Comprehensive Master Plan - City of Alvin

Land Usefacts & figuresheight of new structures of noless than two stories withallowances in certain locationsfor increased height, andattracting uses that arecharacteristic of a historiccenter. The intensity of theurban character should becentered at the intersection ofBusiness 35 and Sealy Street fora distance of three or fourblocks, with a lessening ofdensity and intensity outwardto the defined edges of thedistrict.2. Develop design standards for Maintaining the historic character of development and redevelopment inthe redevelopment of existingDowntown is essential for creating a unique community focal point.buildings and construction ofnew buildings to reflect the architectural character reminiscent of theremaining buildings and the community’s past. Standards should becreated for the height and bulk of buildings, their minimum floor arearatio, orientation to the street and sidewalk, allowable buildingmaterials, design articulation and fenestration, use of awnings andcanopies, style and size of signage, and other building and sitefeatures.3. Create a distinct identity to Downtown including forming anidentifiable edge to the district with monuments and gatewaytreatments at the entries from each direction (particularly alongBusiness 35 at the northern and southern entries and Sealy Street fromthe west and House Street from the east), along with unifying designelements, such as unique signage and banners, landscaping,decorative lighting, street and sidewalk/crosswalk patterns, and otherunique urban design treatments. Also, improve the pedestrianprecinct with traffic calming devices, such as speed tables,roundabouts, or narrowed entrances; street furniture and public artdisplays; way‐finding signage and informational kiosks; public plazasand green spaces; sidewalk cafes and outdoor activity areas; and streetvendors. Expand the existing streetscape improvements – lighting andsidewalks – throughout the district. The highest priority corridors forstreetscape enhancements include S. Gordon Street and Sealy Street.Page 3-21April 1, 2005