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Home My WebLink About05-25-16 YPC Packet.nIia aIM� DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Planning II: Diviskn-ii Joan Davenport, AICP, Director I° "Y OF 'il A°K ° 1Aning 129 North Second Street, 2nd Floor, Yakima, WA 98901 ask.planning@yakimawa.gov • www.yakimawa.gov/services/planning City of Yakima Planning Commission PUBLIC MEETING/WORKSHOP City Hall Council Chambers Wednesday May 25, 2016 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. YPC Members: Chairman Scott Clark, Vice -Chair Patricia Byers, Al Rose, Bill Cook, Peter Marinace, Gavin Keefe Council Liaison: Mayor Avina Gutierrez City Planning Staff: Joan Davenport (Community Development Director/Planning Manager); Jeff Peters (Supervising Planner); Valerie Smith (Senior Planner); Trevor Martin (Associate Planner); Eric Crowell (Assistant Planner); Rosalinda Ibarra (Administrative Assistant); and Lisa Maxey (Department Assistant) Agenda I. Call to Order II. Roll Call III. Staff Announcements IV. Audience Participation V. Public Workshop for the Comprehensive Plan 2040 Update VI. Other Business VII. Adjourn Next Meeting: June 1, 2016 (Special Meeting) ail u� �n I It LE 11 2015 1994 City of Yakima Planning Commission (YPC) City Hall Council Chambers Meeting Minutes of May 25, 2016 Call to Order Chairman Scott Clark called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Roll Call YPC Members Present: Chairman Scott Clark, Vice -Chair Patricia Byers, Al Rose, Bill Cook, Peter Marinace, Gavin Keefe YPC Members Absent: Staff Present: Valerie Smith, Senior Planner; Others: Sign -in sheet in file Staff Announcements Chairman Scott Clark announced that there are interpreting services available at the meeting. Audience Participation None noted Public Workshop for the Comprehensive Plan 2040 Update Senior Planner Valerie Smith introduced members of the BERK consultant group that the City is working with on the Comprehensive Plan Update. The consultant group announced that survey forms are available just outside the Council Chamber doors which can be turned in at the end of the meeting. The team then provided a PowerPoint presentation covering the project update schedule, facts about Yakima, the visioning process and results, land capacity, and land use and community design. The group then answered questions from the Commission on the presentation. The next part of the meeting consisted of visioning exercises for the Commission and for the public to complete. Chairman Clark announced that survey forms can be turned in to the Planning Division by June 1St if they are unable to complete the forms before leaving the meeting. The consultant group added that they will be summarizing the results of the exercises and the surveys at a future meeting. The Commission then provided their feedback on the draft of the Comprehensive Plan Vision. Chairman Clark opened the public comment period. Audience member Kris Fork shared her thoughts on cultural diversity. Audience member David Gaudette echoed some of the previous points on cultural diversity and expressed his opinions on moving towards constructing smaller houses and changing the building materials of the houses. He also talked about adding more fruit trees and plants to parks, and spoke briefly on the homeless issue in Yakima Audience member Walt Ranta voiced his opinions on focusing on issues of the east side of town and including the school district in the Comprehensive Plan Update process. Audience member Elaine Briggs echoed Walt Ranta's comments about the importance of including the school districts and spoke regarding the need for better planning in the future to control traffic flow. She also talked about improving walkways. -1- Audience member Javier Gutierrez addressed the lack of neighborhood parks on the east side of town. He also talked briefly on the topic of homelessness and the lack of parking standards. Other Business Valerie Smith informed the Commission that she will be uploading information from this meeting to the City's website and will keep the Planning Commission up-to-date on future meetings and workshops on the Comprehensive Plan Update. Commissioner Byers expressed her gratitude to the public for sharing their views and opinions at the workshop. Adjourn A motion to adjourn to June 1, 2016 was passed with unanimous vote. This meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m. Chairman Scott Clark Date This meeting was filmed by YPAC. Minutes for this meeting submitted by: Lisa Maxey, Department Assistant II -2- Awl# M 4W& AWN Ik r Awl / A 0 `kms 'Alp I WITPOFNAIMA N . SHEET SIGN -IN City of Yakima Planning Commission City Hall Council Chambers Wednesday May 25, 2016 Beginning at 5:30 p.m. Comprehensive Plan 2040 Update Public Workshop *PLEASE WRITE LEGIBLY' t ........................��......�... O 1�Sa �� '� 6j�ia� ......._ e _____ 0Md t Le51� ALLP_. l ..__...1 .. .. ... ._.. _ _ (.._._ . _. ..... 11 it U../ G (J fi4 -a �I c/� i o Z ........ xm a: ......... _._ .." . ..... . ............ Iro r1r.. 1��_...�?_��N�.!..1�... VI�N_u!�1N��_r�G�il', ��.11�[ I.� �� .��.___W........ Page 1 05/25/2016 YPC Worn shoj) ANY, Wth, "'dilli llul RLvk rPC I IY 0 A K'WIIMIAbL C�IY Of YAKJMA anning SIGN-INSIGN-IN SHEET i � @�J.CGrr1 � ?S � d C_ �..J,t �n1 e _ , _ _ g� c� r....•ew.....w\�rrci ,.` ............... ......._....... .. ............................_................ _..... ....................... ..... . ..................................................... . ......... ... ................. ......... .. . .............. ... . .......... ............. Page 2 05/25/2016 YPC Workshop We aw Via"im comuj reQ°ens� d p Iari 2040 NEIGHBORHOOD CENTERS & CORRIDORS — SURVEY The following survey questions relate to "Key Areas" and "Corridors & Neighborhood Centers" posters will be discussed in the slideshow presentation. We encourage participants to share their thoughts on these sites in the survey questions below. If any of the images in the attached Image Directory are desirable for a particular center or corridor, simply reference the corresponding image number when answering the questions below. 1. Neighborhood Centers The poster identifies existing neighborhood centers along with some possible new centers. How can these centers better serve their community in the next 20+ years? Describe suggestions and ID specific neighborhood centers that they apply to. Examples: a) Any new land uses or development types to encourage? b) Any targeted transportation (vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, transit?) and or streetscape improvements? c) Policies related to design character of centers? d) Desire for public space in some centers? 2. Nob Hill — 54`h to 72nd (Congdon Property) — see poster This is the single largest area of commercial land in city outside of Downtown. Land is currently zoned General Commercial and Multifamily (113). Options: ❑ Let it be developed under current zoning with no new standards ❑ Update zoning and create design standards to help create a pedestrian -oriented neighborhood center that integrates retail uses with a mix of housing types in a village like setting (including some public open space) 0 Other (explain): 3. Corridors Yakima features a number of major corridors that connect residents to jobs, schools and services on a daily basis. While these provide a critical transportation function, these corridors are homes for some, provide goods and services, and are important to the character and identity of Yakima. Thus, as we consider the next 20+ years: How can these corridors better serve the community? What does the City envision for these corridors in 20+ years? Are there specific corridors we ought to focus on? Any long term changes in land use and/or design character? Other? Comments or suggestions on any other Yakima land use or community design Issue? A Wi cil _` �YaklmG 4 — 1 € May 25, 2016 • Update the community vision for 2017-2040 • Promote neighborhood revitalization • More housing choices • New places to work and shop • Better connected roads and parks New recreation opportunities • Improved public services • Protected natural systems • Promotion of historic character • Coordinated investments in capital facilities Age Win -3 _ a -_ e—e ins v e �'an ` Phu 2� Required by the Growth Management Act rmnPmlcoa remP d Project Updates & ScheduleHou*g Guides Yakima's physical development Imirm. emn Yakima Facts over 20 or more years QW11alFadl'd" MUM Visioning -Establishes land use plan that is implemented Paris and rtecaatmn by zoning Natural Envlmnmmt Land Capacity Plans forYakima's expected growth m Energ, Land Use and Community Design Exercises housing and jobs KftkPre—Uon • Coordinates services and capital investments Addresses community values, city functions • Provides a statement of policy Sim }, or= f — ta ke 0 rev_ . • Outreach Phases • See schedule -suste rued and - YL 2017 targeted points of engagement Aelil m 02 n3 na [ a2 lu•Multiple ways to engage w:bn ng Existing Conditions& Website information Dirtrict Praflles Surveys Pian DevdoPment Postcards/fliers -----____-- _ •Stakeholder meetings & workshops in 0.•1• r,wom t rmm neighborhoods Inclusive _n Plan adoPnon Materials in English & Spanish EN • Option for Spanish translation at meetings & €1 Outreach Events -__ - �, i Yakima has housing needs We need a more diverse and successful economic base We have space to create new opportunities We have an older, established community character that can be revitalized Essential to the process is: • A refreshed vision • An updated land use and zoning strategy %kt s rPa int and agricultural Tne,� it opacity mt mmodae mate = Districts 6 and 7 hold the majority Districts 7 and 3 hold the r add! al housing units, iii ta?-gt as popnietuo- and 1 Y p,..p v,d iai� pliftment for2 4 of land capacity for homes majority of land capacity for jobs V; 5 c n no Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is guided by a vision statement • A vision statement guides the plan, its policies, and its actions • A vision is a description of Yakima', best future • The current vision is over 10 years old and should be refreshed What is Yakima's best future? V:S 7,i • Workshop on February 23rd Online Survey Draft Vision Statement o c iy where moss of h. housing siodr a oldonly een io%.f�m�deres hase bbu h sinm 2000.50 q i - ..: ;'*'`- ' „$ m r. unit were bwh 40 or more yeors age Yakima has housing needs We need a more diverse and successful economic base We have space to create new opportunities We have an older, established community character that can be revitalized Essential to the process is: • A refreshed vision • An updated land use and zoning strategy %kt s rPa int and agricultural Tne,� it opacity mt mmodae mate = Districts 6 and 7 hold the majority Districts 7 and 3 hold the r add! al housing units, iii ta?-gt as popnietuo- and 1 Y p,..p v,d iai� pliftment for2 4 of land capacity for homes majority of land capacity for jobs V; 5 c n no Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is guided by a vision statement • A vision statement guides the plan, its policies, and its actions • A vision is a description of Yakima', best future • The current vision is over 10 years old and should be refreshed What is Yakima's best future? V:S 7,i • Workshop on February 23rd Online Survey Draft Vision Statement - Open Ho-see/Survey -esu is Atthe Open tie partldpams Indicated a dedre for Yakima m be: A thriving and vibrant city Frarnad by natural beauty and agriculture Induvw • Famlly-fdmdly • Acdve and healthy • Emnomiwlly diverse C..-bs v, Th. tap ivn n2.ft 7:1— the 20Mar visions .nt vwre: • Qual'ty, of life • Prosperous mmmunity .,. - • Healthy economy Safe neighborhoods - Walkabiliry — - • Land Use map: Policy Zoning map: Regulatory Existing maps are nearly identical = • Suggest combining some categories Visioning Exerdse • Vision handout • Draft Vision for 2040 • Tell us what you like/don't like • Tell us what's missing Cu --Rt and -se ?o4 sig r ameories Land Use Sk Co m.ni.,, yes n xer-;Y seu Land Use vs. Zoning Map 2. Design Standards & Regulatory Predictability -. Key Areas: Opportunities & Questions Slaested updates M xed gesidential sill CBD nva < 7:1— .,. - Land Use Sk Co m.ni.,, yes n xer-;Y seu Land Use vs. Zoning Map 2. Design Standards & Regulatory Predictability -. Key Areas: Opportunities & Questions Slaested updates M xed gesidential sill CBD nva < Nelghborhoad Mixed -Use • Out of the Top 10 most populous Washington Cities= • It shows in the quality of development However..... • Yakima had one of the more Unpredictable development review processes (Class I, II, or III use types) o Too reliant on public outcry o Prone to legal challenges Not having design standards.... shows Downtown Concern about character of city, neighborhood centers, corridors* Fostering pedestrian -oriented development Predictability for private investors Economic development Attracting talent and investment to city" Decline of brick and mortar shopping centers (internet) Enhancing the experience Design Standards - Where? Design Standards - Where" . C! Downtown • Gateway locations Neighborhood centers Design S-randards - Where' Downtown Gateway locations Neighborhood centers Corridors What-- And how to address i- Corp Plan? Building location & orientation Add policy language — regarding adapting design standards (add Knob Hill/641h (Congdon) Internal circulation examples) Neighborhood centers M -N Internal usable open space e Arterial corridors "IF Service element location & design North of Fairgrounds Building massing Sarg Hubbard Park area Building details Exampie Infrastructure poor --- --- Building materials neighborhoods -7— k Ob, H N{ & 6l`i ICY Rdc) No , - _ C • Is there a desire for something different here? How can these centers better serve the community? What does the City envision for these in 20+ years? �- r 14 a � \, L-, Comp Plan could include policies on how these centers could be enhanced. Examples: Any new land uses or development types to encourage? Any targeted transportation improvements (vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, transit?) Policies related to design character of centers? Desire for public space in some centers? Other? \p Morn ..a Nth of F a rgro n d s Council #Z Zoned GC Land Use Des: GC North of a -groan s Nosh of Fairgrounds Ns ort` of 'alr gro nds - oris era.l ri Significant commercial redevelopment here seems very unlikely GC zoning discourages investment in existing properties Greatest need & opportunity appears to be multifamily A number of these areas in eastern half of city Pro -active circulation improvements? A number of concepts from the Draft SE Neighborhood Plan (1998) that are still relevant.- — x,km�nood ren - � l a- isuch2n_ Council #2 Zoned R-1 Land Use Des: Professional Office Some areas still on septic '�� Poor street connectivity �,�. `= �` _ 3 -. No sidewalks Property upkeep `- — �- issues �- �^'� Frequent land use compatibility issues - <-- ,� �tr- ----' IL - It Y15 a- isuch2n_ Council #2 Zoned R-1 Land Use Des: Professional Office n=rastruct-re Poor e or. Considerations • Identify priorities • strategic public investment • Land use changes to promote stabilization & investment • Add strategic design standards: Compatible zone edges • Screening outdoor storage New multifamily & commercia' development Neighborhood upkeep efforts AW Ar M ^ ° r P � � City of Yakima ,u rye r".) I'- El h e n s 1 v e P a n (,,,.,J n d a ,u, May 25, 2016 Project Updates & Schedule Yakima Facts Visioning Land Capacity Land Use and Community Design Exercises FI-) R. 1'11i i E, R E C uA D ,' F [ I ,,E coaiprehensiv- plan 2040 a: is a an, Vemerft- a Use Required by the Growth Management Actftworak Development • tfcwsfg Guides Yakima's physical development • Transportation over 20 or more years • c i"'ItIFOO[Wes • Establishes land use plan that is implemented •Narks; ar by zoning - tuai hvNrnt • Plans for Yakima's expected growth in • Eoergy, housing and jobs * "istorit PreservatW • Coordinates services and capital investments f Addresses community values, city } functions Provides a statement of policy M-iy upda t-� the plan"? " ilk Promote neighborhood revitalization • More housing choices • New places to work and shop • Better connected roads and parks • New recreation opportunities • Improved public services • Protected natural systems • Promotion of historic character • Coordinated investments in capital facilities 4 . iii a [ -i Outreach Phases • See schedule — sustained and targeted points of engagement Multiple ways to engage • Website information • Surveys • Postcards/fliers • Stakeholder meetings & workshops in neighborhoods Inclusive • Materials in English & Spanish • Option for Spanish translation at meetings �.Y .. .....t1Aw 4, , , 6 .... gaining more seniors and more children. a city where the majority of households % 0 f have no children. a city where most of the housing stock is old. Only 10% of structures have been built since 2000. 50.1 % of units were built 40 or more years ago. ... locking in ... relatively affordable, affordable but not for everyone. Both rental units. owners and renters are cost *ik burdened. k—$— I ar )d Capacity ............ Ca� E)("J'tr) m.. 31,560 11,560 16,260 Housing Unit, P.PW.U., 2015-2040 lillf Jobs 2012-2040 Capacity on vacant and agricultural land for additional housing units, people, and jobs ... earning lower household incomes on average than the state. 31,560 L7j6I 16'J.fw 311/118,556 zr Papulation 2015-2040 Jobs 2012-2040 There is capacity to accommodate the targeted population and employment for 2040 8 Land u iii ,.., By District Districts 6 and 7 hold the majority of land capacity for homes Yakima has housing needs NEW JOBS Districts 7 and 3 hold the majority of land capacity for jobs , We need a more diverse and successful economic base We have space to create new opportunities We have an older, established community character that can be revitalized Essential to the process is: • A refreshed vision • An updated land use and zoning strategy 9 10 µ I S I r SII n 00 Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is guided by a vision statement • A vision statement guides the pian, its policies, and its actions • A vision is a description of Yakima's best future • The current vision is over 10 years old and should be refreshed What is Yakima's best future? III Ilm m Sn I I'n w ; - Workshop on February 23rd Online Survey °u Draft Vision Statement 11 12 Visioning — Open House/Survey Results At the Open House, participants indicated a desire for Yakima to be: • A thriving and vibrant city • Framed by natural beauty and agriculture • Historic, revitalized, and attractive • Inclusive • Family -friendly • Active and healthy • Economically diverse • Desirable to tourists and visitors The top 5 concepts identified on the survey as most important to the 20 -year vision statement were: • Quality of life • Prosperous community • Healthy economy • Safe neighborhoods • Walkability VisioningExercise Vision handout Draft Vision for 2040 • Tell us what you like/don't like • Tell us what's missing o �,� �uti IaX I � s Boa pG+t ,iriuer ub°s1r aq�� eu 1r.� ;� p m � cq� i.�prrru Mm" "'xRnaa I,"I"d*.14,m7 Nal da -; o 4� p „r W ahae "mir,;ury Dwh Vi5,ion for 2040 . , , ..,. ,�!.�b, 10 ld Ri91— IN 1,I 114,10 fid �1 10,11 �" "y y"' �� rn� 13 14 L.arid Use & Cornmunity Design Exercises "1. Land Use vs. Zoning Map 2. Design Standards & Regulatory Predictability 3 Key Areas: Opportunities & Questions �� Land Use map: Policy ,- Zoning map: Regulatory -, Existing maps are nearly identical = Q, Suggest combining some categories 15 16 Cur e r --i t L a r id Use & Zoorf l n tegories p d a t e s Yakima Future Land Use Low Densily Res0enW11 Medium DensftyRe,,ydeWJW Mixed Residential II ligh Den%llty Reslldenhall Plofe,.sslonai Offic'e Nvghbolrhood Coviry"aal ('01111munny, conllmerrW GeneFa� Cornmercal CBD G -e CmInIell:4 Regionai cownrmicai FEMA 100 YR: F 11 O(H.) R AN RevlscNA 11118109 Rlvers ................ I YAK Aub URBAN AREA InYANK A, Ct Y nCPA FS 18 Yakima Zoning Zoning Category Yakima Future Land Use �4-1 5lv6o,, 1� auAy Z-) Iwo I wllCy� DW lqe-wWenllA auwlv MCIAA1,T1, rienfift IResI^9efflim Hgh De1nS4 RenAeW4 - R 2 LucM Ew,.Jiness P: Office "'k, Hi[Hlr4knlcal Buslmss Gan[ilvrcW S�,G FmrblR CpnW6 Cc)rninjuiolIly Coaimerda� Ocnelial Cl,Irflmcw !all cnr),-x'omi 13winess Nshlcl GIBD cWe 0C Gme'al Col"Vnel,clal M 1 u h,JJIM HWtvArvill lndws'lfld M-2. He linduqirmmi Reqyonall (A"Velopme"I tiMA MY114 I^XA'A MAIN Rev64,el 11/10/09 AS Pu�p(Wk,-,Uppc0 ... . .... /""� Rvevs Hile ............OOOOMOON YAKMA UR; BAIN AM A Qvegl,-my IIAe1Ir YAKWA CRY V�S FIFMA TOO YR Fli-(:Xn D FTAIN RI--,Vl,,ElD M16120091 CIRV I'vTOS B�",*nw , VaJgqnr'OWNrl Asea 17 p d a t e s Yakima Future Land Use Low Densily Res0enW11 Medium DensftyRe,,ydeWJW Mixed Residential II ligh Den%llty Reslldenhall Plofe,.sslonai Offic'e Nvghbolrhood Coviry"aal ('01111munny, conllmerrW GeneFa� Cornmercal CBD G -e CmInIell:4 Regionai cownrmicai FEMA 100 YR: F 11 O(H.) R AN RevlscNA 11118109 Rlvers ................ I YAK Aub URBAN AREA InYANK A, Ct Y nCPA FS 18 S Ud Updates Yakima Future Land Use Low Density Restdevibai Medium Densfty Reside nhai IHigh DeiriWy Reqdenhall Mixed Residential :NN1i, ,qfehs'bts'io na111 G�lr,co "..tj.Worneri Neighborhood Mixed -Use Communfty CoirnrineiluM (3eneyaCaivnerciall NEI C',11311) Cornniemall r Regmal CormneiciM irwi.uswiai MsMuOmM EN i:::EMA U.)O YR FLOOD P11 AIN, Revised VulflfO9 I Rivells . ................. YAKDAA URBAN AR:.I.::.A 'YiMA UTY iPAiT'S SLAgge,s3ted LJ�I'Aates) Yakima Future Land Use L.ow DensAy Resdenliai is ediuvri Densily liesideiWug 41N [)ensly Residenhall Mixed Residential Pirofessimai Office NeighboMood CoirrimerciW Neighborhood Mixed -Use coinirn7unity CorwwierckM 777,e LGewileial (.3aminierdal Commercial Mixed -Use . COD Cofe Regiond, Ccamfl'cW indUO-W FEW WO YR FLOOD PL.AiN Revired 1 V18/09 Rivers YAMMA URBAN AREA YAWMA Cil Y LAW i S 19 20 °r Out of the Top 10 most populous Washington Cities = M It shows in the quality of development However..... N Yakima had one of the more Unpredictable development review processes (Class I, II, or III use types) o Too reliant on public outcry o Prone to legal challenges 21 Why is this Irriportari (with Comp PII n update) q Not having design stanclards....shows - Concern about character of city, neighborhood centers, corridors* - Fostering pedestrian -oriented development Predictability for private investors Economic development Attracting talent and investment to city Decline of brick and mortar shopping centers (internet) o Enhancing the experience St".'andards ........... . W F) e re? 0 Downtown ,a 0 M 24 ,,, i �, ,. r -i Standardsami re I iii g r"i Standards Where? Downtown Gateway locations Neighborhood centers 25 26 Design Standards -- Where? Downtown 1i, Gateway locations Neighborhood centers Corridors Building location & orientation Internal circulation Internal usable open space Service element location & design Building massing Building details Building materials Weather protection: A[ leas[ 11 average depth Entry:; along 80% of faades f-'141 nA,f t Height 15' minimum 15' Nom vk f��9i�+ Windows/ N v", transparency: Atleast60% 7[[ r of facade between 30 and 10' ' IV 27 28 6 1111111 n c) w t,, d „ r e s s i ri C o rn p P o --i Add policy language — regarding adopting design standards .... (add examples) Knob Hill/641h (Congdon) Neighborhood centers Arterial corridors North of Fairgrounds Sarg Hubbard Park area Infrastructure poor neighborhoods 29 Gaal LU -2o Community Design, No n�rrrv'u�uw4u a0r Iteik-.. ,st4 h l7 ,, N;;01'44,1,^44 Hist 147,x7 ;`d'r4�N 4, 6 shkAf"I'l 1a d"'a1 `actp"'7 pP"d', nlaP to"ein ""&rOi "Olrluai B ,mf,,Id Y1 d:. k'I GV%t) 11"4 0.7 r9&✓,dOM I- C4:Y r9 U"U Mw Vr4W, 1@iCM.ty. Poky M2j, klwpp An sd 9tlipl atmme lar& ind pIdt,I nxtt, fay d 1l4YWrB1m+yrj I0 awt rnlaItItiwfn p{dV 41ovo.1dJpmt ea%6,)Am'mph aMit th him d,rW+Wtl+..NpWd9 W WAOw EvdI UON dlw eff7:¢;4veliol dk44tiYl7pto, alit andoCA ml'Y4d VIII I7III�� u...., 17111171 I4d e INIX754W9" . wnp, "j1W WYImdrm mhj'donlm lm A rIYM+CAf %NN f,pW mprWeOW�w 4° aeoretrvlc rlJl':V dmwg" �,iYtb4eld poii mm. Illlii Aten pd0,4yMd1A"4Mbufld%@q47t YgrV 7.'dhthragIS P'a flial p" kikil%Cre AIUGd 6"fNi4liv! pox p�'$ Wa Iry 0,q"N' i AI'id (OnfloA"IQow, viorvlsnl Omrev p ula11.1,; R%x•ceess lo 'WO mIW' to R. ProvitlK, b.Ading. rnwIwl g, ti ffrbrd� ThA r+tvl7"tho u; hamriomit Ao d x Dia to Apwwttl 'A5Baps0wa 5odhV1r;Um d ImnlvdwAiadWtlkY,�,lutlMd}dhlirV:N:dw. Aw Gtlr.`a'dWnu nYlwdWpp ndl5 nnrw hlmmr mnlaypl diqndetilrladWn"brtY„EWY'0YrW40 i0 ThOl 1B;tty's W7'WmrAltur mod idenkft D8 Ft bona use M tN4h mgddxl4ty W'crrmWlm wma€pnflals th"O-rk!Slkpm t5 w 4l�kms s ,:MOW cvotext npWaB eglWowCIln"rmBEY% Irl' Oth?6V. OtAfa Mer, tf. kiw'(1Hw404n ft'{'&r'Wt tOesill9dviviW'1l(di*oflptrl75% M?ISPakrvaour.uhloly` pY1µ'dne Mtlhxi" 11w, Cr41hk wIW�fim.. Knob Hill/641h (Congdon) Neighborhood centers Arterial corridors North of Fairgrounds Sarg Hubbard Park area Infrastructure poor neighborhoods 29 Nob Hill & 64.1" (Congdori) Nob I,,,„ ill �, � ,-"� (Corigdor �, Single largest area of commercial land in city outside of Downtown Comp plan designations of General Commercial & High Density Res. Undercurrent code .... more of same likely to be built 32 N o b 1--i �i I & 6 41iso n g d o r -i) ,* Is there a desire for something ........ different here? 33 N o b H i I � & 6 4.."1 "'1 (C o it iii -i 34 Elmn iple Leivcd of dutali' ril.deGnt to I on lip Gan M"a Streels ad e,jre :onnv.rtions Garn/e wwd w d Ge@ m to ( onip Nan 35 �6 Neig�,i[)&rl-iood Center's How can these centers better serve the community? What does the City envision for these in 20+ years? S, IN RIP IS, jq/jlin I I'll 11 ) DO M u n ii - OF $01 )WIl It 4ill! 411111", 110 11 . .... .. I ff O"'I Af FIR 20, u PON/ O;wl lfo, 61 d Y VA6%, To Neighborhood C"Penters Comp Plan could include policies on how these centers could be enhanced. Examples: Any new land uses or development types to encourage? Any targeted transportation improvements (vehicular, bicycle, pedestrian, transit?) Policies related to design character of centers? Desire for public space in some centers? Other? 39 40 w i 3. N � �NN N NNwI NNNoM" qq o0 liar. - N, �.Ave J � �I view Y Iii � �d�w? ryrynNi�NNfiVNlloIONUNINw��ewowNwf;,�Ir,N,u�NNNNmluwausNueawNimowllbf4NNNnrwwNumNuuo41� ��...INi ...�..�,,.. �uNNuuNNNllullullullNlJ➢�I�IINUuo., pp � � ,� i All or`—pp � r ur Nv �"`^'"' � „ 4WCIfl'4NNlNNV)Vp, NNI �. ,` IVW;NVVVVVOVNIVNVIV�IJ➢ IN�IIIIIIINII I�I VIIIIIIIIIVII�II � �of , u �y v dN �� J/��'„ µrr � i� N'�NUN�NNM yy 1 �wM ��✓tai rr Ji Or % �(11 tmrr ri 1/� fl9la I �� 1 I% E �/� i mrr wfnowrMl��W�f6N%ii.(fPa(ww µb'! p- firme r- � � r r Ipµl W r ' * How can these corridors better serve the community? What does the City envision for these corridors in 20+ years? Are there specific corridors we ought to focus on? Any long term changes in land use? Design Character? 42 N o rt h of I airgrounds North o f I a�r-grounds Council #2 Zoned GC Land Use Des: GC 43 Nortl,�i of Fa i rgr-ou rids 47 North of I w Considerations rgrounds Significant commercial redevelopment here seems very unlikely GC zoning discourages investment in existing properties Greatest need & opportunity appears to be multifamily 48 INo r -i ,,, Fairgrounds ,,,,,,, . ' iiis I it t ii n .w North�,,,,,,. a iu iii, A number of concepts from the Draft SE Neighborhood Plan (1998) that are still relevant..... Soulhewl YokIM,0 lghbo load P11011 Pro -active circulation improvements? 49 mmwq @ n�m,a ^wrn ,fir mlwro mW& lMrum Ana, I) h .,ilu i;m�IlVvpvmawnm�* mwa,~w .v",k ilfhul4i9i ��m '+ ar: iFo muuimina m �M .. .,, aF 9.olimllloi � Faft Sarg Idubbard Park area (BUcharian [-ake) Infrastructure Poor Neighborhoods A number of these areas in eastern half of city Council #2 Zoned R-1 Land Use Des: Professional Office 51 Some areas still on septic Poor street connectivity No sidewalks Property upkeep issues Frequent land use compatibility issues 52 n f ra s r- Uch.jre Poor" NeighborhOods Zoning Snapshot ,, NO// 'gol ANNE M Example challenge — land use compatibility I nf r .uCtUr Ili- Neighborhoods Considerations a Identify priorities Strategic public investment Land use changes to promote stabilization & investment Add strategic design standards: • Compatible zone edges • Screening outdoor storage • New multifamily & commercial development Neighborhood upkeep efforts 55 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN VISION 'We, cvte.'?J�af na MAY 2016 PLANNING TERMS — WHAT IS A VISION? Vision: A community's best desired future. Mission: The role of the city as an organization in achieving that vision. Goal: A broad, general statement of the desired long-term future state or outcome towards which the Plan aims. Goals indicate what ought to exist in a community or what is desired to be achieved in the future. Policy: A principle, protocol, or proposal for action that implements a related goal. Decision -oriented statements which guide the legislative or administrative body while evaluating a new project or proposed change in ordinance. Objective: More measurable aim of the Plan. THEMES FROM VISIONING OPEN HOUSE (on Feb. 23rd, 2016) At the February 23, 2016 Open House, participants provided feedback on a variety of topics when thinking about their vision for Yakima in 2040. Some themes that came out in particular include a vision for: • A thriving and vibrant city. • Yakima as a place where tourists and visitors want to stop to wine taste, shop, eat and enjoy downtown and the City of Yakima as a gateway to the Yakima Valley. • A place that is framed by natural beauty and agricultural vistas. • A city that is family friendly with good public spaces and quality education for children. • A place that provides many ways to be active and healthy as young or old residents, including walking, biking, entertainment, greenways, fishing, access to healthy food, etc. • A city with a more diverse economy with job opportunities in a variety of industries, including tech. • A downtown with more retail shops, restaurants, and the Yakima Central Plaza. • Streetscapes and public areas that are historic, revitalized, and attractive. • A city that is inclusive to all types of residents with different cultures and backgrounds. A vision survey conducted around the same time as the workshop showed that most of the 185 respondents identified the following as most important for inclusion in the 20 -year vision statement: quality of life, a prosperous community, a healthy economy, and safe neighborhoods. These vision workshop and survey results are woven into a draft vision and values on the following pages. Relevant Terms • Diverse community — A community that is composed of a variety of people with different racial, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. • Community character — The look and feel of a community, including natural, physical, and cultural characteristics. • Urban character— Of or having characteristics that make a place feel "urban" as opposed to suburban or rural. Factors contributing to urban character include the lifestyle, amenities, social structure, and built environment associated with cities. • Prosperous community — A community that is economically successful and sustainable and provides opportunity for all. • Quality of life — A standard of health, comfort, and happiness for an individual and a community. WE ARE YAKIMA: THE CITY OF YAKIMA'S VISION FOR 2040 The City of Yakima is growing larger and more diverse. As Yakima progresses, the following vision will help our community achieve the livability and success that it desires. The process of developing a new vision for Yakima involved the engagement of residents and employees throughout the City over a five month period in the winter -spring of 2016. Open houses, public meetings, social media, and surveys, provided opportunities for the community to comment on assets and challenges and define what they desire for Yakima in 2040. A Vision for Yakima's Future The City of Yakima is the "Heart of Central Washington," founded by the Yakima River and the railroad, serving as a center of the Yakima Valley's agricultural prosperity for over 125 years, and growing into a dynamic metropolitan center. In 2040, Yakima continues to be a place of choice for residents of all ages, abilities, and cultures. Yakima is a center for agri-tourism, offering unique cultural activities and shopping in our historic Downtown. Yakima has created a flourishing and diverse economy attracting and retaining businesses with living wage jobs for our people. We celebrate our community of diverse cultures. We are a place where people feel welcomed and safe. We work, live, and play side by side. We preserve the history and character of our neighborhoods while encouraging well-designed infill development, quality public services, and infrastructure investments. Our residents have access to a high quality education, affordable housing, and healthy living. We enhance our network of natural and recreation spaces. We connect our people and neighborhoods offering safe and reliable mobility options including walking, biking, transit, and cars. Today and in 2040 we see Yakima as a place that values: • Yakima's people —We are inclusive to all people. o We promote universal design in new housing, businesses, and public buildings and streets to be accessible to all. o We encourage public engagement and multicultural communication in our planning process. o We deliver needed public services in a manner inclusive to all types of residents, businesses, and cultures. Youth and Family — Our plan is a roadmap to a high quality of life for our youth and families. We seek to have: o A strong partnership with our schools. o Places that promote healthy and active lifestyles. o Opportunities for entertainment and recreation for both young and old. Being A Unique Destination — Yakima is a unique destination serving as a gateway to the Yakima Valley. We strive for: o A vibrant and revitalized historic downtown. o Maximizing tourism and retail opportunities. o Providing attractive spaces and public art. • Neighborhoods — Yakima's neighborhoods are attractive places to live, shop and play, offering: o A hierarchy of commercial and mixed use centers. o Attractive streetscapes and well-designed public and private spaces. o Historic character. o Diverse and well-designed housing choices for owners and renters. o Preserved homes that have been rehabilitated and maintained. o A spirit of friendliness where neighbors gather for celebrations, clean-up events, and block watches. o A development pattern that promotes public safety and deters crime through environmental design. • Natural Beauty —The natural beauty of the river valleys and agricultural vistas frame Yakima. We will be stewards of our natural resources by: o Protecting the ecological resources of our region. o Maintaining and expand the Yakima Greenway. o Encouraging sustainable design of development. • A Prosperous Future —Yakima creates a thriving and vibrant community. We will encourage: o A diverse economy that sustains and attracts a variety of business sectors including agriculture, health care, manufacturing, tourism, new energy and others. o Small local businesses. o Targeted investments in capital facilities. o Partnerships with higher education providers to support workforce training to attract new employers. • Mobility and Connectivity — We are mobile and connected. Our transportation system will: o Maintain and create a complete street network, including new multimodal connections. o Ensure efficient and balanced movement of freight and goods through the community. o Improve safety throughout the system. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS A. What do you like about the draft vision? B. What is missing? C. What would you change? D. What are the three most important values that the City should emphasize over the next 20 years? E. What can Yakima do to promote these values in its plan? ,q �� * �.w! ,�..! m E4,01111 l;) ° F III LE YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT Yakima Top 21 Facts and Trends 1. Yakima is a large city and can be influential. The City of Yakima is tenth in terms of total population in the state. Yakima is the most populous city in the County, and the County Seat. The compound annual growth rate between 2000 and 2010 was 2.4 percent, which slowed to 0.4 percent between 2010 and 2015. However, Yakima is due to take 25% of the future growth in the county. Yakima can be a leader in the region promoting equitable and sustainable development that brings housing and job opportunities supported by investments in quality parks, multimodal transportation, and infrastructure. 2. Yakima is diverse. About 79 percent of Yakima's growth in population between 2010 and 2014 was Hispanic, with overall Hispanic population making up 44 percent of the City in 2014. The Comprehensive Plan will need to address the cultural needs of the whole community. 3. Yakima is a community for the young and old. The City's population is getting older on average, with more retirees than any other community in the County. Yet, the City is also seeing an increasing number of children, particularly in east Yakima. Both seniors and children grew by 5 percent between 2000 and 2010 citywide. The Comprehensive Plan needs to address housing and services for older generation such as aging in place, health, and „ w� mobility. The Comprehensive Plan also needs to educat onress nand retreat on.eeds of nger residents such asIZ 4. Yakima has room to grow. The City growth targets would mean 17,167 new persons and 8,556 jobs between now and 2040. The Comprehensive Plan must show how the City will accommodate the growth projection. About 20 percent of land in the city limits is developable for added housing and jobs. The City has nearly twice the capacity for growth above the targets. 5. Expectations for quality design and incentives for reinvestment can improve the quality of life. Yakima is the only city among Washington's ten most populous cities "s that does not have design standards for commercial and multifamily development. The City can set expectations for quality and affordable design in new development and prioritize investments in existing neighborhoods lacking infrastructure, recreation, and other features. 6. A majority of Yakima households have no children. Over half of the City's households have single or coupled adults and no children. The Comprehensive Plan should ensure a variety of home sizes and styles to meet the needs of small households. 7. The City of Yakima has the most persons with a disability in the county. The City of Yakima has the most persons with a disability in the county at 13,897, and the second highest share of the population at 15.3 percent, behind Union Gap. The Housing Element can address policies regarding universal design of housing and supportive services to meet future needs of this population. i IRAIF i I May 2016 1-9 YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT Yakima Top 21 Facts and Trends 8. Most of Yakima's housing stock is old. Only 10 percent of residential structures have been built since 2000, and 50.1 percent of units were built 40 or more years ago. Since housing units generally have a functional life of around 40 years, those units older than 40 years require additional investments. Preserving existing housing is important to maintain affordability. 9. Housing value is increasing in Yakima, but is still relatively affordable. Appreciation rates have been above average for the last 10 years, at an annual average of 2.5%. Home sales prices have jumped by $20,000 in the last year. The median priced home is attainable to half of the City's residents. Providing opportunities for new housing affordable to a range of incomes will be considered in the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map and Housing Element. 10. There is a gap in affordable rental units in Yakima. In the City there is a gap of over 3,300 units affordable to those earning lower incomes, meaning households have to pay more than they can afford for the units that are available. Identifying suitable locations and standards for new attached housing will be considered in the Comprehensive Plan Update. 11. Nearly half of Yakima's homeowners are cost burdened and nearly one third of renters are cost burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing and earning at low and moderate incomes as of 2012. Considering how family wage jobs can be attracted to the community, and providing a range of housing opportunities can address some of the hurdles faced by households. The City's efforts will need to be in partnership with other agencies and service providers. 12. Yakima residents earn lower incomes. Yakima's median household income is 27% lower than the State median income. About 22.8% of the City's population earns incomes below the federal poverty level, higher than the state as a whole at 13.5%. New opportunities for family wage jobs through appropriate zoning and capital investments, and partnerships with agencies that provide workforce training will be part of the Land Use and Economic Development Elements. 13. Yakima residents have a lower rate of achieving higher education. About 17.3 percent residents have a bachelor's degree or higher compared to the State level at 32.3 percent or the US at 29.3 percent. Coordinating with higher education providers and determining appropriate supportive services can be part of the Economic Development and Capital Facility Plan Elements. 14. The City's jobs are diverse, and there are opportunities to catalyze growth in family wage jobs. Currently, the City contains 40,390 jobs. Top sectors include health care, retail, agriculture, and manufacturing. Jobs are concentrated in the Downtown and near US 12. Retaining and attracting jobs in these sectors, particularly those offering family wage jobs, plus supporting a growing tourism market and small businesses are part of the regional strategy. The City has ample capacity to add its target 8,556 jobs between now and 2040. Investing in redevelopment such as the Cascade Mill Site, supporting a unique retail experience in Downtown, expanding the Airport, and other activities will be important to catalyzing job opportunities. Planning for capital facilities and infrastructure and supporting partnerships in workforce training are other important City activities. Im' IRAF'I" I May 2016 1-10 wrc.;,�q�Isr-.rlrlfJ YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT Yakima Top 21 Facts and Trends 15. Downtown Yakima — Reinventing Yakima's Center to a Vibrant Destination. Downtown Yakima has a high retail vacancy, and suffers from the dominance of other commercial centers with big box retail formats and strip malls inside and outside the city limits. However, retail demand is estimated to grow by 200,000 square feet per year in the city as a whole. The Downtown Plan identifies investments in the "heart of Downtown" and catalyst sites to capture a share of this retail growth. Private investment is focused around a multipurpose public plaza that provides a year-round gathering space. Yakima Avenue is enhanced to prioritize pedestrians and intersections are improved. Additional greenery is added to humanize the street. 16. Traffic volumes have declined in some areas and increased in others. Based on current traffic count volumes, notable changes in the last 10 years include decreases on 1st Street, 16th Avenue, and Lincoln Avenue / MLK Jr. Boulevard and increases on Fruitvale Boulevard. More detailed operations and testing of future growth scenarios will be part of the Transportation Element Update. 17. Transit use has declined. Annual transit boardings exceeded 1.5 million in 2011 and 2012, but have declined as a result of rate increases, lower fuel prices, and a reduction in service after 2012. Ensuring the system can meet the needs of today's and tomorrow's generations as well as providing for transit supportive land use patterns can continue to allow mobility options for the community as a whole. 18. There are gaps in the non -motorized system for Pedestrians and Bicyclists. It will be important to identify the gaps and prioritize the best locations to address the gaps. A Final Draft of the City's First Bicycle Master Plan will be reviewed for consistency and included in the Transportation Plan Update which is running parallel to the Comprehensive Plan 2040 Update program. 19. The parks and recreation system is varied. Currently, the City's park system inventory includes about 368 acres of parks and recreation facilities, in addition to community centers. Also available to the public are the Yakima Greenway, with about 10 miles of trails, the Sportsman State Park, and an arboretum. There are about 3.76 acres per 1,000 persons. The Park, Recreation, and Open Space plan is undergoing an update and part of the effortwill help identifythe community's needs and levels of service going forward. 20. Environmental quality is an essential element of the City's livability. All types of critical areas are found in the city limits including fish and wildlife habitat, wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, geologic hazards, and flood hazards. The city also has shorelines of the state with the Yakima River, Naches River, and several lakes. These areas are places to enjoy and use as well as protect. 21. A wide range of capital facilities and public services are available in the City. Providing for adequate infrastructure (e.g. water, sewer, stormwater, other) and public services (e.g. police, fire, schools) can improve the quality of neighborhoods and stimulate growth. There are some gaps in the extent of municipal water and sewer systems in particular that should be addressed to advance City goals for revitalization in already developed areas as well as future development areas. DRAF'i I May 2016 1 11 VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY We f u i �' / f t RAFT I APRIL 2016 q � � l c rplan 2040 1.0 Introduction......................................................................................................................................1 2.0 Survey Responses..............................................................................................................................1 2.1 Assets and Challenges ....... , .. ,,,,, ,,,,,,,,, ........ 1 2.2 Transportation.............................................................................................................................. 3 2.3 Housing....... .......... ................... ......... ,...,.... ................. ,... --- .... ..................... ........,,4 2.4 Parks and Recreation ...................---- ...... .......... ...„............ .„.....„. ......,.. ,..,....,....... .,.5 2.5 Historic Preservation. ......... ..................... ......... . ......... .....,.,. .....,,.,. , ,...,...7 2.6 Employment . .................. ..................... ...................... ...,................. ........... ,........ . ..........8 2.7 Districts ........ ......... ......... ......... ............ ..,...... ............. ..... ,....... ,......,.8 2.8 Comprehensive Plan Vision..,,,,,,,,,, .......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ......... ..................10 2.9 Ongoing Public Participation-- ..... ......... ........ ......... . .,,.,,.,.12 V 1.0 INTRODUCTION A visioning survey was created in order to identify and prioritize issues in the City as part of the Comprehensive Plan 2040 Update. The online survey was posted on the City website, and was advertised at the Open House held on February 23rd as well as through the following ways: an email blast, a display ad, the Open House legal notice, on Y-Pac, on the Open House postcard advertisement, a press release, and at Planning Commission meetings. There were a handful of paper surveys completed and received as well. The survey was open between February 17th, 2016 and March 31st, 2016 and received a total of 185 responses. The following sections summarize the results of the survey. 2.0 SURVEY RESPONSES 2.1 Assets and Challenges Yakima's Strengths The first survey question asked respondents to identify Yakima's strengths by ranking a list of provided assets. Those assets ranked the highest include Yakima's natural setting, its diverse communities and neighborhoods, and the community character (the look and feel of the community). Exhibit 1. What do you believe are Yakima's strengths? Total Score Rank _ ............................. Natural setting Diverse communities and neighborhoods Community character: the look and feel of my community 2,022 1��,�„ Access to services and business 1,869 Quality municipal services and business 1,830;x° Sense of community/support of community in my neighborhood 1,812 Recreational amenities 1,798 Quality schools 1,742 8 Housing choices and prices 1,736 9 Good location for my business 1,494 10 Historic character 1,272 11 Safe place to live 1,266 12 Cultural and civic events 1,256 13 Urban character of downtown 1,212 14 Access to jobs 1,043 15 Other 386 16 N=183 Note: Scores are weighted calculations. Items ranked higher are given a greater score than items that are ranked lower. The total score for each item is the sum of the weighted scores. The rank is the overall rank for all entries based on the weighted scores for each item. Terms: • Diverse community — A community that is composed of a variety of people with different racial, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. DIRAIi:'I. April, 2016 1 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY • Community character —The look and feel of a community, including natural, physical, and cultural characteristics. • Urban character — Of or having characteristics that make a place feel "urban" as opposed to suburban or rural. Factors contributing to urban character include the lifestyle, amenities, social structure, and built environment associated with cities. • Prosperous community — A community that is economically successful and sustainable and provides opportunity for all. Comments on Strengths There were 47 comments on Yakima's strengths. Themes identified in open-ended comments about Yakima's strengths include: • Parking downtown is okay, but respondents don't want any taken away and multiple comments indicated a desire for more angled parking downtown • The great weather is a strength and enables safe walking, biking, and agriculture/gardening opportunities • Yakima has great trails, such as the Greenway, Cowiche Canyon, Powerhouse Canal, WM. O. Douglas, etc. • Yakima's people are friendly and they care about the community and each other • There is a small town feel in Yakima, even though it's not a small town and has a diverse population • The city is relatively affordable • There is access to the outdoors and the surrounding natural setting • The central location with proximity to Seattle, Spokane, Tri -Cities, and Portland is a strength Yakima's Challenges The survey asked respondents to identify Yakima's challenges by ranking a list of provided assets. Those topics identified as the greatest challenges in Yakima include job opportunities, promoting economic development and infill development downtown, and the quality and variety of parks and recreation opportunities. Exhibit 2. What do you believe are Yakima's biggest challenges? Total Score Rank Job opportunities 2,170 Promoting economic development and infill development downtown 1,933 Quality and variety of parks and recreation opportunities 1,890 Crime and public safety 1,857 Housing variety and affordability 1,749 Availability and quality of infrastructure (roads; sidewalks, street lights; sewer; etc.) 1,706 Maintaining municipal services (police; fire; stormwater; water; sewer; etc.) 1,706 7 Providing a variety of retail and other businesses 1,581 8 Environmental protection of natural resources and critical areas (such as wetlands; 1,470 9 areas prone to flooding; areas with geological hazards; etc.) Design of construction (such as quality of materials; look of the building; public 1,384 10 spaces) Social equity 1,167 11 Cultural awareness 1,024 12 DIRA T JApril, 2016 2 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY Total Score Rank Tax rates 993 13 Language barriers 955 14 Other 375 15 N=184 Total Note: Scores are weighted calculations. Items ranked higher are given a greater score than items that are ranked lower. The Know total score for each item is the sum of the weighted scores. The rank is the overall rank for all entries based on the weighted scores for each item. Comments on Challenges There were 45 comments on Yakima's challenges. Themes identified in open-ended comments about Yakima's challenges include: • Economic development and infill development are a challenge city-wide, not just downtown • There are people whose voices aren't being heard • There are not enough unique attractions • Need design standards for multi -family housing • There's not enough infill • There's a lack of parks and pathways and bicycle infrastructure, particularly those connecting homes to services • Yakima is challenged by its reputation/image by those outside the City 2.2 Transportation Investment Priorities The survey asked respondents to help prioritize transportation investments for the future of Yakima. Those transportation topics identified as high priorities include pedestrian access and experience, bicycle access and experience, roadway safety and reducing collisions, the quality of roads and road maintenance, and moving freight and goods. Exhibit 3. How important are each of the following transportation features? Don't Very Unimportant Somewhat Important Very Total Know Unimportant Important Important Responses Reducing Traffic Congestion 0 13 34 45 23 180 Improving ns and p g si g�� directions (signage) 3 6 43 44 12 181 Pedestrian / access/experience 2 6 7 141 53 ,i/iiii�� - 179 Bicycle access/experience 2 12 20 37 48 180 Transit connections (connections between various modes of 8 11 12 54 39 180 transportation) DRAI'r I April, 2016 3 CITY DpYAmMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE v|s|om|mG SURVEY SUMMARY Don't Very Unimportant Somewhat Important Very Know Unimportant Important Important Risponses ---- Total Roadway safety/reduce collisions 2 7 10 31 54 181 Public transit availability where I need it 7 16 17 '59 43 34 176 Public transit frequency 6 11 20 49 33 180 Riclesharing/carpooling 10 23 48 6P 26 12 179 Quality of roads/road N 0 0 4 22 all 179 maintenance Moving freight & goods 11 6 13 26 180 m=z8z 2.3 Housing Important Housing Issues The housing section of the survey asked respondents about important housing issues within the City of Yakima. Although few respondents thought any housing issues were unimportant, those topics of highest priority include having homes ofdifferent types available to buy or vent in varying price ranges, housing available within walking distance of amenities, and housing available to public and social services. Exhibit 4What do you see as the most important housing issues? . Dnnt Very Somewhat Very UnimportantImportant Important Total Know UnimportantImportantResponse s Homes of different types (single family, multifamily, townhomes, etc.) available to buy/rent in your price range Housing options available within walking distance of amenities such as bus stops, 0 6 13 44 45 180 work, and shopping Housing options available close to public and social services (family services, 1 8 16 52, 36 180 senior services, health care, Improving the quality and design of housing in Yakima Housing options available 4 15 37 5,2 47 24 179 downtown CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY Comments on Housing Themes on housing issues recognized in the open-ended comments include: Affordable housing options for the entire range of buyers and renters within the downtown area is missing • There are many residents living under the poverty level but there is an 8 -year waitlist for housing assistance through YHA • Absentee landlords are a problem • Housing condition is poor • Yakima needs more opportunities for higher density residential development, particularly in downtown • Prices are too high for the income levels in the area • Need to improve the permanent options for homeless and low income households • Improvements to existing housing and neighborhoods will support the improvement of downtown 2.4 Parks and Recreation Existing Recreation Opportunities The survey asked respondents to think about existing recreation opportunities and facilities and consider whether there are too much; an adequate amount, or too little of these resources. There were very few respondents who felt there were too many opportunities or facilities for recreation. Those opportunities and facilities which respondents most frequently felt there were too little of include passive recreation opportunities, greater investment in the quality and design of parks, and better physical access to parks. Exhibit 5. Which of these types of recreation opportunities do we have too much, too little, or an adequate amount of? Don't Too Adequate Too Total Know Little Amount Much Response s Large, regional parks 8 62 /f� �w�� 1 179 Neighborhood and pocket parks 3 %� 3 180 Trails 8 4 179 Sports fields 16 /moi/��/�� / 43 /�j; � j 18 176 Passive recreation opportunities (such as wildlife viewing, walking, biking, boating) 3 � �Dl /�� 64 2 171 Active recreation opportunities (activities ii j///////% 179 requiring facilities such asplayground 16 56 11 activities, activities, soccer, softballi�„�l"'//; Greater investment in the quality and 13 ��„i r%% 60 4 179 existing design of arks g p Parks programming offered by the Parks 33 62 3 175 Department Preservation of land and wildlife habitat 18 $11, 75 4 178 DIRAFIF I April, 2016 5 Better physical access to parks (connections, fill gaps in trails) N=180 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY Don't Too Adequate Too Total Know Little Amount Much Response 17 s 178 64 2 Comments on Existing Parks and Recreation Opportunities Themes on recreation issues recognized in the open-ended comments include: • Yakima needs an outdoor public pool and aquatics center, as well as a water park • Better access to recreation areas and opportunities for kids • There is a desire for more courts — volleyball courts, basketball courts, etc. • Need more interconnected bike routes and pedestrian paths that are functional for moving people and not just scenic • More investment in Eastern Yakima • More green space, garden areas, farmers markets, and gardening in all neighborhoods • Need an off -leash dog park Existing Facilities and Programming The question asking about the quality of existing parks and recreation facilities and programming indicated that most existing parks and recreation assets are good but could be improved. Those existing facilities and programming most commonly identified as "poor" include neighborhood and pocket parks, trails, and physical access to parks. The two types of recreation facilities most frequently seen as "great" include sports fields and regional recreation opportunities. Exhibit 6. Would you say Yakima's facilities and programming are great, good but could be improved, or poor? Good, but could Total Poor Great be improved Responses Large,regional 26 177 Neighborhood and pocket arks 62 16 178 Trails 48 %i ii%% % j//iii 29 177 Sports fields 17 1 67 174 Parks programming offered by the Parks 169 Department 31 %i%%//%%//ii !%,i%% 36 Preserved land and wildlife habitat 42 38 172 Physical access to parks (connections to, from and170 53� 23 between facilities)�,,��,�� Regional recreation opportunities (fly fishing, skiing, 175 40 75 60 mountain biking, trails) N=178 Comments on Existing Parks and Recreation Facilities and Programming Other facility and programming themes recognized in the open-ended comments include: DIiRwP'""N"" jApril, 2016 6 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY • Need after school activities and other programming to keep kids busy • Some parks don't feel safe to go to or they are not well maintained • The Parks Department does amazing things with limited resources • Some parks are always busy but others are underutilized due to the illegal activities that tend to take place there • There is inequity in park quality across the city 2.5 Historic Preservation Preservation Priorities The survey asked respondents to help prioritize historic preservation activities. All activities are seen as important, with preservation and reuse of historic buildings identified as "very important" slightly more frequently than the other preservation activities. Exhibit 7. Prioritize the following historic preservation activities. Don't Very Unimportant Somewhat Important Very Total Know Unimportant important Important Responses Promoting historic register ' listings, which applies � protection to those places 6 13 11 35 181 listed Restoration to historic 5 9 13 31 181 conditions Preservation and reuse of i historic structures, which! involves rehabilitating old 1 9 g 41 180 �'�' structures and finding anew use for them while g maintainin their historic character Incentivizing preservation of 1%ll�r/ historic buildings through 4 12 8 46 33 179 various programs (e.g. ax j �I incentives) Adopting design standards for 48 15 14 �,%/////! �j„ new development in historic 2 �/ 38 181 buildings to reinforce historic character and scale N =181 Comments on Historic Preservation Other thoughts on historic preservation expressed in the open-ended comments include: • New construction should have a design criteria, especially downtown • Historic buildings create a sense of place and a depth to a place • Need to consider condition of buildings and whether they are worth restoring • Refurbish buildings not in use for low income housing DIRAFT jApril, 2016 7 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY • Yakima has knocked down too many historic buildings and should save what's left • Yakima needs to be progressive to survive and should not try to preserve the past 2.6 Employment Employment Opportunities The employment opportunities that are most desired in Yakima, as identified by respondents, include professional services, education, and manufacturing/industry positions. Exhibit 8. What types of employment opportunities would you like to see encouraged in Yakima? Total Score Rank Professional services 1,618 Education 1,383 Manufacturing/Industry 1,299 " Retail 1,269 Food/wine/beer industries 1,251 5 Construction 1,112 6 Tourism 1,098 7 Health 1,091 8 Arts 1,028 9 Government 651 10 Other 278 11 N=183 Note: Scores are weighted calculations. Items ranked higher are given a greater score than items that are ranked lower. The total score for each item is the sum of the weighted scores. Comments on Employment Opportunities Other thoughts on employment opportunities expressed in the open-ended comments include; • Yakima needs technology based companies and start ups • There needs to be opportunities for the homeless • Tourism and arts are a huge opportunity • Yakima needs better paying jobs • Need Recreation -related jobs • Need nonprofits and social development agencies • Yakima could use more technical education, training and universities related to the local employment opportunities 2.7 Districts Several questions asked respondents to offer location information about where they would like to see retail and employment activities. The Districts are represented in Exhibit 9 below. I IF I April, 2016 8 Exhibit 9. City of Yakima Council Districts R A i.pui,, d I I-,r.rI j d IF IV I I I 4 I I , i 0 Isln.or NAF F I April, 2016 9 YAKIMA 2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE Yakima Council Districts Council District 3 4 7 I Yakima City LirnTts Urban Growth Area :'i 05 1 Miles Retail by District The districts where the majority of respondents hope to see more retail shopping are District 1 and District 4, which is downtown, and the area southwest of downtown. All districts received votes. Exhibit 10. 1 would like to see more retail shopping concentrated in the following district. District Count District 1 %"// ;i„ District 2 50 District 3 53 District 4 mom District 5 55 District 6 45 District 7 45 N=165 Employment by District The districts where the majority of respondents hope to see more employment opportunities include District 1, District 4, and District 2, which includes downtown and the areas south and southwest of downtown. Districts 3 and 5 also ranked highly, which are the areas just east of 40th Avenue. All districts received votes. Exhibit 11. 1 would like to see more employment opportunities concentrated in the following district. District Count District 1 District 2 "j/ District 3 64 District 4��/ District 5 60 District 6 44 District 7 42. N=162 2.8 Comprehensive Plan Vision Key Concepts and Ideas The key goals and for Yakima that were identified as most important for inclusion in the 20 -year vision statement include quality of life, a prosperous community, a healthy economy, and safe neighborhoods. DRAFF JApril, 2016 10 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY Exhibit 12. Thinking ahead to 2040, what key concepts/ideas/goals are most important to be included in the City's 20 -year vision statement? Total Score Rank ..— Quality of Life Qua 081 '%//go Q� Prosperous community p Y 2 061 � //ilii Healthy economy 11974 Safe neighborhoods 1,713 4 Walkability 1,465 Vibrant downtown 1,342 6: Future development 1,333 7 Adaptive reuse of existing buildings 11304 8 Public/private partnerships 1,301 9 Infill development 1,142 10 Social equality 991 11 Public transit 983 12 Urban growth 971 13 Compact/condensed growth 554 14 N=183 Note: Scores are weighted calculations. Items ranked higher are given a greater score than items that are ranked lower. The total score for each item is the sum of the weighted scores. The rank is the overall rank for all entries based on the weighted scores for each item. Neighborhood- Level Changes The survey asked respondents what they would like to see happen or change in their neighborhood. There were 73 responses to the open-ended question. Some of the themes that emerged include: • Yakima's neighborhoods need more: o Access to government programs o Job opportunities o Safety and connectivity through sidewalk, bike land, and transit improvements o Daily interaction between neighbors and the community, places for people to gather, and community involvement o Art, music, theater o Neighborhood services, such as corner stores, retail, coffee shops o Parks • Neighborhoods need to be cleaned up and safer • Housing needs to me maintained and improved • The infrastructure and services are below standard, such as a lack of sidewalks and basic sewer/water infrastructure, road maintenance • Yakima's neighborhoods should all be equal and provide an equal quality of life • The neighborhoods need to be cleaned up 111DRA :.l. j April, 2016 11 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY Other Growth -Related Comments The survey asked respondents if they would like to comment on anything else related to Yakima's growth. There were 71 responses. The following themes emerged from the comments: • Need to build the downtown plaza with adequate parking • City transit service should increase service area and frequency • Public spending priorities should on basic neighborhood needs first, such as streets, water, sewer, street lights, sidewalks, storm drainage • Yakima should adopt the bicycle master plan • Need a de -emphasis on industrial society and isolated independent existence • Need better and safer parking options downtown • Yakima's appearance can be improved • The homelessness issue is concerning • Yakima needs more walking/bike paths • There should be more smart infill development • Yakima needs to think about the whole community, not just the high class or Caucasian community • There needs to bean improved quality of daily life for all residents • Yakima should abandon the proposed plaza • An East -west arterial like Washington is needed further north • Yakima needs more job opportunities for growth • We want a downtown with character and uniqueness that will draw residents, businesses and tourists • Need to be a healthier Yakima that takes advantage of the weather and produce • Yakima should embrace the diverse culture 2.9 Ongoing Public Participation Update Process Participation When asked how they would like to participate in the Comprehensive Plan Update process, participants identified online surveys and public open houses as the most desirable outreach methods. Exhibit 13. How would you like to participate in the update process? Count Public open house 91 %//`°�1 Additional online surveys1001 Public meetings before the Yakima Planning Commission 78 Guest speaker from City at my neighborhood 48 Other 5 N=172 DIRAll' 1i" JApril, 2016 12 CITY OF YAKIMA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE VISIONING SURVEY SUMMARY Other preferences for participation identified in open-ended comments include: • Meetings available online • Detailed information on city website • Serving on an advisory committee • Bring in outside consultants • Mailed surveys with comments • Guest speakers at my workplace • Facebook • Guest speakers attending organizational meetings throughout town Contact Preference Survey respondents would most like to be contacted about the updated process through email, newspaper, social media, and the city website. Exhibit 14. How would you most like to be contacted about the update process? District Identity There were survey -takers representing all seven districts in Yakima. The most highly represented districts include District 4, District 6, and District 1. Exhibit 15. What district do you most identify with? (i.e. live/work/own a business, etc.) District Count Email�� Newspaper �l 1(/,/ Posters 17 Postcards 31 Social media ? City website 701 N=177 jl District Identity There were survey -takers representing all seven districts in Yakima. The most highly represented districts include District 4, District 6, and District 1. Exhibit 15. What district do you most identify with? (i.e. live/work/own a business, etc.) District Count Percentage District 1 27 15% District 2 3 2% District 3 24- 13% District 4 jl 24% District 5 24 13% District 6 % ,<;,, 20% District 7 24 13% Total 181 100% N=181 DRAFT jApril, 2016 13