HomeMy WebLinkAboutProposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment 08-18-1992C�t� of C�IcJwell f�l�nn:in�
Telephone 455-11•
TO: Interested Persons %
FROM: Jim Blizzard, Planning Director'
RE: Proposed Plan Amendment
DATE:
August 18, 1992
memorandum
The current comprehensive plan for Caldwell (blue cover) was adopted in 1977. The proposed
amendment to this plan (green cover) will replace pages 3-11, 19-31, and 41-47 of the current
plan. In addition, the two proposed land use maps, of areas inside and outside the incorporated
City boundaries will replace the 1978 Land Use Map.
Two plan amendments, Transportation and Historic Areas were adopted in March, 1992 and are
attached to the current plan.
~ For further information contact the Planning Department at 455-3006.
f PLANNING FOR CALDWELL - GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
Purpose
Exercise of fairness, reason and an understanding of the community's unique characteristics
are fundamental in creating a pleasant community in which to live and conduct business.
This plan is a policy statement intended to serve as a decision making guide for the public
and city officials. The goals adopted with this plan reflect the aspirations of Caldwell
residents as well as recognition of the complex relationship of the natural and human
characteristics affecting the city.
It is the intent of this plan to provide policies which will promote sound land development,
a safe, healthy and appealing living environment, and prosperous economic climate.
Plan Characteristics
The first Comprehensive Plan for Caldwell was adopted in 1977, in compliance with the
Idaho Local Planning Act. Updates to the Land Use Map component were approved a
number of times since the planes adoption. The City Council, in 1992, adopted a revision
of the Transportation component and amended the Land Use component to include goals
and policies for the preservation of historic properties.
The plan is comprised of text, describing the community's profile; a statement of general
goals; as well as components related to public facilities, transportation, recreation, land use
and community. Twelve components of a Comprehensive Plan are mandated by the Local
Planning Act. Those components which are relevant to Caldwell have been integrated into
the framework of this document.
In addition to the text, a land use map is an adopted part of the Comprehensive Plan. The
land use map is a conceptual projection of desirable land uses adopted in conformance with
the goals and policies of the other components of the plan. The map is not the plan, nor
is it a part of the zoning ordinance, rather it is one of several plan components. The City
is not obligated to zone, all land as it is designated by the land use map, rather decisions
on zoning should be based on current factual circumstances affecting the request and all
applicable components of the plan. The map should be maintained to reflect appropriate
and desirable land uses for the community.
The plan sets forth goals and policies which are intended to influence decisions related to
land use and development as well as expenditures of public funds. Specific strategies are
presented, as possible techniques which may result in the implementation of certain goals
or policies. The Council should annually schedule activities and provide resources to
undertake those programs which will'lead to the implementation of the plan. Plan
( implementation may also result by basing land use decisions, including actions on
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annexation, zoning, subdivisions and special uses, on the general purpose and policies of
the plan.
General Policies
The purpose of this component is to establish broad policies which meet general
community needs and provide for the use and implementation of the overall plan.
1. The plan will be consulted by City officials and administrators when decisions are
made affecting land use, economic development, and the provision of public
facilities and services.
2. The City will assure that the plan reflects the current needs of the community. A
plan review and evaluation will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning
Commission at three year intervals.
3. The plan shall only be amended, following a public hearing and when it has been
determined that the change is:
in conformance with the purpose of the plan;
( contributes to a public purpose, not the furtherance of an individual or special
interest group;
and thorough consideration has been given of the full implications of the action.
4. The Comprehensive Plan shall be the City's principal plan. All other plans and
ordinances adopted by the City, including plans for public facilities and particular
land areas shall be in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan.
5. The City will coordinate its activities with other units of government including the
State of Idaho, federal agencies, Canyon County, neighboring municipalities, and
special districts to ensure that CaldwelPs plans for future development are
recognized.
6. The City will adopt specific plans related to public facilities and the development of
particular sectors and corridors so that the goals and policies of the Comprehensive
Plan may be satisfied;
7. The City will encourage participation by all groups and individuals, in the public
decision -making process affecting land use, redevelopment and the provision of
public services and facilities.
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{ 8. The City will uniformly and fairly enforce all ordinances necessary for the
implementation of this plan.
9. The City will discourage activities which are potentially detrimental to the local air
quality, the City's water quality and supply, or other elements of the local
environment.
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Site
Covering an area of approximately six square miles, Caldwell is located within the Boise
River Valley and is part of the greater geographic region known as the Snake River Plain.
The topography is nearly level to gently sloping and lies at an elevation of 2,367 feet above
sea level. The Owyhee, Weiser, and Boise Mountains, rising to elevations of eight to nine
thousand feet, are prominent.
Deposits of basalt are present in the area, the result of recent activity. Soils have mainly
formed as a result of accumulation of wind or water action.
Climate
The city is within a transition area between steppe'and desert, and consequently the
climate is semi -arid to arid. Summers are warm and dry, and annual precipitation is
relatively low. Caldwell averages a frost -free season of 98 days. Average annual
precipitation is approximately ten inches. Prevailing winds blow mainly from the
northwest during warmer seasons and from the southeast the remainder of the year.
Occasionally, destructive winds occur with a passing cold front or thunderstorm.
Biotic Community
Much of the area was originally covered by sagebrush and bunch grasses adapted to the
and climate. For the most part, this vegetation has been cleared as land was developed
for agriculture or urban uses. Riparian plants occur along the rivers and other streams.
Areas in or near Caldwell provide habitat for a variety of wildlife including mule deer, fox,
small mammals, waterfowl, and songbirds. Trout and other game fish are present in the
rivers, streams and ponds. Table 1 lists plants and animals in the Caldwell area, listed as
threatened, endangered, or of special concern by the Idaho Department of Fish and game.
Settlement and Growth
' European settlement of the area began as a result of migration along the Oregon Trail in
the mid-19th century. Caldwell was established in 1882 as a railroad camp for the
8/19/92 3
/ construction of the Oregon Shortline Railroad. It became the county seat for Canyon
County when it was created in 1892.
Low-lying areas near the Boise River were the first to become cultivated. By the 1920s,
most arable land in the region was irrigated by means of extensive systems of canals and
drains. Agriculture in Canyon County is widely diversified. Principal crops are alfalfa and
clover for hay and seed, winter and spring wheat, barley, field corn, sweet corn, hybrid
sweet corn seed, sugar beets, potatoes, hops, onions, mint, and beans. Specialty crops
include lettuce, spinach, onions, carrots, peas, and vegetables for seed. Cherry, peach,
plum, grape and apple orchards are also found.
Agriculture and related industries form the dominant basic component in the Caldwell area.
Canyon County is among the highest ranked counties in the nation for agricultural
production and crop value. In addition to crop production, wineries, dairies, food
processing plants, livestock ranching, seed milling and other agri-businesses prosper in the
region.
Caldwell's access to Interstate Highway 84 and the Union Pacific Railroad have attracted
a number of manufacturing firms to the city. Tables 2, 3, and 4 describe characteristics
of the Canyon County economy and labor force.
The population growth of Caldwell has been gradual with no periods of unusual decline
or expansion. The :age and population characteristics of the city are depictedy Tables 5,
6, and 7. The city is a short distance from fast-growing Ada County, a characteristic which
will likely result in continued additional growth.
8/19/92 4
Table 1
Plants and Animals of Special Concern in Caldwell
Plants in Caldwell Animals in Caldwell
Owyhee mourning milkvetch Ring-necked snake
(Astragalus atratus) (Diadophis amabilis)
Roundleaf water -hyssop Long -nosed snake
(Bacopa rotundifola) (Rhinocheilus lecontei)
Shining flatsedge Western ground snake
(Cyperus rivularis) (Sonora semiannulata)
Large -flower gymnosteris Night Snake
(Gymnosteris nudicaulis) (Hypsiglena torquata)
Source: Idaho Department of Fish and Game 1992.
Caldwell
Employment Areas 1990
Food Processing &
Transportation
Trailer Manufacture
Health Care
Education
Dairy
Auto Sale, Lease,
Rent, & Service
Agricultural Seed
Horse Trailer
Manufacture
500
1 1e5
170
150
140
113
0 500 1000' 1500 2000
Employees
Series 1
Source: Idaho Department or commerce
Tabie 2
Canyon County
Employment by Industry 1990
Non —Agricultural Employment
Food Products 4,1a
Lumber & Wood Dees
Chemicals
Meta Is
Machinery 0.e13
Other Mnfctg. z.esa i
Construction in®;
Mining a.aa i
Trans/ Comm/ UtlI
Wholesale & Trade 7.#7
Finance, Insurance
& Real Estate 1.22'5
Services & Misc. je.az,
GOVefriTlent — 4.537
0 2 4 6 9 10
Employees (Thousands)
series 1
Source: Idaho Department of Commerce
Table 3
Canyon County
Civilian Labor Force 1990
Total Labor Force
Total Employment
Total Unemployed
Agric, Employment
4
40.22
3.247
4.55
0 10 20 30 40 50
Thousands
M Series 1
Source: Idaho DeWlment of Commerce
0
Table 4
CALDWELL POPULATION
Age Distribution 1990
Under 5 years
.1 612
5 to 19 years
4:459
20 to 44 years
16.727
45 to 69 years
2.934-1
65+ years
.2.668
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Thousands
Total Population: 10,400
Series I Total We Population: 8,990
Total Fenala Population: 9,510
Idsm omvNert of Cmmem
Table 5
Caldwell Population 1920-1990
20 Thousands
15
10 -- — -
0
1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990
Series 1
So rce: Idaho Department of Commerce
Table 6
Caldwell
Thousands
Population
Projections
25
20
/ —
10
—
- -- —
5
--
0
1975
1980 1990
1995 2000
Series 1
Source: Canyon Oevebpment Councll
Table 7
LAND USE
Among a number of characteristics which help make Caldwell a pleasant community to live
are:
An agreeable climate
Attractive parks and open areas
Pleasant residential neighborhoods
Good public schools and an excellent private college
Historic neighborhoods and buildings
Excellent access to local and regional employment
Unspoiled air and water quality
Absence of traffic congestion
Access to the Boise River
Lack of planning in the past, and the inability or failure to replace aging infrastructure or
buildings in the city have resulted in the decline of older neighborhoods and areas of
inappropriate mixes of land use. The street system, as a result of piecemeal development,
has deviated from the original form causing poor intersections, a lack of interconnecting
streets, and a proliferation of dead end streets. Street improvements are absent in several
parts of Caldwell. The city has lost its original compact form as a result of the spotty
development of vacant agricultural land in outlying areas. This pattern of development
results in spreading public services such as police, fire, water, sewer, and recreation over
a greater area causing higher costs to citizens and diminished quality of service.
The community's ability to positively respond to challenges of an expanding population,
the deterioration or obsolescence of public and private facilities, as well as changing
economic conditions will be significantly determined by decisions related to land use and
development. The advancement of undesirable conditions such as pollution, traffic
congestion, inadequate street systems, flooding, higher utility rates and tax assessments,
the decay of business districts and residential neighborhoods, increased crime, health and
other social problems can be minimized by basing land development decisions upon
rationally prepared community plans.
GENERAL POLICIES
The quality of life in Caldwell will be preserved by actively responding to the
demands of a growing population, business expansion, as well as developing positive
strategies to maintain community resources or redevelop areas where inappropriate
uses occur.
2. The City will prepare and adopt more specific plans for guiding new growth or
redevelopment in particular districts or corridors of special interest further defining
policies to promote agreeable and vigorous land use.
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New growth will occur in areas adjacent to existing urban development so that
public services and facilities may be provide in the most economical and efficient
manner.
4. Albertson College is a vital component of the community and its orderly growth and
expansion will be encouraged.
5. The zoning ordinance will provide for a schedule of land uses which are appropriate
for the purpose of the zoning district.
RESIDENTIAL LAND USE
Residential land uses dominate a large area of southwest Caldwell, older neighborhoods
around the city center, the Canyon Hill area, manufactured housing development along the
freeway, and newer single-family residential neighborhood to the south. The city is within
convenient commuting distance of other employment centers in the region and thus has
an opportunity to attract a share of the new residents moving to the Treasure Valley. A
housing shortage is projected to continue to be a problem for Canyon County as overall
employment and population expands. Lower income families and the elderly relying on
fixed income will continue to have difficulty in maintaining their housing in good
condition.
Policies
1. The City will designate ample areas of the land use map component of this plan to
satisfy the demands for the following categories of residential development:
Low Density Residential - to accommodate single-family residences as well as
institutional uses serving the neighborhood. The net residential densities will be
from 4 to 6 dwelling units per acre.
Medium Density Residential - single family homes as well as two and three family
dwellings are desired. Net residential densities exceeding 6 dwellings per acre
ranging to 9 dwellings per acre are desired. Institutional uses serving the residential
neighborhood are appropriate.
High Density Residential - where apartments, mobile home parks, and other
compact residential development will occur. The net density will exceed 9 dwellings
per acre to a maximum density to be approved by the Planning and Zoning
Commission upon consideration of site characteristics and provisions for open space,
parking, and traffic.
2. Adopted plans and ordinances should provide for a variety of attractive, safe, and
residential neighborhoods satisfying the housing needs, lifestyles and income levels
of residents.
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3. The construction of ample new residential development of all types will be
encouraged to assure safe, convenient, and appealing housing.
4. New high density residential development proposed for lower income families and
individuals will be located in areas where reasonable access to community services,
infrastructure, and facilities is possible.
S. Residential planned unit developments may be approved by the city as a means of
in -filling by-passed vacant land, redevelopment of blighted areas, or allowing for the
provision of a variety of housing styles not possible by strict interpretation of the
subdivision and zoning ordinances. The city will establish the suitable density as
well as specific site development standards when approving residential planned unit
developments.
6. Adequate transition will be provided between residential uses and incompatible
industrial, commercial, and public uses.
7. The City will strive to achieve appropriate buffering and adequate transition
between incompatible uses when considering applications for new uses, land
development, zone changes and annexation.
8. The City will develop performance standards for new development or certain uses,
y- which may be detrimental to properties in the same vicinity.
9. The City will maintain or develop adequate levels of public facilities and services,
including police and fire protection, utilities, street improvements, cultural and
recreational facilities, to serve existing neighborhoods as well as in areas where
residential development is expected to occur.
10. The design and control of new streets will not result in high traffic volumes which
disrupt the quiet and safety of residential districts.
11. New residential lots will not be platted to front arterial and sub -arterial streets.
12. Residential areas determined to be deteriorated or lacking in public improvements
or amenities may be the subject of special redevelopment plans to improve the living
environment.
13. Existing areas, where incompatible mixed residential, commercial and industrial uses
occur, will be encouraged to evolve into distinct districts, by the development and
implementation of local plans.
14. Where public facilities, including schools, are located within residential
neighborhoods, allowances will be made to provide adequate setback from homes,
and for minimizing traffic and parking impacts.
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15. The City will be supportive of programs which provide for the rehabilitation or
renovation of the homes of disadvantaged individuals and families.
COMMERCIAL LAND USE
Existing commercial and office uses are predominantly in Caldwell's city center, along U.S
Highway 30 (Cleveland Boulevard) from Albertson College toward Nampa, around the
medical center, and near the interchanges of the freeway. There is an urgent need to
recognize and address situations such as the vitality of the downtown district, the strip
commercial development occurring along arterial streets and the provision of neighborhood
convenience retail and services for residential districts.
Policies
The City will designate areas of the land use map component of the plan to include
the following commercial land use categories:
Neighborhood Commercial - to provide for light retail and service uses which will
meet the needs of residents of the immediate vicinity. This commercial use is
appropriately located along arterial or sub -arterial streets adjacent to the residential
neighorhood it serves.
Commercial Center - characterized by a broad range of retail and service businesses
clustered in areas such as downtown or a shopping center which may be anchored
by one or more large retail establishment.
Heavy Commercial - to accommodate uses allowed in the neighborhood commercial
and commercial center categories as well as more intense commercial uses which
may be less compatible with residential uses due to traffic, noise and other impacts.
2. Downtown Caldwell will continue to provide a variety of community oriented
commercial, institutional and cultural uses.
3. Public facilities and offices, including those of City, County, State, and Federal
government as well as other institutions should be located wherever practicable, in
the downtown vicinity.
4. Efforts should be made to develop adequate off-street parking to serve uses in the
downtown area.
5. A plan to improve the function and appearance of downtown Caldwell will be
implemented with the cooperation and participation of downtown merchants.
6. Higher density multiple -family residential development will be permitted in areas
�— around the central area.
8/19/92 14
7. The West Valley Medical Center and Albertson College are vital components of the
community. The orderly expansion and growth of these institutions is encouraged.
8. Certain industrial use in the areas adjacent to the downtown core may not be
compatible with nearby retail and service uses. These areas should be redeveloped
to provide an orderly and compatible transition from downtown to the
manufacturing district to the northwest.
9. Commercial uses, primarily those serving motorists, will be encouraged in the
proximity of freeway interchanges.
INDUSTRIAL LAND USE
Industry is recognized to be vital to the function of the city as well as for providing
employment opportunities. Caldwell has good potential for the retention and expansion
of existing industry as well as for attracting new firms. The community is fortunate that
the types of existing industrial use have not resulted in severe degradation of the local
environment. Industrial uses presently occur in the vicinity of State Highway 19, parallel
to the railroad right-of-way in the downtown area, and in areas east of Interstate Highway
84 and Chicago Street and Caldwell Boulevard. Some of the areas defined by the zoning
map and land use map component of this plan have been subject to encroachment by
incompatible residential and commercial development.
Policies
The City will designate areas of the land use map component of the plan to include
the following industrial land use categories:
Heavy Industrial - providing sites for industrial activities and limited accessory
commercial and office uses. Heavy industry is characterized by activities which are
generally not compatible with other less intense land use due to visual impacts,
increased traffic, noise, glare, dust, odors, or vibration.
2. Light Industrial - accommodating less intense manufacturing, warehousing,
wholesaling activities than those appropriate for the Heavy Industrial category.
Included in this category are industrial parks where more stringent restrictions may
be imposed.
3. Industrial land use will not be planned for areas adjacent to residential areas unless
a suitable buffer has been provided.
4. The City will not participate in the attraction or retention of industries which pay
minimum wages or may result in the serious degradation of air or water quality, or
other detriment to the environment.
8/19/92 15
5. Industrial uses will be designated in areas which have access to necessary road
systems and utilities.
6. The Caldwell Industrial Airpark will be safeguarded from inappropriate development
which might prove detrimental to the primary function of the facility.
The development of the Caldwell Industrial Airport will occur in conformance with
the adopted master plan for the facility.
8. The development of the Caldwell Industrial Airpark may include a mix of light
industrial, commercial and office uses which are deemed compatible with the
primary function as an air transportation facility.
9. Traffic generated by industrial land uses will not be detrimental to residential
districts in the vicinity.
NATURAL RESOURCES AND SPECIAL AREAS
Development occurring on lands adjacent to the Boise River include gravel extraction,
agriculture, the outfall for the municipal sewer, street and freeway crossings, and
recreational facilities. Urban development is for the most part, absent in the floodplain
leaving much of the natural riparian character unaffected. The Boise River and ponds,
�\ /) resulting from gravel extraction offers habitat to a host of plant and wildlife.
L'
Indian Creek and the systems of irrigation canals and drains make up the balance of water
resources in Caldwell. Unlike the river, these features have been subjected to extensive
encroachment by urban development. A section of Indian Creek actually has been
channeled underground through most of the downtown area.
Panoramas of the Boise and Owyhee Fronts as well as the Boise River Valley are available
from Canyon Hill and other areas of relief. These visual resources are subject to minimal
impact from structures or air quality problems.
Policies
1. The City will encourage recreational development in areas close to the Boise River,
including those affording opportunities for walking, cycling, fishing, picnicking, and
observing wildlife and the natural habitat.
2. Urban development is not suitable in areas identified as being flood prone or having
a high water table.
8/19/92 16
3. The natural environment of the Boise River shall be protected from activities and
development which would be detrimental to the diversity of fish, birds, and other
riparian resources.
4. The City will pursue opportunities to redevelop sections of Indian Creek by allowing
for pathways, green areas and other pedestrian oriented improvements.
5. The City will preserve the integrity of existing views of regional features to every
extent practicable.
HISTORIC AREAS
Caldwell's historic neighborhood and buildings are an important ingredient in the Citys
identity and heritage. Presently, there are thirty-one locations and structures within the
City of Caldwell that are identified as historic sites in the National Register of Historic
Places and include a mixture of commercial, institutional and residential uses. Scores of
the sites and locations within the City qualify as candidates for nomination to the National
Register. These sites and areas are a valuable community resource, requiring careful
monitoring and ongoing stewardship.
Policies
1. The City should manage local historical resources in such a manner that will help
to perpetuate and sustain the identity, character and historical continuity of
Caldwell and contribute to the overall cultural and economic welfare of its citizens.
2. The City should identify specific areas of historic significance and promote
awareness of the historical background Caldwell.
3. The City will encourage preservation and restoration of historically and/or
architecturally significant buildings, residences and sites.
4. The City will promote compatible development in areas of historic buildings and
sites.
S. The environmental quality of historic neighborhoods will be preserved and
enhanced.
6. The City will promote the inclusion of additional buildings and sites on the National
Historic Register.
7. The City will promote the creation of historic districts.
8. The City will attempt to strengthen its economic base by the conserving and
rehabiliting historic sites.
8/19/92 17
9. The City wil develop a process to assess the effects of major construction projects,
new or altered transportation routes and/or demolition activities on historical
buildings, sites and areas.
10. The City will conduct an assessment of the effects of deterioration of infrastructure
on historical buildings, sites and areas.
11. The Caldwell Historic Preservation Commission has been established by ordinance.
The Commission has been granted certain responsibilities and duties some of which
should be pursued including:
a. Continue to conduct surveys of local historic properties.
b. Participate in the conduct of land use, urban renewal and other planning
processes undertaken by the city.
C. Promote and conduct an educational and interpretive program on historic
properties within the city.
d. Propose ordinances for the designation of historic properties when historic
properties meet the qualifications to be so designated.
e. Consider, study, and propose if appropriate the establishment by ordinance
of one or more historic districts within the city.
12. The City shall insure that areas of historical significance are adequately mapped and
identified for all planning and zoning purposes.
13. The Historic Preservation Commission shall work with all appropriate city
departments in preparation of a plan for the development and implementation of a
program for the repair and maintenance of publicly maintained or governed
infrastructres within designated areas of historical significance.
14. The City shall encourage and support the establishment of special zoning
classifications for recognizing historic areas, districts and as a means to help
preserve and sustain historic neighborhoods and uses.
15. The City shall require harmony and compatibility of new development and
renovation within designated areas of historical significance.
16. Zoning Ordinances, Subdivision Ordinances, and any other ordinances of the City
governing land use and development, and/or renovation shall require harmony and
compatibility of new development and renovation within designated areas of
historical significance.
8/19/92 18
AREAS OF CITY IMPACT
Caldwell is surrounded by predominantly agricultural lands within the jurisdiction of
Canyon County. While agriculture has remained the most significant industry, farmland
continues to be converted to urban use in the fringe areas of Caldwell. The type and
quality of development occurring in Canyon County adjacent to Caldwell will greatly affect
the City's future. The City must influence growth in areas recognized for future expansion
in order to limit inappropriate development. The unnecessary conversion of prime
agricultural land within the Caldwell area should not be encouraged. Unincorporated areas
which have the benefit of some or all municipal services should be annexed to insure their
orderly development.
Policies
1. The City will adopt and maintain a land use map of the unincorporated Caldwell
area of impact, defining those areas which are reasonable for accommodating its
long-term growth. The map will define the following land use categories, in
consideration of existing and desired development and use:
Agricultural/Residential - to preserve existing farmland essential to the economic
welfare of the community. Activities related to agriculture, livestock production
single-family homes on minimum 5 acre lots are appropriate.
Low Density Residential - to accommodate single-family residences as well as
institutional uses serving the neighborhood. The net residential densities will be
from 4 to 6 dwelling units per acre.
Medium Density Residential - single family homes as well as two and three family
dwellings are desired. Net residential densities exceeding 6 dwellings per acre
ranging to 9 dwellings per acre are desired. Institutional uses serving the residential
neighborhood are appropriate.
High Density Residential - where apartments, mobile home parks, and other
compact residential development will occur. The net density will exceed 9 dwellings
per acre to a maximum density to be approved by the Planning and Zoning
Commission upon consideration of site characteristics and provisions for open space,
parking, and traffic.
Commercial - to allow retail and service businesses and professional offices. This
category may be divided into more discrete categories by zoning.
Industrial - to provide areas for the expansion or development of businesses which
may possess characteristics making them incompatible with other land uses and
special needs for transportation and utilities. Distinctions between industrial parks,
light and heavy industry may be made by zoning.
8/19/92 19
2. The City will negotiate, approve and implement an agreement with Canyon County,
providing for the preservation of prime agricultural lands and the orderly
development of urbanizing sectors within Caldwell's Area of Impact.
3. The City will annex enclaves of land within its incorporated boundaries or adjoining
properties having the benefit of municipal services or have become urban in
character and density.
CrI Y FORM AND DESIGN
As cities continue to mature, deterioration and obsolescence of older areas are a natural
event. Only determined efforts by both public and private entities can achieve the revival
of these districts and allow them to be places regarded with pride.
Initially, Caldwell maintained a compact form, developing along the Oregon Short Line
Railroad. Streets and alleys were planned at right angles from or parallel to the railroad
right of way and land uses were for the most part segregated. Later the street patterns
were changed to a north/south orientation matching the grid pattern of farm roads in the
surrounding areas and eventually curvelinear streets became a common feature in
residential neighborhoods.
As the city, over the years, deviated from a predominantly compact form and new
development has by-passed undeveloped parcels. Many areas of the city have been
developed without the benefit of paved streets, sidewalks, drainage improvements, parks,
and sewer. Many newer areas are subject to poor street and sidewalk interconnection,
preventing new subdivisions from becoming integrated into a greater neighborhood and
affecting traffic in the area.
An assortment of residential development is present. The city is fortunate to have retained
a historic neighborhood (northwest of the college between Arthur and Fillmore Streets)
where a majority of the homes have been very well maintained. Mobile homes, either
within parks or on individual lots, have become dominant in several areas. Single family
home neighborhoods extend over areas south and north of the central city. Substandard
housing exists in areas of the city; however, it is not concentrated within any particular
neighborhood.
Commercial uses occur predominantly along certain arterial streets and in the downtown
area. Historic buildings are present in the downtown core; however, modifications to
facades have affected the original architecture. A proliferation of signs have accrued in
virtually all commercial districts as a result of lax regulations. Landscaping improvement
are scattered, inconsistently, among businesses fronting arterial streets.
The city has developed and maintained landscaping at two freeway interchanges, greatly
enhancing the community's image to travelers on Interstate 84. Street trees grace many
of the streets in older areas of town. The streetscape is subject to excessive signage, by
both private and public entities, in some areas.
8/19/92 20
Industrial development has not resulted in detriment to adjoining neighborhoods nor has
f it affected the overall visual character of Caldwell.
The people of Caldwell have expressed a desire to improve the communities visual image.
Numerous public and private endeavors have been undertaken to physically demolish or
renovate deteriorated structures or reduce the accumulation of waste or weeds on
properties. Code amendments have been adopted to require higher standards for new
development. The residents and City of Caldwell should continue to develop programs
which will improve the appearance and function of existing neighborhoods and will assure
appealing new growth.
Policies
The City will promote attractive landscaping and cultivation of street trees along
public streets and highways.
2. The City will encourage community efforts to beautify and improve the visual image
of Caldwell.
3. Excessive numbers and sizes of signs along public streets will be restricted, allowing
for ample marketing and traffic control, but enhancing the community's appearance
and eliminating hazards to motorists.
4. Public traffic control and directional signs and pavement marking will be installed
and maintained to minimize a cluttered and distasteful streetscape.
5. New neighborhoods should be laid out with opportunities for street interconnection
and adequate access to adjoining existing neighborhoods but without creating heavy
traffic flows through residential districts.
6. New residential development will not face arterial streets.
7. The City will assure that appropriate, attractive and well -maintained landscaping is
provided when approving special uses.
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