master plan update - City of Boca Raton

SECTION CFRAMEWORKSframeworksThe proposed Framework of Streetsand Public Open Space is illustrated inthe large diagram on the facing page. Itemphasizes the continuity of pedestrianexperience throughout the Downtown. Toachieve this, a series of modifications tothe current framework are needed. All ofthese are essential to the effective developmentof the Multi-Modal TransportationDistrict which will change the basis forevaluating development potential.Design Guidelines are another typeof Framework that gives form to development.We have included suggestionsfor revising those guidelines in thissection because they are based on thecharacter of the streets and public openspaces on which they are located.ESTABLISH A HIERARCHYOF STREETSTo use new techniques that can bothaccommodate the needs of traffic andcreate a pedestrian environment effectively,it is first necessary to recognizethe different categories of streets andtypes of traffic.APPLY URBAN STANDARDSTO DOWNTOWNTHOROUGHFARESFlorida’s version of the Context-BasedThoroughfare Program provides anopportunity to introduce urban standardson through streets in Downtown.The City should consider applyingurban standards to the portion of FederalHighway between Camino Real andMizner Boulevard, East Palmetto ParkRoad of Crawford Boulevard, and allof Mizner Boulevard, and North EastSecond Street.CREATE PEDESTRIANCROSSWALKSKey connections including NE SecondStreet at Plaza Real North and PalmettoPark Road at Plaza Real South shouldinclude pedestrian lights, expandedcrosswalks, and streetscape improvements.IMPROVE SIDEWALKSImprove the pedestrian environmentwith a combination of public improvementsand enhanced design guidelinesfor private development.IMPROVE AND COMPLETEBIKEWAY NETWORKEnhance the safety of bicycle lanesthrough design changes and fill gaps inthe existing system.DEVELOP A PARKINGPROGRAMDevelop a Parking Program that combinespublic garages and public parkingspaces on private developments.SUPPORT TRANSITINITIATIVESSupport Transit in all forms, includingregional rail on the FEC line, Shuttlesto Tri-Rail, and the Downtown Circulatoras part of the parking system.REVISE DESIGNGUIDELINESRevise the Design Guidelines to encouragediversity of building form andenhancement of the public realm.Urban street standardsCreate pedestrian crosswalksImprove sidewalksParking programTransit initiative22