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E. Environmental Design Element <br /> <br /> The Environmental Design Element is concerned with that broad process which molds the <br /> various components of thc urban ama into a distinctive, livable form that promotes a high quality <br /> of life. <br /> <br /> The Metro Plan must go beyond making the urban area more efficient and better organized to <br /> also ensure that the area is a pleasant, attractive, and desirable place for people to live, work, and <br /> play. The Environmental Design Element is concerned with how people perceive and interact <br /> with their surroundings. Perceptions of livability greatly differ between individuals; so, <br /> generalizations concerning this element need to be carefully drawn. Many different indicators of <br /> livability have been identified, such as the numbers of local educational, medical, and <br /> recreational facilities, and natural environmental conditions. Not all these indicators are directly <br /> concerned with environmental design, showing that the concept of livability is influenced by all <br /> elements of the Metro Plan. This element focuses on some of the features of the natural and <br /> built environment that affect the quality of life. <br /> <br /> The metropolitan area is changing in ways that are far-reaching and diverse. Decisions that <br /> concern change have an effect on the form of the area. If we are to maintain a livable urban <br /> environment and realize the full potential of our desirable and distinctive qualities, daily <br /> decisions that concern change must be guided by environmental design principles, such as site <br /> planning, in combination with other planning policies. <br /> <br /> Based on concerns related to energy conservation, environmental preservation, transportation, <br /> and other issues, increased density is desirable. This increases the need for effective, detailed <br /> environmental design in order to ensure a high quality of life and a high degree of livability in an <br /> increasingly dense urban environment. <br /> <br /> This area is noted for the high degree of livability enjoyed by its residents. Environmental <br /> design is a process that helps to maintain and enhance these positive attributes. <br /> <br /> Goals <br /> <br />1. _Secure a safe, clean, and comfortable environment which is satis .fying to the mind ~m_d <br /> _senses, <br /> <br />2. Encourage the development of the natural, social, and economic environment in a manne, <br /> ._t~hatJ_s_.harmon_ious with our natural setting and maintains and enhances our quality of life. <br /> <br />3. Create and preserve desirable and distinctive qualities in local and nei..v, hborhood areas <br /> <br />Findings, Objectives, and Policies <br /> <br />Findings <br /> <br /> III-E-1 <br /> <br /> <br />