Foss S-8 District Shoreline Management Plan Draft for Tacoma Planning Commission Meeting of Feb. 3, 2010

8/14/2019 Foss S-8 District Shoreline Management Plan Draft for Tacoma Planning Commission Meeting of Feb. 3, 2010.

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City of Tacoma

Community and Economic Development Department

747 Market Street, Room 1036 ▌ Tacoma, Washington 98402-3793 ▌ (253) 591-5365

http://www.cityoftacoma.org/planning

Agenda Item

GB-1

TO: Planning Commission

FROM: Donna Stenger, Acting Manager, Long-Range Planning Division

SUBJECT: Shoreline Master Program

DATE: January 27, 2010

At the Planning Commission’s meeting on February 3rd, staff will present a package of materialsrelated to the S-8 Thea Foss Waterway Shoreline District. These materials include:

• Proposed Environment Designation Policies• Proposed Shoreline District Use Matrix

• Draft Thea Foss Waterway Design Guidelines

In addition, staff will present a summary of how the Thea Foss Waterway Design andDevelopment Plan will be integrated into the Shoreline Master Program and the steps that havebeen taken to streamline and refine the policies and standards contained in that plan.

Staff will also discuss with the Commission the public outreach efforts that have beenundertaken as part of the Foss Plan Update. Through extensive discussions with interestedparties on both the east and west sides of the Foss, two issues have surfaced as the primaryareas of concern. For the eastside, and in particular that area North of 15th Street, the primary

concerns have revolved around current restrictions on industrial uses, their ability to expand,and the compatibility of industrial uses and public access requirements. For the westside, theprimary concern has been in regard to the difficulty in retaining the water-oriented andpedestrian-oriented uses that are required in the mixed-use structures. Attached, please findexcerpts from the existing code and highlighted passages that are the source of much of thisconcern, as well as a brief discussion of each issue and a proposed response.

If you have any questions, please contact Stephen Atkinson, Associate Planner, Long-RangePlanning Division, at 591-5531, or [email protected].

DS:sa

c. Peter Huffman, Assistant Director

Attachments (3)

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]





SHORELINE ENVIRONMENTS

Downtown Waterfront

PurposeThe intent of the Downtown Waterfront Designation is to:

1. To foster a mix of private and public uses, including parks and recreationfacilities, that are linked by a comprehensive public access system, including acontinuous walkway encircling the entire Thea Foss Waterway;

2. To strengthen the pedestrian-orientation of development on the Thea FossWaterway;

3. To promote the design vision for the Thea Foss Waterway through theestablishment and implementation of design guidelines and standards;

4. To encourage a mix of uses, including new water-dependent industrial andcommercial uses that are compatible with public access objectives.

5. To retain and enhance characteristics of the Thea Foss Waterway that supportmarine and recreational boating activities;

6. To manage the shoreline area in a way that optimizes circulation, public access,development, and environmental protection;

7. To encourage and provide opportunities for mixed-use development thatsupports water-oriented uses and provides significant public benefit andenjoyment of the Waterway for the citizens of Tacoma.

Designation Criteria

The Downtown Waterfront shoreline designation is applied to shoreline areas that:

• Are zoned for commercial, industrial and high density residential uses

• Are within or adjacent to the downtown core.

• Are primarily developed with high intensity uses

• Are currently characterized by a dense mix of residential, commercial and

industrial uses

• Contain historic structures, sites related to the Foss Waterway’s maritime historyas well as cultural, educational and institutional uses

• Include unique circumstances and land use relationships related to the co-mingling of residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed use developments andthe necessary transportation and pedestrian access facilities.

Page 1 of 6



Areas Proposed for this Designation

• S-8 District – Thea Foss Waterway

Rationale

The Downtown Waterfront is characterized by the following:

• Inland waters of Puget Sound within an urban context where it is possible tocreate an attractive focal point for the enjoyment of water-oriented uses.

• A gateway to downtown, where public and private redevelopment effortscreate a lively mixed-use district for living, working, and recreating.

• Integrated recreational, commercial, marine, industrial, institutional, cultural,and residential activities.

• A wide variety of physical settings and landscaped parks and public spaces.

• Provides a continuous linear waterfront pathway that links a variety ofattractive, ground-level public activities and uses accessible to all ofTacoma’s citizens and to the region.

• A connection from the waterfront with neighboring districts, especially thedowntown, Port industrial area, Ruston Way, and Tacoma Dome areas.

• Provides opportunities to highlight the rich industrial past of the Thea FossWaterway in infrastructure and development alternatives.

General Management Policies

a. General Management Policies

Land Use

1. Retain the “working waterfront” character while encouraging water-oriented commercial, industrial, retail and office uses and also encourageresidential uses where appropriate.

2. Buildings adjacent to the esplanade and public access/view corridorsshould provide ground-level uses that are pedestrian-friendly and publiclyaccessible.

3. Non-water-oriented uses may be allowed in limited situations and on aninterim basis through a conditional use permit.

4. Encourage new water-dependent industrial and commercial uses that arecompatible with public access objectives.

5. Retain and enhance characteristics of the Thea Foss Waterway thatsupport marine and boating activities.

Page 2 of 6



6. Encourage and provide opportunities for mixed use development thatsupports water-oriented uses and provides significant public benefit andenjoyment of the Waterway for the citizens of Tacoma.

Views and Urban Design

1. Emphasize the uniqueness of the Thea Foss Waterway as a protectedwaterway immediately adjacent to a downtown core, bringing together theattractions of the downtown area, the waterfront, and public spaces.

2. Promote diverse, high-quality, pedestrian-related development thathighlights the rich cultural, natural, and maritime history of the Thea FossWaterway.

3. Provide a wide variety of physical settings, landscaped parks, andpedestrian attractions that are unified by a consistent esplanadetreatment along the shoreline edge.

4. Foster desirable character through the establishment and application ofdesign guidelines and standards.

5. Encourage the incorporation of aesthetic elements and/or artwork in thedesign of public facilities and amenities.

6. Develop site features that facilitate public participation in maritime eventsand activities.

Page 3 of 6



Shoreline District S-8 Thea Foss Waterway

Draft Use Matrix

District S-8

District nameThea FossWaterway

Shoreline Designation DW

Shoreline Use Agriculture

Agriculture NAquaculture

Aquaculture, general NArtwork

Artwork P

Boating FacilitiesMarinas PBoat Ramps P1

Non-motorized Boat Launch PMooring Buoy NNavigational Aids PBoat Houses NCovered Moorages N2

Commercial DevelopmentWater dependent P3,4

Water related PWater enjoyment P

Non Water oriented P/CUEcological Restoration / Enhancement

Ecological Restoration / Enhancement PEducational, Historic, Cultural and Scientific

Educational, Historic, Cultural and Scientific P

1 Boat launch facilities, which are not part of a marina facility, shall be prohibited within the Thea Foss

Waterway, except on the east side of the Foss Waterway within the 11th Street right of way or to the north

of the 11th Street right of way.

2On the east side of the Thea Foss Waterway, enclosed moorage (covered and enclosed with sidewalls) for

industrial purposes is allowed.

3 Commercial dry boat storage on the west side of the Waterway, except for car-top boats (kayaks and

canoes) is prohibited.

4Commercial haul-outs are prohibited on the west side of the Thea Foss Waterway, except haul-outs that

support non-commercial uses such as boat festivals, non-profit organizations, and maritime center

activities.

Page 4 of 6



District S-8Thea Foss

District nameWaterway

Shoreline Designation DWForest Practices

Forest Practices N

Industrial/Port FacilitiesWater-dependent P5

Water-related NNon water oriented N

MiningMining N

Mooring Facilities: Docks and PiersAssociated with Residential uses PAssociated Public Access Uses PAssociated with Water Dependent Uses P

Parking

Associated with an Approved Use PAs a Primary Use NRecreational Development

Water oriented PNon Water oriented N

Residential Development6

Single family PMultifamily PMultifamily as part of a mix-use

developmentP

SignsInterpretive/Educational P

Advertising PTransportation

New Facilities CUExpansion of Existing Facilities CU7

Ferry PUtilities

Underground PAbove ground N8

5New water-dependent industrial uses are allowed on the east side of the Thea Foss Waterway, north of the

centerline of East 11th Street.

6 Residential allowed only in upland locations or within overwater structures which existed on

January 1, 1996; on the east side of the waterway residential is not allowed north of the East 11th Street

right-of-way.

7Expansion of existing transportation facilities on the west side of the Thea Foss Waterway shall not

include additional vehicular through lanes.

Page 5 of 6



Page 6 of 6

District S-8

District nameThea FossWaterway

Shoreline Designation DWShoreline ModificationShoreline Stabilization

For water-dependent uses PFor Non-water-dependent uses C

Breakwaters, Jetties, Groins and WeirsBreakwater associated with marinas CUBreakwaters for Navigational purposes CUAs part of Ecological Restoration and

EnhancementP

Dredging and Dredge Material DisposalNon-maintenance dredging CUMaintenance dredging PAs Part of Ecological Restoration /

Enhancement

P

Fill and ExcavationFill and Excavation, Below OHWM CUBelow OHWM for Ecological Restoration

and EnhancementP

Above OHWM PFlood Control Works and Instream StructuresFlood Control Works and Instream Structures N

8New distribution lines or extension of existing distribution lines shall only be permitted underground,

except where the applicant can demonstrate that, due to economical, technical, environmental, or safety

considerations, placing utilities underground is infeasible. (From TMC 13.10.175(B)(21) “Utilities.”)



DRAF

JULY 2009

THEA FOSS WATERWAY

DESIGN GUIDELINE

& STANDARD





1

INTRODUCTION 3 ound 3

Intent 3 ability 3

4 5 6 6

1.2 Co mm unity Ga thering Plac es 8 Ac c ess/ View Co rrido rs 10

lic Ac c ess/ View Co rrido rs 11 11

SITES 4 2.1 View Co nside rations 14

nsiderations 14 te Layout 15

rior App ea ranc e 16 ition Area s 18

ILS20

ches 22 22 23

Fountains 24 ces 24

3.7 Landsc ape Plantings 25 3.8 Lighting 27 3.9 Log o 29 3.10 Low Imp ac t Development 30 3.11 Ma rina Ga tes 31 3.12 Picnic Tab les 32 3.13 Ra ilings 32

Backgr

Applic

Use

FORMAT

1. PUBLIC SPACES1.1 The a Foss Walkwa y

1.3 West Foss Pub lic

1.4 East Foss Pub

1.5 Stree tscapes

2. BUILDING 1

2.2 Shad ing C o

2.3 Si

2.4 Exte

2.5 Trans

3. SITE DETA 203.1 Art

3.2 Ben

3.3 Bike Rac ks

3.4 Bollards

3.5 Drinking

3.6 Fen

design guidelines & standards

DRAFT



2

3.14 Signage—Public 32 ing Sites 3

3.16 Surfac ing Ma teria ls 34 3.17 Waste Rec ep ta c les 36 3.15 Signage—Build 3

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



3

INTRO DUC TIO Nmaritime

coma, with

extensive collaboration from its citizens, has aimed to create a vibrant and viable future for

recognizing its past, this document serves to help implement the design

aspirations for the future Foss.

nt in an areato allow

esigning projects. design approach

te that a specific streetlight

l should be installed along area streets. Design standards are particularly beneficial for

ishing the identity and continuity of an area.

to promote

cenic, architectural, and/or cultural values of a particular area.

nt is to further

erway Design and

n.

other City of Tacoma regulatory processes.

ange over time to

ed situations.

Applicability

The design guidelines and standards contained in this document apply to the City of Tacoma

“S-8” Shoreline District—Thea Foss Waterway.

However, the guidelines and standards do not all apply uniformly across the “S-8” Shoreline

District. For the purposes of this document, the Thea Foss Waterway has been divided into

For many years, the Thea Foss Waterway bustled as a hub of industry and

activities. As time has moved on and circumstances have changed, the City of Ta

the Foss. While

Background

Design guidelines are broad statements that point the way to how developmeshould take place. Design guidelines are intentionally broad: they are meant

designers considerable creative latitude when d

In contrast, design standards are statements that indicate when a specific

should be used. For example, a design standard might indica

mode

establ

Communities throughout the nation have used design guidelines and standards

the historic, s

Intent

The intent of the design guidelines and standards contained in this docume

implement the design objectives originally laid out in the Thea Foss Wat

Development Pla

The design guidelines and standards contained in this document have been reviewed to

ensure that they interact logically with

The design guidelines and standards are not static and will likely need to ch

further clarify issues, provide additional specificity, or address unanticipat


DRAFT



4

two design areas: West Foss and East Foss. While some guidelines and stand standards apply to

the entire “S-8” Shoreline District, others only apply in either the West Foss or East Foss.

See map below.

opers and

res are desired in

cond, a design review body designated by the City of

Tacoma will use the document as a reference when evaluating projects subject to design review. Project developers and designers should be aware that, while this document covers issues

dealt with in other City of Tacoma regulatory documents, this document is a supplement to—

and not a replacement of—those other documents. Therefore, project developers and

designers are r esponsible for complying with all other applicable regulatory

documents, such as the Tacoma Municipal Code.

andards apply to

the entire “S-8” Shoreline District, others only apply in either the West Foss or East Foss.

See map below.

opers and

res are desired in

cond, a design review body designated by the City of

Tacoma will use the document as a reference when evaluating projects subject to design review. Project developers and designers should be aware that, while this document covers issues

dealt with in other City of Tacoma regulatory documents, this document is a supplement to—

and not a replacement of—those other documents. Therefore, project developers and

designers are r esponsible for complying with all other applicable regulatory

documents, such as the Tacoma Municipal Code.

DESIGN AREAS

Use

These design guidelines and standards have two primary uses. First, project devel

designers should use the guidelines to better understand what design featu

projects in the “S-8” Shoreline District. Se

Use

These design guidelines and standards have two primary uses. First, project devel

designers should use the guidelines to better understand what design featu

projects in the “S-8” Shoreline District. Se

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



5

FORMATThe design guidelines and standards contained in this document are presented in a

consistent fashion, according to the model shown below.

Transition areas are the privately owned spaces between buildings and public spaces. Highly

vely, pedestrian osphere.

of these areas should provide a seamless transition between public and private

extend the d esign fea tures of

public spac es to the ed ges of build ings.

• Transition areas should use landscape plantings, materials, lighting, and furniture

compatible with that used in the public spaces, but may demarcate the transition area with

t design features. • Not applicable to industrial properties.

2.5 Transition Area s

visible to passersby, transition areas should foster a li -oriented atm

The design

areas.

2.5.1 Transition a rea s should

differen

DESIG

ISSUE

N

DESIG

ISSUE

OVERVI

N

EW

DESIGN

GUIDELINE OR

STANDARD

FURTHER

DETAIL

WHERE APPLIES

W=west E=east

VISUAL

TRANSITION AREA


DRAFT



6

1. PUBLIC SPA C ES a variety of purposes. Besides

eeded for recreation,

design features in common to provide identity and

ent of site details.

rcle the entire

public

es for active and passive public recreation.

s the Thea Foss

relates to the designs and activities of upland and

space that is

On the west side of the Foss, the Walkway is expected to primarily consist of an esplanade

t always be able

djacent to the shoreline due to site constraints. Indeed, the Walkway

run adjacent to an inland street.

Th y” and

“e trail that is envisioned to encircle the entire

ections of the trail that run immediately

Ame ric ans with Disab ilities Ac t (ADA) a nd designed to

sa fely ac c om mo date a va riety of users, inc ludingwalkers, jog gers, b icyc lists, and rollerb lad ers.

• For required Walkway widths, see the Tacoma Municipal Code.

• Where space constraints only allow for sub-optimal trail width, the primary trail should be

designated for foot traffic and remain ADA compliant, while bicyclists and other wheeled

users should be diverted to a secondary route (such as a route along an adjacent street).

Public spaces around the Thea Foss Waterway must serve

providing public shoreline access and circulation, public spaces are n

contemplation, and inspiration—not to mention a nice spot for lunch!

Public spaces should have some

continuity. Continuity may also be expressed through the regular placem

1.1 Thea Foss Wa lkway

The term “Thea Foss Walkway” refers to the trail that is envisioned to enci

Thea Foss Waterway. The primary intent of the Thea Foss Walkway is to provide

shoreline access, with opportuniti

The design of the Walkway should create a linear shoreline park that unifie

Waterway, joins larger public spaces, and

in-water facilities. The Walkway should be an inviting, lively, and safe public

enjoyable all year, in all kinds of weather.

that runs immediately adjacent to the shoreline.

On the east side of the Foss, however, it is expected that the Walkway may no

to run immediately a

may at times need to head away from the shoreline and

erefore, a distinction should be made between the terms “Thea Foss Walkwa

splanade.” The former generally refers to the

Thea Foss Waterway, while the latter only refers to s

adjacent to the shoreline.

1.1.1 The Thea Foss Walkway should b e c om pliant w ith the

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



7

1 s Walkway

inc lude p ublic a rt, light ing , benc hes, signa ge , and

ould typically

section of

elopment where it can be demonstrated

evelopment and are compatible with the site

ovided along the Walkway on the other sides of the development site.

.1.4 The Thea Foss Walkway should inc orporate theor sa fe

the Lighting section of Chapter 3, Site Details.

es) located

the West Foss, to

e summer.

e shoreline edge, a planting strip with

mmediately adjacent to the waterward

rmwater runoff before it enters the

Foss, such planting strips should be six feet

n the east side of the Foss, such planting strips should be X

Chapter 3, Site Details.

1 the

Thea Foss Walkway, d irec t the p ub lic to the Wa lkwa y,

and indica te the intende d route of the Walkway

where the route m ay be unc lea r.

• Please see the Signage—Public section of Chapter 3, Site Details.

1.1.7 Pub lic restroom fac ilities should b e p rov ided in

build ings on build ing sites, ra ther tha n in sep ara te

struc tures a long the Thea Foss Walkway.

.1.2 Site d eta ils approp riate for the Thea Fos

wa ste rec ep tac les.

• Please see Chapter 3, Site Details.

1.1.3 Along the Thea Foss Walkway, similar site d eta ils

should be provide d.

• To bring continuity and make the Walkway easy to follow, the Walkway sh

consist of the active-use surfacing specified in the Surfacing Materials

Chapter 3, Site Details.

• Site details may be adapted adjacent to a specific dev

that they continue the design theme of the d

details pr

1minimum amount o f ligh ting nec essary f

nighttime use.

• Please see

1.1.5 Land sc ape p lantings (wh ich inc ludes tre

immed iately ad jac ent to bo th the landwa rd and

wa terwa rd sides of the Thea Foss Walkwa y a re

encouraged.

• Trees are particulary desirable on the landward side of the esplanade in

provide shade in th

• Where the Thea Foss Walkway fronts directly along th

landscape plantings (including trees) that runs i

side of Walkway is particularly desirable to filter sto

Thea Foss Waterway. On the west side of the

wide (four feet minimum). O

feet wide (X feet minimum).

• Please see the Landscape Plantings section of

.1.6 Pub lic signa ge should identify the p resenc e of


DRAFT



8

1.2 Community Ga thering Plac es

Community gathering places are areas along the Thea Foss Walkway inte

assembly. Community gathering places should be flex

nded for public

ible spaces that can be used either

casually or for formal public events. Plazas, open-air amphitheaters, concert stages, and

similar amenities are encouraged at community gathering places.

1. .1 The intersec tion of pub lic a c c ess/ view c orridors with the

• These locations provide increased depth and width, receive ample natural light, are highly

visible, and offer views of the Thea Foss Waterway, downtown Tacoma, Mount Rainier, or

Commencement Bay.

• Community gathering places may also be developed on the waterward side of building sites.

• Community gathering places can utilize the full length of public access/view corridors.

COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE

2

Thea Foss Walkway and p ier heads a re the p refe rred

locations for community gathering places.

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



9

1.2.2 Comm unity ga thering p lac es should b e identifiab le.

• The design of community gathering places should include features such as art, fountains,

unique paving materials, and grade changes.

• The construction of significant visual structures (such as art, fountains, or viewing towers) is

larly when in primary public

ctures would not obstruct public access and might

th the Thea Foss Walkway in site

ls and design. See Chapter 3, Site Details.

de signed for

ties.

should

rc ulation a long the Thea Foss

1.2.5 The d esigns of c om munity gathering p lac es shouldinclude a ny req uired utilities, suc h as water and

power.

1.2.6 Ta ller trees a re highly enc ourag ed a long the periphery

of a co mmunity gathering p lac e .

• Trees can help to spatially define a community gathering place, buffer a community

gathering space from adjacent uses, and provide shade for users.

IDENTIFIABLE COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE

encouraged at community gathering places, particu

access/view corridors where such stru be visible from downtown Tacoma.

• Community gathering places should be compatible wi

detai

1.2.3 Comm unity ga thering p lac es should b e

a variety of a c tive a nd pa ssive a c tivi

1.2.4 The d esign of comm unity ga thering p lac es

allow for unob structe d c i

Walkway.


DRAFT



10

ss wa terwa y

DRAFT

Details.

rsridors run

ded to provide

ight to the west

oss. While public access/view corridors may in limited circumstances be the

only feasible option for other functions (such as providing access to temporary marina

commodated in other locations

wh

idors should

a ils and

s.

plement those o f

terials, landscape plantings, and

• Linear lighting configurations utilizing the design standard walkway light are appropriate.

1.3.3 Where feasible, the in-water portion of a pub lic

ac c ess/ view c orridor should b e improved with pub lic

facilities, including piers, viewing platforms, and other

like struc tures.

• Please see the Landscape Plantings section of Chapter 3, Site

1.3 West Foss Pub lic Ac c ess/ View CorridoOn the west side of the Thea Foss Waterway, fourteen public access/view cor

between Dock Street and the inner harbor line. These corridors are inten

visual and physical access to and from the Foss, as well as additional natural l

side of the F

loading and unloading areas), such functions should be ac

en practical. 1.3.1 The entire w id th of p ublic ac c ess/ view c orr

be imp roved with appropriate site d et

amenities, suc h a s landsc ape p lanting

1.3.2 Pub lic a c c ess/ view c orrido rs should p rov ide interna lly

c onsistent site deta ils tha t c om

ad jac ent p ub lic spac es in materia ls, co lors, and

design.

• Site details might include lighting, special surfacing ma

waste receptacles. See Chapter 3, Site Details.

thea fo

IN-WATER PUBLIC ACCESS/ VIEW CORRIDOR



11

1.4 East Foss Pub lic Ac c ess/ View Corrido

Public access/view corridors on the east side of the Thea Foss Waterway ar

intended to provide physical access, but also provide visual access to the wat

corridors either terminate in an outloo

rs

e primarily

erway. These

k or connect segments of the Thea Foss Walkway that

s a segment running along the

s another running along the street).

ide sufficient lighting.

lease see the Bollards section of Chapter 3, Site Details.

efore constitute a branchmaterials the entire

hapter 3, Site

Details.

• Where an industrial or other intensive use is located adjacent to a public access/view

g the periphery of the public

n the use from users of the public

• Please see the Fences section of Chapter 3, Site Details.

w c orrido r

e bench or

e, a wa ste rec ep tac le, a bike rac k, and the

design stand ard railing (if nec essary).

ite Details.

1.5 Streetsc apes

Streetscapes around the Thea Foss Waterway should do more than just transport vehicles.

Typically, streets occupy approximately 25 to 35 percent of any dense urban environment.

Being publicly owned, streets are one of the major areas that a city has to implement the

design vision for a given area, such as the Foss. As the Foss is intended to be inviting to the

public and open to pedestrian and bicycle use (as well as other forms of non-motorized

transportation), the streets in the Foss are intended to be a place for people. Of course, this

run north-south in different upland alignments (such a

horeline and

1.4.1 Pub lic ac c ess/ view c orrido rs should fea ture consistent

site d eta ils.

• A design standard lighted bollard should be located where a public access/view corridor

connects with the street and along the corridor as needed to prov

P

• Public access/view corridors that terminate in an outlook (and theroff the main Thea Foss Walkway) should incorporate special surfacing

length of the corridor. Please see the Surfacing Materials section of C

corridor, the placement of landscape plantings alon

access/view corridor is encouraged in order to scree

access/view corridor.

1.4.2 Outlooks a t the end of a p ub lic a c c ess/ vie

should fea ture a wa lkwa y light, at least on

picnic tab l

• See Chapter 3, S

1.4.3 Outloo ks should b e situate d as c lose a s possible to the

shoreline ordinary high water mark to maximize views

of the wa terwa y.

• In habitat mitigation areas, habitat considerations should prevail.


DRAFT



12

needs to be balanced with the vehicular function of the street, but it is imp

street be seen as a vehicle for moving people, in all forms of transportation,

cars, people on foot, people on

ortant that the

be it people in

bicycles, people in trucks, or people on skateboards. Street

improved with a

e the Thea Foss

due to

s for the

need to be adjusted to accommodate the City of Tacoma street

rity for the public

uld be incorporated

ma Comprehensive Plan provides

guidance for developing co the Foss is considered part of downtown,

guidance.

• Coordinate this with the appropriate City of Tacoma departments.

stree t, the Walkwa y should fea ture land sc ape

ow, the Walkway should typically

rfacing Materials section of

etails.

apter 3, Site Details.

1.5 lic sidewa lk is identified as the Thea

re spa c e

n a menities suc h a s wa ste rec ep tac les,

b ike rac ks, and wa lkwa y ligh ts should b e loc a ted on

the p ub lic sidew a lk.

1.5.4 Where the re is no p rac tica l a lternative to ha ving the

Thea Foss Walkway c ross a stree t, the stree t should

feature a crosswalk.

1.5.5 Prov ide fo r sa fe, we ll-lit b icyc le and p ed estrian tra ffic

in bo th d irec tions.

design on the Foss should accommodate all forms of moving people and produce what have

come to be called “complete streets.”

More specifically, it is desirable that streetscapes around the Foss be

sidewalk that adjoins properties. In some cases the sidewalk will becom

Walkway, where the Walkway cannot be accommodated on private property

constraints such as hazardous material use or high security needs. Standard

sidewalk in this case will

standards, give the Walkway design continuity, and provide safety and cla

user. Design standards and amenities, as outlined in this document, sho

wherever possible.

Additionally, the Downtown Element of the City of Taco

mplete streets. As

streetscape projects in the Foss should also follow this

1.5.1 Rec onfigure the street where necessary to a llow for a

c ontinuous Thea Foss Walkway.

1.5.2 Where the Thea Foss Walkway runs ad jac ent to the

p lantings at its ed ge to buffer Wa lkwa y users from

vehicle traffic . • To bring continuity and make the Walkway easy to foll

consist of the active-use surfacing specified in the Su

Chapter 3, Site D

• Please see the Low Impact Development section of Ch

.3 Where the pub

Foss Walkwa y, whe re a pprop riate a nd whe

permits, desig

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



13

1 strian and b ic yc le c irc ula tion routes

.5.7 Crea te p leasant, pub lic ly ac c essible street end s.

ng landscape plantings,

interior o f

l c lutter.

Coordinate this with the appropriate City of Tacoma departments.

rticu larly those with

sistent with the guidance located in the Urban

hensive Plan.

1.5.10 Streetsc ape projec ts should b e c onsistent w ith the

“ co mplete street” guida nce provided in the

Downtow n Elem ent o f the City of Tac om a

Comp rehensive Plan.

.5.6 Connect pede

with other like route s.

1

• Strategies to do this include providing a trail, addi

creating a sitting area, and limiting parking.

1.5.8 Loc a te utilities und erground o r within the

build ings where fea sible to rem ove visua

•

1.5.9 Stree t t rees of d iverse spec ies, pa

taller ca nop ies, are enco urag ed .

• Trees should be be selected and located con

Forestry Policy Element of the Compre


DRAFT



14

2. BUILDING SITESn such a way as to

. Design teams for a

account for

ement and

sites that

sides of the Foss,

ay), and view considerations

rridors). Public spaces should be prioritized in terms of

ding massing and form should seek to strengthen the

view opportunities. While numerous views are available, the most critical views are of Mount

, Union Station and the Washington

State Historical Museum, the Port of wntown Tacoma. While

e view impacts, the guidelines below are

int Foss Waterway.

2.1 uild ing s sho uld b e o rie nte d to ma xim ize vie w

ruc tures—both p ub lic a nd

rse imp ac ts as muc h a s

ified

• All buildings must comply with all applicable provisions of the Tacoma Municipal Code.

2.2 Shad ing Co nsidera tions

The intent of the guidelines in this section is to minimize the shading of public spaces. The

shading of public spaces is of particular concern on the west side of the Foss, because its

location, topography, and north-south orientation result in early afternoon shadow

conditions nearly year-round.

Building sites, whether publicly or privately owned, should be developed i

take into consideration the special nature of the Thea Foss Waterway

site located in the Foss must recognize that a successful building will not only

patterns of development on the actual site, but will also successfully impl

contribute to the larger goals of the Foss as a whole. It is desirable that the

surround the Foss acknowledge the larger patterns of development on both

public access goals (as exemplified by the Thea Foss Walkw

(such as the public access/view co

minimizing shadow impacts, and builexisting public rights of way, including streetscapes and the Walkway.

2.1 View Considera tions

The topography and structures in and around the Thea Foss Waterway provide numerous

Rainier, the Thea Foss Waterway, Commencement Bay

Tacoma industrial area, and do

City of Tacoma regulations are in place to mitigat

ended to further maximize views to and from the Thea

.1 New b

op portunities for building oc c upants and users.

2.1.2 New b uild ings should identify view imp ac ts to

surround ing loc a tions and st

p riva te—and minimize adve

possible.

• Impacts to potential future surrounding locations and structures should also be ident

and minimized.

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT





16

2.3 b ined to

minimize the interruption of p ed estrian traffic a nd

2.3 b lic spac es;

fiting the

e from pub lic spac es, or build ing a rea s

ic a c c ess ma y be loca ted in

ividuality, not

rily be

tscapes.

maritime heritage and is considered the hub connecting

ublic spaces, existing

ll new developments. It is

ted; instead, the creative, subtle

inte

Add uilding sites should incorporate

trea n environment.

2.4. long the Thea

rea tively reflec ts

teristic s of the Thea Fosssites. These c harac teristics can include integ ration or

referenc e to prop ortions, ma terials, forms, textures or

colors from existing build ings. Continuity between

buildings is enc ouraged , espec ially throug h logical

transitions in build ing bulk, shape a nd height; or by

significant physical separation.

.4 Vehicular ac c ess po ints should b e c om

adverse visua l impac ts.

.5 No parts of build ings should p rot rude into pu

however, weather protec tion fea tures be ne

pub lic , art visibl

p rovide d p rimarily for pub l

or ove r these a rea s.

2.4 Exterior Ap pearanc e

Buildings around the Thea Foss Waterway are intended to feature design ind

to be designed with a strong unifying theme. Design continuity should prima

established by the cohesive linear design of the Thea Foss Walkway and stree

At the same time, the Foss has a rich

surrounding districts. To provide compatibility, design elements from p

structures, and surrounding districts should be incorporated into a

not intended that portions of existing buildings be replica

gration of these elements is the objective.

itionally, the exterior appearance of buildings and b

tments that make for a comfortable and interesting pedestria

1 Strong ind ividual design is enc ouraged a

Foss waterfront , espec ially design tha t c

the w orking wa terfront c harac

WORKING WATERFRONT CHA RACTERthea foss wa terway

DRAFT



17

2 y, long

sonry, me ta l,

preserve

munity valuesherever

heir used or historic

urag ed to b e ad ap tively

or

2 r a sing le

monstrate

internal c om patibility. While build ings a re not req uired

uity or a logica l

ht .

• Common design themes should be demonstrated in materials, roof pitches, colors, building

uildings to each other.

ings should b e d esigned

strian environme nt.

e appearance of

buildings

circulation corridors. Transparency

or into display

ency is

ed glass in

nd-level retail should be oriented toward the

exterior of buildings.

• The street sides of buildings should focus on

providing interest by providing features such as

landscape plantings of varying heights, movable

planting elements (such as container gardens or window boxes), awnings, exterior wall

treatments, building modulation, and the provision of depth in building wall design

details.

.4.2 Build ings should be constructed o f high qua lit

lasting materials, particularly concrete, ma

or wood wherever possible, in orde r to

resources and reflec t the long te rm c omembed ded in the Thea Foss Waterway. W

possible, existing buildings and t

build ing ma teria ls are enco

reused as part or who le o f new build ing

development p rojects.

.4.3 When several buildings a re proposed fo

deve lopm ent, the build ings should d e

to look identic al, they should ma intain a c om mon

de sign them e and p rovide c ontin

transition in build ing bulk, shape, and he ig

separation, and orientation of b

2.4.4 Ground -level exteriors of build

to c reate a n excit ing p ed e

• Maximize transparency, or th

transparency, at the ground level of

facing public

allows views into the structure

windows from the outside. Transpar

provided only by clear or lightly tint

windows, doors, and display windows.

• Grou

STREET SIDE OF BUILDING WITH

TRANSPARENCY & AWNINGS


DRAFT



18

2.4

particularly

t a t

nd sc a les into thegn is highly

2.4 and

vertica l) and o ther relief fea tures

te interest

des.

2.4 the

rior ap pearanc e of industrial

ed,

c ilities areonly seen by the

public.

creative use of

Transition Areas

n buildings and public spaces. Highly

visible to passersby, transition areas should foster a lively, pedestrian-oriented atmosphere.

public and private

2.5.1 Transition a rea s should extend the design fea tures of

pub lic spac es to the ed ge s of buildings.

• Transition areas should use landscape plantings, surfacing materials, lighting, and other site

details that are compatible with that used in adjacent public spaces, but may demarcate

the transition area with different design features.

• Not applicable to industrial properties.

.5 Strong , thoughtful, textured

arc hitectura l deta il is

enc ouraged. Integration of ar

a ll types a

build ing a nd site desi

encouraged. .6 M od ula tion (horizonta l

are encourag ed to c rea

and avoid long, f lat fac a

.7 Creative app roa ches to

exte

facilities are encourag

particularly when such fain areas comm

CREATIVE APPROACH TO INDUSTRIAL

FACILITYY OF HMFH ARCHITECTS, INC &

PETER VA NDERWALKER

• This could include the

materials, paint, texture, landscaping,

lighting, or screening.

2.5

PHOTOS COURTES

Transition areas are the privately owned spaces betwee

The design of these areas should provide a seamless transition between

areas.

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



19

anced with

ntings, plazas (for

pub lic or priva te use), or othe r fea tures p rom oting

2.5.3 Transition a rea s a re the p referred loc ation for ac tivities

suc h as outd oo r d ining o r outd oo r d isp lay.

• This minimizes interference with public circulation.

TRANSITION AREA

2.5.2 Transition a rea s a re enc ourag ed to b e enh

artwo rk, founta ins, landsc ape p la

public enjoyment (ac tive o r visua l).


DRAFT



20

3. SITE DETA ILSn. Site details

are encouraged to reflect the maritime character of the waterfront. Historic site details may

be appropriate when related to historic structures. Exceptional care should be taken in the

design, construction, and installation of all site details.

at public

, and outlooks, as well as along the Thea

ms have

demonstrated over the past decades, public spaces that bring people together are greatly

Foss seeks to integrate art that is clearly

nclude:

lter, safety, or lighting. Examples include canopy shelters, railings,

lighted bollards, tree grates, and special surfacing materials.

• PLAY, such as playground equipment, skateboard areas, bicycle racks, and objects for pets

or children to interact with.

• EDUCATIONAL, engaging the history of the Foss, its environmental state (both past and

present), or the evolving functions of the Foss.

• ENVIRONMENTAL, engaging sustainable materials/systems, such as bioswales, permeable

paving, cisterns, solar, or wind.

Site details bring continuity and identity to the Thea Foss Waterway.

Site details should have a clear function and exhibit a simple utilitarian desig

MARINE CHARACTER

3.1 Art

The Thea Foss Waterway vision embraces public art projects, particularly

access/view corridors, community gathering places

Foss Walkway. As many of the nation’s most successful public art progra

enhanced by the introduction of art. The

discernable as art, yet may also have a variety of other qualities, that may i

• FUNCTION, such as she

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



21

• SENSORY/ACTIVE, engaging all or as many of the senses as possible of those interacting

with the artwork. An active, rather than passive, relationship between the work of art and

ls of meaning into the

e discernable upon first glance. Of particular importance is

tent in the Foss, including, but not limited to:

ng.

s of both natural and human

systems.

rine life present in the Foss.

3.1.1 The use of pub lic a rt is highly enc ouraged , particula rly

a t pub lic a c c ess/ view c orridors, c om munity ga thering

p lac es, and outlooks, as we ll as a long the Thea Foss

Walkway.

3. ic art should be reviewed by

the Tac om a Art Comm ission.

• The office of the Tacoma Art Commission offers a variety of art information. Please contact

the office with any art-related questions you may have.

3.1.3 Art, pa rtic ularly when inte rac tive or kinet ic, should be

sited at a loca tion ap prop riate for its func tioning a nd

expec ted ac tive a nd visual use.

ing

with the artwork. An active, rather than passive, relationship between the work of art and

ls of meaning into the

e discernable upon first glance. Of particular importance is

tent in the Foss, including, but not limited to:

ng.

s of both natural and human

systems.

rine life present in the Foss.

3.1.1 The use of pub lic a rt is highly enc ouraged , particula rly

a t pub lic a c c ess/ view c orridors, c om munity ga thering

p lac es, and outlooks, as we ll as a long the Thea Foss

Walkway.

3. ic art should be reviewed by

the Tac om a Art Comm ission.

• The office of the Tacoma Art Commission offers a variety of art information. Please contact

the office with any art-related questions you may have.

3.1.3 Art, pa rtic ularly when inte rac tive or kinet ic, should be

sited at a loca tion ap prop riate for its func tioning a nd

expec ted ac tive a nd visual use.

the viewer is highly encouraged.

An important value for the Foss is to strive to incorporate deeper leve

the viewer is highly encouraged.

An important value for the Foss is to strive to incorporate deeper leve

art pieces that may or may not bart pieces that may or may not b

to engage deeper levels of meaning existo engage deeper levels of meaning exis

• HISTORY, especially maritime history.• HISTORY, especially maritime history.

• TRANSPORTATION, multi-modal and evolvi• TRANSPORTATION, multi-modal and evolvi

• KINETICISM, especially regarding the rich marine movement• KINETICISM, especially regarding the rich marine movement

• EXCHANGE and TRADE, as an international port.

• ENVIRONMENT, especially the rich and varied ma

• EXCHANGE and TRADE, as an international port.

• ENVIRONMENT, especially the rich and varied ma

1.2 Where ap plic ab le, pub l1.2 Where ap plic ab le, pub l

ART


DRAFT



22

3.2 Benc hes

.1 Benc hes should b e c onsidered fo r pub3.2 lic ac c ess/ view

, benches are required. Please see the Tacoma Municipal Code.

cified

r model TF-1.3.

• For both design standard benches, arms shall be forest green and galvanized. All other

metal surfaces shall be galvanized steel. Wood slats shall be sustainably harvested ipe orcumaru, or other sustainably harvested wood.

• East Foss benches should be four feet in length.

3.3 Bike Rac ks

3.3.1 The design sta nd ard bike

rac k shown sha ll beused.

• Hess Tendo, galvanized steel.

c orridors, co mm unity ga thering p lac es, pa rks, and a t

va rious loc a tions a long the Thea Foss Walkway.

• At certain locations

3.2.2 One o f the two d esign standard b enc hes spe

below sha ll be used .

• The design standard reversible-back bench is FairWeather model TF-3.

• The design standard backless bench is FairWeathe

REVERSIBLE-BACK BENCH

HESS TENDO BIKE RACK

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



23

3.4 Bolla rds

Use bollards where they would facilitate the safe and efficient movement of vehicles and

• The design standard is a 36-inch-tall, 8-inch-diameter, steel-pipe bollard with a conical steel

top. All painted forest green (Pantone #5605C).

• Removable bollards are encouraged where appropriate.

3.4.2 For East Foss pub lic ac c ess/ view c orridors or for

spe c ia l app lica tions, the design standard lighted

bollard spec ified below sha ll be used .

• Louis Poulsen DOCK-B, natural aluminum.

pedestrians.

3.4.1 The d esign sta ndard b ollard spec ified below sha ll be

used for typ ic a l app lic a tions.

WEST FOSS DESIGN STANDARD BOLLARD

LOUIS POULSEN BOLLARD


DRAFT



24

3.5 Drinking Founta

.1 Pub lic d rinking foun

ins

3.5 ta ins are

r

3.5.2 design standard

nta in spe c ified below sha ll

.

• Haws 3500D, green.

3

private a rea s should b e a ma ximum of four feet high,

, meta l, or other

t c ha in link).

ld provide visual transparency.

3.6 anent fences erec ted to

separate pub lic from private a reas should b e the

minimum he ight necessary to ensure safety and sec urity.

3.6.3 At ind ustria l properties, the c reative trea tment or

sc reening o f c ha in-link fenc es and a lternat ives to

c hain-link fences are enc ourag ed .

encouraged to be a djacent to o

integrated with build ings.

Where ap plic ab le, the

drinking fo u

be used

.6 Fenc es

3.6.1 Permanent fenc es erec ted to sep ara te pub lic from

and mad e of conc rete, brick

ap proved ma terials (no

• Any portion of a fence above four feet in height shou

• Green (vegetated) fences are highly encouraged.


.2 At industria l properties, perm

HAWS DRINKING FOUNTAIN

ALTERNATIVES TO CHA IN-LINK FENCES AND SCREENING OF CHAIN-LINK FENCE

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



25

3 ons should

iron, concrete,

landsc ap e p lantings, or other approved m ateria ls (not

located away from public spaces, particularly the Thea Foss

Walkway.


3.7 Landsc ape Plantings

Landscape plantings are highly desirable in the Thea Foss Waterway. Landscape plantings, besides just pleasing the senses, can perform many other functions. They can buffer

pedestrians from passing vehicles, offer shade, provide wildlife habitat, and filter stormwater,

.6.4 Permanent refuse, utility, or servic e insta lla ti

be sc reened w ith fences of woo d,

c ha in link) to the minimum height nec essary.

• These installations should be

LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS

SCREENING WITH LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS


DRAFT





27

subjec t to dam ag e.

• Preferred tree root protection techniques include the use of • Preferred tree root protection techniques include the use of ornamental fencing, pavers, and

landscape plantings. ey should be decorative.

3. ting a reas should be designed to

e ad equa te soil area to ac co mmod ate tree

ence on visual character

s are intended to:

edestrian surfaces.

• Create a continuous ring of soft, visible light sources around the shoreline edge that will

d ambiance.

Reduce light pollution.

Reinforce the marine industrial history and character of the waterfront.

should p rovide the

minimum a verag e light level.

andle

ndle

s (such as

bus stops): 2 foot candles

: 2 foot candles

candles

lded to

sidential

3 ze

adve rse impa c ts to the shorelineenvironment.

3.8.4 Along the Thea Foss Walkway,

public ac c ess/ view c orridors,

and outlooks, the d esign

standard walkway light

spec ified be low sha ll be used .

ornamental fencing, pavers, and

landscape plantings. ey should be decorative.

3. ting a reas should be designed to

e ad equa te soil area to ac co mmod ate tree

ence on visual character

s are intended to:

edestrian surfaces.

• Create a continuous ring of soft, visible light sources around the shoreline edge that will

d ambiance.

Reduce light pollution.

Reinforce the marine industrial history and character of the waterfront.

should p rovide the

minimum a verag e light level.

andle

ndle

s (such as

bus stops): 2 foot candles

: 2 foot candles

candles

lded to

sidential

3 ze

adve rse impa c ts to the shorelineenvironment.

3.8.4 Along the Thea Foss Walkway,

public ac c ess/ view c orridors,

and outlooks, the d esign

standard walkway light

spec ified be low sha ll be used .

• While not encouraged, if tree grates are utilized, th

7.7 Landsc ape p lan

• While not encouraged, if tree grates are utilized, th

7.7 Landsc ape p lan

provid

roots.

provid

roots.

3.8 Lighting3.8 Lighting

In times of limited visibility, artificial lighting has a tremendous influ

and human activity. The lighting guideline

In times of limited visibility, artificial lighting has a tremendous influ

and human activity. The lighting guideline

• Provide safe, well-lit p• Provide safe, well-lit p

generate reflections and a lively, unifie

•

generate reflections and a lively, unifie

•

••

3.8.1 Areas spec ified below

corresponding

3.8.1 Areas spec ified below

corresponding

• Thea Foss Walkway: 1 foot c• Thea Foss Walkway: 1 foot c

• Commercial areas: 1 foot ca

• High-volume pedestrian area

• Commercial areas: 1 foot ca

• High-volume pedestrian area

• Parking areas, entries

• Parking areas, internal: .5 foot

• Parking areas, entries

• Parking areas, internal: .5 foot

3.8.2 Lighting should b e shie

red uce imp ac ts on re

units.

.8.3 Lighting should minimi

3.8.2 Lighting should b e shie

red uce imp ac ts on re

units.

.8.3 Lighting should minimi

WALKWAY LIGHT


DRAFT



28

• se’lux MRTC-17-GV

terway

DRAFT

the waterward

dors or other public spaces where

3.8.5 Spe c ial loca tion lighting should b e c onsidered whe re the

Thea Foss Walkway intersec ts pub lic ac c ess/ view c orrido rs

and at c om munity ga thering plac es.

3.8.6 The d esign standard p ed estrian streetlight spec ified

below sha ll be used .

• se’lux MRTC-19-GV

• Pedestrian streetlights should be located on the waterward side of

• In portions of the trail designated as esplanade, lights should be located on

side of the esplanade, at a maximum spacing of 60 feet on center.

• Walkway lights are not required at public access/view corri

special location lighting may be provided.

SPECIAL LOCA TION LIGHTING

PEDESTRIAN STREETLIGHT

thea foss wa



29

the street, at a maximum spacing of 80 feet on center.

3.8.7 Vehic ular street lighting should b e c onsistent, pe r c ity

3 areas, lighting should be p rovided by

n-glare, full c uto ff, controlled -sourc e fixtures, per

standards.

3

d on a rea

tac les, benc hes, and

other Thea Foss Walkway site d eta ils.

3.9.2 Where app lic ab le, the design standard logo show n

be low sha ll be used .

standards.

.8.8 In parking

no

city

.9 Logo

3.9.1 The d esign standard logo should b e use

signag e, b ike rac ks, wa ste rec ep

LOGO


DRAFT





31

3

stormwa ter runoff and leng then runoff flow pa ths ove r

3 ppropria te

ormwater

functions

(such as runoff infiltration,

ater

3 n (vegeta ted) roofs

s a re highly

the Thea Foss

3

ca ted on ac cess

do not imped e

n on the Thea

3.11.2 Ma rina sec urity ga tes should be transparent .

3.11.3 Prov ide sa fety and sec urity without the use o f

industria l ma terials, suc h a s razor w ire, b arbed wire,and c ha in-link fences.

.10.7 Site grad ing should enc ourag e the shee t flow of

pe rmea ble areas.

.10.8 Ensure soils a re a

for the intend ed st

control feature

flow c ontrol, and w

quality treatment).

.10.9 Gree

and green wall

enco urag ed in

Waterway.

.11 Ma rina Ga tes

3.11.1 Ma rina sec urity ga tes should be lo

ramp s or other loc a tions whe re they

pub lic c irc ulation, pa rticularly c irc ula tio

Foss Walkwa y.

TRANSPARENT MARINA SECURITY GATE

GREEN WALLS


DRAFT



32

3.12 Pic nic Tab les

3.12.1 Where ap p lic ab le, the de sign standard p icnic tab le

w sha ll be used .

• FairWeather model F-4

3

3.1 ndard

tsed

way and o ther

pub lic ly ac c essible areas

Cl he public to locations of interest in and around the

3.14.1 Signs should be loc a ted , oriented , and sc a ledprimarily for pedestrians.

3.14.2 Direc tiona l and loc a tion signs should identify c ivic

buildings, comm unity ga thering plac es, pub lic pa rks,

and othe r loc a tions of pub lic interest.

• In addition, vehicular signs should provide direction to public parking facilities.

specified belo

PICNIC TABLE

.13 Railings

3.1 The design sta

railing shown a t righshould typ ica lly be u

on a ll sec tions of the Thea

Foss Wa lk

req uiring a handra il.

3.14 Signage—Public

ear and consistent signs should direct t

Thea Foss Waterway.

RAILING

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT





34

BUILDING SITE SIGNAGE

3.16 Surfac ing Ma teria ls

Surfacing materials provide both continuity and variety for the Thea Foss W

general, surfacing should feature a higher design and construction quality th

projects. Special surfacing materials (such as cobblestones, decomposed gr

materials) are encouraged, with consideration for color and low impact de

techniques (please see the Low Impact Development section of this chapter).

Regarding the Thea Foss Walkway, surfacing materials are one of the prima

Walkway distinguishes itself as a unique amenity for the public to use and

materials clarify the direction and continuity of the Walkway and distinguish the

aterway. In

an more typical

anite, or pervious

velopment

ry ways that the

enjoy. Surfacing

Walkway

from surrounding properties (whether surrounding properties are typical public rights-of-

the Walkway surfacing material may

ne to different circumstances, the surfacing

material should always be visually distinct relative to its surroundings. Walkway surfacing

materials should also account for the different users of the Walkway. Pedestrian and bikeusers are common, and all Walkway sections should be compliant with the Americans with

Disabilities Act.

3.16.1 Ac tive-use a reas (suc h as the Thea Foss Walkwa y

and sidewa lks) should typ ica lly use the d esign

standard surfac ing spec ified below.

way, public properties, or private properties). While

ed to change around the Foss in order to adapt

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT



35

• Cast-in-place concrete with broom finish, hard-screed joints, in a 4-foot by 4-foot grid pattern.

16

.

sustainably harvested wood.

3.16.3 Spec ial surfac ing materials (suc h as granite,

c ob blestones, and gravel) may b e used where the

ma terials are demo nstrated to b e a pp rop riate for the

intended use.

ious

ls.

• Due to environmental constraints,

pervious surface materials may

not be practicable for various sites

along the Foss. Please consult

with the City of Tacoma Public

Works Department before

installing pervious surfacing

materials.

3. .2 For bo ardwa lks, the design stand ard surfac ing

ma teria ls spec ified below a re p referred

• Six-inch-wide planks made of ipe or cumaru, or other

ACTIVE-USE SURFACING

3.16.4 Co nside r perv

surfac e ma teria

SPECIA L SURFA ING MA TERIALSC

PERVIOUS PAVING


DRAFT



36

thea foss wa terway

DRAFT

3.17 Waste Receptacles

WEST FOSS WASTE RECEPTACLE

EAST FOSS WASTE RECEPTACLE

dard rec yc ling c onta iner sha ll be used .

3.1 ard

ste recep tac le

sha ll be

eries

t.

3.17.3 The design sta nd ard

e

beused.

• TimberForm Profile Series

model 2891-P, galvanized.

3.17.1 The design sta n

7.2 The design sta nd

wa

spe c ified be low

used.

• TimberForm Profile S

model 2894-P, with

evergreen powder coa

wa ste rec epta cl

spec ified below sha ll



West Foss – Commercial Uses

The West Foss has been envisioned as a mixed-use waterfront with water-oriented uses

along the Esplanade and pedestrian-oriented uses located along Dock Street and in the

corners along the view/public access corridors, to draw visitors from Dock Street to the

Esplanade. However, the experience has diverged from the vision. The existing mixed-use structures along the West Foss have struggled to maintain the water-oriented and

pedestrian-oriented components of those developments and the result has been a series of

vacancies along Dock Street and the Esplanade. The comment we have received suggests

that though retail and pedestrian uses are desirable both economically and for the public’s

enjoyment, until such time as there is a greater concentration of uses and activities along

the Foss, the desired uses will be economically unsustainable. Until such time, the

stakeholders along the West Foss have requested that the City review certain code

provisions that require water-oriented and pedestrian-oriented uses and explore strategies

for providing some relief in the form of more flexible use requirements and the allowance

of commercial office space along the first floor of the mixed-use structures.

The requirements under review are both State and City driven. The WAC Guidelines

require that mixed-use developments contain a water-oriented component and that the

non-water oriented uses be “in support of” the water-oriented use. An entirely non-water

oriented use can only be permitted in limited circumstances and then, only as a

conditional use.

Our City development and use standards go further than the WAC requirements, in that

TMC 13.10 requires that the 1st

floor be primarily comprised of water-oriented uses, and,

that a percentage of each frontage be occupied by pedestrian-oriented uses and that these

pedestrian-oriented uses occupy the corners when possible. This layering of requirements

has been the source of the concerns we have heard from stakeholders. Water-oriented

uses are defined broadly in the WAC, and include water-dependent, related and

enjoyment uses. The TMC defines pedestrian-oriented uses as eating and drinking

establishments, retail, and public art displays. Please find the specific code requirements

highlighted in the following attachment.

Staff is reviewing different strategies for addressing the stakeholder concerns while still

meeting the intent of the WAC.



East Foss – Industrial Uses and Public Access

Though the East Foss is included within the overall vision of a continuous public access

walkway around the Foss, it has also been recognized as having a distinct character from

the West Foss. Property and business owners have organized meetings to discuss with

City staff their concerns for the future development of the East side of the Waterway.During the course of these meetings, the primary issues that emerged related to the way

in which public access requirements would be applied to the East Foss and a concern that

public access is incompatible with the existing uses, and second, that the current code

places undue restrictions on industrial uses on the East Foss, specifically North of 11th

.

These two concerns are being addressed in an interrelated way. TMC 13.10 limits

industrial expansion to occurring within the existing property boundaries, but it exempts

those same uses from the public access requirements. New industrial uses are allowed to

locate on the East Foss, but would have to meet the public access requirements.

In addition, the WAC requires that local jurisdictions give preference to water-dependentuses, be they industrial or commercial. Therefore, staff believes it appropriate to allow

new water-dependent industrial uses north of 11th

, where they are currently located, as

well as expansion of existing water-dependent uses, but require that water-related

industrial uses locate or expand away from the shoreline edge. This action would remove

the language limiting expansion of water-dependent industrial uses.

However, public access requirements currently apply to all uses in the shoreline and staff

proposes that this application continue as it is consistent with State requirements as well

as the requirements of other similar jurisdictions. It is important to note that existing uses

are not required to immediately install public access features, but that these regulations

only apply to new uses and development. The public access preferences are as follows:

on-site and along the water’s edge; on-site but in an alternative configuration; off-site and

consistent with an identified public access goal and objective; and lastly, as a fee-in-lieu.

Staff believes that compatibility concerns can be addressed on a permit by permit basis

and that a framework for evaluation already exists in TMC 13.10. The updated Design

Guidelines will also provide some additional guidance on how to design industrial

facilities to be compatible with adjacent public access.













Documents

Foss S-8 District Shoreline Management Plan Draft for Tacoma Planning Commission Meeting of Feb. 3, 2010