SUITLAND - Prince George's County Planning Department

Provide for a minimum 6-foot-wide landscape strip to buffer pedestrians from traffic.StreetscapeIntent: A continuous system of wide sidewalksand inviting streetscape amenities, whichencourage window-shopping and streetscapeactivities, are key to the success of mixed-usetown center areas and should be provided alongboth sides of the roads. Visual connectionsbetween the sidewalk and store interiors provideobservation of the street and increase safety.Storefronts that are open and inviting, outdoorcafé seating, street trees, and high-qualitysidewalks contribute to interesting, comfortable,and safe street environments that serve thecommunity and enrich street life. On-streetparking is used to further buffer pedestrians fromthe vehicular traffic on the major thoroughfaresthrough the town center.Sidewalks and Storefronts1. Sidewalks shall be separated from streetsby a landscape strip at least six feet inwidth to allow for street trees and to bufferpedestrians from street traffic.Attractive, wide streetscapes provide enjoyable andfunctional pedestrian space.2. Sidewalks shall be a minimum of 8 feetwide and should be a maximum of 16feet and constructed of durable, attractivematerials such as brick, stone, or highqualityconcrete accented with brick.3. Sidewalk materials should be continuedacross curb cuts whenever possible. Accentpaving should be used to define pedestriancrossings. Special attention should be givento major pedestrian crossings on Silver Hilland Suitland Roads.4. All sidewalks shall have accessible rampsand comply with the regulations of theAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA).5. Traffic-calming devices, such as curbbump-outs, should be incorporated intothe streetscape design wherever possible.Special pedestrian-scale lighting should beused to increase pedestrian safety.6. Merchandise should not be displayed infront of or leaning against the exteriorfaçade(s) of a building. Exceptions can bemade for appropriate merchandise suchas fresh cut flowers or organized towncenterwide promotional events.Well designed and appropriately placed streetfurniture is vital to a successful town center.30 Approved Suitland Mixed-Use Town Center Zone Development Plan