General Plan Update - City of Inglewood

P:\Projects - All Users\D21000.00+\D21146.00 Inglewood GP and EIR\TBR\!Final TBR\5.4 VisualResources.doc Printed on 8/24/2006 8:55:00 AM
5.4 Visual Resources
5.4 VISUAL RESOURCES
This section describes the existing
visual environment of the City of
Inglewood and its surroundings. The
scenic resources within the City
include a variety of natural and manmade
elements that serve as visual
landmarks and contribute to the
identity and character of the City.
Although specific visual resources in
the City are identified in this section,
it is not intended to provide an
exhaustive inventory, as the nature of
these resources is somewhat
View of Inglewood’s Great Western Forum from Darby Park
subjective and not easily quantified.
Existing regulations associated with visual resources, as well as issues and opportunities
related to the formulation of policies regarding visual resources are discussed in this
section.
• Overview of Scenic Resources
Visual resources are an important component of the quality of life of any geographic area.
As users experience a place, their primary sensory interaction with that place is visual in
nature. Several types of visual resources are defined below.
“Aesthetic value” refers to the perception of the natural beauty of an area, as well as the
elements that create or enhance its visual quality. While aesthetic value is subjective, it is
typically included as a criterion for evaluating those elements that contribute to the quality
that distinguishes an area. Most communities identify scenic resources as an important
asset, although what is considered “scenic” may vary according to its environmental
setting.
“Scenic resources” can include natural open spaces, topographic formations, and
landscapes. These are resources that can be maintained and enhanced to promote a
positive image in the future. Many people associate natural landforms and landscapes
with scenic resources, such as oak woodlands, lakes, rivers, streams, and some historical
areas. Scenic resources can also include urban open spaces and the built environment.
Examples of these would include parks, trails, and pathways, nature centers,
archaeological, and architectural features.
“Scenic vistas” constitute the range of vision in which scenic resources may be observed.
They are defined by physical features that frame the boundaries or context to one or
more scenic resources. A region’s topography can lend aesthetic value through the
creation of public view corridors and through the visual backdrop created by hillsides.
City of Inglewood General Plan Update Technical Background Report
5.4-1