Item 3: PH on Ordinance Regarding State Motor Pool Metro Plan Amendment and Zone Change

Home Browse Search

Planning Commissio.n September 15,2006 Page 6 EC 9.9515(2)(a) states: "Improve the pedestrian system in the downtown area to encourage walking as a primary means of transportation within downtown." EC 9.9515(2)(b) encourages the creation of "great streets" in the downtown area that will stimulate pedestrian activity while allowing bicycle and slow-moving automobile traffic. EC 9.9515(4) contains a policy that supports "frequent transit-based shuttle service in the greater downtown areas." All of these policies of CATS set forth the clear direction that the downtown area is to be pedestrian and transit oriented, consistent with the finding that the proposed plan amendment will not significantly affect any transportation facilities. When the Eugene City Council adopted the Downtown Plan, the Council noted in its findings that the proposed transportation improvement plan in conjunction with the development of the area would improve the transportation facilities in the immediate area, particularly for pedestrians. Noted in the findings at that time and relevant here are the provisions in the Transportation Planning Rule for automatic credits for reduction in vehicle trips for developments in "mixed use, pedestrian-friendly centers or neighborhoods." , As discussed above, as an existing central business district and a jTD transit oriented district area, this area meets the definition of a "mixed use, pedestrian-friendly center or neighborhood" as that term is defined in the TPR. This designation would enable the City to qualify for State credit in reduction of vehicle miles traveled, in further compliance with the TPR. All of the above factors and the findings of the Council that the Downtown Plan, with a policy.in place that directed redesignation and rezoning of the motor pool site, confirm that this amendment to the Metro Plan will not significantly affect transportation facilities, therefore, is consistent with Goal 12. The City seeks to require of the applicant extensive data including: