 'f� ..f . -p� { �' ',+ , „�* ,vim i " '' � ',.� r ^r . a ■ k AS l . *+...... , 1 M y r• . A ;r. „� . i , + i r 7 i AS .'� -�, �+ F�' +� .'+ .,Y•Y '.ice a•. f . t �i y x D AV AV AV i scuss i on P Art erials Street Tree Theme • collectors o nly. Limit extensive plant palette to 12 selected trees in parkway. Large shade trees in landscape buffer only. Compliments additional landscape buffer (5') and V s. ,, •;,: l oca ti o n • si dewa lks - t o •� 4 . :4 • t r' Suggestgarns Street Tree Theme Develop a street tree theme plan t o p rov i de . con o tree types al Modify landscape ordinance to require only large shade trees 41 in s d ' ► w tt lan b uffer t o b '• �� ' � 'rrr' "r •' "°,� �- + r ; • � . "' `�` 'tea supplemented by ornamental r' Elements o Study Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #12 Modify Earthen Channels #13 Redesigned Traffic Signs #14 Additional City Entryway Signs #15 Substitution of Chain Link Fence #16 Street Tree Theme #17 Strengthen Public Art Program quo Im �timents of the Study 5.88 = Medium Strengthen Public Art Program PAGE 39 Elem tso t e--.-Y- , uy Lease Agreement Generates 10 000 - a 20 000 Per Year 9 $ $ The Illustrated Piece Costs Approximately $100,000 .......... .........:::.... Would Take Over 5 Years to Commission a Significant Piece f A Strengthen Public Art Program r i Elements o the St l • ,Q Adopt an Ordinance Allocatin 1 -2% of Ali Public Projects p 9 ] Streets, Parks, City Buildings Dallas, Ft.Worth and Richardson Have Adopted Similar Policies Y Stren then Public Art Program " t i, 4 " ° Y .. r p tt s+ R. i $ M:. 14 p s PAC r � s , now 70 0.- fl AIM jwl n -41k ...,��.. _ { 4c n ♦ ' of � >� �� Sx x � X 33 '4 . a' r O x� y 1"• �+t} . ,.�r'sr ;; as ,. x � ' * � •j � a � • . ,�' Aft' ..ro I i Al 1 14 1 1 Elements o the st u d - � Council Priority Element #9 Consolidation of Traffic Signs #10 Uniform Street Lights #11 Bridge Enhancements #1 Modify Earthen Channels #13 Redesigned Traffic Signs #14 Additional City Entryway Signs #15 Substitution of Chain Link Fence #1 Street Tree Theme #17 Strengthen Public A it Program #18 Special Intersection Pavement Elements of the St------ = =y 1.90 =Low PAGE 6 Special Intersection Pavement Elements o the St - _-_ - -- New Existing $6 /SF Standard r New $12.25/SF Standard [ Mid -Citi4 . . Special Intersection Pavement lements of the Study New Retrofit Existing $6 /SF Pavers $ 12.25/SF Standard New $12.25/SF Stamped Concrete $ 8 /SF Standard Special Intersection Pavement Discuss Points, 3 Special Intersection Pavement , r Color and st le - multiple- tions. C p z Other ' s e ci deAJ0 t r v . M ,z A • Main Location and extent of use. _ t _ crosswalks--�vs.� insignia Retrofit com lexities w i estoons Specia /Intersection Pa vement �� .� �� � � - x L ry w • Develop a pi n for inters tion r improvelnen������'� w, .t .--- Pa r�kwa` �d s �. Incor orate ap p lan into bond p pp p projects and TxDOT-- projects.