Green Hills Citizens Advisory Committee - Sitemason · Green Hills Citizens Advisory Committee The Green Hills Urban Village Plan Pioneer Square – Seattle, Washington Green Hills

Metropolitan Nashville/Davidson County Planning Commission Nashville, Tennessee

Green Hills Citizens Advisory Committee

The Green Hills Urban Village Plan

Green Hills

Regional Activity Center Nashville, Tennessee Green Hills has many of the elements needed in an urban village. However, the current suburban layout and lack of sidewalks prevent the area from having the feel of an urban village.

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endations December 1999

The Green Hills Citizens Advisory Committee Members Mr. Kirk Shafer Mr. Mort Nasatir Mr. Richard Chambers Mr. Hugh O’Donnell Mr. Tom Paden Ms. Wordie Armistead Ms. Mary Ann Johnson Ms. Mary Jon Hicks Ms. Paula Covington Dr. Glenn Larson Ms. Ann Turner Ms. Sheila L. Armstrong Ms. Amy Kurland Mr. John Hardcastle Mr. Ripley Trammel Mr. David Twomey Mr. David Levy Mr. Jeff Dahlstrom Mr. Wood Caldwell Mr. John Rochford Mr. Tom Green Ex Officio Representatives Council Member David Kleinfelter Council Member Charles Fentress

Council Member Ron Turner Mr. Arnold Von Hagen Ms. Frances Hunter Metro School Board Metro Transit Authority Dir. Of Planning & Construction Manager of Capital Projects Mr. Jerry Fawcett Mr. Randy Hutcheson Division Manager Planner I Community Plans Division Community Plans Division Metro Planning Commission Metro Planning Commission

GREEN HILLS URBAN VILLAGE CONCEPT RECOMMENDATIONS

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 – Introduction Page

1.1 Green Hills Urban Village Plan Purpose, Background & Process 1

1.1.1 Purpose & Background 1 1.1.2 Urban Village Examples 2 1.1.3 New Urbanism Principles 2-3 1.1.4 The Ahwahnee Principles: toward more livable communities 3-4 1.1.5 Planning Process 4-5 1.1.6 Overall and Supporting Objectives 5-6 1.1.7 Implementation 6

1.2 Related Studies 6-10

Chapter 2 – Transportation Page

2.1 Sidewalks 11 2.1.1 Issues 11-12 2.1.2 Goals & Objectives 12 2.1.3 Recommendations 13-17 2.1.4 Implementation 17-18 Map 18

2.2 Parking 19

2.2.1 Issues 19 2.2.2 Goals & Objectives 20 2.2.3 Recommendations 21 2.2.4 Implementation 21

2.3 Transit Shuttle 22

2.3.1 Issues

2.3.2 22 2.3.3 Goals & Objectives 22-23 2.3.4 Recommendations 23 Map 24 2.3.5 Implementation 25

2.4 Traffic Calming 26

2.4.1 Issues 26 2.4.2 Goals & Objectives 26 2.4.3 Recommendations 27 Map 27 2.4.4 Implementation 28

2.5 Pedestrian Safety 29

2.5.1 Issues 29 2.5.2 Goals & Objectives 29-30 2.5.3 Recommendations 30 2.5.4 Implementation 30

2.6 Bike Plan 31 2.6.1 Issue 31 2.6.2 Goals & Objectives 31 2.6.3 Recommendations 31 Map 32 2.6.4 Implementation 33

2.7 Wayfinder Signs 34 2.7.1 Issue 34 2.7.2 Goals & Objectives 34 2.7.3 Recommendations 34-35 2.7.4 Implementation 35

Chapter 3 – Public/Open Spaces & Aesthetics Page

Introduction 36

3.1 Recommended Public/Open Spaces 37 3.1.1 Overall Issues 37 3.1.2 Overall Goals & Objectives 38 3.1.3 Recommended Sites for Public/Open Space 38 Map 39

3.2 Burton Hills Greenway 40

3.2.1 Recommendations 40

3.2.2 Implementation 40

3.3 Abbott Martin Road/Cross Creek Road 41 Wetlands Area Neighborhood Park

3.3.1 Recommendations 41 3.3.2 Implementation 41

3.4 Creek Improvements 3.4.1 Recommendation 42


3.5 Bandywood Connector 43 3.5.1 Recommendations 43 3.5.2 Implementation 43

3.6 Hillsboro High School Green Space Area 44


3.7 “Old” Library Location 45


3.8 Crestmoor Road/Glen Echo Road Gateway Park 46 3.8.1 Recommendations 46 3.8.2 Implementation 46

3.9 “New” Library Storm Water Detention Area 47


3.10 Aesthetics 48

3.10.1 Overall Issues 49 3.10.2 Overall Goals & Objectives 49 3.10.3 Recommendations 49

3.11 Landscaping 50

3.11.1 Recommendations 50-51 3.11.2 Implementation 51-52

3.12 Streetscapes & Public Art 53

3.12.1 Recommendations 53-54 3.12.1.1 Murfreesboro, Tennessee Main Street 55


3.13 Use of the Public Right-of-Way 57 3.13.1 Recommendations 57 3.13.2 Implementation 57

3.14 Street Lighting 58


3.15 Pole Consolidation 59 3.15.1 Recommendations 59 3.15.2 Implementation 59 MAP 60

3.16 Covering the Details 61

3.16.1 Recommendations 61 3.16.2 Implementation 61-62

Chapter 4 – Urban Design Overlay (UDO) District Page 4.1 Background Information 63-64

MAP 65 4.1.1 Issues 66 4.1.2 Goals & Objective 66 4.1.3 Recommendations 66 4.1.4 Implementation 67

Chapter 5 – Organizing for Results Page

5.1 Overall Organization 68

5.2 Green Hills Business Improvements District 68

5.1.1 Issues 68-69 5.1.2 Goals & Objectives 69 5.1.3 Recommendations 69 5.1.4 Implementation 69

5.3 Public/Private Partnerships 69

5.1.5 Issue 70 5.1.6 Goals & Objectives 70 5.1.7 Recommendations 70

5.1.8 Implementation 70 5.4 Contacts 70

5.1.9 Metro Nashville/Davidson County – State of Tennessee – US Gov 70-71 5.1.10 Local Media 71 5.1.11 Web Pages 71-72 5.4.4 Neighborhood Resources 72

Appendix 73-76

Bibliography 76

Commonly Used Acronyms • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) • Green Hills Business Improvements District (BID) • Green Hills Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) • Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) • Green Hills Regional Activity Center (RAC) • Urban Design Overlay (UDO) • Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

INTRODUCTION

1.1 GREEN HILLS URBAN VILLAGE PLAN PURPOSE, BACKGROUND & PROCESS

This chapter is divided into two sections. The first section describes the purpose of the Green Hills Urban Village Plan and the process used to create it. The second section provides information about related plans, studies and regulations that are relevant to the Green Hills Regional Activity Center.

Chapter 1

This picture is an example of the poor pedestrian and visual conditions that exist in the Green Hills Regional Activity Center. Through tefforts of Council

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Member Kleinfelter,a Citizens AdvisoCommittee was

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formed to address ways of creating an urban village atmosphere in

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Figure 1

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1.1.1 Purpose & Background Information

The purpose of the Green Hills Urban Village Plan is (1) to develop a strategy for implementing the recommendations of the Subarea 10 Plan and the 1994 Green Hills/Hillsboro Pike Transportation Study, and (2) to develop additional recommendations, as necessary, to create an urban village concept for the Green Hills Regional Activity Center. The Subarea 10 Plan is a component of the General Plan for Nashville-Davidson County. It is one of fourteen such plans. Subarea plans are adopted by the Metro Planning Commission and are used to guide land use decisions. The Green Hills/Hillsboro Pike Transportation Study was prepared by a consultant for the Metro Planning Commission to identify solutions to traffic congestion in Green Hills.

A Regional Activity Center (RAC) is an area of concentrated mixed commercial activity that serves a regional market and has a substantial residential component. The General Plan identifies four RACs in Nashville: Bellevue, Green Hills, Hickory Hollow, and Rivergate. As envisioned for

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Nashville, activity centers are compact areas containing a regional shopping mall, ancillary retail space, consumer oriented office space, public facilities, and higher density residential uses.

The concept of the urban village is a visually coherent pedestrian oriented center of commerce, entertainment, employment, and living activities. Pedestrian, bicycle and transit linkages of the village land use activities and the surrounding area are crucial to this concept. Clustering of land uses activities in order to foster compactness and pedestrian linkages is also crucial to this concept. An urban design overlay (UDO) zoning district could be used to guide the intensity, location and visual quality of future growth in a manner that is consistent with this concept.

Section 1.1.2, 1.1.3 and 1.1.4 consist of supporting literature for the concept of urban villages. These examples are intended to help the reader understand the principles involved in the creation of an urban village. Additional information is available on the internet under the keywords new urbanism, neo-traditional planning and urban villages.

1.1.2 Urban Village Examples

England-The Urban Villages Forum has worked to bring the world together in exploring the concept of urban villages. The forum provides a description of urban villages and the elements they should include as follows: “ The ‘Urban Village’ is a form of development characterized by economic, environmental and social sustainability.” In particular it should include a:

• Variety of uses, such as shopping, leisure and community facilities alongside housing.

• Choice of tenures, both residential and commercial.

• Density of development which can help encourage the use of non-housing activities.

• Strong sense of place, with basic amenities within easy walking distance of all residents.

• High level of involvement by local residents in the planning and ongoing management of the new development.

United States- A number of cities in the U.S. have embraced the urban village concept. The City of Seattle provides one of the best known examples of a community that has embraced the concept. This commitment is built into the comprehensive plan. In Seattle, as in many cities, the development community drives the implementation of the urban village concept. Development of an urban village may be accomplished through in-fill development or the creation of an urban village from scratch.

In addition to Seattle, Portland, Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and Chattanooga are some of the cities leading the way in Urban Village development. This trend is also popular in Australia.

1.1.3 New Urbanism Principles

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Many of the recommendations in this plan reflect the principles of “new urbanism.” One of the leading forces in promoting the principles of New Urbanism is The Congress for the New

Urbanism, an organization made up of over 1,000 professionals in architecture, planning, and development related fields. The Congress for the New Urbanism states: “ We stand for the restoration of existing centers and towns within coherent metropolitan regions, the reconfiguration of sprawling suburbs into communities of real neighborhoods and diverse districts, the conservation of natural environments, and the preservation of our built legacy.” These recommendations are also a reflection of “neo-traditional planning.” The Congress for the New Urbanism has developed a set of major principles which are:

“ All development should be in the form of compact, walkable neighborhoods and/or districts. Such places should have clearly defined centers and edges. The center should include a public space – such as a square, green or an important street intersection – and public buildings – such as a library, church or community center, a transit stop and retail businesses.

Neighborhoods and districts should be compact (typically no more that one quarter mile from the center to the edge) and detailed to encourage pedestrian activity without excluding automobiles altogether. Streets should be laid out as an interconnected network (usually in a grid or a modified grid pattern), forming coherent blocks where building entrances front the street rather than parking lots. Public transit should connect neighborhoods to each other and the surrounding region.

A diverse mix of activities (residences, shops, schools, workplaces and parks, etc.) should occur in close proximity. Also, a wide spectrum of housing options should enable people of a broad range of incomes, ages, and family types to live within a single neighborhood/district. Large developments featuring a single use or serving a single market segment should be avoided.

Civic buildings, such as government offices, churches and libraries, should be sited in prominent locations. Open spaces, such as parks, playgrounds, squares, and greenbelts should be provided in convenient locations throughout a neighborhood.”

1.1.4 The Ahwahnee Principles: toward more livable communities

In 1991 a group of prominent architects assembled at the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park to form a set of principles that would combine the best concepts of new urbanism and sustainable design. From this gathering, the Ahwahnee Principles were formed. These principles have since been adopted into many local, state, and federal guidelines. The following is a list of the community principles:

• All planning should be in the form of complete and integrated communities containing housing, shops, work places, schools, parks, and civic facilities essential to the daily life of the residents.

• Community size should be designed so that housing, jobs, daily needs, and other activities are within easy walking distance of each other.

• As many activities as possible should be located within easy walking distance of transit stops.

• A community should contain a diversity of housing types to enable citizens from a wide range of economic levels and age groups to live within its boundaries.

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• Businesses within the community should provide a range of job types for the community residents.

• The location and character of the community should be consistent with a larger transit network.

• The community should have a center focus that combines commercial, civic, cultural and recreational uses.

• The community should contain an ample supply of specialized open space in the form of squares, greens, and parks whose frequent use is encouraged through placement and design.

• Public spaces should be designed to encourage the attention and presence of people at all hours of the day and night.

• Each community or cluster of communities should have a well-defined edge, such as agricultural greenbelts or wildlife corridors, permanently protected from development.

• Streets, pedestrian paths and bike paths should contribute to a system of fully connected and interesting routes to all destinations. Their design should encourage pedestrian and bicycle use by being small and spatially defined by buildings, trees, and lighting; and be discouraging of high-speed traffic.

• Whenever possible, the natural terrain, drainage, and vegetation of the community should be preserved with superior examples contained within parks and greenbelts.

• The community design should help conserve resources and minimize waste.

• Communities should provide for the efficient use of water through the use of natural drainage, drought tolerant landscaping and recycling.

• The street orientation, the placement of buildings, and the use of shading should contribute to the energy efficiency of the community.

1.1.5 Planning Process

In the fall of 1998, Council Member David Kleinfelter requested a study of the Green Hills Regional Activity Center. The Green Hills Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) was formed from a list of potential committee members furnished largely by three council members representing the area: Councilmembers Kleinfelter, Turner and Fentress. In December 1998, the Green Hills CAC met for the first time to discuss ways to recreate the suburban Green Hills Regional Activity Center (RAC) as an urban village.

Creating recommendations for an urban village is no easy task. In March of 1999, Gresham Smith & Partners assisted Metropolitan Planning Department staff in developing recommendations. For seven months, staff met with the committee the third Wednesday of each month to discuss the many issues in Green Hills. The committee worked hard to explore the problems in Green Hills, including participation by some of the members in a walking tour early in the process. Over the

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last ten months, the Green Hills CAC developed the foundation for creating an urban village in their community.

This document presents the recommendations developed by the committee. The recommendations include both pictorial and written examples of what should and should not occur. These recommendations provide guidance and serve as a starting point for the transformation of the Green Hills RAC into an urban village.

This picture (Circa 1950s) illustrates the suburban nature that has existed in Green Hills for many decades. In order to create an “Urban Village,” the suburban concept of development has to be replaced by a concept that focuses attention on the pedestrian, not the vehicle. Figure 2

1.1.6 Overall & Supporting Objectives

• To create an urban village concept with a pedestrian orientation.

Supporting Objectives

• Reduce dependence on the automobile for trips within the Green Hills commercial area and between the commercial area and nearby residential areas;

• Provide adequate parking in locations that minimize the need to use the automobile for trips within the Green Hills commercial area;

• Identify major gateways and provide signage to direct visitors to public parking facilities and to identify shuttle trolley stops;

• Provide effective pedestrian connections between clusters of land use activities;

• Encourage land use development and redevelopment for working, shopping, education, entertainment, living, and recreation that reinforces the urban village concept;

• Provide traffic calming measures in and nearby the commercial area to improve traffic and pedestrian safety;

• Transform Green Hills into a memorable place with a visually attractive identity, and; 5

• Identify and promote methods of implementation appropriate to creating and maintaining the urban village concept.

1.1.7 Plan Implementation

Because of the interrelated nature of all of the subjects in this plan, coordination is paramount. In the development of any future plan in Green Hills, it is important to convey a clear understanding of the intent of this plan to all parties involved in the creation of future plans. It will be the responsibility of residents, business leaders, and other private interests in the Green Hills area to accomplish this in part through a Business Improvements District or some other organization. In addition, partnership with Metropolitan Nashville/Davidson County agencies and private organizations will be necessary to fund and implement the recommendations of the Green Hills Urban Village Plan. This type of organization could make the difference between the status quo and a realization of the plan. Funding for the projects listed in this plan can come from Federal, State, and Local sources, a BID, grants, and individual contributions. In addition, Gresham Smith & Partners will be responsible for preparing Advance Planning Reports (APRs) for the transit shuttle, sidewalks and bike ways. Currently, the Tennessee Department of Transportation is preparing an APR for the intersection realignment of Crestmoor and Glen Echo Roads.

An Advance Planning Report (APR) is a report that adequately evaluates and demonstrates a preferred transportation alternative, including detailed cost estimates.

1.2 Related Studies

The Green Hills RAC is part of the Subarea 10 planning area. Subarea plans are updated every five years, and the Subarea 10 Plan is scheduled for update in the year 2000. In addition to the Subarea

10 plan, several other plans have sections that are related to the Green Hills RAC.

Figure 3

One purpose of the Green Hills Urban Village Plan is to develop a strategy to implement the 1994 recommendations of the Subarea 10 Plan and the Green Hills/Hillsboro Pike Transportation Study. The latter study was initiated at the request of Councilmember Kleinfelter of the Green Hills area.

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The following is a list of plans and recommendations that relate to Green Hills. Most of these plans are available at the Metro Planning Commission Offices at 730 2nd Avenue South. The exception is the Nashville Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, which is available through the Metro Department of Public Works office at 750 South 5th Street.

Concept 2010: A General Plan for Nashville and Davidson County Feb. 19, 1992

Goals and Objectives for Activity Centers 1. Promote a more efficient urban structure through the use of the activity center concept.

Develop land use policy patterns within subarea plans to articulate and enhance the activity center concept.

Develop Principles of Land Use Policy Application to guide activity center development, and ensure that the following elements are addressed:

• Compact, internally focused and easily delineated form • Adequate access to minimize traffic congestion • High visibility for their retail components • The needs of pedestrians • Compatibility with adjoining uses

2. Conserve public investment by focusing infrastructure development in activity centers. 3. Evaluate all potential activity centers and develop strategies to rectify deficiencies.

Subarea 10 Plan Dec. 15, 1994 (Update 2000)

The related goals of the Subarea 10 Plan are:

Economic Development

• To promote, in selected areas, mixed use development patterns of varying scales as alternatives to more suburban types of development wherein different land uses are separated.

Housing and Neighborhoods • To preserve the character of existing residential neighborhoods. • To protect existing and future residential areas from the encroachment of non-residential

uses and employ buffering techniques where incompatible land uses interface.

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• To pursue social and economic policies aimed at improving the quality of life in older, urban neighborhoods and encouraging additional commitments of public and private capital.

Design and Environment • To enhance and preserve the recreational and open space opportunities available to subarea

residents. • To support the maintenance and preservation of existing trees or their replacement when

removal is dictated by new development. • To identify potential corridors for inclusion in a county-wide greenway system. • To enhance the aesthetic appearance of major traffic corridors passing through the subarea. • To limit the effects of flooding along subarea creeks with a minimum of disruption to creek

channels and floodplains. Infrastructure and Public Facilities • To improve infrastructure conditions where they are not up to standards that meet the needs

of the affected population. • To encourage the continued public ownership of school property and/or involve the

surrounding community in planning for its long-term use. • To reduce the speed and volume of cut through traffic on local residential streets. • To build, maintain, and improve sidewalks, with a priority placed on streets with an

inordinate level of cut through traffic and streets leading to and from schools. • To encourage the development of a pedestrian friendly atmosphere throughout the subarea. • To promote the use and development of alternative forms of transportation including mass

transit, bicycling, and walking.

Green Hills/Hillsboro Pike Transportation Study September 1994

This study looked at pedestrian and motor vehicle conditions in the Green Hills RAC and recommended the following improvements:

• Construction of sidewalks along both sides of Hillsboro Road and collector roads leading to the main corridor;

• Realignment of 2 major intersections: Glen Echo/Crestmoor with Hillsboro Pike and Abbott Martin/Richard Jones with Hillsboro Pike.

• Elimination of fences that separate some commercial properties in favor of pedestrian linkages between businesses;

• Use of vacant rights-of-way and other public easements to provide pedestrian paths;

• Pushbutton operated pedestrian signals at all signalized intersections; and,

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• Provisions of several bike paths or routes including: along Hillsboro Pike from Hillsboro High School to Burton Hills, along Graybar Lane to David Libscomb University, and from the dead end of Crestmoor to Valley Brook Road north to Woodmont Boulevard.

Final Report of the Metro Nashville Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Task Force: Toward A Walkable, Bikeable, More Livable Nashville. August 1998

The Metro Nashville Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Task Force (TAPS) was established by Metro Council in 1997 to develop recommended solutions to traffic and pedestrian safety problems. Although the task force has since disbanded, several of its recommendations are in the process of being implemented. Recommended solutions that address the broad range of issues affecting traffic and pedestrian safety and related concerns are as follows:

1. Systemic recommendations include the creation of a permanent advisory committee on pedestrian, bicycle and traffic calming issues, and funding for a Metro Pedestrian & Bicycle Coordinator staff position.

2. Traffic calming recommendations include the implementation of a pilot traffic calming project, providing funds to the Metro Police Department for more speed detection devices, and development of traffic violation witness program based on Metro Beautification’s litter violation program.

3. Recommendations to improve conditions for pedestrians include development of a comprehensive sidewalk improvement plan and permitting neighborhood organizations to help fund sidewalk improvements.

4. Recommendations to improve conditions for bicycling include a bicycle plan, implementation of pilot bikeway projects, and requirements that all new and improved existing streets minimize cycling hazards.

5. In-line skating and skateboarding can be accommodated with the recommended amendments to the Metro code and provision of a Metro skate park.

6. TAPS recommends that public education be used to increase awareness and understanding of the responsibilities and rights of pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

7. Urban planning recommendations include the creation and implementation of comprehensive plans to accommodate transportation alternatives, developing a Metro-wide trip reduction strategy, and encouraging the establishment of Traffic management Associations.

8. Public transit related solutions include the 20% match needed to leverage federal transit funds.

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In addition to recommendations, the report establishes the framework within which pedestrian, bicycle, mass transit and traffic safety issues will be discussed in Nashville’s near future.

Nashville Neighborhood Traffic Management Pilot Program-Dept. of Public Works Traffic Calming: Safety-Security-Livability May 1998

Goal

It is the goal of the Nashville Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP) to establish procedures and techniques that will promote neighborhood livability by mitigating the negative impacts of automobile traffic in residential neighborhoods. The procedures and techniques include the use of “traffic calming” techniques such as traffic circles, speed humps, and other alterations of roadway design for the purpose of slowing traffic (see pages 25-27) Although livability has no precise definition, it can be thought of as encompassing the following characteristics:

• The ability of residents to feel safe and secure in the neighborhood.

• The opportunity to interact socially with neighbors without significant traffic related distractions.

• The ability to experience a sense of home and privacy.

• A sense of community and neighborhood identity.

• A balanced relationship between the multiple uses and needs of a neighborhood.

Zoning Regulations

Metro’s zoning regulations contain requirements for sidewalks. These apply to new developments and substantial expansions of existing developments in multi-family, mixed use, office, and shopping center districts if any of the following conditions exist: 1) the development is in a Regional Activity Center as defined in the General Plan; 2) there is an existing sidewalk network in an adjacent development; and 3) the total development contains more than 50,000 square feet of non-residential gross floor area or 50 dwelling units. The requirements for on-site sidewalk installation are for a continuous sidewalk network to connect building entries to parking areas and the site boundaries that are oriented toward pedestrian attractors.

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TRANSPORTATION

2.1 SIDEWALKS

This chapter addresses transportation system improvements needed to create a successful urban village in Green Hills. The chapter addresses the following: sidewalks, parking, transit shuttle, traffic calming, pedestrian safety, a bike plan, and wayfinder signs. The urban village concept accommodates a variety of different modes of transportation. These transportation modes include walking, biking, and motorized vehicles. Currently, the Green Hills RAC includes infrastructure for all of these forms of transportation. However, motorized vehicle use is the only form of transportation that is afforded a clear path with minimal obstructions.

Chapter 2

This outdoor market proviopportunity for people to interact with one another. This type of interaction is one of many important elements needed to create an urban village atmosphere.

des an

Figure 4

In order to provide needed access for pedestrians, a complete sidewalk system is needed in the Green Hills RAC. In addition to providing better access, sidewalks are an important element in developing of a sense of community in Green Hills. Pathways created by sidewalks provide an area where humans can interact with one another, thus encouraging a better sense of community. Developing recommendations to create an urban village is no easy task due to the scale and number of interrelated issues. To begin this process, committee members explored ways to provide pedestrian access along clear paths similar to what exists for cars.

2.1.1 Issues

• Obstructions in the sidewalks and public right-of-way and barriers between properties;

• Need to improve the sidewalk system;

• Lack of pedestrian traffic signals;

• Need for linking uses; and,

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• Lack of pedestrian crosswalks.

Parking lots need not be featureless platforms for storage of cars. This image illustrates a clearly and attractively defined pedestrian way from parking spaces to shops. The shopping center is located in Seattle, WA

Figure 5

2.1.2 Goals and Objectives

• To provide a complete network of sidewalks throughout the Green Hills area;

• To develop user friendly pedestrian links between existing centers of land uses within the Green Hills RAC and to plan for connecting additional urban development clusters;

• To develop user friendly links between the surrounding neighborhoods and the Green Hills business community;

• To provide wayfinder signs, landscaping, art and other features along the sidewalk corridors;

• To provide landscaping and other buffering features between pedestrians using the sidewalks and streets, and;

• To encourage the removal of barriers between commercial property, in order to strengthen pedestrian connections.

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In addition to basic improvements, one can never underestimate the power of public art. Public art is an educational tool forall who experience its powand beauty. This pictillustrates how art can enhance the public right-of-way. The benches adjacent to this sculpture provide a relaxing place for both activity and quiet contemplation.

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ure

“Special Collections” Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, Missouri

Figure 6

2.1.3 Recommendations

Existing Sidewalk Conditions

The Green Hills CAC has expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of sidewalk standards in the Green Hills RAC. In January of 1999, several of the committee members walked with Planning Department staff to experience sidewalk conditions in the Green Hills RAC. Most of those who attended expressed shock at the sidewalk conditions. The following are some of the existing sidewalk conditions that the committee experienced:

1. Bus benches dangerously close to the road;

2. Power poles in the middle of the sidewalk;

3. Fire hydrants in the middle of the sidewalk;

4. Sidewalks that terminate without warning;

5. Many intersections without pedestrian signals;

6. Numerous areas that are inaccessible to persons with disabilities;

7. Various newspaper vending machines located on the sidewalks; and,

8. Numerous poorly located curb cuts.

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The committee recommended a set of standards for the Green Hills RAC based on numerous discussions and suggestions. Gresham Smith & Partners provided examples of desirable sidewalk arrangements for Hillsboro Road.

Incomplete sidewalks are commonplace in the Green Hills Regional Activity Center. This picture is an example of a pedestrian system that does not encourage movement of people on foot. This inadequate system of sidewalks encourages visitors to make multiple trips in their vehicles, thus increasing traffic congestion in Green Hills.

Figure 7

The committee agreed to a single standard for use in Green Hills that would be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and would also provide a planting strip for landscaping. The standard would be used throughout Green Hills. The committee also provided guidelines for variations on the standard, as needed.

New Sidewalk Standard

• The provision for a six-foot (6 ft.) planting strip and a five-foot (5 ft.) sidewalk.

• The incorporation of the planting strip should always be located between the sidewalk and the road; where warranted by pedestrian traffic, the sidewalk may be widened into or supplant the planting strip.

• The creation of wider sidewalks, over time, by filling in the planting strip.

• The location of tree grates around existing trees, in conjunction with the filling of the planting area.

• Incorporation of Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

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Figure 8 Figure 9

NOT RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED

The following recommendations are intended to carry out the goals and objectives for sidewalks and to apply the desired design standards in Green Hills. Understanding that the creation of an Urban Village will take many years, the Green Hills Urban Village Plan provides recommendations for sidewalk construction that accommodate a variety of conditions.

Today

Suburban commercial settings are typically characterized as having buildings set back significantly from the street with parking in the front.

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Figure 10 is an example of a parking lot that is located to the side of a building but is separated from that building by a fence. In addition, a fence separates this parking area from the building located behind it. In an urban village, the parking would be located behind, under, or over a building. Agreements could be reached to share parking. In this arrangement, buildings could front the road instead of being located behind a sea of parking.

Illustration of an Urban Village Setting in Green Hills

Figure 11

Urban Village Setting

Urban transformation is complete when buildings are placed next to the sidewalk in a similar manner to Hillsboro Village. By redeveloping the site incrementally, the ultimate result is a transformation of the Green Hills RAC to an urban village.

This option illustrates how Green Hills might look over time. The buildings can be redeveloped and pulled closer to the street. In-fill development can also help to create this type of development. Over time, the planting strip would be filled to provide a larger sidewalk for pedestrians. However, the trees in the planting strip would remain to continue to provide a buffer between pedestrians and traffic in addition to providing shade and comfort.

Figure 12 is a picture of Hillsboro Village in Nashville, TN. In this traditional design, the fronts of the buildings are close to the street. The width of the sidewalk allows outside dining. However, it is unfortunate that many the trees lining the street have died and not been replaced. It is important to leave enough space aroundthe base of the tree to insure it

s survival.

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This street scene illustrates the use of trees for shade and a buffer between the sidewalk and the street. This is an example of how the sidewalk would supplant the planting strip in Green Hills.

Figure 13

Sidewalk Construction Recommendations (see figure 14)

• Phase I-The extension of sidewalk construction along both sides of Hillsboro Road between the realigned intersection of Crestmoor/Glen Echo and Hobbs Road.

• Phase II –The extension of sidewalk construction to areas with sidewalks exist and where substandard sidewalks need to be replaced.

• Phase III – The extension of sidewalk construction connecting the Green Hills Regional Activity Center to immediate surrounding residential areas.

2.1.4 Implementation

• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with local businesses, residents, private sector interests and the following Metro Agencies: Public Works, Beautification and Environment Commission, Metro Transit Authority, and Arts Commission, during the development of new sidewalk facilities;

• Complete preparation of an Advance Planning Report and engineering drawings and specifications for Phase I of sidewalk construction on both sides of Hillsboro Pike from Crestmoor Road to Hobbs Road (underway);

• Prepare contract to construct Phase I of sidewalks;

• Develop a criteria for each variation of the sidewalk standard appropriate to the land use and type of street;

• Identify and capture of funding resources available to the Business Improvements District (BID) (see chapter 5 section 2);and,

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• Establish rules of application of design criteria for both new development and redevelopment.

Implementation of Sidewalk Phases Figure 14

CRESTMOOR RD

ABBOTT MARTIN RD

GLEN ECHO R

RICHARD JONES RD

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SIDEWALK PHASESGreen Hills Study

Creating An Urban Village

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Phase I

Phase II

Phase III

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S500 0 500 1000 Feet

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2.2 PARKING

Addressing the many issues associated with parking could be considered the most difficult task in transforming Green Hills into an urban village. The car is our primary form of transportation, but it requires a lot of space to maneuver and park. There are over 700 property owners in the Green Hills RAC. The difficulty is trying to create a parking plan that recruits adequate support to assure implementation.

This picture illustrates the typical parking arrangement in mosuburban commercial areas.

st

Note how the parking divides the shopping center

other activifrom ties in the area.

Figure 15

NOT RECOMMENDED

Parking lots are necessary in most commercial areas. This picture illustrates how a parking lot can be arranged so a pedestrian has a clear and pleasant path from the car to the shops.

Figure 16

RECOMMENDED

2.2.1 Issues

• A lack of shared parking and cooperation between merchants;

• Numerous obstructions prohibiting movement between adjacent businesses;

• An overabundance of surface parking; and,

19 • Poor design- lack of trees, connections, and attention to pedestrians.


• To maximize shared utilization of available parking spaces;

• To establish new shared parking facilities;

• To encourage Public/Private partnerships (see chapter 5 section 3);

• To improve working relationships; and,

• To ensure quality construction and design that follow the recommendations of this plan;

The picture above illustrates the use of structured parking in an urban village. If you look to the left of the tower in the center of the picture, you will notice the parking located above the building with the awnings. The structured parking on the plaza removes the need for surface parking and increases the space available for retail, office, and residential uses. “Special Collections Kansas City, Missouri Public Library”

Figure 17

20


• Develop an organization to address parking issues in the area;

• Encourage cooperation among local businesses to promote and develop shared parking;

• Encourage cooperation between the public and private sectors to develop alternatives to current parking arrangements that separate and isolate businesses from one another;

• Encourage locating parking behind, above, and below buildings instead of in front of buildings;

• Encourage retail activities on the ground floor of parking garages;

• Encourage structural design that allows adaptive reuse of parking garages in the future; and,

• Eliminate fences that separate some commercial properties in favor of pedestrian linkages between parking lots of adjoining businesses.


• Research and develop a parking management organization through a BID;

• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a parking plan incorporating the recommendations in this section and other sections that directly and indirectly relate to parking. In addition, consult with local businesses, residents, private sector interests and the following Metro Agencies: Public Works, Beautification and Environment Commission, Metro Transit Authority, and Arts Commission, during the development of new parking facilities;

• Examine additional shared parking options such as a consolidated parking garage;

• Develop shared parking agreements; and,

• Seek supplemental funding sources to cover the difference in cost between the minimum zoning standards and those desired.

21

2.3 TRANSIT SHUTTLE

Figure 18 Figure 19

Figure 18 illustrates the use of a trolley as an alternative form of transportation. Figure 19 demonstrates the possible outcome where adequate transportation alternatives are not offered to the public.

Several regions of the country are successful in operation of shuttle services. However, most of these regions have a large tourist base, or all of the properties are under one ownership. In Chattanooga, Tennessee there is a very successful free electric bus system that serves tourists. This system works because visitors park in parking garages and the bus service takes them to their desired destination. This is difficult in Green Hills because parking is not located in strategically placed areas. In Birmingham, Alabama, an upscale outdoor shopping center provides ground transportation service to its shoppers. In this case, all of the property is under one ownership. A nationwide inquiry revealed no examples of shuttle systems serving areas with characteristics similar to Green Hills.

2.3.1 Issues

• Increased traffic due to multiple vehicular trips;

• Limited transit stops and service;

• Limited options for moving people to desired locations without the use of cars; and,

• A lack of a safe, clean and visually attractive transit shuttle service that people will use.

22


• To increase transportation opportunities for the retailing public and local consumers to use shuttle service;

• To increase shuttle use opportunities for lunch goers;

• To connect public and private parking areas to optimize operations; and,

• To utilize user friendly transit equipment for the consumer.


• Develop a potential user survey;

• Identify potential highest user routes;

• Avoid the use of diesel buses if possible;

• Develop a transit shuttle system in the Green Hills RAC; and exploration of other transit alternatives; and,

• Establish unique transit stop identification signs and stations using graffiti resistant material.

Figure 20 Figure 21


Figure 20 is a transit bench in Green Hills. Figure 21 is a transit stop in Seattle that is safe, not obstructing the public right-of-way, and includes the use of public art. The combination of elementsincreases the strength of the design.

23

Existing and Proposed Transit Figure 22

Existing-Proposed TransitGreen H ills Study

Creating An U rban Village

In Green Hills

M TA Bus Route 7 - H illsboro

Proposed Trolley Route

M TA Bus Route 2 - Belm ont

M TA Bus Route 11 W oodm ont/Nachez Trace

N

EW

S

CRESTMOOR RD

ABBOTT MARTIN RD

GLEN ECHO RD

RICHARD JONES RD

HILLS

BORO PKE

HOBBS RD

24


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with local businesses, residents, private sector interests and the following Metro Agencies: Public Works, Beautification and Environment Commission, Metro Transit Authority, and Arts Commission, during the development of transit routes and incorporate the recommendations in this section and those that relate to the location and type of transit stops.

• Complete the preparation of an Advance Planning Report for transit shuttle improvements;

• Identify available funding source (public and private);

• If feasibility is established, adjust routes to optimize ridership based on survey findings;

• Execute a test shuttle route through MTA, based upon results of the user survey; and

• Provide signage and maps to direct riders to transit stops, and provide route schedules and maps at stops.

• Utilize advanced technology to foster efficient and effective shuttle use and operation.

25

2.4 TRAFFIC CALMING

Figure 23 Figure 24

These two pictures illustrate traffic calming measures in Seattle, Washington. These traffic circles break up the straight line that would normally be available for a vehicle thus reducing the speed of a vehicle. Figure 23 shows local residents planting trees and vegetation in their neighborhood traffic circle.

2.4.1 Issues

• Complaints of increasing traffic volume on local residential streets;

• Concerns over the possibility of future cut-through traffic in neighborhoods after the implementation of improvements in the Green Hills RAC;

• Complaints over the speed of traffic in residential areas; and,

• Desire to preserve the residential character of neighborhood streets.


• To discourage through traffic on local residential areas;

• To maintain residential character of neighborhoods; and,

• To reduce traffic speed in neighborhoods where it is a problem.

26


• Provide traffic calming measures on Cross Creek Rd/Valley Brook Rd; and,

• Monitor locations for future implementation of traffic calming measures.

Traffic Calming Figure 25

Traffic CalmingGreen Hills Study


In Green Hills

N

EW

S

Traffic Calming

400 0 400 800 Feet

CRESTMOOR RD

ABBOTT MARTIN RD

GLEN ECHO RD

RICHARD JONES RD

HILLS

BORO PKE

HOBBS RD

CRO

SS C

REEK

RD

VALLEY BROOK RD

27


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the Department of Public Works to implement the recommendations in this section;

• Provide traffic counts on residential streets that are potential bypass routes to the Green Hills RAC before and after the placement of sidewalks and other improvements along Hillsboro Road;

• Identify specific applications that can be used along the residential corridors; and,

• Identify funding sources.

Types of Traffic Calming Devices

Figure 26: Metropolitan Nashville, TN Speed Hump Figure 27: Charlotte, NC Chicanes

Figure 28: Portland, OR Traffic Circle Figure 29: Portland, OR Portable Speed Ramp

28

2.5 PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

New sidewalks, a transit shuttle, and a visually attractive environment will not be enough to encourage pedestrian use. In order for pedestrians to feel comfortable making multiple trips by foot, they must feel safe.

NOT RECOMMENDED

Figure 30 Figure 31

Pedestrians must step into street if bench is in use.

Intersection lacks crosswalk and pedestrian signal.

2.5.1 Issues

• Lack of adequate crosswalks at most intersections;

• Lack of adequate crosswalk signalization at most intersections;

• Lack of adequate facilities for persons with disabilities;

• Sub par and incomplete system of sidewalks with obstructions in the sidewalks;

• An overabundance of unnecessary curb cuts; and,

• Transit benches located dangerously close to streets.


• To provide safe facilities for pedestrian use;

29 • To comply with ADA standards in design of pedestrian facilities;

• To locate transit benches and shelters in convenient and safe locations;

• To provide pedestrian signals and clearly labeled crosswalks at all intersections; and,

• To develop conditions that make pedestrians feel comfortable and safe.


• Furnish pedestrian signals at crosswalks within the Green Hills RAC;

• Furnish transit shelters that are visually attractive and located in safe locations;

• Furnish pedestrian scale lighting in appropriate areas;

• Comply with ADA standards in sidewalk construction (See sidewalk standards; Chapter 1 p 14); and

• Use crosswalk materials that are significantly different in color, texture, and design from the existing roadway.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro Agencies: Public Works, Beautification and Environment Commission, Metro Transit Authority, and Arts Commission to develop a pedestrian safety strategy incorporating the recommendations in this section: and,

• Use BID funds for the upgrading of basic lighting, signalization, crosswalk improvements, and sidewalk installation;

This is a picture of a wheel chair accessible ramp that is ADA compliant. In the Green Hills RAC these types of ramps do not exist. It is the desire of the committee tmake sure that ramps provided in

o

future sidewalk construction are ADA compliant.

Figure 32

30

2.6 BIKE PLAN

The biker in this picture is riding in a bike lane that gives him plenty of room to operate outside of the regular traffic lane. The Green Hills Urban Villagerecommends a series of bike lanes and (or) signage that extend outside the boundaries of the study area to safely accommodate cyclists.

Plan

Figure 33

2.6.1 Issue

• Complaints over a lack of safe facilities for cyclists in Green Hills and Nashville.


• To provide safe facilities for cyclists in the Green Hills area; and,

• To encourage cycling as an alternative form of transportation.


• Provide the same safety standards for bikes as those afforded to cars;

• Provide clearly labeled routes for cyclists;

• Provide designated bike lanes when possible; and,

• Provide convenient and secure bicycle storage facilities throughout Green Hills.

31

Green Hills Area Bike Plan Figure 34

CRESTMOOR RD

ABBOTT MARTIN RD

GLEN ECHO RD

RICHARD JONES RD

HILLS

BORO PKE

HOBBS RD

Bike WaysGreen Hills Study


In Green Hills

N

EW

S

Burton Hills

To The White Bridge Rd Area

To Vanderbilt

To Belmont

David Lipscomb

To Radnor Lake

Hillsboro High School

400 0 400 800 Feet

Bike Ways

To Harding Rd / Hwy 100

32


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to develop a bike plan that includes bike ways and facilities incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, bike groups, and the following Metro Agencies: Public Works and Parks and Recreation;

• Complete the preparation of an Advance Planning Report for bike way improvements;

• Identify funding sources; and,

• Encourage cyclist education and safety measures.

This picture is representative of the conditions that bikers face in the Green Hills area and throughout many areas in Nashville. For the experienced biker, these conditions may be tolerated. However, for the noviinexperienced biker, these are seriously deficient. Bike lanes cannot be provided on all roads but signs could be used to alert a person on a bike or in a car that cyclist and cars are expected to share the travelway.

ce or

Figure 35

33

2.7 WAYFINDER SIGNS

Figure 36 & 37 are street signs from NYC. Although most would recognize the sign by the name, the use of a common theme allows a visitor to know they are in NYC even if they are not familiar with the names of the streets.

Figure 36 Figure 37

Figure 38 & 39 are examples of signs along the wayfinder system in Pittsburgh, PA. Figure 38 illustrates how the city is broken into color codes. Because of the strong geographic features of Pittsburgh this system is helpful. However this may not work in Green Hills.

Figure 38 Figure 39

2.7.1 Issue

• Lack of directional signs is contributing to traffic problems in the Green Hills RAC.


• To develop a system of wayfinder signs in the Green Hills RAC that provides travelers with assistance in locating major destination points to reduce the amount of traffic congestion in the Green Hills RAC; and,

• To provide a system (within the Green Hills RAC) to get people to their desired destination without materially adding to the confusion of signage in the area.


• Develop distinctive and appropriate design theme for wayfinder signs consistent with accepted design standards; and,

34

• Develop a wayfinder sign system for the Green Hills RAC.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a plan for the design and location of a wayfinder sign system in Green Hills incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the Metro Department of Public Works; and,

• Secure funding for project implementation.

Possible locations for signs

• Major points of entry; and,

• Major crossroads, for example,

Crestmoor/Glen Echo Roads at Hillsboro Pike

Abbott Martin Road/Richard Jones Road at Hillsboro Pike;

Identification of Key Destinations

• Shared parking areas;

• Library;

• U.S. Post Office;

• Hillsboro High School;

• David Lipscomb University;

• Green Hills YMCA;

• Significant area parks;

• Area Greenways;

• Green Hills Mall; and,

• Transit Center (if developed).

35

PUBLIC/OPEN SPACE & AESTHETICS

Introduction

Chapter 3 covers public/open space and aesthetics for the Green Hills RAC. Although these topics are related, section 3.1 will cover the overall issues and recommendations for public/open space. Sections 3.2-3.7 provide specific recommendations and implementation measures for each public/open space location.

Section 3.8 will cover the overall issues and recommendations for aesthetic improvements. Sections 3.9-3.14 will provide specific recommendations and implementation measures for the elements that contribute to the overall visual image of the area. Taken as a whole, this chapter should provide a clear understanding of the necessary elements needed to improve the overall environment of the area.

RECOMMENDED

Chapter 3

This fountain near the “Plaza” in Kansas City, Missouri serves as a gateway treatment and a gathering point. in addition to being informative, use of public art can enhance the visitor’s experience. “Special

Collections,” Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, Missou Figure

ri) 40

36

3.1 RECOMMENDED PUBLIC/OPEN SPACE

3

•

•

•

•

•

The Green Hills RAC has no functional public/open space currently available. The Green Hills CAC expressedconcern over the lack of public/open space. The Green Hills Urban Village Plan recommends several locationsfor such space. The park in this picture provides a quiet place for people to relax and gather in a busy urban area. Figure 41

.1.1 Overall Issues

Lack of Public/Open space in Green Hills;

Desire to preserve the Public/Open space in front of Hillsboro High School;

Retention of vacated land at the Crestmoor/Glen Echo intersection area;

Development of a gateway entrance in Green Hills; and,

Creation of spaces that encourage a sense of community within the area.

37

Figure 42 Figure 43


3

•

•

•

3

Tubimo

Figure 42 is a creek in Green Hills that has been turned into a concrete canal. This creek is visually unattractive and ignored. This “dead space” could be become an asset instead of a liability. Figure 43 isa creek in Pampa, TX that has been saved from destruction and is now used as a greenway.

.1.2 Overall Goals and Objectives

To provide more public/open space in the Green Hills RAC;

To reclaim public rights-of-way and protect existing public/open space for future use; and,

To encourage future development of civic areas in Green Hills.

.1.3 Recommended Sites for Public/Open Spaces

he Green Hills Urban Village Plan recommends seven areas within the Green Hills RAC to be sed for public/open spaces. It is important to develop a local organization in Green Hills that will e responsible for the coordination with Metro agencies and private organizations to fund and

plement the recommendations of the plan. In addition, it will be the responsibility of this rganization to work with a consultant to develop a public/open space plan.

38

Central Park Louisville, KY circa 1907. Parks are an important element increating a sense of community. Louisville residents have recently voted to increase taxes in order to create a park legacy for future generations. Figure 44

Public Space/Open Space Figure 45

CRESTMOOR RD

ABBOTT MARTIN RD

GLEN ECHO RD

RICHARD JONES RD

HILLS

BORO PKE

HOBBS RD

#

1

#

3

#

6

#

5

#

7 #

8

PUBLIC SPACE/OPEN SPACEGreen Hills Study


In Green Hills

1 Burton Hills Greenway

2 Detention Area

34

Creek ImprovementsBandywood Connector

78

65 Hillsboro HS

"Old" LibraryGateway Park"New" Library

N

EW

S200 0 200 400 600 800 Feet

#

4

#

2

39

3.2 BURTON HILLS GREENWAY

Figure 46 Figure 47


• Provide a linear park (greenway) that incorporates an alternative connection for bicyclists and pedestrians between the Burton Hills area and the Green Hills RAC along Sugartree Creek;

• Acquire the necessary easements adjoining Sugartree Creek to create a linear park; and,

• Incorporate the greenway plan into the plans of any future development along the greenway path.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Greenways Commission, Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission. Also, develop a group to support the greenway effort (e.g. 1000 Friends of Green Hills/Burton Hills);

• Acquire the necessary easements and/or right-of-way from neighborhood property owners along the creek; and,

• Complete the required engineering design and construction process and secure finding.

40

3.3 ABBOTT MARTIN /CROSS CREEK ROAD DETENTION AREA NEIGHBORHOOD PARK

Figure 48 Figure 49

These pictures illustrate how landscaping can enhance a drainage area.

3.3.1 Recommendation

• Establish a park in conjunction with any possible Bedford Avenue area design and redevelopment in and around the floodplain area near the intersection of Abbott Martin Road, between Bedford Avenue and Cross Creek Road.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations of this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Greenways Commission, Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

• Gather input from neighborhood residents on park uses and design;

• Complete proposed park design studies;

• Acquire the land necessary for public park site development; and,

• Secure funding for the public park and site development

41

3.4 CREEK IMPROVEMENTS

Current conditions along an unnamed tributary of Sugartree Creek. The creek is located between Hillsboro Pike and Hillsboro Circle in Green Hills. Figure 50


• The Green Hills CAC did not make specific recommendations for this area. However, they did recommend that some type of improvements take place in conjunction with a UDO or part of possible redevelopment.

• Any landscape or streetscape plan in Green Hills should consider this area as part of the project.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations of this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Greenways Commission, Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

42

3.5 BANDYWOOD CONNECTOR

3.5.1

• Thetheywou

• Anypro

3.4.2

• EncworstrecooMetRec

The Bandywood connector crosses over the tributary of Sugartree Creek behind First AmericanBank. This would provide a connection between the mall and H.G. Hill center.

Figure 51

Recommendations

Green Hills CAC did not make specific recommendations for this area. However, agreed that a pedestrian connection between Hillsboro Pike and Bandywood Drive ld be a good ideas.

landscape or streetscape plan in Green Hills should consider this area as part of the ject.

Implementation

ourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to k with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and etscape plan incorporating the recommendations of this section. In addition, rdinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following ro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Greenways Commission, Parks and reation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

43

3.6 HILLSBORO HIGH SCHOOL GREEN SPACE AREA

3.6.1 R

• Encofunc

• Worpropfutur

3.6.2 I

• EncoworkstreecoorMetrRecr

• Secu

• Secu

Current conditions in front of Hillsboro High School (1999). The Green Hills Urban VillagePlan recommends preserving this public/open space. Figure 52

ecommendations

urage the Metro Board of Education to allow use of the open space for civic tions and seek input from all parties interested in the use of the property; and,

k with the Metro Board of Education to ensure that the open space in the front of the erty along Hillsboro Road remains for public use and enjoyment regardless of any e development plans.

mplementation

urage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and tscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, dinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following o agencies: Board of Education, Public Works, Arts Commission, Parks and eation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

re use agreement for perpetual public use and enjoyment; and,

re funding for site improvements.

44

3.7 “OLD” LIBRARY LOCATION

Figure 53 Figure 54

These photographs illustrate ideas for reusing the existing public library site on Crestmoor road once the library has relocated to its new site on Benham Avenue.

3.7.1 Recommendation

• Reuse existing Green Hills Public Library site as a neighborhood gathering place and/or outdoor activity center within the heart of the Green Hills commercial area.


• Continuation of the existing library site as a community facility;

• Secure support from the Parks and Recreation Board and Library Board for development of the existing library site into a community facility;

• Obtain input from area property owners and residents into the design and purpose of the site;

• Encourage the organization responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, Friends of the Green Hills Library, and the following Metro agencies: Library Board, Public Works, Arts Commission, Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission; and,

• Secure funding for site design and development.

45

3.8 CRESTMOOR RD/ GLEN ECHO ROAD GATEWAY PARK

This entrance to Hillsboro Village in Nashville, Tennessee illustrates the effectiveness of a gateway. This entrance treatment is an excellent way of notifying travelers that they are entering a different area. Gateway treatments in Green Hills could be very effective in creating a unique identity. The use of gateway treatments would also serve as a landmark for the area.

Figure 55


• Create a gateway entrance feature for Green Hills near the intersection realignment of Crestmoor Road and Glen Echo Road.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Historical Commission, Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

• Create the site from excess right-of-way associated with the project to realign the Crestmoor Road/Glen Echo Road intersection with Hillsboro Pike;

• Design site improvements in conjunction with the Green Hills BID governing board and neighborhood property owners;

• Acquire land for the right-of-way for the new roadway;

• Secure agreements from neighboring property owners to relinquish claims to abandoned right-of-way;

• Integrate park design with the needs of the neighboring property owners; and,

• Improve the site through the Capital Improvement Program and other funding.

46

3.9 “NEW” LIBRARY STORMWATER DETENTION AREA

Figure 56 Figure 57


• Optimize any available property at the new library location for public/open space;

• Utilize the storm water detention area that will be located at the new library site for a park and education area;

• Provide opportunities for the Green Hills Library and Hillsboro High School to educate individuals on environmental issues in an outdoor “laboratory”.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a park plan in conjunction with a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, Friends of the Green Hills Library, and the following Metro agencies: Library Board, Hillsboro High School Administration, Public Works, Arts Commission, Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

• Complete engineering and design studies for detention pond and public space development;

• Develop a coalition of individuals who are interested in educating the public on environmental issues and developing an appropriate program; and,

• Secure funding for development of the park facilities.

47

3.10 Aesthetics

Visual appearance can drastically affect the feeling of a place. If people feel uncomfortable in a location, then they may not return. Throughout most of the Green Hills RAC, visual appearance is poor. The picture below illustrates one example of this problem.

NOT RECOMMENDED

The visual appearance of the Green Hills RAC could be enhanced with thfurniture, decorative lighting, directional signage, landscaping, utility reloenhancements and public art. Any of these options would help the Greenidentity that is different from other suburban shopping areas in Nashville.unique sense of place, these improvements would help to create a more fabusiness, shopping, living, and pedestrian usage.

RECOMMENDED

48

The “dead” space created by this large drainage ditch, parking area, and dumpsters is not an example of good visual appearanrecommendations are

ce. If

followed, this liability could become an asset.

Figure 58

e addition of street cation or utility

Hills RAC create an In addition to creating a vorable atmosphere for

The City of Fairhope, Alabama has been very effectivtransforming its downtown into a

e in

successful tourist area by increasing the visual quality and by transforming “dead” spaces into functional spaces.

Figure 59

3.10.1 Overall Issues

• Overall visual appearance of the Green Hills RAC; and,

• Lack of significant areas of landscaping and open space to relieve the hardness of buildings and parking lots.

3.10.2 Overall Goals and Objectives

• To encourage the use of public art;

• To improve the amount and quality of landscaping;

• To reduce the number of utility poles; and,

• To provide attention to the less obvious details.


• Develop a visual character that is appealing and different from other metropolitan shopping areas;

Relatively minor details can go a long way in enhancing visual image. These types of features provide a reference point on the landscape and often become local landmarks. “Special Collections” Kansas City Public Library Kansas City, Missouri Figure 60

49

3.11 LANDSCAPING

Figure 61 Figure 62

These two photographs represent the devastation caused by the Dutch Elm disease outbreak in America. In this case the disease was so destructive that the neighborhood had to remove all of its elms. However, it is clear that all trees provide definition, shade, and beauty. The lesson learned by many cities is that diversity in tree types will reduce the chances of this type of destruction.


• Reintroduce trees, shrubs, and groundcovers to redefine the scale of the Green Hills transportation corridors;

• Separate and buffer the roadways from pedestrian spaces;

• Provide shade and glare relief for pedestrians;

• Improve the overall air quality by increasing the number of oxygen generating plants while reducing carbon dioxide levels;

• Moderate the noise, pollution, and storm water run-off effects;

• Maintain visibility to businesses;

• Select plants for drought tolerance, pollution resistance, growth rate, ultimate size, wood strength, and maintenance requirements;

• Select street trees to branch above 7 ft in pedestrian areas and provide 14 ft clearance above travelways;

• Locate street trees approximately every 30 ft on center, adjusting for obstructions and providing for unbutchered growth near overhead power lines;

• Use both evergreen and deciduous shrubs to provide enclosure and separation of spaces; and,

50

• Minimize lawn area with vining and matting groundcovers to reduce maintenance demands.

This picture visually describes the abundant use of landscaping in a Seattle, WA parking lot. The committee recognized the beauty in this landscape and recommended that more attention be devoted to the quality of landscape in Green Hills and the Nashville area.

Figure 63

Landscaping public spaces for enjoyment is common in our society. However, the degree to which we value this tradition varies from city to city. Shown here is a reflecting pool in the median of Ward Parkway in Kansas City, Missouri Circa 1932. “Special Collections” KansasCity Public Library,

Kansas City, Missouri. Figure 64


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Historical Commission, Transit Authority, Parks and Recreation, Greenways Commission, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

51

• Encourage new construction to provide quality landscaping above standards required by Metro Codes;

• Secure funding.

Supplemental Information - Benefits of Urban Trees – Common Statistics

• Trees increase economic stability by attracting and keeping businesses and shoppers in a community. Mature trees also raise property value by up to 20% according to the American Forestry Association.

• Tree root systems hold soil in place preventing erosion. Trees also absorb stormwater that might otherwise result in flash flooding. A city’s urban forest can reduce peak stormwater runoff by 10% to 20%, according to the USDA Forest Service

• One acre of trees provides enough oxygen for 18 people, and absorbs as much carbon dioxide as a car produces in 26,000 miles. Trees also remove sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, two major components of acid rain and ozone pollution from the air.

• Trees reduce noise pollution by acting as a buffer and absorbing urban noise

• Trees help create relaxation and well being. They relieve psychological stresses, and a Texas A&M study indicates that patients in rooms with a view of green and woodland areas have shorter postoperative stays.

• Trees add beauty and reflection to our everyday lives.

52

3.12 STREETSCAPES & PUBLIC ART

Figure 65 Figure 66

Although this fountain is not currently in use, it is an illustration of the many elements that create an attractive streetscape. In the background are examples of landscaping, interesting store facades, and a particular attention to detail. The fountain of Neptune is located in Kansas City, Missouri. “Special Collections, Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, Missouri”


• Provide pedestrian and vehicular scale lighting along all sidewalks;

• Provide lighting support post locations along sidewalks to reinforce and enhance pedestrian usage of sidewalks;

• Provide trash receptacles and sitting areas for pedestrians;

• Provide public art in public/open spaces;

• Regulate allowed uses in the public rights-of-way including where and how First Amendment uses are accommodated; and,

• Incorporate into streetscapes the considerations presented in the book Great Streets (excerpts follow in supplemental information).

53

Figure 67 Figure 68

RECOMMENDED NOT RECOMMENDED

Supplemental Information – Qualities that contribute to a Great Street from the book Great Streets by Alan Jacobs

“Given a limited budget, the most effective expenditure of funds to improve a street would probably be on trees……..Trees can do many things for a street and city, not the least of which is the provision of oxygen, and of shade for comfort. Green is a psychologically restful, agreeable color. Trees move and modulate the light. In terms of helping streets to work functionally, when planted in lines along a curb or even in the cartway they can effectively separate pedestrians from machines, machines from machines, and people from people. The trunks and branches create a screen, sometimes like a row of columns that gives a transparent but distinct edge. Between pedestrians and auto paths they can be a safety barrier for the former”. p. 293 (1) Alan B. Jacobs is Professor and Chair, Department of City and Regional Planning at the University of California at Berkeley and former Director of Planning for the City of San Francisco, California

The following is a list of qualities, discussed by Mr. Jacobs in his book Great Streets, that contribute to creating a “great street” and should be taken into consideration:

• Trees;

• Beginnings and Endings-most great streets have notable starts and stops;

• Many Buildings Rather Than Few: Diversity;

• Special Design Features: Details - gates, fountains, benches, kiosks, lighting and signs;

Figure 67 is a picture of Wedgewood Avenue near Vanderbilt University. Trees line both sides of the avenue and provide definition to the street. In addition, the trees soften the urban landscape, provide shade and create a buffer between the street and the sidewalk. Figure 68 illustrates the strip commercial development in the Green Hills RAC. Without trees, Hillsboro Road has little if any definition. If the recommendations of the Green Hills Urban Village Plan were implemented, Hillsboro Road could be greatly improved.

54

• Places- plazas, parks, widening, or open spaces;

• Accessibility- enable a person to get from one place to another;

• Density Helps- the best streets are wonderful places to be even if there aren’t many or even any people on them;

• Diversity- cinemas, theatres, schools….Variety, activity, liveliness of physical place are likely effects of diversity of uses;

• Length- Changes are necessary along long streets if interest is to be sustained;

• Slope- More often than not, the best streets have noticeable changes in elevation;

• Parking- On street parking is permitted on many of the best streets;

• Contrast- Contrast in design is what sets one street apart from another….Contrast in shape or length or size, or to the pattern of surrounding streets is another matter; and,

• Time.

3.12.1.1 Murfreesboro, Tennessee Main Street

Figure 69 Figure 70

Before Improvements (1985) After Improvements (1998)

These pictures of Main Street in Murfreesboro, Tennessee illustrate how a few changes can bring dramatic visual improvements. The city had the distinct advantage of having buildings in place that addressed the street. After placing the overhead utilities underground, planting trees and reducing the width of the travel lanes, Murfreesboro has been able to transform its main street into something that’s more aesthetically pleasing.

55


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to develop a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Historical Commission, Transit Authority, Parks and Recreation, Greenways Commission, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

• Encourage the formation of a subcommittee through a BID or form a group to promote and encourage a streetscape and public art program; and,

• Secure funds for project implementation.

Supplemental Information - The Choice of Seating from the Lila Wallace Readers Digest Urban Parks Institute

Design

• Consider the physical comfort of the user;

• Consider the social comfort of the user by allowing them to have a choice of where and how they would like to sit; and,

• Provide a variety of different types of settings.

Location

• Provide seating in and near areas where there are other people;

• Consider placing seating in relation to other seating as well as in conjunction with other amenities, such as water fountains, concession, etc; and,

• Consider seating as just one element of making a park work well.

Maintenance/Installation

• Aim for easy maintenance;

• Aim for low cost fixtures that are time efficient to repair and install; and,

• Use durable materials.

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3.13 USE OF THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY

Figure 71 Figure 72


These two pictures illustrate the difference between what is in Nashville today (Figure 71) and what is possible (Figure 72-Consolidated news stands in Seattle, Washington) in the public rights-of-way.


• Provide designated locations and design for First Amendment media vending machines in order to organize and monitor machines locating in the public right-of-way;

• Eliminate locating fire hydrants, utility poles and signs as obstructions in sidewalks;

• Locate transit benches in a fashion that does not interfere with the movement of pedestrians on the sidewalks and does not put the users of the bench in danger of traffic; and,

• Adopt standards for the placement and design of public/private obstructions permitted.


• Encouraging the organization responsible for the coordination of projects to coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the various users of the public right-of-way to establish rules and procedures for eliminating obstructions in the public right-of-way. In addition to coordinating with the above mentioned parties, the following Metro agencies should be included: Public Works, Water Services, Metro Transit Authority, and Nashville Electric Service.

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3.14 STREET LIGHTING

Figure 73 Figure 74 Figure 75 Figure 76 Figure 77

PREFERRED LIGHTING TYPES

Some of the decorative street lights used in Nashville. Figure 75 depicts new streetlights in the 12 South neighborhood and Figure 76 are the lights located on Broadway. Both of these are examples of streetlights that are equipped to hold banners. Figures 73, 74, and 77 are traditional streetlights.


• Provide enhanced lighting for pedestrians and vehicles that is both functional and visually attractive along all sidewalks;

• Locate lighting supports so as to reinforce and enhance pedestrian usage of sidewalks; and,

• Promote visually attractive high quality fixtures and supports throughout the Green Hills RAC.

3.14.2 Implementation Process

• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to devise a street lighting plan as part of a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Arts Commission, Transit Authority, and Beautification and Environment Commission; and,

• Seek supplemental funding sources to cover the difference in cost between the minimum standards and those desired.

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3.15 POLE CONSOLIDATION

Figure 78 Figure 79


Due in part to development patterns, Green Hills has an overabundance of utility poles in sidewalks. Nashville Electric Service is preparing a Pole Consolidation Plan for the commercial area


• The completion and review Pole Consolidation Plan underway by Nashville Electric Service;

• The cooperation between all service providers that use utility poles during the consolidation process; and,

• The investigation to put overhead utilities underground along Hillsboro Road.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to include the pole consolidation plan as part of a landscape and streetscape plan incorporating the recommendations in this section. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests and the following Metro Agencies: Nashville Electric Service, Public Works, and Beautification and Environment Commission; and,


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Utility Pole Locations in the Green Hills RAC Figure 80

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Utility PolesGreen Hills Study

Creating an Urban Village

In Green Hills

# Power Poles% Metal Poles$ Other Poles

N

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S500 0 500 1000 Feet

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3.16 COVERING THE DETAILS

Figure 81 Figure 82 Figure 83

PREFERRED

These pictures illustrate the importance of details. These tree grate and manhole covers demonstrate the streetscape enhancement value of attention to the design of small utilitarian fixtures.


• Introduce small detail street art in the public right of way;

• Create a partnership with the arts community in the design of tree grates, manhole covers, and other utilitarian fixtures used in the public rights-of-way; and,

• The promotion of visually attractive and high quality fixtures in the public right of way including but not limited to; trash cans, manhole covers, tree grates, and street drains and paving.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to work with a consultant to include the recommendations in this section for a landscape and streetscape plan. In addition, coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the following Metro agencies: Public Works, Water Services, Arts Commission, Historical Commission, Transit Authority, Parks and Recreation, Greenways Commission, Urban Forestry, and Beautification and Environment Commission;

61

• Establish a relationship with the Departments of Public Works and Water Services to upgrade fixtures in the public right-of-way at highly visible locations such as sidewalks and crosswalks;

• Locate artists (from school children to professionals) to design street fixtures, and other details that enhance the visual landscape at ground level; and,


Public art can be both interactive and educational. In this picture the paving illustrates the attention given to the small details. These details are important in the presentation of the sculpture. Currently, there is no public art in the Green Hills RAC.

Figure 84

Public art takes on many forms but Kansas City, Missouri, appeato prefer fountains

rs .

“Special Collections” Kansas City Public Library Kansas City, Missouri. A fountain can be installed almanywhere. However, the attention to the detail of the fountain and its accompanying elements is equally

ost

importFigure 85 ant.

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URBAN DESIGN OVERLAY(UDO)

4.1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

An urban Design Overlay (UDO) is a zoning tool that can be used to establish special design standards that could aid in creating an urban village atmosphere in Green Hills. The UDO provision was included in the new zoning code for Nashville-Davidson County that became effective on January 1, 1998. Since then, a UDO has been established for Hillsboro Village and plans are underway to establish UDOs in the Music Row area and along the proposed “Gateway Boulevard” downtown. In order for a UDO to be established for the Green Hills RAC, the Subarea 10 Plan would need to be amended to provide for the use of this zoning tool in Green Hills.

Chapter 4

“The Plaza,” from the Special Collections department at the Kansas City, Missouri Public Library, effectively illustrates the idea behind an urban village. The intent is not to replicate the Plaza but to learn from the elements creating this spectacular urban village. The Plaza is located several miles south of Kansas City and is not served by a major expressway. The distance and transportation routes are similar to those in Green Hills. The Plaza has a large collection of stores, including the Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma, Eddie Bauer Concept store,and Lord and Taylor, as well as dozens of restaurants, offices, hotels, and residences. Figure 86

63

Section 17.36.270 of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville-Davidson County zoning regulations describes the UDO in the following manner:

The purpose of the urban design overlay district is to allow for the application and implementation of special design standards within areas specifically designated by an adopted subarea plan with the intent of achieving a scale and form of development that emphasizes sensitivity to the pedestrian environment, minimizes intrusion of the automobile into the urban setting, and provides for the sensitive placement of open spaces in relationship to building masses, street furniture and landscaping features in a manner otherwise not insured by the application of the conventional bulk, landscaping and parking standards of this title. Application of this special overlay district shall be limited to areas specifically identified by a subarea plan as requiring specialized design standards either to maintain and reinforce an established form or character, or to achieve a specific design objective for new development. (Ord. 96-555 9 8 (A), 1997)

64

Green Hills Zoning & Possible UDO Area Figure 87

CRESTMOOR RD

ABBOTT MARTIN RD

GLEN ECHO R

RICHARD JONES RD

HILLS

BORO PKE

HOBBS RD

UDO AREA

SCR

RM20

OR20

RM20

R10

R10

RS40

ZONING

N

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Green Hills Study


In Green Hills

400 0 400 800 Feet

OR20 SCR

R10 RM20

RS40

Zoning Code Description

OR 20 – Office/Residential District SCR – Shopping Center Regional District

RM 20 – Moderately High Intensity Residential R 10 – Medium Intensity 1 and 2 family dwellings

RS 40 - Low Intensity 1 and 2 family dwellings 65

4.1.1 Issue

• Lack of appropriate design standards for new development.


• To designate in the Subarea 10 Plan a portion of Green Hills as an area requiring special design standards;

• To suggest a UDO for part of the Green Hills RAC to encourage future development that will help implement and further the recommendations of this plan;

• To enhance the economic condition of the area; and,

• To enhance the visual quality of the Green Hills RAC.

Suggested Location

• Preparation of UDO design guidelines is recommended for the area shown on Figure 83.


• Create a sense of place and community;

• Encourage new development and redevelopment to “build to” the sidewalk and provide retail services that face the sidewalk and not a parking lot;

• Encourage mixed-use development that contains housing, office, retail, restaurant, and entertainment space;

• Encourage new development and redevelopment to address the recommendations of this plan;

• Encourage in-fill development in large parking lots;

• Encourage parking structures and on-street parking where possible;

• Encourage locating parking behind, under, and above buildings;

• Encourage locating more civic space with new development and redevelopment;

• Encourage locating retail space on the ground floor of all new parking structures; and,

• Encourage compact development in Green Hills.

66


• Form a committee of property owners and other vested parties in the affected area to begin the UDO District formation process.

Figure 88 is a picture of a neighborhood shopping area on the southside of Birmingham, Alabama that was developed in the late 1800s. It is important not to replicate the historic style of this type of shopping area butto learn from its physical form. Over 100 million dollars of private investment has been announced in this area for 1999. In Green Hills, large-scale development began in the 1950s and has transformed many times over the last few decades. In preparing for the reformation of the area, designers should consider historical aspects of the area and the desires of the citizens and business owners outlined in this plan. Unlike the Urban Design Overlay created for Hillsboro Village, the Green Hills Urban Design Overlay will look more to creating a certain character rather than to preserving its existing physical form and architecture.

67

ORGANIZING FOR RESULTS

5.1 OVERALL ORGANIZATION

In order for the Green Hills Urban Village Plan to become reality, local business leaders and residents must cooperate and act upon the plan’s recommendations. Throughout the Green Hills CAC meetings, business leaders expressed interest in creating a BID and other organizations to implement the recommendations of this plan. This chapter will focus on ways Green Hills citizens can organize with local business leaders to achieve results. Two mechanisms that can be used to implement this plan are a Business Improvements District and the use of Public/Private partnerships.

5.2. GREEN HILLS BUSINESS IMPROVEMENTS DISTRICT

Figure 89 Figure 90

Chapter 5

These types of improvements could take place in Green Hills with the formation of a Business Improvements District. Because of the economic makeup of Green Hills, it is not likely that the area would qualify for many federal grants. A BID could provide the money needed to match local funding for improvements or provide enhancements on its own.

Business Improvement Districts have been around since 1970. A BID is formed when business owners decided to assess themselves additional fees to be paid upon receipt or renewal of their business licenses to be used for public improvements and collaborative projects such as: banners, street fairs, festivals, historic landmark preservation and restoration, farmers markets, tree planting, landscaping and much more. These assessments are administered by the business associations elected to best utilize these funds for overall business improvement projects for the area.

68


• To serve as a funding resource to implement the Green Hills Urban Village Plan and other services;

• To serve as a mechanism to oversee a parking management district;

• To serve as a vehicle for a cooperative relationship between merchants; and,

• To serve as a unified voice on issues facing Green Hills.


• Establish a leadership forum of local merchants;

• Use the downtown BID as a model; and,

• Include selected representatives from the surrounding residential community as ex-officio BID members.


• Consult other Business Improvements Districts for ideas and suggestions;

• Gain support for a BID from local business leaders;

• Encourage cooperation between the BID and West Area Business Council, and other interested parties;

• Develop an ordinance to establish a BID; and,

• Identify funding options and tax rates.

5.3 Public/Private Partnerships

Shopping in Green Hills is unique to Nashville. Unlike other shopping areas, Green Hills has over 700 property owners located in a small geographic area. The typical suburban shopping area has fewer and therefore the need for cooperation is decreased. In order for Green Hills to compete successfully in the future, public/private partnerships between the numerous business owners and Metro will be important.

69


• To provide pedestrian connections on private property to serve public accessibility;

• To define the concept of public/private partnerships for the Green Hills Area;

• To identify the role, responsibilities and necessary actions of all stakeholders;

• To examine the key components of successful public/private partnership activities in other cities; and,

• To ensure design coordination as future development occurs.


• Encourage the organization that will be responsible for the coordination of projects to coordinate with local businesses, residents, private sector interests, and the appropriate Metro Agencies to foster partnerships and agreements that insure integrated implementation of the Green Hills Urban Village Plan and maximize funding resources; and,

• Combine public and private funds to upgrade public and private facilities.

5.3.2 Implementation Process

• Identify and resolve legal issues between private ownership and public use;

• Develop private ownership incentives;

• Implement the plan recommendations through the BID; and,

• Develop an ordinance, public/private partnerships or the inclusion in the UDO.

5.4 Contacts

As a preliminary reference point, the following is a list of names, numbers, web addresses, and grant resources for the Green Hills community. This is intended to be a starting reference point.

5.4.1 Metropolitan Nashville/Davidson County-State of Tennessee-US Gov’t

• Metro Planning Commission 862-7150 General Information 70

• Metro Council 862-6784 Fax 862-6780 Staff

• Parks and Recreation 862-8400

• Codes Administration 862-6510 Zoning Information

• Urban Forester 862-6488

• Historical Commission 862-7970 Zoning Information

• Office of the Mayor 862-600

• Public Works 862-8750 Customer Service Information

• Tenn Dept. of Transportation 741-0791 Planning & Development 741-2331 General Information

• Federal Information Center 1-800-688-9889

5.4.2 Local Media

Green Hills News 298-1500

Nashville Business Journal 248-2222

The Tennessean 843-7255

ABC/News 2 WKRN TV 259-2200

Channel 4 WSMV TV 353-4444

Fox 17 WZTV 259-5617

Newschannel 5 254-6397

In Review 255-9792 editorial [email protected]

The Nashville Scene 244-7989

5.4.3 Web Pages

• Nashville Planning Commission http://www.nashville.org/mpc/index.html

• Metro Government Home Page http://www.nashville.org/index.html

• State & Local Gov’t on the Web http://www.piperinfo.com/state/states.html

• Sprawl Net (urban sprawl) http://riceinfo.rice.edu/~lda/sprawl_net/about.html

71 • Planners Web http://www.plannersweb.com

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.nashville.org/mpc/index.html

http://www.nashville.org/index.html

http://www.piperinfo.com/state/states.html

http://riceinfo.rice.edu/~lda/sprawl_net/about.html

http://www.plannersweb.com/

• Community Development links http://comm-dev.org/moresites.htm

• Grants Web http:/sra.rams.com/cws/sra/resource.htm

• Federal Gov’t resources http://www.lib.umich.edu/libhome/Documents.center/federal.html

• Vancouver CA Citizens Handbook http://www.vcn.bc.ca/citizens-handbook/Welcome.html

• Public Art on the Net http://www.zpub.com/public/

• Landscape Architecture Online http://bec.state.fl.us/fdi/bec/rel-site/fdi-nrgg.htm

• Great Pedestrian Links www.rpi.edu/~/evity/feetfirst/links.html

• Getty Institute-Teaching Landmarks http://www.landmarkscentral.org/home/home.html

• Urban Parks Online http://www.pps.org/urbanparks/core.html

• Community Activism. Example-1000 Friends of Oregon http://www.friends.org/index.html

• Seattle Department of Neighborhoods http://www.pan.ci.seattle.wa.us/don/home.htm

5.4.4 Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Link is a new and important resource for residents in Metro. It is important to take this resource seriously. Please take the time to look at this link and enhance the information for your neighborhood. If you do not see your neighborhood, a 1-800 number is provided for you to add your group. It would be beneficial to try to organize a Green Hills community group composed of members for all of your local neighborhoods.

• Neighborhood Link Nashville http://nashville.neighborhoodlink.com/public/

72

http://comm-dev.org/moresites.htm

http://www.lib.umich.edu/libhome/Documents.center/federal.html

http://www.vcn.bc.ca/citizens-handbook/Welcome.html

http://www.zpub.com/public/

http://bec.state.fl.us/fdi/bec/rel-site/fdi-nrgg.htm

http://www.rpi.edu/~/evity/feetfirst/links.html

http://www.landmarkscentral.org/home/home.html

http://www.pps.org/urbanparks/core.html

http://www.friends.org/index.html

http://www.pan.ci.seattle.wa.us/don/home.htm

http://nashville.neighborhoodlink.com/public/

Appendix

Photographs and Illustrations

Figure 1 Hillsboro Pk. Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff


Figure 3 Studies Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 4 Street Market Photographer Unknown

Figure 5 Parking lot Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 6 Fountain Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library


Figure 8 Abbott Martin Rd. Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 9 Music Row Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 10 Parking Lot in Green Hills Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 11 Urban sidewalk sketch Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 12 Hillsboro Village-Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 13 Ohio Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 14 Sidewalk phase map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 15 H.G. Hill parking lot Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 16 Parking lot Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 17 Country Club Plaza Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 18 Trolley Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 19 Traffic Jam California California Department of Transportation

Figure 20 Hillsboro Pk Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 21 Transit Stop Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 22 Existing-Proposed Transit Map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 23 Traffic Circle Seattle, WA Seattle Transportation Department

Figure 24 Traffic Circle Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 25 Traffic Calming Map Metro Planning Department staff

73 Figure 26 Speed Hump Nashville Metropolitan Area Photographer Unknown

Figure 27 Chicanes Charlotte, NC Charlotte Neighborhood Traffic Program

Figure 28 Traffic Circle Portland, OR City of Portland Office of Transportation

Figure 29 Portable Speed Ramp Portland, OR City of Portland Office of Transportation

Figure 30 Hillsboro Rd. Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 31 Hillsboro Rd. Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 32 Handicapped Ramp Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 33 Biker Eugene, OR City of Eugene, OR

Figure 34 Bike Path Map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 35 Hobbs Road Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 36 Sign New York City City of New York

Figure 37 Sign New York City City of New York

Figure 38 Sign Pittsburgh, PA City of Pittsburgh, PA

Figure 39 Sign Pittsburgh, PA City of Pittsburgh, PA

Figure 40 J.C. Nichols Fountain Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 41 Public Park Portland, Oregon Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 42 Unnamed Creek Nashville,TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 43 Greenway Pampa, TX City of Pampa, TX

Figure 44 Central Park Louisville, KY Old Louisville Guide

Figure 45 Public Space/Open Space Map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 46 Burton Hills Greenway Map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 47 Greenway Rhode Island

Figure 48 Detention area Photographer Unknown

Figure 49 Detention area Photographer Unknown

Figure 50 Unnamed Creek Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 51 Dead Space in Green Hills Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 52 Hillsboro High School Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 53 Amphitheater Photographer Unknown

Figure 54 Amphitheater Photographer Unknown

Figure 55 Swope Park Entrance Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

74

Figure 56 Detention Pond Photographer Unknown

Figure 57 Detention Pond Clean up King County, WA

Figure 58 Dead Space in Green Hills Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 59 Fairhope, AL City of Fairhope, AL

Figure 60 Fountain at the Plaza Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 61 Tree lined street Photographer Unknown

Figure 62 Tree lined street Photographer Unknown

Figure 63 Shopping Center Entrance Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 64 Ward Parkway Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 65 Fountain at the Plaza Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 66 Bench Hillsboro Village Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 67 Wedgewood Avenue Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 68 Hillsboro Rd Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 69 Murfreesboro, TN Main Street Murfreesboro, TN Main Street Program

Figure 70 Murfreesboro, TN Main Street Murfreesboro, TN Main Street Program

Figure 71 Hillsboro Village Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 72 Newspaper Box Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 73 Street Light Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff





Figure 78 Abbott Martin Rd Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 79 West End Nashville, TN Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 80 Utility Pole Map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 81 Tree Grate Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 82 Man Hole Cover Photographer Unknown

Figure 83 Man Hole Cover Photographer Unknown

Figure 84 Public Art Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

75

76

Figure 85 Fountain, Kansas, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 86 Plaza View Kansas City, MO “Special Collections” Kansas City, MO Public Library

Figure 87 Zoning Map Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 88 Southside Birmingham, AL Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 89 Pioneer Square Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Figure 90 Shopping Center Seattle, WA Metro Planning Department staff

Bibliography

1. Alan B Jacobs, Great Streets, (Cambridge: MIT Press, 1993)