X-Plan full document - City of Xenia

Chapter 2 Be a Community of ChoiceCity of Xenia Comprehensive PlanCC4 Create an Inter-Connected Network ofGreenspaceXenia has an abundance of greenspaces includingschools, parks, floodplains, natural areas, a golfcourse, athletic grounds and cemeteries.A goal of this plan is to create an interconnectednetwork of greenspace with unparalleled nonmotorizedaccess. This is a long-term strategy thatoffers exceptional value and return on becoming“a community of choice.” Furthermore, protectingnatural areas along streams helps to preservesurface water quality, limit flood damage andprevent erosion.This strategy can be easily accomplished by buildingoff the great foundation established by the regionalbicycle trail network.CC4.1 Evaluate and prioritize greenways indicated inthe Future Land Use Plan. Evaluate feasibility, costsand priorities associated with individual greenwayprojects and phases. Use the “Preservation” areasidentified on the Future Land Use Plan as a guide.Stream corridors are often selected for greenways dueXenia the “Bicycle Capital of theMidwest”Xenia enjoys a level of bicycle andpedestrian mobility that is unique tocommunities in this region. The (1)Ohio-to-Erie Trail, (2) Creekside Trail,(3) Little Miami Scenic Trail, and (4)Jamestown Connector are all built onformer railroads that once converged nearthe intersection of Miami Avenue and SouthDetroit Street. The convergence point is nowcalled Xenia Station, a City park that includesa reconstructed replica of a former telegraphoffice.Today, Xenia Station is a popular meeting spotfor cyclists and other trail users and providesrestrooms and information for visitors as well asa community meeting room. The facility also hasspace for a retail or office tenant.Xenia can do more to live up to the selfpromotedtitle as the Bicycle Capital of theMidwest. Ideas to further develop Xenia as aleading bicycle community include:• Celebrate bicycle art in public spaces.• Install unique bicycle racks.• Redesign streets with dedicated bicyclefacilities.• Sponsor bicycle events, festivals andraces.• Promote bicycle safety and training.• Develop neighborhood paths thatconnect residents to schools, parksand the four existing regional trails.2.8