Model TOD Zoning Ordinance (PDF, 3.7 MB) - Reconnecting America

Model Transit-Oriented District Overlay Zoning Ordinance ■ June 29, 2001affordable housing, particularly given the relatively low value of most affordable housing inrelation to other potential uses. In these situations, cities should add regulations to their standardaffordable housing provisions to ensure equal access to housing.18. Setbacks and Build-To Lines18.1 Building Frontage DesignDisneyland and shopping malls understand pedestrians. Both know that maintaining apedestrian’s visual interest can increase the distance they are willing to walk. Moreover,pedestrians are attracted to Disneyland’s Main Street because it is charming and quaint. Thesequalities are strongly associated with scale, detail, and activity that such a place provides. In fact,facades along Disneyland’s “Main Street” are perceptively scaled-down to ensure those quaintand charming qualities are communicated. The same technique can be used to create positivepedestrian spaces in our everyday communities. This is achievable through the use of a continualand consistent building frontage with a high level of articulation e.g., windows, doors, awnings,balconies, etc.18.1.1 Issues to Consider Buildings of appropriate height can effectively define and visually narrow the street. Continuous and well-articulated building façades reduce perceived distances. Articulation of building façades should provide visual interest and shade, and reduce thefeeling of “exposure” for the pedestrian. The level of consistent frontage and articulation depends on the district and use – i.e.,mixed-use district vs. a single-family neighborhood. An effective means of maintaining visual interest for a pedestrian is to provide windowswhich allow a visual connection between the pedestrian and interior uses along the street. On residential streets, porches, large windows, and welcoming entryways provideopportunities for friendly transitions between public and private spaces. Physical maintenance of buildings has an impact on the pedestrian environment. As withthe condition of pathways, the repair and cleanliness of buildings shows to the pedestrianwhether the area is being cared for and if it is safe to be there. Quality building materials have an impact on the quality and ease of maintenance of thepedestrian environment.Valley Connections ■ Chapter V ■ Page 17