MLK Community Plan Final 02.19.09 - Chattanooga
Transcription
MLK Community Plan Final 02.19.09 - Chattanooga
Adopted February 10, 2009 1 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Plan MLK Community Plan The following individuals and agencies have played a significant role in the development of this plan: Project Leaders Karen Hundt, AICP, Director, Planning & Design Studio, Regional Planning Agency (RPA) Pamela Glaser, Senior Planner, RPA Emily Garrigus, UTC student and Planning & Design Studio Intern Nikki Jones, UTC student and Planning & Design Studio Intern Planning Assistance Rozanne Brown, Administrative Assistant, RPA Jenny Shugart, Historic Preservation Planner, Public Works Jon Coddington, Architect, UTC and RiverCity Company Maria Noel, The Enterprise Center and Renewal Community Office Patrick Harper, Planning & Design Studio Intern Ben Johnson, Artist Community Organizations The Bessie Smith Hall and Chattanooga African American Museum Martin Luther King Neighborhood Association 28th Legislative District Community Development Corporation MLK Community Development Corporation Tennessee Multicultural Chamber of Commerce Chancellor Roger Brown, UTC Vice Chancellor Richard Brown, UTC City Departments Leamon Pierce, City Council City of Chattanooga Traffic Engineering City of Chattanooga Urban Forestry City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Acknowledgments MLK Community Plan Table of Contents Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community..............................9 Overview - The Planning Process Public Input Community Character and Traditions.........................................................................16 Revitalization History Section Two - Inventory and Analysis..........................................................22 DEMOGRAPHICS..........................................................................................................22 Land Use and Development .......................................................................................... 27 INFRASTUCTURE......................................................................................................... 33 Roads Pedestrian Facilities Bicycle Facilities Transit Parking Parks and Recreation Photo Inventory - Existing Conditions Section Three - Plan Recommendations.................................................... 40 THE COMMUNITY VISION..........................................................................................40 Downtown Context and Basic Urban Principles LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT...............................................................................44 Commercial Corridor.....................................................................................................44 National Historic District The Future of MLK Boulevard - Revitalization Parking Urban Form Commercial Housing............................................................................................................................ 53 Density and Services Diversity - Home Ownership and Rentals Zoning History and Zoning Tools Urban Form Housing Employment and Manufacturing...................................................................................59 Urban Form/Manufacturing Social Service Organizations.......................................................................................60 Major New Projects........................................................................................................62 Gateway at Bessie Smith Hall and Patten Parkway Commercial Anchor - Grocery Store and Neighborhood Center Farmers Market Site - Community Services Center Brightbridge, Inc. and East of Central Avenue University of Tennessee at Chattanooga TRANSPORTATION......................................................................................................72 The Street Network.........................................................................................................72 Major Streets Alleys MLK Community PLAN February 2009 4 MLK Community Plan Table of Contents Alternative Modes of Transportation...........................................................................75 Transit Pedestrians Bicycles PUBLIC SPACES.............................................................................................................79 Public Realm.....................................................................................................................79 Streetscape and Sidewalks Streetscape Priorities and Standards Gateways and Wayfinding Parks and Plazas - Commercial Components..............................................................85 Parks and Recreation - Residential Components.......................................................85 Community Gardens The Downtown Greenway Safety and Security Viewsheds NATURAL RESOURCES................................................................................................89 Water Quality and Quantity...........................................................................................90 Urban Forest.....................................................................................................................91 SUSTAINABILITY......................................................................................................................93 Air Quality........................................................................................................................93 Brownfield Reclamation.................................................................................................93 Energy Conservation.......................................................................................................94 Green Buildings...............................................................................................................94 Alternative Energy Sources...........................................................................................95 Recycling and Waste.......................................................................................................96 Sustainable Industry and Business..............................................................................96 Section Four - Resources for Implementation.........................................97 Zoning & Tools to Guide New Development................................................................97 Next Steps..........................................................................................................................99 Incentives & Programs................................................................................................100 Resources.......................................................................................................................108 Section Five - Appendices.........................................................................115-147 A. Action Steps Matrix B. List of Previous Plans C. Public Responses D. RPA Grocery Store Study E. Additional Maps - Police Precincts, Renewal Zone Map F. Urban Design Standards G. Zoning Categories H. Bibliography/References 5 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 MLK Community Plan Executive Summary The Martin Luther King Community Plan provides a guide for the future development of this unique downtown area. The Plan offers an analysis of existing conditions and patterns of development, looks at past accomplishments and studies the rich heritage of the community. Secondly, the Plan provides recommendations for new development and projects that build on and enhance both the present and the past. Thirdly, the Plan identifies partners and resources for specific projects and recommends priorities for implementation over the next 10 to 20 years. The overall goal of this planning process is to improve the livability of the MLK area and provide MLK property owners and leaders with a renewed vision and direction. The MLK area is in need of a more comprehensive plan for redevelopment. Previous plans often addressed a singular element, such as housing or the commercial district. Given the direct location and relationship of the MLK community to the Central Business District and the University, it is only fitting that these areas should also be studied as part of the MLK planning process. In order to fully realize the vision and initiatives set forth by the Plan, the MLK area must focus once again on coming together. PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS – Summary of the 5 Main Points 1. MLK is a mixed-use urban neighborhood – build on this asset, strive to keep the diversity and a healthy balance of uses. This includes offices, retail, business, employment, light manufacturing, warehousing, social services, schools, institutions and a full range of housing options. 2. Increase efforts to revitalize the MLK commercial corridor – this is critical! Renovations and new construction should complement the historic character. · Market the heritage – build on the African-American past and tradition – make the district a destination, play up the culture, music, soul food, and other southern favorites of the region. Also, target the students and University. · Identify and then focus on a few key projects as catalysts to spark revitalization efforts. Concentrate resources and partners to one block or area at a time and create a structure (or coalition) to effectively implement strategies and projects such as an MLK Coordinator. 3. Increase the density and number of residents in the MLK Community to create a neighborhood of diversity and to provide urban amenities like transit, parks and nearby shopping opportunities. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 · Make use of vacant lots to build infill housing in a range of sizes and types, from townhouses to condos to apartments, to lofts to single family residential. · Locate larger housing structures at corners and along major corridors such as McCallie, Central, and MLK Blvd; and where parking can be accommodated. · Include housing on the upper floors of commercial buildings. 6 MLK Community Plan Executive Summary · Adopt a tool to provide design guidance, ensure compatibility and maintain the unique character of the district as it regards to heritage, urban design and new development. 4. Add to the green infrastructure that already exists with continued building of of parks and streetscape. Determine needed programming for underutilized spaces and add next layers of “furnishings” to these existing spaces. 5. · Create pocket parks or plazas (or community gardens) in all areas. · Connect the Greenway to the Riverwalk and Finley Stadium area as part of a larger system. · Enhance parking lots with tree plantings (for 15% canopy cover) and landscaping and remove chain link fences over time. Study connections and revisit existing transit for more local routes between Warner Park and the CBD as well as throughout the residential neighborhood and commercial district. · Link and enhance North/South pedestrian ways – Lindsay, Douglas and Palmetto to Baldwin. · East/West – address 10th and 11th Streets, MLK Blvd. and McCallie Avenue for completion of streetscape and other enhancements such as public art, gateways, banners and wayfinding. (includes UTC signage) LAND USE, DEVELOPMENT AND ZONING The MLK Community Plan identifies a few key project sites for redevelopment including the Bessie Smith Hall gateway area, the MLK Commercial Historic District and a concept for a neighborhood center with a grocery store. Additionally, opportunities for new infill development, both residential and commercial, have been identified. As part of this new development, it is recommended that projects utilize structured parking or shared parking and existing lots get a face lift with landscaping and attractive street edges. The overall pedestrian qualities of the MLK area need improvements and key pedestrian connections are identified in the Plan. Areas that this Plan recommends for mixed uses or neighborhood commercial may need to be rezoned to Urban General Commercial (UGC) or Central Business District (C-3). These zones allow for urban elements such as shared parking, reduced setbacks and design basics such as entries and storefronts designed with pedestrians in mind. The design review process also helps to ensure that new development is compatible with the existing buildings. Past MLK plans and zoning efforts have focused on preserving existing singlefamily uses and stabilizing the neighborhood. To increase density and the urban amenities requested by the residents of the area, some medium to high-density housing is needed. 7 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 MLK Community Plan Executive Summary In the near future, the RPA will be creating an “urban residential zone” that will accommodate the smaller lots, shallow setbacks, alley access and parking needs of Chattanooga’s urban areas. At that time, an MLK zoning study should be undertaken to ensure the integrity of the existing single-family areas and to identify appropriate locations for other housing types. Overlay zones that provide a more in depth review of proposed development and require more strict adherence to the existing historic architectural qualities of the area may also be considered. Finally, the MLK Community Plan gives advice on design and Urban Form that is suited for the downtown nature of the MLK area along with recommendations that promote greener development as noted in a section on Sustainability. NEXT STEPS The MLK Community Plan includes nearly one hundred specific Action Steps. Business owners, residents, property owners and students should form a “coalition” to study these recommendations, establish priorities, seek partners and secure funding to implement this plan. The MLK Community Plan identifies programs that may be used by the community and agencies which may provide advice and expertise or serve as partners. With these partnerships come not only potential funding sources, but a wealth of experience and professional expertise. One must remember that change happens incrementally and often times slowly but, if tied to a common vision and plan, the pieces will add up to something spectacular over time. The community must focus on building relationships and creating strategies to begin implementation of plan recommendations. With regular forums for discussion, an aggressive schedule for meetings and full community representation at the table, the MLK community will see progress. “A PLACE WITH HISTORY, A PLACE WHERE YOU LOVE TO LIVE.” MLK Community PLAN February 2009 8 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Plan Overview - The Planning Process The Martin Luther King Community Plan provides a guide for the future development of this unique downtown area. The Plan offers a study of existing conditions to gauge new opportunities. It looks at the rich heritage, past accomplishments, and contributions from the African-American community. The Plan provides recommendations for new development projects that build on and enhance both the present and the past. The Plan also identifies partners and resources for specific projects, and recommends priorities for implementation over the next 10 to 20 years. The overall goal of this planning process is to improve the livability of the MLK area. Over the years, the MLK neighborhood has undergone many planning processes and it has made great strides in turning the tide of the community around. Yet, as a city grows and communities change, there is often the need for a renewed look at area plans and neighborhood progress. MLK is at a crossroads as it moves forward into the 21st century, and there are important decisions to be made that will provide MLK property owners and leaders with a renewed vision and direction. In the past, committed citizens have worked hand-in-hand with the appropriate government agencies and the private sector. In order to fully realize the vision and initiatives set forth by this Plan, the MLK area must focus once again on comingtogether. Whether through improved communication, coalitions or connections,many partners and resources will be required to move MLK forward. Previous MLK plans often addressed only a singular element, such as housing or the commercial district, but the MLK area needs a more comprehensive plan for redevelopment. Given the direct location and relationship of the MLK community to the Central Business District and the University, it is only fitting that these areas should also be studied as part of the MLK planning process. This Plan is not meant to be a rigid solution for the area, but rather a guiding policy that directs resources to the most suitable areas, and brings together many diverse partners to work together toward common goals. Key Points Generally, three steps have proven successful in Chattanooga’s downtown revitalization with a format that can be repeated for MLK. 1. A community c o l l e c t i v e l y determines a VISION and asks, “Where is it going, what is its future?” 2. Good solid PLANNING provides a guiding framework for future development. 3. The community establishes priorities and strategies for IMPLEMENTATION. Community plans help private businesses and developers make decisions about where to renovate buildings, open new stores, establish offices or factories, and build new homes. The City Government, another important partner, uses community plans to establish priorities for major capital investments, such as roads, schools, and recreational facilities. Zoning decisions are also based on community plans. Upon adoption of a plan, zoning changes and other redevelopment recommendations will not automatically occur. The City of Chattanooga must still approve funding for the recommended capital improvements; however, once the plan is adopted, the priority level for these projects is increased. The revitalization process is a gradual one. Revitalization requires more than planning. It takes a local effort from both the public and private sectors and community partnerships to put ideas into action. SECTION 1 9 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Plan Public Input In the fall of 2007, at the request of the Chattanooga City Council, the Regional Planning Agency officially began the planning process with a public meeting to gather input. Additional meetings were held with the Neighborhood Association, UTC students and administration, and property owners to gather their ideas for the revitalization of the MLK area. The RPA then gathered information and data about the neighborhood using field surveys, land use checks, photography, and a study of permits, zoning cases, and housing trends. Based on concerns and ideas expressed during public meetings, recommendations were then created and presented for review. The first step of any planning process is community input. The planning process brings together government officials, community residents, business leaders, and other community stakeholders to interact with one another. By investing their time and energy, these people develop not just a plan, but a living document. The Regional Planning Agency serves as a facilitator and professional resource, bringing these diverse interests together and applying accepted design principles to create a plan for the physical development of the area. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 10 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Plan Public Input The MLK Community Plan began with a public meeting on October 29, 2007 to kick off the process and gather input. Nearly 100 participants joined together to discuss their community. The Public was asked to respond to these questions: 1. What are the most important assets in the MLK Community? 2. What are the biggest challenges in the MLK Community? 3. What characteristics make this community unique? “ People get ready, there’s a train a comin’ You don’t need no baggage, you just get on board”” Curtis Mayfiled, 1965 MLK Plan Meeting #1 - October 29, 2007 SECTION 1 11 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Plan Public Input When asked,“What are the most important assets and biggest challenges in the MLK community?” the following concerns and opportunities were given as verbatim responses: MLK Assets LOCATION Close proximity to downtown, with social and cultural venues It is close to all downtown activities Close and convenient Convenience of living, working & socializing Proximity to city center/downtown/Central Business District Location, location, location! HISTORY African American history Historic charm of the neighborhood 9th Street music! Existing preserved residential housing Bessie Smith Hall Fortwood’s history DIVERSITY Cultural diversity Mixed community Diversity of residents (race/income/age) Diverse income levels and cultural backgrounds HOUSING/BUILDINGS Fairly reasonable housing Large unused commercial/retail assets on MLK and 11th St. Residential homes Seeing some new homes go up Great opportunities to make a great neighborhood OTHERS UTC Safety and comfort The people Strong neighborhood association Streetscape Good neighborhood feel – real neighbors People who love Chattanooga Students and public identity MLK Community PLAN February 2009 MLK Challenges HOMELESS Creation of a magnet for more homeless individuals and predators Organizations that place people in housing that should not be placed in an area that is under revitalization Habitat housing with criminals living in them and large porch hang outs The homeless foot traffic is continuing to stifle any growth potential regarding commercial revitalization Challenges with various homeless shelters; neighborhood conflict as a result Removing the homeless mission / Dealing with the homeless situation TRAFFIC Transient traffic traveling to and from downtown Noise from MLK Blvd. traffic / Narrow streets Speeders and large trucks on 10th – need speed humps Diverse people passing through the neighborhood on foot at all times of the day and night LACK OF…. Progress / Revival Commercial space Parking for business development Shops / Businesses / Repair Safety: need more police patrol/precinct to prevent and control crime UNITY Getting UTC to be more than a vocal player – lip service is all they bring to the table Maintaining the momentum that is bringing change and improvement to the neighborhood Neighbors coming together Poor infrastructure outside of the university Overcoming the general opinion of the area Keeping a sustained vision alive OTHERS Trash / Cleanliness Drugs / Drug traffic and crime Topography Need improved signage Developing industrial areas Clean up and add services Current Mayor Privacy / Perceived crime levels / Need higher levels of safety for walkers Rebuilding the business district / Old businesses need to be replaced 12 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Plan Public Input IMPORTANT AND UNIQUE IDEAS FOR MLK A total of ten “groups” were formed at the meeting. Each group was asked to choose three ideas generated during their discussion that they considered most important or unique. The following list summarizes those ideas and indicates how many groups chose that idea as one of their top priorities. 5 – Grocery store or fresh food market with pharmacy (Publix-type) 5 – Bring the free electric shuttle into the neighborhood to connect the neighborhood to UTC and neighborhood services 5 – A large recreation park including ball fields and courts, cookout area, health and wellness center, computer lab and Bingo space, and event/festival space 4 – More retail, especially small, locally owned businesses. Help the Community Kitchen create jobs. 4 – Improve and repair sidewalks to include handicapped access. Add street lights and cityscape, especially along 10th Street. 4 – Extend the Greenway and add a sculpture garden. McCallie Center. 3 – Add and improve bicycle routes and racks; add CARTA routes connected to CBD. 2 – More businesses and services in the MLK Business District. With business comes more auto and foot traffic, coffee houses, and retail shops. 2 – Retain a rich “historic sense of place” and neighborhood character. Focus on the history of the neighborhood, dating back to the Civil War, and also highlight the many famous people who have lived in the neighborhood. 1 – Improve public art and signage. 1 – Integrate all levels of society, the rich and the poor alike, respectfully and with dignity. 1 – Create a “Beale Street-like” atmosphere; bring back the “music.” 1 – Integrate residential and UTC properties. 1 – Cavalier site should be considered a prime site for retail development. 1 – Encourage and retain single family homes, especially east of Brown Academy. 1 – Build more high density housing, especially on 10th and 11th between King and Magnolia Streets. 1 – Include more mixed use developments. SECTION 1 13 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Public Input In addition to gathering ideas at the public meeting, specific stakeholders were asked for their comments. The following are a few of the concerns expressed. Students and Faculty from UTC - Generally, students expressed a desire to visit the area but because of the feeling of deserted streets, a perceived lack of safety, and an absence of places to go, they were not using the district as much as they would like. They felt businesses should be cleaner and have improved marketing and “curb appeal.” Some of their comments were: “Safety improvements should be made. Loitering and panhandling are huge issues, more security and police on foot, or even cameras at major places would help - just to let people know there is a presence of authority.” “The area needs affordable restaurants and coffee houses, art galleries, a grocery store… things that would pull in a regular business clientele as well as people traveling through the area and UTC families.” Internet cafes would attract many students. “A variety of restaurants are needed including fast food and late night restaurants,” as well as coffee shops with prices that students can afford. “We need affordable and nice rental apartments. Existing student housing is $1700 a unit…we just can’t afford it.” “Wouldn’t it be great to have a group come together monthly to discuss MLK and UTC? Representatives from the University, business owners and the neighborhood along with a few students should sit on a board to keep up communications and work together on improvements.” “You must crawl before you walk.” - MLK property owner MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Commercial Business Owners - During the planning process, there were several opportunities to meet with area property owners to discuss concerns on MLK Boulevard in the commercial district. These owners expressed interest in creating an anchor development or catalyst that would give the Boulevard a boost and jump start interest in the area. The issue of parking and consolidating properties to accommodate larger lots was examined as well as a program for shared parking opportunities. The major problem identified was a lack of communication and a feeling that funding or outside partners had dropped away. Conversely, organizations and downtown developers expressed frustration in assembling MLK properties and found an overall lack of excitement and investment from the property owners. As one property owner stated in reference to the fragile nature of the MLK commercial district and the slow pace of development, her mother always said, “You must crawl before you walk.” It was very important to those who have held properties for years that some continuance of the African American traditions and ownership remains intact as the area grows; many of these owners stated that they want to be partners in the future. 14 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Public Input The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga brought together merchants and key stakeholders for a meeting to discuss the future of the MLK commercial district. COMMUNITY INPUT SUMMARY Overall, participants noted a need for a re-energized commercial district that is supported by MLK residents, downtown workers, students and visitors. The rich heritage of MLK was noted as a top priority and a repeated theme. Maintaining a level of affordability and diversity in the neighborhood was also of great importance. SECTION 1 15 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Community Character and Traditions The MLK community reflects over 100 years of African American history and commerce in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Since 1994, the community has been listed on the National Register as an area of great historical significance. Once known as the “Big Nine,” MLK Boulevard (formerly Ninth Street) is the only remaining cohesive area historically associated with Chattanooga African Americans.1 The MLK historic district borders the city’s central business district and occupies five blocks between Houston and University streets. Significance of MLK - The National Register listing states that the district is important “for the social role the community played in developing and supporting a black culture and society in southeast Tennessee.” The MLK area was mainly home to worker housing and simple bungalows, but it also provided stately houses for prominent citizens. A tradition of commerce, trade and services has been in place for over a century in the MLK area. E.O. Tade, one of the earliest African American entrepreneurs, is regarded as the Father of the Ninth Street community, and is one of many important characters from Chattanooga’s early history. Other prominent African American figures were William “Uncle Bill” Lewis, Randolph Miller, G. W. Franklin, Roland Hayes and Bessie Smith. Bessie Smith, the “Empress of the Blues.” S. R. Linsley Grocery, 732 East Ninth Street After Chattanooga’s early trading post era, African Americans started to settle in the area. William Lewis was born a slave in Winchester, Tennessee in 1837. He built a thriving blacksmith shop in Chattanooga at the corner of 7th Street and Market. By the Civil War era, a few black families lived in the area. By the 1880s, it was an “identifiable black community.” Randolph Miller, another former slave, became a well-known newspaper editor. After 1864, he came to Chattanooga and worked as a pressman for The Chattanooga Gazette and later The Chattanooga Times. In 1898, Miller started The Weekly Blade, a controversial publication for its day since it covered issues without hesitation. In 1894, G.W. Franklin became Chattanooga’s first black undertaker. Franklin was also a member of the National Negro Business League and President of the National Negro Funeral Directors Association. Music has always played a strong role in the MLK area. Roland Hayes, born in Curryville, Georgia, moved to Chattanooga at the age of 13. Trained locally, he later gained international acclaim as a classical performer and artist. He began his professional career as a member of the Jubilee Singers (from Fisk University, a historically black university in Nashville, Tennessee). He is regarded as the first African American concert singer. In 1982, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga honored Hayes with the Roland W. Hayes Concert Hall in the Dorothy Patten Fine Arts Center. In 1892, Bessie Smith was born in Chattanooga. Long held as the “Empress of the Blues,” she grew up performing on the streets of Chattanooga with her brother, Andrew. “As a way of earning money for their impoverished household, Smith and her brother Andrew began performing on the streets of Chattanooga as a duo, she singing and dancing, he accompanying on guitar; their preferred location was in front of the White Elephant Saloon at Thirteenth and Elm Streets in the heart of the city’s African-American community.”2 Today, during Chattanooga’s annual Riverbend Festival, the MLK community hosts the Bessie Smith Strut, which showcases a variety of blues musicians. The Bessie Smith Hall, named in honor of the blues legend, is located in the MLK community and serves as a multi-purpose performance space. The Hall is adjacent to the Chattanooga African American MLK Community PLAN February 2009 16 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Community Character and Traditions Museum (CAAM), which was founded in 1983. The CAAM is a valuable reservoir of primary and secondary source materials on almost every historical aspect of African Americans in Chattanooga and throughout the United States. Early Period - African Americans began to inhabit the MLK community after the Civil War. E.O. Tade, a successful black businessman who owned property between Downtown and the Fortwood District, was influential in developing and selling residential property to new black settlers.3 As a result, early residents referred to the area on Ninth Street as “Tadetown.” It was through the development of residential neighborhoods such as Park Place, an early subdivision,4 that the first economic boom in the community was sparked. This small community was soon developed into a viable residential and commercial district, with growth occurring in the area during the late 1880s. Ninth Street developed along with the City of Chattanooga. Tade continued to support the community through several initiatives such as the incorporation of Howard School, founded in 1865 to provide education for African American Chattanoogans and later added to the Chattanooga school system in 1873. Roland Hayes This early period continued with immense growth; most of the buildings in the Ninth Street area were constructed between 1900 and 1917. During this transformative period, residents worked in the iron furnace and rolling mills located at the West End of Ninth Street.5 Other residents pursued an entrepreneurial spirit by owning and operating their own shops and providing goods and services to the community. For example, Dr. Emma Wheeler was an African American female physician from Gainesville, Florida who purchased land on East Eighth Street to construct a threestory medical facility. The hospital was completed on July 30, 1915 and named Walden Hospital.6 Following the 1905 state laws that prohibited African Americans on area streetcars, local African Americans devised their own system of horse-drawn cars, (later known as “jitneys”) to provide transport to work and within the district. In the early 20th century, a second economic boom occurred in the commercial district. As Chattanooga expanded its major industries, Ninth Street also developed economically. Commerce bloomed with the development of barbershops, beauty salons, taxi companies, funeral homes, theaters, and entertainment establishments.7 Venues in the community included “Old Crow Place,” a saloon which housed a grizzly bear that wrestled with customers (located at Ninth Street and University) and “The Ark,” an apartment complex housing African American tenants (located between Lindsay and Houston). African Americans owned and operated nearly all the businesses on East Ninth Street.8 African American merchants and businesses provided livelihood and recreation for Chattanooga’s African American residents and tourists from surrounding cities. Another famous business was the Hotel Martin, located on East Ninth Street. “It was Chattanooga’s headquarters for some of the nation’s most famous black personalities [and entertainers]” such as Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington and Aretha Franklin.9 The hotel was opened in 1924 by Robert L. Martin and was owned by Mayme Martin. It was located on the same block where the Chattanooga African American Museum and Bessie Smith Hall currently stand. 17 Walden Hospital is now being used for apartments. East Ninth Street, circa 1903 SECTION 1 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Community Character and Traditions In July 1929, the City of Chattanooga planned to widen fourteen blocks of Ninth Street to increase the traffic capacity and to provide an easy commute in the area.10 Ninth Street would be widened from Chestnut Street to Park Avenue. Although there was dissent from some residents and business owners, the majority of property owners favored the project. During this time, also found in the area was the City Market at Georgia Avenue in what is known today as Patten Parkway. Later the Farmers Market was established to serve the downtown and greater region at 11th Street with businesses like Dixie Produce. The Farmers Market was successfully in operation up until the twentyfirst century. City Hall, built c.1910 First Congregational Church at Lindsay St. and MLK Blvd. This neighborhood has included many businesses and schools which have given it sustenance, but another important institution in the community was the church. The African American church is a linchpin in the MLK community and it has played a key role in defining the culture of African Americans across the United States. The area features Olivet Baptist Church as one of the largest newly constructed facilities in the area, while First Baptist Church on Eighth Street is one of the oldest churches still operating. The First Congregational Church at Lindsay Street and MLK Boulevard featured auditorium style seating that served as a concert venue for gospel entertainers and speakers who visited the area. Church leaders have helped shape the MLK community. For instance, Reverend Roy Noel, a prominent business owner, educator and community leader, co-founded the Chattanooga African American Museum with Jacola Goodwin, a church missionary. Others like Reverend Paul McDaniel, who worked with Dr. King in promoting Civil Rights and later became one of the first African Americans to serve as Hamilton County Commissioner, remain an important part of the community and provide a link to the past. The history of UTC is also intertwined with the African American community. Chattanooga University was founded in 1886. Three years later, it merged with US Grant University in Athens, TN. In 1907, the name was changed to the University of Chattanooga. Zion College, an African American college, was established in 1949, and in 1969 it merged with the University of Chattanooga and the UT system to become the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Incremental changes occurred in the Ninth Street community after World War II and through the 1950s. Some resulted in a decline in the community’s economic well being. School desegregation programs, rising competition from regional shopping centers, as well as illegal activities such as gambling operations, drugs, and crime, began to impact the area.11 Park Place School, circa 1950 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 In 1950, Park Place School, a 12-room elementary school for the area’s children, closed after 26 years of operation due to funding issues. Another blow to the community was from the Golden Gateway Urban Renewal Program, which began on West Ninth Street. The program for the Westside and “urban renewal” closed hundreds of the community’s minority-owned businesses and residences. Due to higher rents and an inability to relocate, many of the residents were displaced and their businesses closed.12 Once these businesses were lost, they were almost impossible to replace. The community was also hurt by a lack of investments from local banks, low-wage jobs, and a deteriorating tax base. 18 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Community Character and Traditions City Market 9th Street Martin Hotel This 1928 Chadwick map illustrates the Patten Parkway area (orginally the City Market) and 9th Street, featuring the Martin Hotel and many other businesses as noted by the buildings in pink. 1960s – 1990s - Many East Ninth Street residents followed the national trend at the time, relocating from the downtown area to newer suburban communities, resulting in abandoned homes and a dwindling population. The loss of residents from the neighborhood impacted the commercial district as well. Ninth Street, similar to other historically African American neighborhoods such as Beale Street in Memphis or Jefferson Street in Nashville, reached an apex in commercial and residential development which was followed by a period of downward transition in the 1970s and 80s.13 During this time, businesses were marred with store closures and abandonment, building demolitions and crime. At one time, the community had three theaters: the Liberty, the Grand, and the Harlem Theater, which served African American audiences. There were dentist and physicians offices, tailoring and shoe repair shops. Also in the community was the O.K. Studio, a recording and photography studio; the Eastside Grill; the Bon Tom Recreation Hall; a YMCA; Stack Confectionary; and G & E Café, a soul food restaurant attracting patrons of many different racial backgrounds.14 These years of successful economic expansion were rapidly replaced with urban blight. In the 1980s, studies reported that 65 percent of the property was owned by people living outside the neighborhood.15 The absence of local property owners increased the likelihood of negligence, dilapidated buildings, decline in property value, and crime. In 1955, the conversion of McCallie Avenue and Ninth Street from thriving two-way streets into a pair of one-way streets also added to the economic decline of the area. The neighborhood gained a reputation for having the highest numbers of crime in the central city, due to its appearance, vacant lots, old and abandoned buildings, and abundance of liquor stores. 19 SECTION 1 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Revitalization History The East Ninth Street Community Development Corporation (CDC) was formed in 1978 in an effort to improve the area. The CDC was comprised of community merchants and leaders who sought to revitalize the neighborhood through grants, neighborhood involvement and unity. Stakeholders, led by area church leaders, wanted to change the face of the community. As a result, East Ninth Street was changed to “Martin Luther King Boulevard” in 1981 after community leaders lobbied the City Commission. The name change honored slain Civil Rights leader Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and marked the beginning of a transitional era for the neighborhood. 2000 to the Present - Today, the MLK community is in a phase of redevelopment and transition. Since the 1980s, nearly twenty-five studies, covering various components of the MLK community, have focused on revitalizing the area. For example, the MLK Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan (September 1986), prepared by Wilson Dagenhart Johnson, focused on stimulating the housing redevelopment of the MLK neighborhood. The 1986 plan proposed to remove dilapidated buildings, rehabilitate substandard buildings, and minimize land use conflict. Other plans include the MLK Development District Business/Commercial Inventory (October 1998), prepared by the City Economic Development Office; the MLK Assessment Survey Report (May 2001) by Artech Design Group and M.L. Johnson & Company; the Housing and Commercial Corridor plans (1998/1999), by Urban Collage, and the One-Way Transportation Analysis: MLK Boulevard, Bailey Avenue, and McCallie Avenue (May 2002) by Glatting Jackson, Kercher Anglin, Lopez Rinehart, Inc. (See the Appendix for a more complete listing.) The Bessie Smith Hall and African American Museum These previous plans were often directed at single issues in the community, such as housing or building conditions or transportation. While these focused efforts were important and contributed to the new housing development that has occurred since the late 1990s, a more comprehensive planning process was needed. This MLK Community Plan brings all of those elements together. Once adopted, this Plan can serve as a guide for future decisions as revitalization continues. Partnerships and Recent Investments - Through the years, partnerships have strengthened the foundation of the MLK community. Such alliances were formed with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, resulting in the Community Outreach Partnership Center (COPC). UTC’s SimCenter on MLK Blvd. The COPC has conducted various analyses of the community. In October 2002, the COPC released the MLK Urban Retail District Location Analysis prepared by KHAFRA Engineering Consultant. The Location Analysis concentrated on the results of previous studies and provided an updated picture of existing conditions in the area. This report made several recommendations such as revising the 1998 redevelopment plan, reinforcing a commitment to housing codes, committing to historic preservation programs, and developing a series of infill and rehab projects block by block. In 2007, COPC prepared a report titled, Moving Forward: A Study of the Martin Luther King Community. This report provided updates on commercial and residential properties in the MLK area including property ownership, physical condition, new properties and land uses. The Lyndhurst Foundation invested in the area, creating the M.L. King Tomorrow Initiative. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 20 Section One - Introduction to the MLK Community Revitalization History “The initiative is a partnership between the Lyndhurst Foundation and Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise (CNE). The goal of the initiative is to influence the building and/or renovation of 100 housing units in the ML King neighborhood. The business development strategy developed for the initiative has yielded commitments from private developers that amount to more than 130 housing units and over $20 million in private investment.”16 In 2006, the Park Place School was transformed into upscale condominiums, representing more private investment in the community. Since 2001, other partnerships have enabled investors in the MLK community to take advantage of federal tax incentives offered through the designation as a Renewal Community and the National Register Historic District status. These accomplishments further assisted in the increased economic development and preservation of the community. 17 In 2001, the Tommie F. Brown Academy of Classical Studies was constructed. The Academy honors the contributions of Chattanooga’s District 28 representative to the state legislature, Dr. Tommie Brown. In 2003, M.L. King Boulevard was converted back to two-way along with McCallie Avenue. With this activity came approximately $28 million in investment to restore 100 new homes, rehabilitate Park Place School, and develop Whiteside Park. The M.L. King Tomorrow Initiative provided both renovations and new housing as part of recent revitalization efforts. The University partnered with the City of Chattanooga to build the first section of a Downtown Greenway through the campus. The Greenway connects the MLK Community and UTC to the downtown riverfront. The greenway begins on M LK Boulevard, winds past Brown Academy, through the UTC campus and ends on East Fifth Street, where pedestrians can then follow sidewalks to connect to the Tennessee Riverwalk. Completed in 2005, the Greenway provides another amenity to the vibrant community. 18 African American merchants and businesses have been and still serve as the “backbone” of the neighborhood. They own a majority of the property in the community, especially along MLK Boulevard. The commercial district consists of the Chattanooga African American Museum and Bessie Smith Hall, a few soul food restaurants such as the infamous Memos (known for its “chop wieners”), and new eateries like Caffeine and M & T’s Diner. There are also clubs like the Whole Note (now closed), Half Note, and J. J’s Bohemia, plus a variety of churches, social service agencies and industries. Although some mainstay businesses remain, the majority of MLK Boulevard businesses suffer from neglect and a lack of residents and visitors frequenting them. Fortunately, the MLK residential community has moved forward and expanded into a neighborhood that houses a diversity of people including students, young professionals, retirees, and families. Housing ranges from student apartments along 8th Street, to condominiums on Palmetto and MLK Boulevard, to single-family houses in the heart of the residential area. With community leadership, diverse partners, and hard work, the MLK community will thrive once again . SECTION 1 21 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Demographics DEMOGRAPHICS The demographic information contained in this Plan is based on data from the 2000 United States Census and supplemented by data collected by the Regional Planning Agency. Because the Census information is dated and a significant amount of new development has occurred in the MLK area since 2000, Census numbers are only used to make general comparisons. Additional data, such as building permits and field surveys, have been used to provide a more current snapshot of the MLK area. For consistency, all demographic information has been calculated for the area shaded on the map (next page) which includes portions of Census Tracts 10, 11, 14, 15, and 31. Because these five Census Tracts comprise an area much larger than the MLK study area, eighty-four Census Blocks within those five tracts were identified which more closely correspond with the defined study area.The study area includes 332 acres. Population - In 2000, the total population of the MLK area was 2,258 compared to 2,467 in 1990, a decline of 8.5%. Since 2000, however, considerable building activity has occurred indicating a population increase. The 2000 Census reported 706 housing units in the Census Blocks comprising the MLK area; 342 were estimated to be single-family units while 364 were estimated to be multi-family units. However, almost nine years later, this number does not accurately reflect the development that has occurred. RPA conducted a windshield survey of current land use and reviewed building permits issued for new construction and demolition from 2000-2007 and, depending on methodology used, data analysis shows an increase of 40-80 housing units for MLK Community PLAN February 2009 22 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Demographics The MLK study area is covered by multiple downtown census tracts, including numbers 31, 15, 14, 11 and 10. the study area. This includes the number of new units constructed along with the demolition of some structures. This range of numbers is an estimate, however, a 2007 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Community Outreach Partnership Center study showed similar data although the study boundaries are slightly different and 2007 data was not included (UTC Community Outreach Partnership Center, Moving forward: A study of the Martin Luther King Community, August 2007). The Regional Planning Agency will be able to provide updated demographic information when the 2010 Census data is released. Over half (54%) of the 2000 population in this area was classified by the Census Bureau as residents of group quarters. According to the American Community Survey, a Census Bureau program, group quarters include such places as college residence halls, residential treatment centers, skilled nursing facilities, group homes, correctional facilities, and workers’ dormitories. The MLK population area is, of course, heavily influenced by the presence of a high number of students housed in group quarters, making this community unique within the City of Chattanooga. Since 2000, UTC student housing has also increased by 1,732 beds in UTC’s student housing at University Place. A number of people are also housed in group quarters’ overnight facilities operated by social service agencies and religious based organizations. 23 SECTION 2 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Demographics Organizations in this category include a portion of the Salvation Army’s program (60 beds). The National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients (NSHAPC) classifies someone as currently homeless if he/she reported staying in any of the following places during the time of their survey period: an emergency shelter, a transitional housing program, a hotel or motel paid for by a shelter voucher, an abandoned building, a place of business, a car or other vehicle, or anywhere outside. For the purposes of detailing demographics for the MLK with a focus on physical development, emergency shelters and transitional housing programs were reviewed to provide a snapshot of sheltered homeless housing facilities in the area. This data is not intended to be used as a census of all places homeless individuals may stay in the area or of unsheltered homeless people. The following definitions are from the American Community Survey www.census.gov Living Quarters Living quarters are classified as either housing units or group quarters. Living quarters are usually found in structures intended for residential use, but also may be found in structures intended for nonresidential use as well as in places such as tents, vans, and emergency and transitional shelters. Housing Unit A housing unit may be a house, an apartment, a mobile home, a group of rooms or a single room that is occupied (or, if vacant, intended for occupancy) as separate living quarters. Separate living quarters are those in which the occupants live separately from any other individuals in the building and which have direct access from outside the building or through a common hall. For vacant units, the criteria of separateness and direct access are applied to the intended occupants whenever possible. If that information cannot be obtained, the criteria are applied to the previous occupants. Group Quarters A group quarters is a place where people live or stay that is normally owned or managed by an entity or organization providing housing and/or services for the residents. These services may include custodial or medical care as well as other types of assistance, and residency is commonly restricted to those receiving these services. People living in group quarters usually are not related to each other. Group quarters include such places as college residence halls, residential treatment centers, skilled nursing facilities, group homes, military barracks, correctional facilities, and workers’ dormitories. Institutional Group Quarters – Includes facilities for people under formally authorized, supervised care or custody at the time of interview, such as correctional facilities, nursing facilities/skilled nursing facilities, in-patient hospice facilities, mental (psychiatric) hospitals, group homes for juveniles, and residential treatment centers for juveniles. Noninstitutional Group Quarters – Includes facilities that are not classified as institutional group quarters, such as college/university housing, group homes intended for adults, residential treatment facilities for adults, workers’ group living quarters and Job Corps centers, and religious group quarters. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 24 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Demographics The American Community Survey defines emergency and transitional shelters (with sleeping facilities) for people experiencing homelessness. This definition is similar to that of the Chattanooga Homeless Coalition (www.homelesscoalition.org). These facilities include: 1) Shelters that operate on a first-come, first-serve basis where people must leave in the morning and have no guaranteed bed for the next night; 2) Shelters where people know that they have a bed for a specified period of time (even if they leave the building every day); and 3) Shelters that provide temporary shelter during extremely cold weather (such as churches). This category does not include shelters that operate only in the event of a natural disaster. Examples are emergency and transitional shelters; missions; hotels and motels used to shelter people experiencing homelessness; shelters for children who are runaways, neglected or experiencing homelessness; and similar places known to have people experiencing homelessness. Based on a telephone survey conducted by the RPA in December 2008, area emergency shelters and transitional housing programs (with number of beds/ room) include: The Chattanooga Community Kitchen (10 beds to be opened in beginning of 2009). Community Kitchen’s Family Housing and Learning Center (10 single and multi-bedroom units). Residents have children and may stay at this center up to two years. Adults are required to be employed or in school full-time or split their time between work and school. Chattanooga Rescue Mission (39 beds). This organization has purchased a site and is moving outside the MLK neighborhood to Holtzclaw Avenue in 2009. Salvation Army (12 beds for homeless families with children) Partnership for Families, Children & Adults:Homeless women and children (8 beds) and New Visions program (19 beds). The numbers of beds may fluctuate over time and the information provided above is a “snapshot” in time. As the Planning Agency strives to provide current information, any updates provided by organizations or the community will be included in our land use data. These facilities are all located in the eastern half of the MLK community. SECTION 2 25 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Demographics MLK CHATTANOOGA Number Percent Number Percent HOUSING Total Single-family Multi-family 706 342 364 100% 48% 52% Occupied Vacant 565 141 80% 20% 9% Owner Occupied Renter Occupied 100 465 18% 82% 45% Mean Appraised Value * Median Appraised Value * $82,943 $73,500 $110,656 $88,300 * Based on 2007 Hamilton County Assessor’s records Age Distribution – Again, the age distribution within the MLK community is influenced by the high percentage of university students. As shown in the table (below), in 2000 the MLK population between the ages of 18 and 21 years accounted for an unusually high 43.6% of the total. If the Census Block (10-1003), with the concentration of student housing, was removed from the calculations, the age distribution within the MLK community would more closely resemble the age distribution for the entire City. MLK Number Percent POPULATION Total population Age Distribution Under 5 years 5 - 17 years 18 - 21 years ** 22 - 34 years 35 - 54 years 55 - 64 years 65 - 74 years 75 and older Average Household size CHATTANOOGA Number Percent 2,258 100.0% 155,554 100.0% 48 137 985 368 432 99 96 93 2.1% 6.1% 43.6% 16.3% 19.1% 4.4% 4.3% 4.1% 9,449 25,407 9,869 29,070 43,837 14,227 12,203 11,492 6.1% 16.3% 6.3% 18.7% 28.2% 9.1% 7.8% 7.4% 1.83 2.29 ** If Census Block 10-1003, with the concentration of UTC student housing, was removed from the calculations, the age distribution within the MLK community would more closely resemble the age distribution of the entire City. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 26 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Land Use and Development - Existing Conditions Households – In 2000, there were 565 households in the MLK area with an average household size of 1.83 persons. The average household size for Chattanooga was 2.29. MLK Land Use (by Percent) LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT Land Use Types and Current Zoning – Analysis of the MLK study area reveals a wide variety of land uses. The western half of the community is a good example of a mixed use area – primarily commercial and offices, but with some residential uses, including UTC student housing. The eastern half of the district can also be considered mixed use, with some commercial and office uses, but the majority being residential. Single-family homes account for the majority of housing in this eastern half, but some two-family and multi-family units can be found sprinkled throughout the area. Industrial, office, and warehousing uses predominate the portion of the district south of 10th Street. The pie chart to the right indicates the percentage of land dedicated to each use. Many urban neighborhoods suffer from outdated zoning that does not reflect the current mixture of land uses, much less the community’s vision of future land uses. The MLK community is more fortunate. A recent zoning study of the MLK community resulted in zoning that more closely reflects the actual land use. The majority of the properties in the western half are zoned C-3, which is a mixed-use zone for the central business district. The core single-family residential portion of the eastern half is zoned R-1 Single Family with a variety of other residential, office, commercial and industrial zones around the periphery of this core. IDENTIAL The above map shows building activity over a 5-year period, with most new projects found in the eastern half of the study area. 27 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Land Use & Development - Existing Conditions MLK Community PLAN February 2009 28 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Land Use and Development - Existing Conditions HOUSING Number of Units and Housing Density – In 2000, the U.S. Census Bureau reported 706 housing units in the MLK area. Of this total, 342 were single-family homes and 364 were multi-family units. Since the 2000 census, a considerable building boom has occurred in the MLK area. Based on City of Chattanooga Building Permit data, UTC has added 1,615 student housing beds south of McCallie Avenue and a significant number of new homes and home renovations have occurred. Housing density is typically calculated as the number of dwelling units per acre. Based on visual field checks conducted by the RPA, the average housing density of the entire MLK community is approximately 4.56 units per acre. However, as mentioned under Land Use Types and Current Zoning, the two halves of the community are quite different. The eastern half of the community is dominated by single family homes while the western half is more commercial/mixed use with university housing included. These differences can also be translated into different housing densities. The housing density of the eastern half of the community is only 2.84 units per acre, while the density of the western half is 6.81 units per acre. Occupancy - In 2000, eighty percent (565 units) of the total housing units were occupied and twenty percent (141 units) were vacant. This vacancy rate was high compared to a 9% vacancy rate throughout the entire city. Based on the current land use map, the percentage of vacant housing appears to have dropped to around 13%. Ownership and Rental - In 2000, of the 565 occupied housing units in the MLK area, 82% were renter-occupied, while only 18% were owner-occupied. In comparison, only 45% of the occupied housing units in Chattanooga were renteroccupied. High rental rates in a neighborhood are often an indication of disinvestment and instability. Current rental and home ownership rates are not available, but the number of new single-family homes, which are typically owneroccupied, may indicate that the percentage of rental has dropped slightly since 2000. Value - Based on the Hamilton County Assessor’s files, the mean and median appraised value of single-family homes in the MLK area in 2007 were $82,943 and $73,500, respectively. In comparison, the mean and median appraised values of all single-family homes in Chattanooga are $110,656 and $88,300, respectively. Types - The predominant architectural styles of the MLK community include turn of the century Victorian houses, Craftsman Bungalows and the newer Neo-traditional styles that blend elements of both the old and new. Housing in the area takes on multiple forms, from historic homes (top) to new construction (directly above). SECTION 2 29 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Land Use and Development COMMERCIAL This 8th Street apartment building reflects the older character of the area. National Register District - The MLK commercial corridor was designated a National Historic District in 1984. This status makes qualified properties within the designated district eligible to receive historic tax credits for the renovation of existing buildings. This is not the same as Local Historic Districts, which carry specific regulations for the construction of new buildings or the renovation of existing buildings. Unfortunately, a number of buildings that contributed to the historic qualities of the MLK commercial corridor have been lost to demolition in recent years and the district risks losing its national historic status if any more historic buildings are demolished. This de-listing would eliminate the availability of historic tax credits, which can improve the financial feasibility of building renovations, leaving commercial property owners at a disadvantage. Building Conditions - In 2001, a building condition assessment was conducted for specific properties in the MLK commercial corridor. Since that time, some commercial buildings have been renovated, but many still need attention. Dilapidated buildings and storefronts lend the perception (right or wrong) of crime and disinvestment to the entire commercial corridor. As mentioned earlier in the Public Input section, students and downtown workers are not frequenting the few existing businesses because of this negative image. This commercial property on 11th Street is an excellent example of the renovation potential that is available for other MLK historic buildings. Key Points Studies show that preservation projects, in historic districts utilizing proper renovation techniques, see increases in property values. The Secretary of the Interior’s “National Register of Historic Places” designation gives special recognition and acknowledgement for worthy properties that meet eligibility criteria. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 These buildings at Houston St. and MLK Blvd. are part of the National Register District. 30 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Land Use and Development - Social Elements Stone Fort Land Company Historic District Market Square-Patten Parkway District DOWNTOWN NATIONAL REGISTER DISTRICTS ML King Blvd. Historic District Market and Main Streets Historic District The “M.L. King Boulevard National Register District” is one of twelve other N.R. districts in the Chattanooga area. Types - The commercial structures are typically traditional brick buildings from the early 20th century with simple detailing that includes stone lintels, display windows, storefront entries and roof detailing of decorative cornices and/or parapets. SOCIAL ELEMENTS Churches and Social Services – A 2007 survey conducted by UTC’s Community Outreach Partnership Center (COPC) and supplemented by RPA research, identified a number of social service organizations and faith-based agencies in the MLK community. Some of these organizations provide aid in finding jobs or transportation services. Others help people who are afflicted with illness or are affected by violent crime. Some provide help for those in disaster situations, such as fire or hurricane evacuees. Others cater specifically to Chattanooga’s homeless population, providing meals, showers, and overnight shelter. SECTION 2 31 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Land Use & Development - Existing Conditions MLKCOMMUNITY State Legislature Representatives Senate District 10: Andy Berke TN House District 28: Dr. Tommie Brown County Representative John Allen Brooks: District 6 Warren Mackey: District 4 City Council Representative Leamon Pierce: District 8 Debbie Gaines: District 9 School Zones District 4: Brown Elementary, Howard Middle and High Schools Schools – Brown Academy for Classical Studies opened in the MLK community in 2002. One of the primary purposes for building both Brown Academy and Battle Academy, at Market and Main Streets, was to attract families with young children back to the downtown and surrounding urban neighborhoods. Brown Academy opened with a total student capacity of 450 students. The first year 281 students were enrolled. Today that number has grown to 394 students. Brown Academy had 17 classrooms that first year and today it has 21 classrooms. Brown Academy opened as a “Zoned Magnet School”, meaning the traditional attendance zone was combined with the magnet school program. Downtown residents were given first priority in the new school. After the children of downtown residents were accommodated, the remaining seats were made available to the children of downtown employees and then to students from across the County. The hope was that the percentage of “zone” students would increase over time as new residents moved into the downtown area, and the school’s enrollment history indicates that goal is being achieved. In 2002, only 30 percent of Brown Academy students lived within the attendance zone. That percentage has risen to 40% in 2008. In addition to the K – 5 grades, UTC also operates a Child Care Center for 68 children ages 6 weeks to 6 years old. This program is an integral component of UTC’s teacher training and educational research programs. Both the K – 5 classes and the Child Care Center also assist downtown businesses retain employees by providing the amenity of having their employee’s children attend a quality public school near their parent’s workplace. Crime – The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) tracks the number, type and location of crimes reported throughout the city. The city is divided into police sectors and zones and the MLK community overlaps four Bravo Zones (B6, B7, B8 and B9). The total number of incidents reported to the CPD from within the MLK area from January 1 through June 30, 2008 was 357. The following chart provides a comparison of the MLK area with other CPD zones throughout the city. The variance between neighborhoods may be due, in part, to the size of each area or the number of residents or businesses. (See Appendix E for Police Precinct Map) Outlying suburbs and rural communities were not included in the comparison. Brown Academy on 8th Street MLK Community PLAN February 2009 32 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Infrastructure INFRASTRUCTURE Infrastructure includes roads, utilities, wastewater lines, stormwater facilities, bus lines, sidewalks, recreation facilities, and parks. Urban neighborhoods often have an advantage over outlying communities because much of this infrastructure is already in place. Roads - The MLK neighborhood is primarily made up of “collector” roads. Collector roads have low speed limits (20-35 mph) and generally carry less traffic than larger “arterial” roads. Collector roads in the MLK neighborhood are Houston, Palmetto, Vine, and 10th Streets. Arterial roads generally have higher speed limits. Arterials can connect different neighborhoods to one another and sometimes connect a neighborhood to an interstate. Arterial roads in the MLK area are McCallie Avenue, ML King Boulevard, and Central Avenue. According to 2007 average daily traffic counts gathered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, McCallie Avenue had slightly higher traffic counts than ML King Blvd. (12,235 vs. 10,796). Pedestrian Facilities - Sidewalks are found throughout the MLK neighborhood, both in the residential areas and the business district. During the school year, many UTC students can be seen using the sidewalks to get from student housing to the classrooms. The sidewalks along MLK Boulevard and McCallie Avenue are lined with street lamps which illuminate the sidewalk and provide a safe feeling for walkers after dark. SECTION Most major intersections include pedestrian crosswalks and traffic signals with flashers which tell pedestrians when it is safe to cross the roadway. 2 33 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Infrastructure Lastly, the Greenway runs through the MLK Community. The Greenway is a 5.5 block pedestrian walkway surrounded by green space. It currently runs from MLK Boulevard to 5th Street along an old railroad right-of-way. The Greenway serves as an excellent outlet for pedestrians, providing both exercise and a means of connecting the University and the MLK commercial district. Surveys of MLK Community residents (conducted in March 2008 by the RPA) have helped gain a clearer picture of the pedestrian patterns and habits. Palmetto Street is the primary north/south route for residents. Some residents prefer to use Palmetto to walk north from their homes to the Fort Wood area, where they then cross onto Oak and Vine Streets. Both Oak and Vine Streets provide ample tree cover and shade for walkers. Bicycle Facilities - Many streets in the MLK community and throughout Chattanooga are “bicycle friendly.” The streets have “Share the Road” signs posted and are generally wide enough for both cars and bicycles. Parking lot on 11th Street This map illustrates the multitude of bus routes, shuttles, and bikeways found in the downtown area. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 34 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Infrastructure The Chattanooga Urban Area Bicycle Facilities Master Plan (http://www.chcrpa.org) proposed that two streets in the MLK community have bicycle lanes: MLK Boulevard and McCallie Avenue. These designations may need to be reconsidered, however, as those recommendations were made before McCallie Avenue and MLK Boulevard were converted back to two-way. CARTA buses provide bicycle racks for patrons wishing to take their bicycles along with them. Transit - Four CARTA routes service the MLK community, including the #4 Eastgate/Hamilton Place route, the #7 Chattanooga Housing Authority route, the #13 Rossville route, and the #14 Mocs Express Free Shuttle. Eastgate/Hamilton Place buses run westbound on McCallie Avenue and eastbound on MLK Boulevard. The Chattanooga Housing Authority buses run northbound on Houston Street and eastbound on 3rd Street. Buses on the #13 Rossville route run eastbound on 11th Street and westbound on 12th Street between Market Street and Central Avenue. Finally, the Mocs Express Shuttle services the perimeter of the UTC campus including 5th Street, McCallie Avenue, and Engel Stadium, and is free to students and faculty. In addition to the Mocs Express Free Shuttle, any UTC student or employee with a valid school ID can ride on any of CARTA’s routes for free. On-street parking on McCallie Avenue CARTA routes service the MLK neighborhood fairly well. All major east/west and north/south streets are covered (with the exception of Central Avenue). At any given location in the neighborhood one might have to walk four blocks, at most, to catch a CARTA bus. Not all bus stops are identified with signs, however, which is confusing to riders who are unfamiliar with the routes. In the event that a person is unable to walk to a bus stop, CARTA offers the Care-A-Van (CAV) service. The CAV requires riders to complete an Americans with Disabilities (ADA) application to be eligible for service. By simply calling the CAV number, a person can arrange to be picked up from his or her home. The Downtown Electric Shuttle, also operated by CARTA, services Market and Broad Streets on the western edge of the MLK community. This free electric shuttle takes passengers to many tourist destinations throughout the downtown, as well as the NorthShore. Parking - Overall, parking in the MLK community is ample. There are many onstreet spaces, and metered parking spaces can be found on both McCallie Avenue and MLK Boulevard. In the eastern, residential part of the neighborhood, the majority of streets are wide enough for cars to park comfortably on either side of the street and still allow room for passing traffic. In the western part of the neighborhood (and primarily South of MLK Boulevard), many parking lots have become eyesores. Specifically, west of Baldwin Street, there are over twelve parking lots surrounded by chain-link fences and lacking any sort of trees or landscaping. These lots are not only unattractive; they also give visitors a sense of an unsafe environment. SECTION 2 35 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Infrastructure The fencing of individual lots also makes economic redevelopment (particularly for retail businesses) very difficult. Given the smaller size of most center city parcels, property owners are not able to provide adequate parking on their individual lots. Unfortunately, business owners sometimes resort to purchasing adjacent property, demolishing the building on that lot and paving the lot to gain additional parking. These commercial building demolitions leave “gaps” in the street frontage, further exacerbating the redevelopment of a thriving business district. Successful retail developers recommend avoiding these “gaps.” Empty storefronts or parking lots fronting the street discourage pedestrian shoppers from continuing along the street and can give the perception of a “dying” commercial area. For these reasons, parking lots in urban commercial areas should be limited to the interior of the block behind the buildings, and accessed via alleys. Curb cuts, or driveways, should also be avoided on primary urban commercial streets such as MLK Boulevard and McCallie Avenue because they create safety conflicts with pedestrians on sidewalks and further interrupt what should be a continuous street frontage of retail stores and other businesses. For these same reasons, drive-through windows (e.g. banks, fast food, pharmacies) should not be located along primary urban commercial streets. Fortunately, the MLK community has a mostly intact system of alleys that can provide access to parking behind the commercial buildings, removing the need for any curb cuts along MLK Boulevard or McCallie Avenue. Openings between buildings can be created to provide a pedestrian passage (similar to Jack’s Alley between Market and Broad Streets) to access the parking lots behind the buildings. Whiteside Park on MLK Blvd. (above) and Ted R. Bryant, Sr. Park on 10th Street (below) are both in need of enhancements and new programming. Commercial property owners should also enter into legal agreements with each other to “share” these interior block parking lots. Removing the fences and sharing the spaces will provide all businesses with adequate parking and make it easier for customers to access the businesses. The North Shore area provides a successful example of shared parking. The businesses that front the south side of Frazier Avenue share the parking lot behind the buildings (fronting Coolidge Park). The property lines run from Frazier Avenue all the way back to River Street. If the property owners had not collectively agreed to remove their fences and share their parking, the Frazier Avenue shopping district would not have become the successful commercial district that it is today. Commercial property owners in the MLK community must create a similar parking partnership to successfully redevelop their properties. Only one public parking garage is located in the study area, on 11th Street adjacent to Warehouse Row. The ongoing redevelopment of Warehouse Row will also include additional on-street parking along Lindsay Street. Parks and Recreation - The neighborhood has several public parks and green spaces. There is the recently created Whiteside Park, located on MLK Boulevard between Peeples and Magnolia Streets. Additional landscaping and park furniture, called for in the park plan, need to be completed in order to provide more shade and to create comfortable areas for park users. The park currently looks “incomplete” and has become a hang out for transients. New housing and businesses fronting the park would also increase park safety by providing “eyes on the park.” At the corner of 10th and Fairview Streets is the Ted R. Bryant, Sr. Park and playground. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 36 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Infrastructure - Parks This park is excellent for younger children, as it has colorful playground equipment and grassy areas. Warner Park, a regional park located just a short distance to the east across Central Avenue, contains well kept baseball and play fields, walking trails, the Chattanooga Zoo, and other recreational facilities. Also close by are Miller Park and Miller Plaza, two of the City’s most centrally located and highly used parks. The UTC campus provides additional green spaces and an “oasis” of mature trees, garden spots and landscaping. The MLK community is also home to the University section of the Downtown Greenway, a 5.5 block pedestrian walkway which runs its course from MLK Boulevard, between University & Peeples Streets, north to 5th Street. There are future plans to extend the Greenway to the north to the Tennessee River and Riverwalk, and to also extend it south from MLK Boulevard to Finley Stadium. Downtown Greenway (UTC section) Compared to other downtown areas, the eastern half of the MLK Community is much greener. Most streets in the eastern half of the community have good tree cover. The western, commercial district is almost completely void of trees, especially in the 10th and 11th Street area, as illustrated in the aerial map below. SECTION 2 37 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Photo Inventory: Existing Conditions The MLK area features housing styles and commercial structures that represent varying degrees of stability. Buildings range from the historic to newly constructed. MLK has areas that will require upkeep and repair, while it also has special places that offer great pride such as parks, schools, and churches. It is truly a diverse community. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 38 Section Two - Inventory and Analysis Photo Inventory: Existing Conditions SECTION 2 39 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations The Community Vision A Chattanooga Times photo of a bustling and active E. 9th Street in 1942. The revitalization of a neighborhood begins with a clear vision for change and an understanding of what makes an area unique or special. The following vision was crafted by the residents and property owners during the MLK planning process to summarize their concerns, hopes and desires for the future of their community. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 40 Section Three - Plan Recommendations The Community Vision Preamble A PLACE WITH HISTORY, A PLACE WHERE YOU LOVE TO LIVE. The MLK community is characterized by a deep, cultural heritage reflecting over 100 years of African-American history in Chattanooga. This business corridor, once known as the “Big Nine.” or “the Boulevard,” was a major destination within the downtown. The MLK district has been influenced by the blues, struts and dancing, southern cuisine, festivals, arts, gospel music, churches, gatherings and an abundance of colorful stories. The “Boulevard” has been a place of innovation and progress, where many outstanding people have added to the rich fabric of MLK life. It is a place that welcomes neighbors and initiates a sense of individual belonging. Architectural interest is found in buildings that represent an era of commerce and bustling streets. The district now makes up an area of campus activities, housing and businesses. As a note of distinction, there is the National Register Commercial District of MLK Boulevard. Sitting near the center of our city, the district serves as a major gateway. Throughout time, the area has featured a traditional mix of uses including residential, retail, businesses, employment, publishing, education and light industry. It is truly an urban neighborhood. The MLK community will serve as a key tourist attraction and downtown destination that will thrive once again, with a future as bright as its past. Mission The MLK community envisions a future that: - Preserves the area’s history, diversity and natural beauty as part of downtown Chattanooga - Promotes well-planned residential and commercial developments of the highest quality design standards - Enhances existing assets and builds opportunities for new development - Continues partnerships with residents, businesses and academic institutions to develop a healthy community that considers economic growth along with sustainability - Includes parks, green spaces and recreational facilities - Places an emphasis on art and cultural venues for residents, visitors and students alike SECTION 3 41 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Downtown Context and Basic Urban Principles The map above shows the area studied in this MLK Community Plan. MLK is an urban community and must be looked at in light of its close relationship with the Downtown business district, UTC, the Fort Wood District, and other neighborhoods and districts lying to the south and east. Along with the Southside, North Shore, Westside and South Broad, the MLK community is considered part of the downtown. The Downtown Plan, adopted in 2004, recognized the importance of the MLK community and these other urban neighborhoods surrounding Chattanooga’s Central Business District (CBD). Each of these areas has its own special qualities, but MLK is unique among Chattanooga’s urban neighborhoods because it is the only one with a commercial and residential district adjacent to the university. This proximity to UTC gives the MLK community an edge in attracting new businesses and new residents. Its wealth of houses, historic buildings, and rich African American history add to its special character and provide great assets upon which to build. The continuing success of the CBD depends on these urban communities and vice versa. No community exists in isolation. Businesses in the MLK community depend on residents, employees, and students in the Fort Wood neighborhood, the Central Business District, and UTC. Similarly, the University and downtown businesses look to the MLK community to provide a diversity of convenient housing for their mployees and for students. The recommendations made in this Plan take those symbiotic relationships into account. As in the Downtown Plan, recommendations in the MLK Community Plan have also been organized into four general categories: Land Use and Development, MLK Community PLAN February 2009 42 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Downtown Context and Basic Urban Principles Key Points The MLK community is, as noted in the Downtown Plan 2025, part of the “East Downtown District” that comprises of Fort Wood, MLK, UTC, Erlanger, Lincoln Park and parts of the Central Business District (CBD) at Georgia Avenue. Transportation, Public Spaces, and Natural Resources. Cities and neighborhoods are, by nature, diverse and complex, so categorizing recommendations is not an exact science. Much overlap exists within these topics. The key is to always remember the importance of those connections and relationships. See the Downtown Plan at www.chcrpa.org under Land Use Plans Basic Urban Principles - Some basic principles can be applied to any downtown or urban neighborhood. 1. A great downtown supports a vibrant economy. 2. A great downtown evokes a sense of place. 3. A great downtown has a rich public realm. 4. A great downtown demonstrates a respect for the natural ecology of things. 5. Buildings in a great downtown are sustainable. 6. A great downtown is accessible via diverse modes of transportation. 7. A great downtown has a harmonious mix of uses. 8. A great downtown has people. 9. A great downtown comes about through cooperation and collaboration. SECTION 3 43 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use and Development The community’s vision for MLK, its downtown context and these urban principles are all embodied in the following recommendations and represented in the above map. Existing buildings are shown in gray and potential new development is shown in various colors to represent different types of uses. As with all community plans, this graphic representation should not be taken too literally. Rather it should serve as a general guide for the location and types of new infill development that can occur in the MLK community. (See www.chcrpa.org for a larger version MLK is a prime example of a mixed-use urban district - a place to live, work and play. Although, the area has seen a considerable amount of new building over the past few years, it has room for much more development before becoming a truly vibrant urban neighborhood. Re-inhabiting the area is a long-term process. The turn around of a declining commercial district may seem overwhelming and unachievable, but with a plan and concentrated efforts, MLK can be rebuilt, one project after another, to give the desired end product. This Plan identifies a few major projects that can become catalysts for continuing redevelopment if efforts are focused and strategic steps are taken. Based on past experiences, one or two major projects can stimulate additional investment and jump start an area, as seen recently with Coolidge Park in the North Shore and the ongoing rehabilitation of old commercial buildings on Main Street. of the map) MLK Community PLAN February 2009 44 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use and Development “All labor that that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” A Youth Leadership student has a dream for a brighter day in MLK. His student project conceptualizes a “new face” for the MLK Community that includes renovations, increased activity, and public art. Martin Luther King, Jr. This Plan lays out a suggested pattern or “road map” for land uses and new development, with preferred locations noted to build on assets so the most benefit may be gained. The Plan provides goals and specific recommendations focused on revitalization and particularly, urban development. A National Historic District - The MLK commercial corridor is a National Historic District. This designation makes properties within the district eligible for historic tax credits, which can make a big financial difference when rehabilitating older commercial buildings. If any more historic commercial buildings in the MLK corridor are demolished, however, the entire district risks losing its national historic status and the tax credits would no longer be available to any property owner in this district. The architectural styles found in the area are representative of the early twentieth century with buildings composed of mainly brick or stone and with simple detailing. As is the case with City Hall, the Custom’s House building and area churches, civic buildings stand prominently as landmarks within the community. Much of the historic fabric remains intact in the commercial corridor and adds to the character of the MLK community. Reusing these existing historic buildings is the highest form of recycling and should always be given priority over demolition. When the materials and “embodied energy” used in the construction of existing buildings is considered, rarely will the costs of demolition and new construction be less than the costs of rehabilitation. The importance of maintaining these historic buildings and the commercial corridor’s urban qualities cannot be overstated. The tendency to allow older commercial buildings 45 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use and Development to deteriorate, to demolish them, or to construct new “suburban style” retail stores should be avoided. This doesn’t mean that national retailers should be discouraged from investing in the district; it just means the typical one-story retail buildings found in the suburbs are not appropriate on MLK Boulevard. New retail businesses should occupy existing historic buildings or new buildings should be constructed that follow the same multi-story, urban form as the existing buildings. Many of the buildings in the MLK area are vacant or deteriorating. The Future of MLK Boulevard - Revitalization - Participants in the MLK planning process all emphasized the need to bring back the vibrancy and activity of the “Boulevard” of years past. This Plan suggests the MLK commercial corridor as a key tourist attraction and community destination much like Beale Street in Memphis or Frazier Avenue in North Chattanooga. While Frazier Avenue and Main Street businesses are capitalizing on the visual arts as a theme for their revitalization efforts, music, southern food, and the African American history were suggested by many people as an organizing theme for the MLK commercial corridor that would make it unique. Participants also wanted to see a strong mix of businesses that provide daily neighborhood needs as well as services for the large student population. Businesses in the corridor should also take advantage of the regional tourism market and the many hotels that are located only blocks away in the CBD and Southside. Spreading commercial redevelopment too thin is a tendency that must be avoided when revitalizing urban areas. New commercial development should initially be focused on MLK Boulevard between Georgia Avenue and the railroad trestle. A major development project at either end of this 6-block stretch could help catalyze additional investment in between. This approach is often used in shopping malls and revitalizing commercial areas. Memphis’ historic Beale Street is home to many restaurants and music venues, providing ample night life. A catalytic development project on the western end of the MLK commercial corridor could be a mixed use building on what is now a parking lot at Lindsay Street, across from the Bessie Smith Hall. For a greater measure of success and to ensure patronage, this project should feature a major restaurant (one that focuses on local food specialties) and it should tie to the music venues in the area. A grocery store or other mixed-use retail development could potentially anchor the eastern end of the commercial corridor. Both of these proposed projects are described more fully in the Major New Development section. In the future, after MLK Boulevard has been “filled in” with new commercial buildings, commercial redevelopment can be extended to the south towards 10th and 11th Streets and to the 8th Street area to create a more dynamic mixed-use commercial district. This Birkdale Village Center features housing above retail. Birkdale, NC. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Today, many vacant buildings and underused parking lots can be found on 10th and 11th Streets. In the future, these areas should also include more mixed-use development with businesses on the ground floor and condos and lofts on upper floors. A business incubator with offices and perhaps studio or production space has been suggested in the district. Ideally, this type of use should be located along the district edges in abandoned warehouse space to avoid usurping prime retail space on MLK Boulevard. 46 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use and Development Before The rendering above shows a revitalized portion of MLK Blvd. between Douglas and Mabel Streets. The illustration features new infill construction as well as renovations to existing buildings. Any new development should include a plaza area to provide much-needed public space and a connection to UTC housing. SECTION 3 47 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use and Development UTC Place Housing (Existing) Mixed-Use Infill: Retail on First Floor, Offices and Residential above Historic Buildings - Existing Commercial Public Plaza - Ties in UTC Housing, Residential Mulit-Family Units (Condos, Lofts or Apartments) Goal: Revitalize the MLK Boulevard commercial corridor by rebuilding the Historic District as a destination and attraction while also serving residents of the area. Create a lively, vibrant atmosphere that draws upon the overall downtown population, employees, tourists, and students, in addition to MLK residents, to support both daytime and evening businesses. Recommended Actions for the Commercial Corridor: 1. Develop the western gateway to the district at Lindsay and MLK Boulevard by “expanding” the Bessie Smith Hall area with a City Market and entertainment spaces that encompass both the north and south sides of the street. Consider musical venues and restaurants to bring an evening crowd to the area (See Major New Development Projects). 2. Recruit retail businesses that include attractive storefronts and display windows for the first floor of commercial buildings. 3. Incorporate loft apartments and condos on the upper floors of commercial buildings to support the ground floor shops and businesses and provide housing choices for students, faculty and young professionals. 4. Require a minimum height of two stories for all new buildings along MLK Boulevard and promote architectural forms that complement the National Register District. 5. Adopt an overlay zone, design guidelines, or other design review process to help guide development and offer urban design and preservation advice for the Historic District. Whole Foods Grocery store in Seattle, WA MLK Community PLAN February 2009 48 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Commercial Corridor 6. As a first phase, concentrate redevelopment efforts on one block that has some existing historic buildings as well as some vacant lots for infill. 7. Recruit a Grocery Store to MLK Boulevard at the Greenway. (See Major New Development Projects) 8. Survey UTC students to determine the types of businesses that would draw them to the Boulevard. Nearly 10,000 University students provide a retail market that should not be overlooked. 9. Conduct a reassessment of properties within the Historic District to determine building conditions and redevelopment potential. 10. Conduct fair market appraisals for commercial properties. 11. Promote the use of historic tax credits to encourage the reuse of existing historic buildings. Create a façade improvement program through a local non-profit organization or similar agency. 12. Promote the use of Renewal Community tax incentives to encourage infill development. 13. Study the feasibility of a tax abatement district or Empowerment Zone within the MLK commercial district. 14. Promote a revitalized MLK commercial district to nearby downtown hotels and other visitor attractions. The City Market in Roanoke has been in place since 1882, operating as the oldest established open air market in Virginia. It is open 7 days per week. This illustration demonstrates a venue for evening concerts or small scaled “struts” that make more regular use of the MLK Bessie Smith gateway. The area has great potential for the creation of a large gathering space by occassionally closing off the street. 49 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Commercial Corridor - Parking 15. Develop a marketing strategy that promotes all MLK Boulevard businesses as a cohesive district and creates a plan for coordinated advertising and programming. Hire a “Boulevard” marketing director that is perhaps tied to the Tennessee Multicultural Chamber of Commerce or other non-profit agency. On-street parking Parking - Parking is another critical factor in the revitalization of the MLK commercial corridor. While parking is always a necessary component of retail and office development, urban redevelopment requires different parking solutions. Surrounding a building with large surface parking lots, such as found in suburban areas, simply will not work. Parking lots fronting the major commercial streets in an urban area create gaps, or “dead zones” along the street. Urban commercial streets need to be lined with a continuous row of storefronts to encourage retail activity. Placing parking in front of buildings, while convenient for patrons, destroys that urban historic character described previously. Parking in urban areas should always be located behind the buildings, in the “interior” of the block to maintain a vibrant street edge, in public garages (for longer term visits), or on the street (for quick inand-out trips). Pedestrian passages (such as Jack’s Alley) can be used to access parking lots behind buildings. These passages must be clean and well lighted so pedestrians feel safe. Retail shops and restaurants can also animate these spaces by opening out onto them. Structured parking Four general types of parking should be provided in an urban commercial area to accommodate the different types of users. 1. On-Street Parking should be reserved for customers who plan to stay less than an hour. Customers making bank transactions, visiting a dentist or accounting office, and restaurant patrons fall into this category. On-street spaces should not be occupied by store owners or employees because that makes it more difficult for their customers to find a place to park. 2. Surface parking lots should be provided for customers, employees, and business owners who plan to stay a while, but again, these lots should not front the major commercial streets. In an urban area, surface parking lots should be kept to a minimum to free up property for other development or for park space. 3. Multi-level parking garages also provide long-term parking, but they require higher densities to make them financially feasible. Multi-level garages can cost $12,000 - $15,000 per space to build, so significant parking fees must be charged to pay for their construction. 4. Shared parking is another necessary solution for urban areas. With limited acreage, individual property owners can rarely provide all the parking they need on their lot. Shared parking is therefore necessary, and in urban areas, the variety of uses typically found in any given block make shared parking possible. Offices and retail shops need parking from 8:00am to 5:00pm, while the greatest need for residents, MLK Community PLAN February 2009 50 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Commercial Corridor - Parking movie theaters, and most restaurants is in the evening. A single parking space can fulfill multiple needs. Such shared parking arrangements do require the cooperation of multiple property owners to be successful. Fences and barriers around individual lots must be removed for shared parking to work. A quick survey of the MLK area will reveal many parking lots with such fences. Besides limiting the availability of shared parking, these fences are unsightly and give the perception of a crimeridden area. A good local example of shared parking in an urban area is the North Shore. Property owners along River Street entered into a legal agreement to share their parking. To the average customer, this parking area fronting Coolidge Park looks like a single public parking lot, but in reality it is shared by multiple owners. This shared parking arrangement, along with the recent installation of meters along the street to encourage employees and business owners to make use of longer term parking lots, is an important factor in the success of the North Shore commercial district. As parking lots in the MLK commercial district are assembled for shared use, rehabilitation of these lots should include ample tree plantings, walkways and URBAN FORM: COMMER CIAL MMERCIAL • Parking should be placed to the rear of buildings - make use of shared parking opportunities. • Provide interest at the street edge and sidewalk - consider pedestrian entries, storefront displays and outdoor plazas or dining areas. • If parking lots must front a street, they should be screened from public view with decorative walls or decorative fences and landscaping. • Urban commercial buildings should be a minimum of two stories to accommodate a mix of uses, increase densities, and adequately “frame” the street. • Design new buildings with the historic character in mind. Retain and reuse buildings that are 50 years or older and those that contribute to the overall historic character. Minimum 51 Desired - 1 tree per 5 spaces MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Commercial Corridor - Parking attractive edges to create a “parking orchard” effect. See Appendix on Urban Design Principles for more specifics on urban parking standards. Recommended Actions for Parking: 1. Create shared parking agreements between all property owners in each block. 2. Retain existing on-street parking and include on-street parking in all future street improvement projects to support the local businesses. 3. Remove existing chain link fencing from parking lots. Utilize other means of security such as cameras and video surveillance if needed. 4. Create pedestrian passages at mid-block locations along MLK Boulevard to provide access from storefronts to parking lots behind the commercial buildings. 5. Plant at least one tree for every five parking spaces in all surface lots. 6. Consider locations for structured parking in new developments to offer large scale parking opportunities. Plaza cut-thru example: Terra Nostra on Frazier Avenue Key Points A grocery store, more transit services, and more retail were three top priorities voiced by residents and property owners in the public input meeting for the MLK Plan. Urban Form - Throughout this plan, general standards are recommended for building in urban areas. Property owners, developers and builders should adopt as many of these standards as possible into new construction and renovation projects. Consistently incorporating these standards into MLK projects will result in a more cohesive district that retains its unique urban form and historic character. (See Appendix F for a more detailed list of Urban Design guidelines.) Nashville’s Broadway and 2nd Avenue are examples of a historic district that utilizes design guidance to promote a lively destination that perpetuates the musical heritage of the city. The end result creates a place for work and play, during both day and night. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 52 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use & Development - Housing HOUSING The MLK community is urban and it is mixed use, and these are two of its greatest assets. Its proximity to the Central Business District makes it a desirable place to live for downtown workers wanting a shorter commute, for empty-nesters looking for more cultural offerings close by, and for those wanting to walk, bike or ride transit instead of driving. We must be careful that we do not lose the very thing that attracts people to this area as new infill development occurs. As people move from the suburbs to the central city, the tendency often exists to want the same suburban characteristics they left behind, such as single-family subdivisions and multiple car garages. These suburban attributes are not practical in an urban environment with smaller lots. A diversity of housing is needed to support the nearby businesses. The eastern half of the MLK community is a fairly stable and well defined neighborhood with single family houses, apartments, condos and quadraplexes, although it lacks certain urban qualities such as corner stores, nearby shopping and good transit options for getting about. After several years of investment and renovations, the 8th Street area has become a thriving residential area complete with mature trees and pleasant streets for walking. The area south of MLK Boulevard, consists of a larger percentage of new housing with many vacant lots still awaiting transformation. Density and Services - Density is a good thing. In order to attract a grocery store, increase the frequency of transit services, and support new retail, a significantly larger population is needed in the area. In 2000, the population in the MLK study area was 2,258 (UTC students and elderly housing accounting for 54% of this figure). A recent study by the 53 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Housing Regional Planning Agency determined that, while the combined buying power of all downtown residents could potentially support 27,000 to 40,000 square feet of retail grocery space, inner city markets are often overlooked by retailers. The study went on to say that “to sustain a grocery store that is within walking distance of neighborhood residents, 35 housing units to the acre are considered the minimum necessary, but Chattanooga’s downtown area is not even one-tenth as dense.” Likewise, transit will only work with a minimum average density of 12 dwelling units per acre (preferably more). Very frequent service, such as the Downtown Shuttle, requires significantly higher densities. The MLK residential neighborhood district currently has a residential density of only about 5 units per acre. This does not mean that every residential property must have 12 units per acre, but to balance out the single-family homes, some lots must have even higher densities to achieve a minimum district average of 12 units per acre. Additionally, in the future, due to limited resources and energy saving measures, services such as recycling, garbage pickup, bus routes, or tree plantings may be limited to areas of higher densities and where there are heavy concentrations of businesses. Larger lots on the edges of the residential MLK Community should be zoned to accommodate multi-family developments, such as for-sale townhomes, condos, or small apartment buildings with 8 – 20 units. Smaller buildings, with only 2 to 4 units, could be developed on larger corner lots throughout the community. These buildings can be designed to “fit in” with the existing single-family character of the area. An existing 4-unit dwelling on 8th Street, at the end of Fairview Avenue, is a good example of multi-family housing that fits in with the surrounding single-family homes. The new townhomes on 8th Street near Brown Academy provide another example. This diversity of housing provides opportunities for people of varying incomes to buy into the area. The above examples show various forms for multi-family dwellings, from condos to apartment/quads, or as attached unit townhomes. Key Points “Infill Development” is new development within an already developed area. New buildings are often constructed adjacent to or between existing buildings. Design guidelines should be adopted as part of the zoning regulations to ensure the compatibility of any multi-unit residential development with the existing singlefamily homes. Details such as the setback from the street, exterior materials, porches, the location of parking, building height and roof pitches can be critical and should be carefully considered. Diversity: Home Ownership and Rental Housing - During public meetings, it was stated that maintaining diversity was a prime goal for the area as it develops. This means including a range of housing sizes with prices that are attractive to many types of people - of differing backgrounds, ages and professions. The MLK area features small-scale apartments, quadraplexes and condominiums that sit among single family houses and provide an effective mix of units. The term “multi-family” is often confused with “rental” property. Just because a building has more than one unit does not mean it will be rental property. While a high percentage of rental housing may tend to destabilize a neighborhood, studies show that rental units in an urban neighborhood are very desirable to accommodate young professionals or others who cannot yet afford to purchase a home or want to try out a neighborhood before buying. The fear of rental housing is also often focused on multi-family housing when, in reality, any single-family home can be rented. Renting property is the right of any MLK Community PLAN February 2009 54 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Housing homeowner and is not controlled by zoning. In fact, “exclusionary zoning” regulations, which aim to exclude affordable housing and prevent townhomes and apartments from being built by imposing restrictions such as large minimum lot sizes, have been challenged in court. Often the hesitancy in accepting rentals into the neighborhood mix is a reaction to poor management by absentee or neglectful landlords, combined with a lack of investment, poor maintenance of properties, and other violations that should be addressed by the City’s Neighborhood Services Department. Residential Mulit-Family Units (Condos, Lofts or Apartments) Park Place “School” Condos (Existing) Townhouses with Detached Garages Single-Family Residential w Rear Accessory Unit or Garage Ted. R. Bryant Sr. Park Shared Parking Lot Housing affordability is another growing issue. Many young professionals cannot yet afford the traditional single-family home, but want to be able to buy into these urban neighborhoods. Many retirees do not want the upkeep of a yard and larger home. A broad range of housing types and sizes can provide more affordable housing choices for these people. Given the neighborhood’s proximity to UTC, housing for students and faculty could provide real opportunities for some MLK home owners. Garage apartments, for instance, could be built and rented, providing additional income for the home owner. Zoning regulations would need to be revised to allow garage apartments and strict standards would need to be included to ensure the compatibility of these buildings with the existing homes and to prevent abuses by absentee landlords. Minimum lot sizes should be established and the property owner should be required to live in the primary house in order to rent out a garage apartment. Bed and Breakfast businesses could also provide income opportunities. Parents and visiting faculty would find the area convenient to the university campus and tourists may want to stay close to the MLK commercial district. Built in a grand manner much like houses in nearby Fort Wood, several homes in the MLK neighborhood are large enough to accommodate a small Bed and Breakfast. 55 Example of a historic residential design for use as a single-family dwelling. SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Housing MLK ZONING HISTORY Zoning Tools - Zoning and design guidelines can be good tools to protect urban neighborhoods from incompatible development, but the vast majority of Chattanooga’s zoning ordinance is geared to suburban style development with large lots, deep setbacks and single-use development that is not appropriate for an urban area such as MLK. A new “urban residential zone” is needed to allow some housing diversity in appropriate areas while protecting existing homes from incompatible development. “UTC Place” apartments make up the majority of student housing in the MLK area. Zoning History - Most often, after a community plan is adopted, a zoning study is undertaken to determine the zoning changes needed to support the community’s vision and the adopted plan. In the case of the MLK community, the zoning study was adopted before the plan. This unusual sequence was predicated by some critical zoning needs at the time of the 2003 study. As a result, only a few of the typical zoning changes are recommended to better match zoning categories with existing or proposed land uses. The 2003 MLK Zoning Study resulted in a “down-zoning” of most of the residential core of MLK to R-1 (single-family homes). At the time, the R-1 zone was the only option available to stabilize a neighborhood, such as MLK, that was experiencing a preponderance of multi-family rental housing, much of which was being poorly managed by absentee landlords. 1 U.S. Census Press Releases <http://www.census.gov/PressRelease/www/releases/archives/ children/011507.html> Unfortunately, the R-1 zone (which was created for single-use, suburban subdivisions) does not allow the healthy and diverse mix of housing needed for today’s changing household demographics. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2004 only 61% of households with children were made up of the traditional nuclear family with two parents and two children1. Instead, a growing number of single parent households, single professionals, and empty-nester couples are seeking townhomes, condominiums, and loft apartments. To remain attractive to Multi-family housing on 8th Street MLK Community PLAN February 2009 56 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Housing - Density & Diversity new homebuyers, the MLK community needs this type of housing diversity, especially given its proximity to UTC. USING ZONING TOOLS TO BUILD DENSITY & DIVERSITY A new type of zoning that accommodates the community’s desire for a mixed-use urban district and future development is needed. MLK residents have voiced a strong desire for more frequent transit, a grocery store, and other neighborhood services. These types of amenities will only come to an area with a population density that can support them. Currently, the MLK community does not have enough population, and single-family homes alone will not achieve that population. A greater number of residents and a range of housing are needed. In order for this to occur, zoning must be designed to encourage urban development, density and diversity. These new Southside houses feature tall, narrow designs. This design is perfect for infill projects, as it allows more residents into the area and increases density. They are also“Earthraft” certified energy efficient homes. To do this, a different zoning category is needed that allows housing diversity while requiring some design considerations to ensure compatibility with the existing single-family homes. Currently, such a zoning category does not exist in Chattanooga. The Regional Planning Agency plans to create a new “urban residential zone” that could be applied to parts of MLK and other center city neighborhoods. Close attention to the form, size, and design of housing as well as parking and landscaping will be necessary in this new zoning category. When this new zone is created, appropriate properties in the MLK area should be considered for re-zoning to allow some housing diversity. The proposed MLK Communty Plan development map illustrates the potential of approximately 260 new housing units. This number could increase as upper floors and extra stories are renovated, built, and occupied to bring needed population increases and activity to the area once again. Additionally, MLK residents have expressed interest in a design review process that addresses the built form of new projects, such as multifamily or commercial development to ensure quality and consistency that reflects MLK’s unique character. Some design review processes are in place in other parts of the City, and they have proven over time to be an effective aid in maintaining urban character (see Section 4). Goal: Increase the density and number of residents in the MLK Community to support urban amenities like transit, parks and nearby shopping, by building a diversity of housing types. Adopt zoning that allows such development. Recommended Actions for Housing: 1. Build single-family homes on the smaller vacant lots. 2. Build higher density housing, such as condos, townhouses, lofts, quads and small apartment buildings on larger corner lots and on the major streets where parking can be accommodated. 3. Create a new “urban residential zone” that will allow some housing diversity while protecting existing homes from incompatible development. 57 The above structures illustrate the potential for garage apartments or studios as accessory units to provide additional housing in the MLK area. SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Housing 4. Revise the Zoning Ordinance to allow accessory units such as garage apartments or studios, if the primary residence is occupied by the property owner. 5. Identify larger, corner properties for bed and breakfast lodging that could serve parents visiting the UTC campus. 6. Incorporate housing above offices or retail whenever possible. Large historic properties may be renovated as Bed & Breakfast lodging and established in MLK on a limited basis. URBAN FORM: HOUSING • Encourage 2-story structures that utilize narrow lot designs and facilitate higher densities. Consider multi-family dwellings such as condos and townhouses on larger lots. • Housing designs should be based on building types that complement the existing architectural qualities of the area including porches, foundations, detailing and materials. • Utilize detached garages and alley access when possible to limit driveways on the street and maintain a continuous street frontage of housing. • Parking should be to the rear and no front yards should be paved over. • Consider the use of accessory units such as garage apartments, studio efficiencies, or small “cottages” in new construction and among existing housing. • New development should feature landscaping and trees to add to the overall street canopy and greening of the neighborhood. • Front yard fences should not be over four feet high and should not include chain link fences. Alley Shared driveways and narrow lot designs are improved by alley access. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 58 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Employment and Manufacturing Most of the southern edge of the MLK Community contains a mix of what may be considered “light manufacturing.” At the turn of the twentieth century, the area south of 11th Street was a thriving industrial area tied to the railroads, with surrounding neighborhoods of worker housing known as Onion Bottom, Stone Fort quarry to the west, and the Park Place “subdivision” to the east. The area to the west of Baldwin Street was peppered with mills such as Davenport Hosiery and the Mountain City Mill, as well as a foundry near the old Farmer’s Market site. Today, many warehouses still remain. Agricultural businesses exist within the district, such as Dixie Produce and P& P Produce. Some businesses serve as distributors of parts or building goods such as Independent Glass and Silvey Metalworks. The City Yards houses the City fleet, other materials storage and a fueling station for city vehicles. Central Avenue provides direct transportation connections for these businesses to areas outside of the downtown. Older industrial buildings and warehouses may also be rehabilitated for use as offices, retail or housing. This allows for a better transition between manufacturing and residential neighborhoods while also preserving the history of the area. Future plans for this area should promote a stronger integration of these businesses into the community framework. Most of the existing “industries” in the MLK area are relatively “clean”, although many do include outdoor storage, trucking and warehousing. While the area should remain a location for light industry and warehousing, consideration must be given to the changing needs of the neighborhood. A significant increase in landscaping around and within industrial properties can improve the visual quality of the community and reduce conflicts between businesses and residents. Goal: Better integrate existing and new industrial businesses with the MLK community to lessen negative impacts. Recommended Actions for Manufacturing: 1. SECTION Revise any industrial zoning for properties that are now being occupied by other uses. 59 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Employment and Manufacturing 2. Use landscaping, decorative fencing, and façade improvements to enhance the visual appearance of industrial businesses with careful attention given to the public realm and street edges. Focus on the 10th and 11th Street area for improvement and offer programs or partnerships to encourage beautification such as awards or adopt-a-spot programs. URBAN FORM: MANUF AC TURI NG MANUFA TURIN • Front entries and street facades that are in public view should have the most detailing and architectural emphasis with the use of facings, masonry, decorative windows and doors as well as landscaping, awnings and appropriate signage. • Vegetated buffers and screening should be maintained for a tidy appearance and to keep unsightly equipment and storage items out of public view. • Example of parking that is screened to enhance the street edge at the Times-Free Press Building Parking should be placed to the rear or side and the street edge enhanced with hedges, decorative fencing or a wall, especially for large expansive parking lots. Chain link fencing should never be used along the street. Social Services - The MLK Community is home to a variety of organizations providing social services including those housed in the 170,000 square foot state office building, those that are on-site church ministries, administrative offices for community-wide organizations, and shelters for homeless individuals and families. The types of services offered by these organizations range widely, from providing counseling for families in need, to providing basic necessary essentials such as food and shelter to those who cannot provide for themselves. Chattanooga Community Kitchen MLK Community PLAN February 2009 As the type of services offered by these organizations vary, so too does their function. Some facilities operate as administrative offices and offer no other services on-site while another, the Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency (SETHRA,) will operate as a regional transit hub. 60 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Social Service Organizations Goal: Strive to keep the diversity and healthy balance of uses that is an asset of this mixed-use urban neighborhood. Recommended Actions for Social Services: 1. Because of their varying nature, scale, and function, social service organizations can not be treated with a broad brush. The C-3 Central Business District zoning designation found in the western portion of the MLK community permits a wide range of uses by right (meaning that a need for a rezoning request or request for a special permit may not be triggered). Rezoning requests and/or special permit requests for many social service uses are more likely to occur in the R-1 Residential Area. However, maintaining the integrity of the R-1 Singlefamily residential neighborhood core particularly between 8th and 10th Streets is recommended. The Chattanooga Rescue Mission is currently sited in the MLK community. This organization is moving outside the community to Holtzclaw Avenue in 2009. SECTION 3 61 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Land Use & Development - Major New Projects View looking north from Bessie Smith Hall at MLK Boulevard and Lindsay Street. This western gateway development includes an expanded park area, market stalls for artists and vendors, and a mixed use, multi-story building. MLK GATEWAY at BESSIE SMITH HALL & PATTEN PARKWAY The Bessie Smith Hall and Chattanooga African American Museum sit at an important gateway to the MLK community, but this block lacks enough activity to draw people from the CBD into the MLK district. A new mixed use development that takes advantage of its proximity to the CBD, Patten Parkway, and Warehouse Row should be built on the parking lot directly across MLK Boulevard from the Bessie Smith Hall. The green lawn in front of the Hall can be “expanded” across the street and framed by new buildings, creating an outdoor “room” for festivals and entertainment that can draw visitors up the “Boulevard” and into the Historic District’s new shops, restaurants, and concert halls that focus on southern culture and African-American traditions. Visitors at the Convention Center, Stone Fort Inn, the Chattanooga Choo Choo, the Chattanoogan, and Warehouse Row will be within a short walking distance of these activities. Additionally, stronger pedestrian links to UTC along Lindsay and Vine Streets can bring more University students to this new Gateway location. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 62 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects Extended Public Park Space Market Stalls New Infill: Residential Lofts/Apartments New Retail and/or Offices Existing Historic: Caffeine/Big Ben’s New Retail: Restaurant or Cultural Venue Bessie Smith Hall & Afr. Amer. Museum Parking Garage New Commercial: Mixed-use Infill In the early 1900’s, Patten Parkway was a city market. This new gateway development should also build on that tradition by including decorative outdoor sheds or stalls for selling organic produce and local art. The new development should incorporate green building practices, including retaining the large trees along MLK Boulevard. Public art and colorful banners can further animate the gateway. Recommended Actions: 1. Identify and recruit partners to invest in a new gateway development at MLK Boulevard and Lindsay Street that could include a major retailer, smaller spaces for local shops and offices, and housing on the upper floors. 2. Include green space in the new gateway development to “extend” the lawn in front of the Bessie Smith Hall. 3. Add a strong vertical element such as a public art sculpture or tower to visually identify the area. Include other public art amenities such as banners, murals, or sculptural elements that play on the musical theme and African American traditions An example of “Market Stalls” as shown in the model above, featuring stationary stalls that are easily filled by vendors and artists on a daily basis. SECTION 3 63 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects The development above represents a Mixed-Use anchor for the eastern part of the MLK Commercial Corridor. It should feature a Grocery Store and other businesses that could serve nearby residents. COMMERCIAL ANCHOR - GROCERY STORE & NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER Grocery stores ranked as the number one thing that MLK residents, businesses and students said they wanted to see in their neighborhood. In fact, grocery stores within walking distance consistently rank near the top of the wish list for every center city neighborhood in Chattanooga. Inner city areas have historically been underserved by grocery stores, since the exodus to the suburbs began after WWII. As mentioned previously, the recent study conducted by the Regional Planning Agency indicated the overall downtown area population could potentially support a medium size grocery store. The typical “big box” store found in outlying areas cannot be supported and would not be an appropriate model for the MLK urban area. If located in the MLK community, this grocery store should be located on either McCallie Avenue or MLK Boulevard to take advantage of the commuter traffic. Both streets have similar daily traffic volumes. A location adjacent to the Greenway, on either street, would provide safe pedestrian access and be convenient to both the residential and commercial districts of the MLK community. In 2007, the UTC MLK Community PLAN February 2009 64 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects Mixed-Use: Office and Retail Space Existing Historic Buildings Grocery Store & Mixed-Use Commercial Space: Retail, Offices and Services Public Arcade w Access to Parking in the Rear & Transit Stop on MLK Blvd. Parking Structure behind Kingdom Center Park Space, Greenway, and Pedestrian Connection Mixed-Use: Retail and Residential Native Species Stormwater “Park” campus had 2,747 units of student housing that, when added to the MLK residents and area workers, creates a substantial pattern of pedestrian traffic for a new grocery store. The building should be two or three stories to form a prominent community landmark and serve as an “anchor” development project for the commercial corridor. Along with the grocery store, other retail shops, neighborhood services, and perhaps loft housing should be included as part of this mixed use development. It could also include facilities for after-school and leisure programs for children and the elderly and serve as a community center. With the UTC SimCenter nearby and the Chattanooga Area Urban League at the “Kingdom Center”, there is also an opportunity to bring together educators and services for the community such as daycare, youth programs, adult education, and music studios. The University may play a role by coordinating student programs and classes. A full-service grocery store may also lessen the responsibility and need for UTC to provide such an extensive array of on-campus food services to students. Recommended Actions: 1. Initiate a detailed marketing study to analyze the feasibility of potential grocery store locations. Locations to be studied should be near the Greenway on either McCallie Avenue or MLK Boulevard and large enough to allow adequate parking. 2. Include a transit stop, park or plaza for outdoor dining in the development. SECTION 3 65 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects FARMERS MARKET SITE – COMMUNITY SERVICES CENTER Given the existing concentration of services on Eleventh Street, the Farmers Market site was chosen as the location to coordinate services for the homeless and promote their transition from the streets to permanent housing. Given the controversy surrounding this decision, it is important to provide some background information about the intended use of the site and its evolution. Currently, the city’s homeless services are deficient in three areas: 1. Adequate access to services/permanent housing 2. Extended follow-up support to ensure positive outcomes 3. A strategic planning and program evaluation system (based on high quality data and documentation) to enable continuous improvement Considering the critical need to improve access to services and housing, the centralized facility approach was adopted to address these gaps. As the design of a centralized facility progressed, the emphasis shifted from bricks and mortar to an integrated system of care leading to permanent housing. Providing a centralized location where services can be provided to start that transition, will make it less tedious for homeless individuals and families to access services. The Farmers Market property is not intended to be (nor should it be) the only community effort to end homelessness; merely one of the many pieces to help solve a complicated puzzle. The Farmers Market site will include employment, training and transportation services through new and existing providers, including SETHRA and the Interfaith Homeless Network. A new downtown police station will anchor the corner of 11th and Baldwin Streets. The existing buildings along 11th Street may be reused, as well as the large warehouse on 12th Street. Additionally, the MLK Plan recommends the following elements to better integrate the facilities with the existing community. • New buildings should draw upon the historic character of the old Farmers Market and the residential and light industrial character of the area. • Any new buildings that front 11th Street should be two or three stories to architecturally “frame the street” and provide opportunities for a mix of uses. Parking should not be located between the buildings and the street. Instead, any new buildings should front directly on the sidewalk. Buildings that are set back from the sidewalk should provide outdoor cafes to promote pedestrian activity. • Capitalize on the proximity of P & P produce, as well as the legacy of the Farmers Market, with community gardens and restaurants featuring locally grown food. These uses could also provide training and employment opportunities for the homeless. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 66 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects • Streetcape improvements should include trees, lighting, and other pedestrian amenities. • Retail businesses that also serve MLK residents and downtown workers should be recruited to provide a mix of uses on the site. • A well-designed green space with clear and easy access by the public should be included on the site. This green space could include community gardens. • All facilities on the site should be sustainable, incorporating elements such as green roofs, recycled materials, rainwater collection, natural daylight, and energy efficiency. LEED certification should be a goal. • The southernmost portion of the site (adjacent to the railroad) and the southern edge of the neighboring property to the west should be planted with trees and native species to form a bioremediation habitat. • Given the industrial heritage of the area, an 11th Street location would be ideal for a future UTC Industrial Arts program. Such a program near the Farmers Market site could provide training for area craftsmen, artisans, teachers and product designers as well as for those in need of new skills in metal works, cabinetry, or furniture design. Partnerships with local schools, such as Howard High School, could also provide industrial arts training for younger students. • A “Community Input Studio” could provide a space and forum for MLK residents and merchants, service providers and their clients, and students to openly discuss the challenges faced by the MLK community. BRIGHTBRIDGE, INC. and EAST OF CENTRAL AVENUE Brightbridge, Inc (formerly the Southeast Local Development Corporation) owns over 10 acres bounded by Central Avenue, MLK Boulevard, the railroad yards and 10th Street, including the former Cavalier manufacturing site. These major streets and the railroad essentially “isolate” this area from the rest of the MLK community. Most of the houses have been demolished leaving a large area for future redevelopment. The location offers good regional connections via Central Avenue and provides a great opportunity to bring additional employment, training and even higher density housing to this often overlooked area of the MLK community. A variety of uses could be appropriate on this site including higher density housing, offices, light manufacturing or warehousing. Single-family housing is not likely because of the proximity to the railroad yards and the “isolated” nature of the area. Developing retail businesses on this site would also be difficult because the 67 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects topography drops off quickly from Central Avenue and MLK Boulevard. Any new large scale development should consider vehicular access and the possibility of connecting to O’Neal Street to discourage traffic through the residential areas. Sorority Row in Charleston, SC The area between 10th and 11th Streets has been approved for fraternity and sorority houses. While a location closer to the university campus and the CBD would be preferable for this use, the UT system has not given approval for an on-campus location. Having been delayed for a long time, the fraternities and sororities want to move forward with this private development project east of Central Avenue. Any new fraternity housing in this area should be designed to allow a transition from group housing to market rate housing such as condos, apartments or townhouses in the future. UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE at CHATTANOOGA Many participants acknowledged the interdependent nature of the University and the MLK community and they saw it as a great opportunity to influence the redevelopment of the area. In recent years, the University has engaged in several projects in the MLK community including the development of 423 units of new student housing, Brown Academy, the Community Outreach Partnership Center (COPC), and the first phase of the Downtown Greenway. Unfortunately, some respondents felt that the gap between UTC and the MLK community appears to be growing wider, despite new efforts to bring students farther south into the district. A breakdown in community connections, both physically and socially was identified by stakeholders and students. Many noted that more partnerships were needed to bring a college feel to the MLK district and create a “town and gown” relationship. The University will soon embark on a new campus master plan that will be based on sustainability principles and reflect the University’s goal to become an increasingly MLK Community PLAN February 2009 68 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects - UTC residentially based campus. It is anticipated that the new master plan will use existing University property to meet its academic and residential needs. With the University’s emphasis on creating a green, pedestrian oriented campus, there should be less emphasis on creating new surface parking and more emphasis on multimodel forms of transportation. The master plan should also respect the integrity of the neighborhoods that border the University while exploring new ways the institution can connect to downtown and close-by commercial activity. The University should work to assure that its new master plan is respectful and consistent with the ideas and vision of the neighborhoods and districts it adjoins. The University should steer any new development projects (other than the intramural fields at the former Engel Stadium) to the south or west to generate economic activity in the MLK community and the CBD. Community programs and shared classrooms could foster a more engaged role for both partners. Enhanced north - south pedestrian connections along Lindsay, Douglas, and Palmetto Streets can also promote more interaction between students, faculty, and MLK residents. The NCAA track and field complex planned for the Engel Stadium area will provide an outstanding facility for sports events and a place for MLK residents to walk to for outdoor exercise. It also provides an important park-n-ride spot for those utilizing the Mocs Express to get to classes and the main campus. Banners such as these should be placed on campus and throughout the MLK Community. Campus Identity & Connections - The UTC campus currently lacks a clear identity. Monument signs could mark major gateways into the campus. Colorful banners along McCallie Avenue and crosswalks painted blue and gold can animate this important corridor. Industrial Arts Program - Some faculty members have suggested an industrial arts program be added to the UTC curriculum. Given the manufacturing history along the southern edge of the MLK community, some classrooms and working studios located in this area could build on this tradition and foster a unique partnership between the University and community. Such a program could also provide training for vocational skills and provide work space for craftsmen and artists in wood working, metal works, furniture making, product design, glass and textiles. Performing Arts - An opportunity may also exist to bring performing arts to the “Boulevard” through the University. When surveyed, UTC students expressed an interest in more music venues along MLK Boulevard and at the Bessie Smith Hall. UTC has indicated its willingness to explore the possibility of locating portions of its music and other fine and performing arts programs in UTC owned buildings on MLK Boulevard. It is anticipated that the SimCenter and its programs will be relocated within the next five years to a new site as that program grows to become the National Center for Computational Engineering. The buildings currently used by the SimCenter can be converted for use by the fine and performing arts programs to provide an anchor at the eastern end of the MLK commercial corridor, thereby providing an on-going institutional presence that is compatible with the community’s vision for the area. Having a constant and consistent presence of UTC students on MLK Boulevard is one of the critical ingredients to its revitalization as a vital commercial street. 69 MLK residents stated that the UTC campus provides a “park-like” atmosphere for walks and serves as a destination-point in their exercise routes. SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects - UTC Fraternities and Sororities - Several fraternities and sororities have been “looking for a home” for a few years. An on-campus location would be ideal as the “festive” nature of these organizations can sometimes create conflicts with neighborhood residents. A “Greek Row” or clustering of fraternities and sororities can provide benefits such as shared space for parking, festivals or fundraising. If located along Vine Street, near Lindsay and Douglas, these fraternal organizations would also provide a boost to commercial businesses in the CBD and MLK. Whatever their physical location, fraternities, sororities and other similar organizations, should take a more active role in MLK neighborhood activities. The young may assist the old, and students may find a “home away from home” in their MLK elders, churches and neighborhood residents. UTC students utilizing a crosswalk on McCallie Avenue. Food – Groceries & Restaurants - Besides participating in concessions and vendor opportunities on campus, a real opportunity exits for MLK entrepreneurs to provide the types of restaurants and healthy grocery products that would attract students, as well as offering some southern favorites unique to MLK. When asked about increasing their purchasing in the MLK area, students noted that the ability to use their UTC meal card off-campus at nearby restaurants would also increase the frequency of their visits to the MLK area. Goal: Increase involvement and partnerships between the MLK community and UTC. Recommended Actions: 1. Schedule monthly meetings between UTC, MLK and other community stakeholders to form partnerships on projects and report on progress. 2. Partner with UTC to develop community programs or shared classrooms, neighborhood parks, transit, or commercial businesses. 3. Initiate a UTC banner program along McCallie Avenue and at other key locations. 4. Study the feasibility of an Industrial Arts Program at UTC with classroom and studio space located in the southern portion of the MLK community. 5. Study the feasibility of incorporating music studios along MLK Boulevard as part of UTC’s performing arts programs. 6. Consider ways to promote the shared use of Engel Stadium and the proposed NCAA track and field area by MLK residents. 7. Pursue a location on Vine Street, near Lindsay and Douglas, for new fraternity and sorority housing to form a more permanent “Greek Row” atmosphere near or on campus. 8. Recruit new restaurants and grocers that would appeal to the UTC student population and encourage them to accept student meal cards for purchases. Urban grocery store example. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 70 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Major New Projects - UTC 9. Encourage parking garages and multi-modal forms of transportation to reduce the need for surface parking lots in and around the UTC campus. 10. Improve pedestrian connections to this area along O’Neal Street and Central Avenue. Mixed Use - New Commercial and Residential Townhouse or Condominium Opportunities “Greek Row” Fraternal Housing Public Gathering Space UTC Housing: Dormatories or Apartment Units Direct Connection to UTC via Vine St. Direct Connection to Bessie Smith Gateway via Lindsay St. SECTION 3 71 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation THE STREET NETWORK Over the past decade, Chattanooga has experienced a shift in development patterns as reflected in the growing residential and commercial markets in downtown and adjacent neighborhoods. Additionally, the community has become increasingly aware of the environmental impacts of its daily actions, including commutes to work or school. Thanks to existing infrastructure, location and demographics, the MLK community is in a prime position to capitalize upon these shifts and the transportation network will play a vital role in this transition. An effective urban transportation system must offer a balance of options, particularly for those who cannot, or choose not to, drive a car. Urban neighborhoods have a competitive advantage because their density and mix of uses make transit feasible, promote walking, and help create a more sustainable community. For MLK, this translates into a larger commercial base; increased connectivity to downtown, UTC and other neighbors; and an improved quality of life for residents. The foundation of a good transportation system is in place in the MLK community, but participants identified some concerns including pedestrian safety, vehicular speed, traffic noise, absence of bicycle routes and racks, the lack of an efficient CARTA connection to the CBD, and poor signage. Addressing these issues will help revitalize the area as a vibrant and sustainable urban neighborhood in the larger context of downtown Chattanooga. Major Streets - In today’s auto-oriented environment, maintaining a properly functioning and efficient street network is a primary concern, but it is essential to embrace streets as more than just corridors for cars and trucks. They should be designed to also accommodate transit, bicycles, and pedestrians and to support local commercial districts through a MLK Community PLAN February 2009 72 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation - The Street Network The only significant change needed in the MLK street network is the conversion of sections of Lindsay and Houston Streets to two-way. Doing so will provide more direct routes to destinations and increase access for businesses, while creating an environment more conducive to pedestrians. The southernmost block of Lindsay Street is currently being reconfigured to provide more on-street parking to serve Warehouse Row. Further north on Lindsay and Houston, one side of the existing on-street parking may need to be removed to accommodate two-way traffic, but doing so would improve street connections in the downtown and maximize the use of the intersections at Riverfront Parkway. Fortunately, the MLK area has a good street network in place that facilitates both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. This grid formation of streets and blocks allows traffic to be dispersed among multiple streets, rather than all traffic being funneled onto one or two large congested thoroughfares as often happens in the suburbs. It is important to preserve and make the best use of this street grid for optimum efficiency. By minimizing dead end streets, one-way streets, and alley closures, the mobility of the area can be maximized and traffic can flow without obstructions or confusion. Residents identified neighborhood streets such as Palmetto, Park and Magnolia as good walking streets. This may be attributed to the natural traffic calming that these “cranky” streets provide as they jag left and right through the district. Keeping traffic speed down on the neighborhood streets is important and additional measures may be needed for key streets like 10th and 11th. Lindsay, 10th, 11th and Houston Streets provide access to Warehouse Row and the CBD, but their one-way designation causes difficulty in getting around, especially for outof-town visitors. Major and minor streets are highlighted here to illustrate existing street network and the urban grid. SECTION 3 73 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation vibrant and active public realm. These roles are equally vital to the well-being of a commercial district and residential neighborhood. Recommended Actions for Streets: 1. MLK Boulevard Commercial Area Convert portions of Lindsay and Houston Streets to two-way. Alleys - Alleys are also an important link in the street network of a community, especially one in an urban area, and they provide a number of benefits for both residents and commercial businesses. Alleys provide access to parking behind the buildings, alleviating the need for curb cuts (driveways) on the major streets. Numerous curb cuts actually worsen traffic congestion by increasing in-and-out traffic along a corridor. Curb cuts also decrease pedestrian safety as cars pulling out from between buildings conflict with foot traffic on the sidewalks. Limiting curb cuts and using alleys also helps improve the aesthetic appeal of a street. Residential streets lined with driveways and garages do not have good “curb appeal.” Similarly, numerous curb cuts and parking lots fronting commercial streets reduce their retail potential by creating “dead zones” along the street. Commercial streets should be thought of in the same way as a shopping mall. Empty storefronts and gaps in the retail frontage are always avoided. Keeping a shopper’s interest requires a continuous line of storefronts. Business owners often worry about the loss of customers if parking is placed behind the buildings, but retail developers across the country are finding that maintaining a continuous line of storefronts is more important, and parking behind the buildings can be easily accessed via pedestrian passages between the buildings. Alleys also provide a convenient place for municipal services such as garbage pickup and utility lines, eliminating the need for overhead wires and trash bags lining the city streets. Recommended Actions for Alleys: 1. Retain existing alleys and improve those that need resurfacing or the clearing of brush. 2. Prevent new curb cuts (driveways) on McCallie Avenue and MLK Boulevard and require the use of alleys, where they exist, for vehicular access to businesses. 3. Require the use of alleys, where they exist, for vehicular access to residential developments. Alleys serve multiple purposes, including providing connectivity and access. In today’s climate of rising fuel prices and environmental concerns, walking, biking and public transit are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to the automobile. Not only can these alternatives save money, they also reduce air pollution and improve our health by getting us out of our cars and walking more. Additionally, as the baby boomers age, more seniors will be looking for alternatives to driving. Neighborhoods like MLK, that have the density and mix of uses to support these alternatives, will have a significant competitive advantage over more sprawling, low density suburban communities in the future. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 74 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation - Transit Goal: Increase the number of transportation options in the MLK community, particularly for the young and the elderly. Transit - Transit can provide a viable option for those who cannot or simply choose not to rely on an automobile as their primary means of transportation. As seen with the Downtown electric shuttle, transit can also be an economic stimulus, but some specific elements must be in place for transit to work. Effective transit systems require average housing densities of at least 12 units per acre. Even higher densities, coupled with a concentration of commercial businesses and other destinations, are required for more frequent service like the Downtown shuttle. Some higher density housing in the MLK community will therefore be necessary if residents and businesses want access to an efficient transit system. While the idea of higher densities raises concerns from many residents, it is important to understand that higher densities do not have to equate with lower quality buildings or a preponderance of rental housing. On the contrary, a balanced mix of for-sale townhomes or condominiums and small apartment buildings or garage apartments can be well designed to fit in with the surrounding single-family homes and contribute to a more stable community over time. Both the support of, and the need for, additional transportation options will develop proportionally with an increase in population in the MLK community. The MLK community is currently served by #4, #7, #13 and #14 routes, however, a timely connection with the CBD is lacking. Buses on the #4 and #13 routes run on large loops which make a frequent connection to downtown very difficult. A neighborhood circulator route could provide more frequent service while also integrating UTC with the overall transit network and the MLK neighborhood. A route running east on MLK Boulevard and south on King Street would serve as a natural east-west extension for workforce concentrations along MLK Boulevard. Additionally, it would conveniently connect the area to Shuttle Park South on Market Street and the Downtown Electric Shuttle. The extension of Downtown’s free Electric Shuttle to cover the MLK Boulevard commercial corridor would be invaluable for the area, as it would reestablish the “Boulevard” as a true destination for locals and tourists alike. But until a major commercial anchor or cultural destination is in place, along with significantly increased numbers of residents and visitors in the area, extending the Downtown Shuttle to MLK will not be possible. Although, given time and the rise of a major development in the Westside, an east/west electric shuttle may be more feasible. A neighborhood route, working with UTC’s Mocs Express or a private service may be a better option for the district in the short term. Both existing and new routes would be strengthened with quality transit shelters, signs marking all bus stops, clear and legible maps and schedules, modern transit technology, and more effective marketing. A concerted effort should be made to raise the general awareness of CARTA services. An updated website with real-time route information and an interactive wayfinding map would be an excellent tool for increasing ridership and serving the MLK community. The #14 MOCS Express has seen a significant increase in ridership over recent years as the University transitions from a commuter campus to a more traditional university with many students living on campus. As this trend continues and 75 CARTA’s Free Electric Shuttle serves the Downtown CBD from the Aquarium to the Choo-Choo, and north to Frazier Avenue. Future routes should consider East/West needs between the Westside, the Riverfront and the MLK area. SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation demand grows, an increased University presence in the neighborhood would provide a valuable influx of customers to businesses along the MLK commercial corridor and increase demand for services like a grocery. Providing convenient transfer points from the MOCS Express to CARTA’s main line bus routes will greatly improve mobility of the student population and potentially strengthen the customer base for MLK businesses. This major bus stop without signage or shelter at 12th and Market Streets illustrates the need for improvements to transit services. Key Points Nationally, Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT’s), or number of miles driven, has grown tremendously. Americans are spending more time in their cars than ever before according to the Federal Highway Administration. Recommended Actions for Transit: 1. Improve transit connectivity between downtown, the MLK community and UTC with the addition of a neighborhood circulator route that would extend from downtown to Warner Park. 2. Zone appropriate properties on the edge of the residential neighborhood or on large corner lots for higher density housing, and encourage loft housing in all multi-story commercial buildings to increase the overall average housing density in the MLK community to support transit. 3. Provide transit shelters at key locations. Provide signage, easily legible maps and current schedules at all major transit stops. 4. Study the feasibility of an Automated Vehicle Location System with real time route information at transit stops and online to show bus arrival times. 5. Initiate a transit marketing campaign to increase community awareness of CARTA services. Potential ways to reduce VMTs: • 4-day work week or telecommuting • Using Alternative modes of Transportation • Ridesharing and carpooling MLK Community PLAN February 2009 76 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation - Pedestrians Pedestrian activity should be made a priority in the MLK area with enhancements made throughout the district, especially where sidewalks need repair as shown above. This Fort Wood streetscape below both enhances property value and encourages pedestrian traffic while preserving local heritage. Pedestrians - A safe and comfortable pedestrian network improves connectivity, promotes healthy lifestyles, supports ground floor retail and restaurants by animating the sidewalks, and increases the visual appeal of any community. Sidewalks are plentiful in the MLK community, but some streetscape improvements would strengthen the pedestrian network and provide a broad range of benefits to residents.Trees planted along every street will provide needed shade and improve the “curb appeal” of the community. Well marked crosswalks, pedestrian lighting where needed, and wayfinding signage will encourage walking and support MLK businesses. The adopted Downtown Plan, which included the MLK area, defines the appropriate streetscape improvements throughout the downtown area. Any future street or sidewalk improvements in the MLK community should follow this streetscape policy guide (See Public Realm - Streetscape and Sidewalks for additional streetscape information). A quarter-mile is an accepted measure of the distance people are generally willing to walk to a destination. Areas within a quarter-mile of commercial centers, schools, parks and other major community destinations should be given priority for any sidewalk improvements. Pedestrian safety can be addressed by lowering vehicular speeds and establishing street-sidewalk “barriers.” On-street parking does both. In addition to supporting local businesses, on-street parking provides a layer of protection between pedestrians on the sidewalk and cars traveling along the street. Cars parked along 77 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Transportation the street also help “calm” traffic as motorists must watch for opening car doors and cars pulling out of on-street spaces. For these reasons, the existing on-street parking spaces in the MLK area should be retained. Sidewalk “bump outs” at intersections also increase pedestrian safety by shortening the crossing distance, while providing some protection for cars parked along the street. Recommended Actions for Pedestrians: 1. Mark all crosswalks throughout the MLK community. 2. Retain existing on-street parking. 3. Include sidewalk bump-outs in all street and sidewalk construction projects where appropriate. Bicycles - Bicycles are gaining popularity in Chattanooga as a viable means of transportation. Given MLK’s demographics, proximity to downtown and the general distances between major destinations, the neighborhood lends itself to biking. Approximately 60 percent of neighborhood residents fall within the highest demographic of cyclists, ages 18 to 35. Amenities must be in place to support cycling. Benches, bike racks, and air pumps would make commuting easier and more convenient for riders. All bicycle routes and other improvements should be made in accordance with the Chattanooga Bicycle Master Plan. Some designated routes may need to be reconsidered, however, as the Bicycle Master Plan was adopted prior to the conversion of McCallie and MLK to two-way traffic. While most cyclists would prefer dedicated bicycle lanes, many urban streets are not wide enough to accommodate them. Shared bicycle routes may be necessary along many streets in the MLK area. Having shared lanes on McCallie Avenue would accommodate east-west traffic, and shared lanes on Palmetto and Douglas Streets would help expand the bicycle system into the northern and southern areas of the community. Recommended Actions for Bicycles: 1. Develop future changes in accordance with the Chattanooga Bicycle Master Plan. 2. Install a shared travel lane with “share the road” signs along McCallie Avenue. 3. Install shared travel lanes along Palmetto Street and Douglas Street. 4. Place amenities such as benches and bike racks at new commercial developments, key destinations, and major areas of interest. 5. Complementary elements, such as a public education program or employee and student incentive programs, should also be undertaken to increase general awareness and encourage cycling. Rail - With the rise in fuel prices spurring a rethinking of how we travel, plans are currently being studied for a high speed rail service between AtlantaChattanooga-Nashville and beyond. Economic and efficient high speed rail may not be far off. Because of its proximity to downtown and existing rail lines, the MLK community could play an integral role in Chattanooga’s future rail service. Neighborhood leaders should monitor this situation and position themselves to encourage and accommodatethis future growth. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 78 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm A major public space sits at the Chattanooga African American Museum and the Bessie Smith Hall as a Gatweway into the MLK Community. PUBLIC SPACE Public realm includes sidewalks, parks and plazas, greenways, streets and sidewalks, and public buildings. These public spaces belong to everyone. It’s where we gather, where we relax, where we play, where we express ourselves, and every single day it’s where we move about the city, whether in a car, on foot, or on a bicycle. Successful downtowns and urban neighborhoods have quality public spaces. Public spaces are often what visitors remember about a city. They are places that encourage interaction, promote rituals, evoke imagination, stimulate celebrations and foster community spirit. Public spaces must be inclusive and democratic, a place for idea sharing, celebrations and human interaction. Public spaces can also be vital to the ecological health of a city. They provide important habitat for animals. Trees help clean the air and provide valuable shade during the scorching months of the Southern summer. Forested areas help cool the City, and natural areas provide opportunities for recreation and harmony with native wildlife. Additionally, quality public spaces can add economic value to a district. Great public spaces can serve as catalysts for business and increase the value of adjacent properties. One needs look no further than Coolidge Park and Frazier Avenue to verify this fact. An example of a colorful, urban sidewalk and street cafe. SECTION 3 79 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Streets This plaza in downtown Knoxville provides a rich public realm experience that features seating, walking, dining, shopping and green space. Streetscape and Sidewalks - Streets are our most important public spaces. Most of us, and particularly visitors, experience a city from the street, whether in a car, on foot, on a bicycle or on a bus. Careful attention must therefore be given to the design of our streets and sidewalks. Street can be thought of as an outdoor room with the facades of buildings forming the walls to that room. For that reason, even the design of private buildings has a direct impact on the quality of these most important public spaces. When assessing transportation infrastructure in an urban setting, it is essential to embrace the concept of streets as livable streets and more than simply corridors for cars and trucks. These roles are equally vital to the wellbeing of a commercial district or residential neighborhood. Along with handling the flow of traffic, streets also support local commercial districts through the creation of a vibrant and active public realm. Furthermore, livable streets serve as a center for community life. As previously discussed, ‘the Boulevard’ will always be tied to its rich history of street musicians, neighborhood gatherings and an active and diverse citizenry. Establishing livable streets in the MLK neighborhood will help return the area to its roots. The basic streetscape infrastructure is in place in the MLK community, but additional enhancements could unify the commercial corridor along MLK Boulevard and improve the visual image of the entire community. McCallie Avenue and MLK Boulevard are the most highly trafficked streets in the area and serve as the primary east-west corridors for travel to and from downtown. While it is imperative that traffic flow smoothly along these corridors, additional streetscape improvements could be valuable in drawing attention to ground floor businesses and capturing commuter traffic. To encourage more pedestrian activity, streets and sidewalks must also be comfortable. This can be accomplished with trees, well marked cross walks, benches, pedestrian lighting, water fountains, trash receptacles and public art. Colorful banners and wayfinding signage displayed along the streets would also give the MLK community, and the university, a unique identity and animate the streets. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 80 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Streets The above map is a diagrammatic study of existing public space and greening in the MLK Community. Illustrated above is a 5-minute walking distance from major green spaces. Areas within these radii should be targeted for enhancements, new parks and greenway connections. SECTION 3 81 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Streetscape Key Points The National Park Association notes the importance of having adequate amounts of public space in urban areas. Generally, an area is best served if parks, open space, greening and/ or plazas are found every 4 to 5 blocks to facilitate walkable distances to residential neighborhoods or commercial districts. Many north-south streets, such as Douglas, Lindsay, and Palmetto, could also benefit from additional tree cover, as these streets are used by many pedestrians and serve as major connections. Recommended Actions for Public Realm: 1. Coordinate additional streetscape improvements with new commercial investment in the area. 2. Expand the City’s public art program to the MLK corridor and McCallie Avenue. 3. Add street lights to dark areas and primary pedestrian ways within the commercial district. 4. Study 10th and 11th Street for needed repairs and maintenance to address issues of crumbling sidewalk sections, overgrowth and cracks or buckling. 5. Institute a merchants’ collective that promotes the private stewardship of the streets and sidewalks and awards outstanding businesses. Streetscape Priorities and Standards - Streetscape improvements represent a significant investment and, therefore, must be applied judiciously to commercial centers and to streets that have high pedestrian traffic that connect important civic destinations. The following street types should be given priority for streetscape improvements. 8th Street is considered a “Neighborhood Street.” • Commercial Centers - Comprehensive streetscape improvements (including sidewalk and crosswalk pavers, pedestrian lighting, street trees, and street furniture) should be limited to the core business district of the downtown and to the sections of the primary streets that function as primary pedestrian routes. Streetscape improvements may also be appropriate within neighborhood commercial centers that fall along these corridors, but should be limited to one or two blocks on each side of the intersection. Public funding is appropriate for these areas. • Primary Streets / Special Streets - These streets are major vehicular corridors and part of the primary grid network. Streetscape improvements should be less elaborate than those within the commercial centers. Pedestrian lighting may be eliminated, sidewalks may be plain concrete, and crosswalks may be thermoplastic striping rather than pavers. Public funding is appropriate for these areas. • MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Georgia Avenue Central Avenue McCallie Avenue MLK Boulevard Secondary Streets - These streets connect parks, major destinations, public institutions, and neighborhoods. Streetscape improvements here may be unique and may include features such as landscaped medians, 82 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Streetscape ML KB oule var d Benches at 12th and Market Streets Streetscape Priorities banners or special lighting depending on the district and function of the street. Public funding is appropriate for these areas. 5th Street (through UTC) 6th / Vine Streets 11th Street (Market Street to the Greenway) Palmetto Street • 8th Street Neighborhood Streets - These streets are located in residential areas and connect parks, schools, greenways and neighborhood commercial centers. Streetscape improvements on these streets should be limited to plain concrete sidewalks with an emphasis on trees in the private realm and perhaps lighting. Neighborhood involvement and partnerships should be sought for tree planting and other streetscape amenities along these corridors. 83 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Gateways Public Art should enhance the character of the area while reflecting the culture and history of MLK as does this mural. Gateways and Wayfinding - Gateways serve vital roles within a neighborhood. They provide a unique sense of place and arrival, create a positive first impression, reinforce boundaries and improve wayfinding. Often times, this is accomplished through a monument, unique signage, community markers or public art projects. These projects serve as excellent devices for encouraging the community to take an active ownership in its public realm. Gateway locations are excellent places for informational kiosks featuring maps and signage that help visitors find their way to local destinations. A wayfinding kiosk located in the Riverfront District MLK Community PLAN February 2009 84 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Parks The City’s Wayfinding Program currently only extends throughout the Riverfront (south shore) and North Shore area. This coordinated system of signs directs motorists and pedestrians to major public destinations. Plans already exist for extending this Wayfinding System throughout the urban area once funding is in place. Additionally, the bridge viaducts from the MLK neighborhood to Warner Park and the National Cemetery should be enhanced with hanging baskets, baners or other elements to promote pedestrian use and offer better access to residents to these major park spaces. Recommended Actions for Gateways and Wayfinding: 1. Establish primary Gateway locations on the west side of the neighborhood at MLK Boulevard and Lindsay Street, and on the east side at Central Avenue. 2. Consider secondary Gateways for more specific destinations such as UTC and between the commercial mixed-use district and the more residential eastern half of the neighborhood. 3. Design and install banners along MLK Boulevard and McCallie Avenue to animate the corridors and provide a unique identity for the area. 4. Expand the City’s Wayfinding signage program beyond the riverfront to include the MLK area and to provide consistency among streetscape improvements, signage and other street elements. A small pocket park or “tot lot.” PARKS AND PLAZAS Commercial Components - The MLK community already has several parks, but when asked what was needed in the MLK community, residents emphasized trees, parks and streetscape. The results of other recent downtown surveys are the same. Attracting new residents to urban neighborhoods requires more quality green spaces. Some existing parks in the MLK community, such as the recently developed Whiteside Park on MLK Boulevard, lack programming or need additional plantings or park furniture to provide the quality public spaces needed in this community. The lawn in front of the Bessie Smith Hall is well maintained, but additional programming would increase its use and solidify its position as a major community gateway. Small plazas between commercial buildings, such as Jack’s Alley between Broad and Market Streets, can also provide additional public space as well as areas for outdoor cafes. These plazas can also improve accessibility to storefronts from parking lots located behind commercial buildings. Public art can help animate public spaces and should be an integral part of any parks or plazas in the MLK community. Parks and Recreation - Residential Components - The MLK Community would benefit from more small scale “pocket” parks, much like Perkins Park in Fort Wood. These parks should be quiet places with plenty of shade and beautiful plantings 85 Example of an apartment complex that incorporates public space SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm - Parks where residents can relax and enjoy an afternoon or toddlers may play. Ideally, they should be located every four or five blocks or a 5 minute walk from homes and businesses. The Ted R. Bryant, Sr. Park on Fairview Avenue is a smaller, familyfriendly park with a playground. This park should be edged with new housing to provide more “eyes on the park” and to increase its use. The 8th Street area offers many vacant lots or corner locations where a pocket park may be suitable. Additionally, 10th Street has a generous planting strip at the street edge. A linear park should be considered to enhance this residential area. Complete with tree plantings, native species flowers, and benches, this setting may be an ideal place to take in views of Lookout Mountain or western sunsets. The wide verge or green strip on 10th Street is a perfect spot for increased plantings and a“garden-way” for pedestrians. At either end of the MLK Community are two great regional parks that serve Chattanooga – Miller Park, and Warner Park, along with Engel Stadium and the National Cemetery. Connections to these parks from the MLK community should be improved whether by pedestrian access or with future roads such as a 5th Street or 10th Street extenstion to the east. Community Gardens - With a growing emphasis on local and organic food, community gardens are gaining in popularity around the country and ranked high with MLK residents as well. The Community Kitchen and Farmers Market site would benefit from the incorporation of a community garden, providing a place for residents to congregate and learn the art of growing together. Other small vacant lots throughout the community could be transformed into community gardens. Community gardens should promote sustainable agricultural practices. They may provide educational opportunities for young and old alike to build stewardship, social activity and a better understanding of the food cycle. The Downtown Greenway from UTC to MLK Blvd. The Downtown Greenway - Greenways and tree-lined streets should connect parks to each other and to other major destinations, such as schools, to provide a continuous network of “green infrastructure.” The Greenway should also be extended further south and north to Finley Stadium and the Riverwalk. Students MLK Community PLAN February 2009 86 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm envisioned use of the existing railroad right-of-way for a “Mocs” tram, train or trolley to carry passengers to and from UTC games and events at Finley Stadium and the MLK Boulevard commercial district. Goal: Provide a connected system of green spaces within walking distance of all homes and businesses in the MLK community. Recommended Actions for Parks and Plazas: 1. Encourage private businesses to fund and maintain small parks and plazas on vacant lots and within new development, especially in underserved areas. 2. Extend the Downtown Greenway north to connect to the Riverwalk and south to connect to Finley Stadium. 3. Plant additional trees and add benches and other park furniture called for in the design for Whiteside Park. 4. Promote higher density housing around Ted Bryant park. 5. Improve pedestrian connections to both Miller Park and Warner Park from the MLK community. 6. Promote the use of drought-tolerant plant species for landscaping to conserve water. 7. Incorporate a community garden at the Farmers Market site or Community Kitchen. 8. Identify small vacant lots throughout the area for community gardens. 9. Create a small “pocket” park between Palmetto Street and Central Avenue on 8th Street. An example of greening and landscaping provided by a business and the private sector to enhance the public sector investment of sidewalks and streetscape. 10. Repair sidewalks, add lighting where needed, and immediately clean up overgrown lots and graffiti to maintain a clean, safe environment. Safety and Security - Safety is a big issue in the MLK community. A survey of UTC students, conducted by the Regional Planning Agency in March 2008, revealed that many students do not feel safe crossing over campus boundaries and into the greater MLK community. Among their insecurities, students said that panhandling and loitering were the greatest issues. Community homeowners have also spoken out about feeling uneasy walking along the neighborhood streets. These problems might be solved by introducing a heavier police presence in the neighborhood. More frequent police patrol, especially if on foot or bicycle, would help both students and residents feel safer in the community. Recommended Actions for Safety and Security: SECTION 1. Institute a crime watch program and build a relationship with officers at the new police station planned for 11th Street. Involve UTC security. 87 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Public Realm Topography - Two landmark attributes of the Chattanooga area are the ridges and river. MLK has a role in promoting these unique assets since our everyday lives are affected by the natural setting of trees, hillsides and water. Traditionally, cities have built their most monumental and sacred structures on high ground. The MLK community should look at their varied topography not just as a challenge, but as an asset that is representative of the natural setting of the Chattanooga area. The elevation of the MLK area ranges from 750 feet to 670 feet with the most drastic change found in the “middle’ of the study area. A hillside in the MLK community that is most sensitive is the area extending north and south from 8th Street between Houston and Baldwin Streets. A significant change in topography also exists from the knoll of UTC dropping north to the river and south to MLK. These steep slopes can hinder pedestrian activity, adding even more reason to make sure streets offer pleasant walks with tree plantings and stops along the way in the form of parks, plazas or kiosks and transit options are available. Viewsheds - Several highpoints offer tremendous views from the MLK area. The southwestern vista lends itself to views of Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge. While every building will block a view of something, a few key public views can be identified and preserved. The view from the lawn in front of UTC’s Administration Building on McCallie Avenue is special, as are certain street corners and rights-of-way near 10th Street. The Downtown Greenway offers an incredible vista as it crosses McCallie and meanders downhill. Benches or other seating should be considered for this area to encourage a place for reflection and enjoyment. A master plan for public space that addresses green spaces and parks can integrate the community’s priority views once identified. This topographic map of the MLK Community illustrates the steep slopes of the area; the red dot at UTC represents the highest point with a descent to the south and MLK Blvd. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 88 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Natural Resources Most urban neighborhoods have a higher level of sustainability due to location and compactness. By adding in green spaces and gardens, environmental benefits are increased. NATURAL RESOURCES The natural resources of Chattanooga and the surrounding area are precious and should be protected and conserved. Urban areas are not often thought of as havens of natural resources or as environmentally sustainable, but in fact, when looking at the big picture, they are. Urban communities are more densely developed and have a greater variety of businesses and housing. These qualities make them more sustainable because people drive less, meaning air pollution is reduced and fuel is conserved. Buildings in urban areas are usually multi-story and have common walls, so energy is saved in heating and cooling. Because cars and trucks and the energy used in buildings are two of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in this region, compact, mixed use, walkable communities are perhaps our best long term solution for sustainability. In 2006, Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield signed the U.S. Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement. This agreement, which has been signed by more than 800 city governments to date, commits local governments to “reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 7% below 1990 levels by the year 2012.” This agreement suggests many actions that can be taken by cities including encouraging “smart growth” and infill development. At the micro level, even more can be done to make neighborhoods and individual buildings more sustainable, such as increasing the tree canopy, reusing old industrial sites and employing more “natural” methods to manage stormwater. 89 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Natural Resources The MLK community can serve as a model for sustainable neighborhoods in Chattanooga, with one of its richest assets being the urban setting and diverse mix of uses. As more development occurs, the natural resources and sustainability issues must be considered. Water Quality and Quantity - Our water supply is the life sustaining circulatory system of our community and must be protected. Unfortunately, our water system is often out of sight and out of mind, particularly in urban areas, until a street floods or sewers back up. Redeveloping urban areas can, however, include creative solutions to improve water quality and conserve water. The surface parking lot at Finley Stadium uses pervious paving to allow better storm water management and features trees as a “parking orchard.” The MLK community has a great number of parking lots. These lots, combined with other impervious surfaces, such as rooftops and streets, prevent rainwater from seeping slowly into the soil where it is naturally cleaned and replenishes our groundwater. Instead stormwater is funneled into street grates and piped to the wastewater treatment plant at Moccasin Bend. Polluted runoff, such as oil and gas from vehicles washes into city sewers with each rain and some of this polluted stormwater washes into our rivers and streams. Improper construction activities can also increase the amount of sediment in our rivers and streams. Rather than spending public tax dollars to transport and clean this stormwater using manmade facilities, we should allow stormwater to filter through the soil. This requires the use of porous (pervious) paving in parking lots, “green” roofs, more trees, and more unpaved green spaces. Natural retention ponds, such as the one on 13th Street at the Chattanoogan, can also be incorporated in new developments to filter stormwater. Water quantity is also an important issue. Although the Chattanooga region currently has an ample water supply, we should not become complacent. We have all seen what is happening in the Atlanta region. All citizens can conserve water with a variety of simple actions from installing rain barrels to turning the faucet off when brushing their teeth. Goal: Improve the water quality of our rivers, lakes and streams and conserve water. Recommended Actions for Water Quality and Quantity: MLK Community PLAN February 2009 1. Incentivize the use of pervious paving in parking lots and driveways. 2. Promote green roofs in new developments and renovations. 3. Reserve land for parks and passive green spaces throughout the MLK community. 4. Plant trees along every street and in every parking lot. 5. Use stormwater Best Management Practices for all new construction. 6. Reuse “graywater” collected from roofs, streets, and parking lots to irrigate landscaping and street trees. 90 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Natural Resources 7. Initiate an education program to promote water conservation in homes and businesses using rain barrels and other collection techniques. THE URBAN FOREST Trees are extremely important in urban settings. Trees provide shade, thereby lowering temperatures and reducing the heat island effect caused by lots of hard surfaces. Trees and other vegetation provide noise reduction, and they aid in managing stormwater runoff. Trees also help us reduce our carbon footprint by absorbing carbon dioxide, the main “greenhouse gas.” The Downtown Plan and the June 2008 Interim Report for Chattanooga’s Climate Action Plan both call for a minimum of 15% tree canopy cover in the urban area to have a healthy environment. Trees provide additional economic benefits by making an area more attractive. Studies have shown that lots with mature trees typically sell for more than comparable lots without trees. The aerial photo in Section 2 illustrates good tree canopy cover in the eastern residential section of the study area, but the remainder of the district is severely lacking in trees, with the exception of some street trees and other green spaces on the UTC campus. In recent years, McCallie Avenue has lost much of its mature, overhanging tree canopy. Some of the trees in the MLK area are very large and very old and should be carefully protected. Some neighborhoods, such as Fort Wood, recognizing the value and historic character of their trees, have ordinances in place to preserve them. 91 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Natural Resources Parking lots throughout the MLK community desperately need trees. “Parking orchards” would greatly improve the visual appearance of the area and help reduce stormwater runoff. Quality green spaces should be maintained on 10th and 11th Streets around the government district. City Hall and other civic buildings warrant superior landscaping in order to remain representative of the Chattanooga community. City parking lots for these areas should also be enhanced with trees. Several initiatives to increase Chattanooga’s tree canopy, such as the City’s Urban Forestry program, the Tree Commission, Take Root, and the Chattanooga Landscape Ordinance are already in place. Yet, the City government cannot be the sole steward and champion for trees; residents and businesses must get involved in the greening of their area by working in partnership with the appropriate agencies. Goal: Increase the overall tree canopy cover in the MLK community to a minimum of 15%. Specific species of trees have been identified for use in the Downtown and surrounding urban areas. Recommended Actions for the Urban Forest: 1. Carefully preserve existing trees in new development projects. Key Points Studies by American Forests and other conservation organizations indicate that a minimum of 15% tree canopy cover is required in urban areas to filter pollutants, absorb stormwater and reduce the urban heat island effect. Currently, downtown Chattanooga only has an estimated 8% tree canopy cover. Zoning regulations for the downtown now require that one tree is planted per every five parking spaces in new parking lots, which equates to a 15% tree canopy cover. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 2. Adopt a minimum requirement of one tree for every five parking spaces in zoning and development regulations. 3. Add new street trees to all streets, starting with those most traveled such th MLK Boulevard, McCallie Avenue, 10 and 11th Streets. 4. Increase coverage in the residential area with a study of future planting locations including McCallie Avenue, MLK Boulevard, Baldwin and Peeples Streets and Central Avenue. 5. Continue the formal streetscape pattern found on 11th Street near the Community Kitchen to the government district to highlight the civic buildings and enhance the walk that links these areas. 6. Improve the eastern end of 10th Street by adding trees and other vegetation between the sidewalks and roadway in the generous “verge” or green strip. The creation of a “garden street” may be helpful in marketing and attracting new residents to this area. 7. Establish a neighborhood tree planting program to increase and maintain tree cover and adopt a tree management plan that looks at existing trees and future needs. 92 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Sustainability SUSTAINABILITY Air Quality - Activities affecting air quality come from sources that are both local and from the greater region (coal-fired power plants). Local contributions include vehicle emissions (both on-road and off-road), construction and excavating equipment, and even lawn mowers. Additionally, temperature inversions and our region’s topography contribute to the air quality challenges faced by our community. Cars and trucks are primary contributors and as the number of vehicles on the road continues to increase, the problem is exacerbated. Between 1980 and 2007, the number of vehicle miles traveled in the U.S. outstripped population growth with increases of 103% and 33% respectively. Urban residents have an advantage because they often live closer to work and other daily activities, reducing the need to drive everywhere. Transit also works better in urban areas because of the higher densities. As a countermeasure to air pollutants, trees and green spaces act as the city’s lungs and help filter the air. Goal: Reduce the amount of pollutants emitted into the atmosphere. Recommended Actions for Sustainability: 1. Actively promote the use of public transportation, bicycles, car and van pooling, flexible work scheduling by employers where possible, alternative fuels, and alternative-fueled vehicles. 2. Identify and build upon key areas for urban forest and green spaces that serve as buffers, such as along the railroad rights-of-way, and alleys. Brownfield Reclamation - Brownfields are real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence, or potential presence, of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Cleaning and reinvesting in these properties takes development pressure off of undeveloped, open land and improves and protects the environment (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2008). Official Brownfield sites have been designated as such by the U.S. EPA, but many old industrial sites located in central cities can generally be considered brownfields. The property located west of the Farmers Market probably requires extensive environmental remediation and should therefore be considered for other uses such as open space or perhaps a forested area. “Clean” vacant lots could be reused as community gardens or parks. Goal: Reuse or redevelop all brownfield sites in the MLK community. Recommended Actions for Brownfield Reclamation: 1. Identify brownfields that are suitable for community gardens or parks. 2. Initiate the bioremediation of any contaminated areas and plant vegetation to buffer and diminish the impacts. Consider a planted orchard for the site south of 11th Street at Baldwin and 12th Street. 93 SECTION 3 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Sustainability Energy Conservation - Electricity and natural gas use comprise 57% of Chattanooga’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Energy conservation initiatives represent a unique opportunity because many of these measures can be implemented with little or no changes in current technology. Most can even save money. Goal: Reduce energy use in the MLK community. This green building in the Northshore is LEED certified and features recycling, local materials, and low-energy consumption, among many other environmentally-friendly aspects. Green Buildings - Buildings account for one third of society’s energy use and one third of our GHG emissions. Green building practices have the ability to significantly reduce those numbers. In addition to being energy efficient, green buildings have many environmental, social, and economic benefits. Through the use of natural lighting and low volatile organic compound (VOC)-emitting materials, green buildings are healthier places to work and visit. Because green building standards often require that materials be sourced regionally, they boost the local economy. Some green buildings can even put energy back into the grid using solar, wind, geothermal and other alternative energy technologies. Techniques as simple as using a light colored or white roof top material or establishing planted green roofs can greatly reduce a building’s energy consumption. These are practices that may be used in the MLK community, especially as new development occurs. While much of the focus on green buildings has been on new construction, it is important to remember the large number of existing buildings that will need to be retrofitted with energy efficient measures. Popular opinion indicates that today’s green buildings will be tomorrow’s standard. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 94 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Sustainability - Energy Conservation Recommended Actions for Green Buildings: 1. Evaluate existing building codes and update the necessary sections to accommodate green buildings, especially standards for the renovation of historic buildings. 2. Perform energy audits on all Government buildings located in the study area (City Hall, City Hall Annex, the Development Resource Center, and the Health and Wellness Center) and implement the appropriate green measures for each. 3. Create an incentive program to make existing buildings more energy efficient. Reuse existing buildings whenever possible as the wisest means of energy savings. 4. Create a program to provide free or reduced-cost home energy efficiency upgrades for eligible families. 5. Build with the long term in mind, making sure that structures can be easily retrofitted, they are resilient and are in place for future generations. 6. Increase public awareness of easy solutions for improving home energy efficiency through exhibits, tours of green buildings, interpretive signage in green buildings, presentations at neighborhood meetings or awards programs. Green building example: Library in Santa Barbara, CA. Alternative Energy Sources - Traditional fuel sources (fossil fuels) are known to have many negative environmental impacts. Recently, they have also become more expensive, and the realization that supplies are waning have increased. Because traditional American cities rely on these types of fuel sources, they are particularly vulnerable to supply disruption and high prices. Various options for fuel and energy production can be applied at the neighborhood level. Recommended Actions for Alternative Energy Sources: 1. Create financial incentives for the purchase of solar panels by homeowners and businesses. 2. Encourage the use of solar panels as shade canopies for parking lots. SECTION 3 95 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Three - Plan Recommendations Sustainability - Energy Conservation Recycling & Waste - Landfills generate substantial amounts of methane, a potent GHG. New landfills are expensive to build and their siting often sparks fierce opposition. Reducing the waste being sent to area landfills will have a marked impact on Chattanooga’s sustainability story. Many other American cities have successfully reduced their landfill waste by diversifying and increasing their recyclable waste streams. Nearby Warner Park offers an extensive facility for disposal of recycled goods that is close to homes and businesses. Goal: Encourage every resident and business to recycle. Recommended Actions for Recycling and Waste: 1. Create convenient recycling drop-off centers at grocery stores and various MLK neighborhood locations. 2. Initiate community contests to encourage recycling in MLK homes and businesses. Sustainable Industry and Businesses - Chattanooga has a proud and distinguished history as a community that embraces industry and supports the growth of manufacturing. The belief that profitable industries and environmentally benign practices are mutually exclusive is no longer valid in today’s economy. In fact, many industries are leading the way, realizing that waste costs money. Recommended Actions for Sustainable Industry and Businesses: MLK Community PLAN February 2009 1. Create positive recognition for local MLK businesses and industries that achieve or surpass environmental standards. 2. Encourage sustainable industrial operations to locate in the MLK area and to reuse Brownfield sites. 96 Section Four – Resources & Implementation Zoning & Tools to Guide New Development Creating a shared community vision and a plan for how to accomplish that vision are critical steps in any revitalization process, but to make that vision and plan a reality they must be implemented. That requires a variety of resources and partners. Zoning is a common tool used to encourage the types of land uses recommended in a plan. Additionally, design review districts or historic zoning may be used to further ensure that new development is compatible with the existing homes and businesses. Financial incentives, usually in the form of tax credits, may be applied to certain types of projects. Finally, a multitude of non-profit agencies and government departments are available to assist communities with various initiatives. Many of these resources are described and a list of agencies and organizations is included. INDUSTRIAL ZONING While a large percentage of the area south of 11th Street is zoned Heavy Manufacturing (M-1), few of the existing businesses conduct heavy manufacturing operations anymore. In addition, M-1 does not allow residential uses and requires deep buffers and setbacks that are not compatible with urban areas. The areas zoned M-1 should be studied for more suitable M-2 (light manufacturing) zoning or for other commercial zones. Several vacant industrial buildings could be redeveloped in the future with a mix of uses including offices, restaurants, and loft apartments. COMMERCIAL ZONING Areas that this Plan recommends for mixed-uses or neighborhood commercial may need to be rezoned to Urban General Commercial (UGC) or Central Business District (C-3), both of qhich require the developer to submit building plans to the RPA for review. These zones allow for urban elements such as shared parking, reduced setbacks and design basics such as entries and storefronts designed with pedestrians in mind. The design review process also helps to ensure that new development is compatible with the existing buildings. 97 SECTION 4 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four – Resources & Implementation Zoning & Tools to Guide New Development Additionally, other ordinances and City regulations such as the Sign Ordinance, Landscape Ordinance, and stormwater regulations should be reviewed for compatibility with urban development patterns of the Downtown, MLK community and other urban neighborhoods. RESIDENTIAL ZONING Residential space above retail space, Portland OR. Past MLK plans and zoning efforts have focused on preserving existing singlefamily uses and stabilizing the neighborhood. By down-zoning to R-1, preference was given to a neighborhood character of single family residences. To increase density and the urban amenities requested by the residents of the area, some medium to high-density housing is needed. As discussed previously, condos, townhouses, lofts, quads and small apartment buildings can be accommodated. Currently, a zoning category does not exist for such a diverse mix of urban housing. In the near future, the RPA will be creating an “urban residential zone” that will accomodate the smaller lots, shallow setbacks, alley access and parking needs of Chattanooga’s urban areas. At that time, a MLK zoning study should be undertaken to ensure the integrity of the existing single-family areas and to identify appropriate locations for other housing types. HISTORIC AND CONSERVATION ZONING Good example of reuse of a historic building. If a community desires more”protection” than conventional zoning provides, historic zoning can provide a more in depth review of proposed development and require a more strict adherance to the existing historic architectural qualities of the area. Chattanooga currently has four local historic districts: St. Elmo, Fort Wood, Ferger Place and Battery Place. A prerequisite for historic zoning is designation as a National Register district, such as is found in the MLK commercial area. Conservation zoning is another alternative that may be considered when historic zoning is deemed too restrictive by the residents but some additional protection is desired. Conservation zoning only addresses certain elements of new construction and demolitions. The support of a majority of property owners would be required to initiate either historic or conservation zoning. Recommended Actions for Zoning: 1. Consider rezoning M-1 (Heavy Manufacturing) properties to M-2 (Light Manufacturing). 2. Consider rezoning areas recommended for Mixed Use or Commercial to UGC or C-3. 3. Review City ordinances for signage, landscaping and stormwater for compatibility with urban development. 4. Create and adopt a new Urban Residential zoning classification and then consider this new zone for appropriate residential properties. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 98 Section Four – Resources & Implementation Next Steps Next Steps - The MLK Community will need to focus efforts immediately after adoption of the Plan to determine priorities and next steps. The MLK Community Plan includes nearly one hundred specific Action Steps. Business owners, residents, property owners and students should form a “coalition” to study these recommendations, establish priorities, seek partners and secure funding to implement this plan. The “Action Steps Matrix” organizes the recommendations by categories and begins to identify partners. As stated above, it is the responsibility of the community to take these ideas and create a strategy for implementation. References in the matrix to “MLK Coalition” refer to the recommended group of merchants and other community representatives that should be formed. References to a “MLK Marketing Director” refer to the position recommended in “Land Use and Development Commercial District.” STEPS IN THE REVITALIZATION PROCESS 1. Create a Vision 2. Adopt a Plan 3. Identify Community Partners - involve them 4. Determine an Implementation Strategy & Phases 5. Recruit Development Partners and Funding 6. Address Urban Design Issues and Zoning 7. Begin Implementation of Recommendations based on Strategy 8. Begin Construction of Projects 9. As Projects are Completed – Celebrate! Please see Appendix A for the Action Steps Matrix. 10. Revisit Strategies and Monitor Progress SECTION 4 99 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs During the MLK Community Plan process, participants stated that partners were needed and more effort should be placed on cooperation among existing agencies and organizations to spark new development. This is not always an easy task. As a community, we’ve learned that, generally, downtown development faces many barriers and challenges that are often only surmountable when multiple partners come together. Based on the past progress of the downtown revitalization efforts, Chattanooga has become famous for its dynamic formula of partnerships and creative solutions. With these partnerships, come not only potential funding sources, but a wealth of experience and professional expertise brought to the table. One must remember that change happens incrementally, and often times slowly, but if tied to a common vision and plan, the pieces will add up to something spectacular over time. MLK can benefit from similar partnerships and it may find that once a few key projects are complete and in place, partners will be plentiful. In the meantime, the community can focus on building relationships and creating strategies to begin implementation of plan recommendations. With regular forums for discussion, an aggressive schedule for meetings and full community representation at the table, the MLK community will see progress. Listed below are programs that may be used by the community and agencies which may provide advice and expertise or serve as partners. They are grouped by topic. COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS DEVELOPMENT AND HISTORIC Renewal Community (RC) – The Renewal Community plays a crucial role in the redevelopment of Chattanooga’s urban core through commercial development, job creation, and community revitalization. In 2002, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) designated Chattanooga as one of 40 Renewal Communities nationwide, providing Federal tax incentives to individuals who invest in, conduct business in, or hire residents from a specific area. Locally, interested business owners, investors and property owners may contact the Renewal Community Office at (423) 425-3776 or [email protected] for information about eligible census tracts and employee tax credits, deductions for commercial development, and other incentives. Historic Tax Credits – For 25 years, historic buildings (750+ in Tennessee) and communities have benefited from the Historic Tax Credit program, totaling over $500 million in investment in Tennessee. The Tennessee Historical Commission’s tax credits are available to owners of income-producing historic properties. For more information, see http://www2.cr.nps.gov/tps/tax/ or email [email protected] (615) 532-1550, Ext. 106 for further information. The Land Development Office issues Building Permits, offers a pre-submittal service, and is a contact for zoning enforcement and inspection or Code issues. Sign Permits, Board of Appeals, Historic Districts, and Design Review as well as Traffic MLK Community PLAN February 2009 100 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs Engineering, streets, sidewalks and other public projects are covered by this department. For assistance with a possible violation, contact 311. Cornerstones, Inc. - Chattanooga’s only nonprofit Historic Preservation organization, exists to preserve the architectural heritage and urban fabric of Chattanooga. The organization promotes the importance of recycling the buildings of our past for today’s uses and bringing together the resources required to effect change. Accepting tax-deductible Facade Easements by Cornerstones insures that the historical integrity of a building’s exterior and the building itself will be maintained under current and future ownership. Contact Cornerstones at (423) 265-2825 or see http://www.cornerstonesinc.org. The National Trust for Historic Preservation Main Street Program in Tennessee (administered by Tennessee Historic Preservation) provides assistance to communities in revitalizing their downtown and central business districts, which are vital components of economic development and job growth. In addition, Main Street revitalization is a comprehensive, incremental, self-help economic strategy that focuses on developing public-private partnerships to enhance community livability and job creation while maintaining the historic character of the district. See http://www.state.tn.us/ecd/comdev_mainstreet.htm. Southeast Tennessee Development District provides assistance with grants and ongoing housing-related services and activities, and brings creativity and diversity by searching for innovative projects. In addition to many programs, they keep abreast of housing needs, modern trends, new partnerships, provide affordable housing opportunities, and assist with future housing planning through regional and local priorities. They provide technical assistance for Federal and State grant programs to local government (including Historic Preservation grants through the Tennessee Historical Commission to protect significant cultural resources, promote heritage tourism and economic revitalization). SETDD is a voluntary association of municipal and county governments located within Southeast Tennessee. (423) 265-5781 or http://www.sedev.org. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans are very useful for entrepreneurs that are starting a business. See http://www.sba.gov for various loans, programs and history of the SBA. The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Small Businesses Development Center exists to assist entrepeneurs by offering classes and loan information as well as spaces for emerging new businesses. For over 125 years, the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce has brought area businesses together in support of economic growth through leadership and education that stimulates new business development and existing growth, resulting in a higher standard of living and a better quality of life for the community. Supporting the mission of growing the economy, their programs and services help individual businesses succeed, strengthen the area’s commercial vitality and create a more prosperous community. They sponsor several member-driven area Councils and manage the County-owned Business Development Center. They sponsor the Business Expo, Small Business Awards, Spirit of Innovation Awards and Chattanooga Nautilus Awards. The Tennessee Multicultural Chamber of 101 SECTION 4 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs Commerce serves MLK and other areas that represent a diverse ethnic mix. For further information, see http://www.chattanooga-chamber.com or (423) 756-2121. Funded through charitable contributions, The Ochs Center for Metropolitan Studies (formerly Community Research Council) conducts research for not-forprofit agencies and governments, including the annual State of The Chattanooga Region report. It also conducts research into the economy and community, youth and education, health, crime and public safety, urban governance and environment and sustainable development. Its new location on the UTC campus will allow an even closer partnership between the Center and the University. Contact (423) 4255610. GREEN INITIATIVES Chattanooga Green: In 2006, Mayor Ron Littlefield signed the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement committing Chattanooga to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. The Mayor appointed 15 individuals to serve on the Chattanooga Green Committee and charged them with making recommendations on how our community can achieve this goal while balancing the needs of the environment, business, and society. The Committee released an Interim Report for Chattanooga’s Climate Action Plan in June 2008. The Final Chattanooga Climate Action Plan (recommendations to the Mayor) will be released by the Committee in December 2008. Call (423) 668-2262 or see http://www.chattanooga.gov/ chattanoogagreen for more information (including how to reduce home energy costs). The Electric Power Board and TVA offer environmentally friendly electric power through the Green Power Switch. Once enrolled, residential customers may purchase Green Power at a rate of just $4 per 150 kilowatt-hour block which amounts to about 12% of the typical household’s energy use. The generated green power is then added to TVA’s total power mix and shared by Tennessee Valley customers. Sign up at http://www.epb.net or call 648-1EPB. Energy Guides and Audits (including on-line audits) are offered by both EPB and TVA. See http://www.energyright.com for an interactive home evaluation survey. The City of Chattanooga Recycle Right curbside recycling program is a convenient way for households to recycle several types of items by placing them on their curb. The items are then taken to the Recycling Center for sorting. See http:// www.recycleright.org for details. There is also a facility located off 3rd Street at Warner Park for drop off of recycling, plus glass and large quantities of materials that may not be suitable for curbside pickup. green|spaces showcases environmentally smart materials, methods and resources. They offer collaborative space for project teams and project-specific research with staff. Their goal is to raise awareness and increase green options for commercial and residential developers, contractors, subcontractors, owners, architects, designers and the public. They offer guidance for attaining Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, and provide standards for environmentally sustainable construction. Funded by The RiverCity Company, The Benwood Foundation and The Lyndhurst Foundation, green|spaces offers MLK Community PLAN February 2009 102 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs resources and funding for green commercial and residential building projects and also aims to get at least 20 LEED-certified buildings downtown in three years. See http://www.greenspaceschattanooga.com or (423) 400-9461; (423) 827-9320. NEIGHBORHOOD/PROPERTY The mission of the Public Works Department’s City Wide Services Program is to preserve and enhance the environmental quality of life in Chattanooga through a prompt, cost effective and courteous delivery of services designed to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of its citizens and to maintain and improve the city’s infrastructure. Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, Inc. (CNE) is a private nonprofit organization that facilitates the financing, development, and renovation of housing in the City of Chattanooga and Hamilton County. In just over a decade, their activities have yielded $140 million in investments and involved more than 4,600 housing units. They focus on educating and assisting home buyers in all aspects of home ownership and responsibility. (423) 756-6201. 28th Legislative District Community Development Corporation – provides homeownership opportunities to low-moderate income households, revitalizes neighborhoods and promotes community. They offer assistance with homeownership, closings and down payment assistance. The CDC commonly works to assist communities in acquiring CBDG grants and other funding. Tennessee Urban Forestry (Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Forestry Division) improves urban environments through planting and management of trees. It promotes the establishment of urban forestry programs in cities and towns, assists them in developing self-sustaining urban and community forestry programs, and provides technical assistance. http://www.urbanforestrysouth.org. The Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC) was established in 1991 as a nonprofit organization and serves as an advisory body to promote healthy and sustainable urban and community forests in Tennessee through leadership, education, planning, advocacy and collaboration. Through its “membership,” many programs are sponsored including an annual Awards of Excellence. Contact The City of Chattanooga Urban Forester at (423) 757-7283; see http://www.tufc.com. City of Chattanooga, Neighborhood Services and Community Development Department maintains the city’s commitment to building strong neighborhoods through programs designed to promote the welfare of neighborhoods, enhance community pride and encourage citizen participation. Neighborhood Relations Coordinators work with neighborhood associations to assist with organizing, planning and more. Through the Neighborhood Partners Program and its funding, they encourage neighborhood development, safety and beautification. Using grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, they promote the revitalization of low-to-moderate income neighborhoods and the economic improvement of its residents. They fund affordable housing initiatives, employment and business assistance, public facility and infrastructure improvements, and social 103 SECTION 4 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs services to assist the community as a whole. They are also a main contact for codes enforcement issues such as overgrowth, litter and abandoned vehicles through 311 services. http://www.chattanooga.gov. – (423) 425-3700. The University of Tennessee Extension Service provides programs to help homeowners and nursery owners with plant and landscape issues from tree planting to insect identification. The Hamilton County Extension Office has the knowledge and expertise to help with garden, lawn and landscaping questions and problems. They are a contact for many community programs including 4-H Club and Master Gardeners. Contact: (423) 855-6113, http://www.utextension.utk.edu. The Garden Clubs of America website offers good gardening practices to protect your environment and many web links to other important and helpful resources. http://www.gcamerica.org. Crabtree Farms - A research and educational project promoting sustainable agriculture; includes an on-site community garden and urban farm. www.crabtreefarms.org 423-493-9155 SOCIAL The Urban League of Chattanooga is an affiliate of the National Urban League (NUL) and serves more than 1,000 individuals per year. The NUL seeks to enable African Americans and disadvantaged persons to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power and civil rights through education of children, helping adults reach economic self-sufficiency, and eradication of barriers to equal participation in the economic and social mainstream of America. (423) 756-1762. The United Way of Chattanooga works to advance the common good by educating children to be ready for school, promoting economic stability so people can provide for themselves and their families, and by caring for the most vulnerable in our community, thereby creating a stronger community for everyone. (423) 752-0300. Chattanooga Community Kitchen strives to lessen the poverty and despair among the homeless in the City of Chattanooga and to restore dignity and self-reliance to those served. They are sponsored and supported by Chattanooga Church Ministries, Inc., an organization of churches in the greater Chattanooga area serving the physical, social and spiritual needs of the homeless and less fortunate through love and compassion. The Community Kitchen is currently undergoing an expansion including a homeless day center and a workers’ shelter to allow homeless people with recent jobs to sleep and shower before work. The expansion is expected to be completed by year-end 2008. (423) 756-4222. The Interfaith Homeless Network (IHN) mission is to keep families together and help them find homes. Through IHN, homeless families find temporary homes at churches and synagogues that open their doors to provide volunteer support, meals, overnight lodging, transportation, connection to available resources, counseling and hospitality while families search for employment and housing. There MLK Community PLAN February 2009 104 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs are more than 49 churches supporting homeless families in the Chattanooga area. IHN held a ground breaking in August 2008 for a new family day care center which will be open in Spring 2009. The center will be a place for improving the lives of children while allowing them to play, receive education, do their homework, eat and rest. Since opening in 1998, IHN in Chattanooga has served approximately 1,500 people, and 500 families, including 900 children. (423) 756-3891 or http:// www.ihnchattanooga.org. The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers, provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies through the generosity of the American people. The local chapter was chartered in 1917 and, during the past year, the Greater Chattanooga Area Chapter (serving more than 725,000 people in 13 counties) helped 779 individuals who were victims of fires, provided thousands of hours of CPR training to over 5,500 people, provided First Aid and Disaster Training to over 340 people, trained lifeguards, water safety, babysitting skills, pet first aid, and helped 436 military families through the Armed Forces Emergency Services department. They provided nearly 30,000 hours of volunteer service to area hospital patients, supported 9 Disaster Action Teams as first responders within the chapters jurisdiction, sent 20 volunteers who worked 262 days to assist in major disasters across the country and provided sanctuary to over 200 individuals who fled hurricane Gustav in September 2008. Contact the local chapter at (423) 265-3455 or http://www.chattanoogaredcross.org. UTC Community Outreach Partnership Center (COPC) serves the community as a research entity to provide reports on social elements within the community. Call (423) 266-5729. Chattanooga Area Food Bank (CAFB) - The mission of the CAFB is to gather and share grocery products with our neighbors in need. The Chattanooga Area Food Bank is a bridge between America’s food bounty and those who cannot provide for themselves. www.chattfoodbank.org Contact (423) 622-1800 Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition Develops and facilitates multi-county community actions that move homeless individuals and families to self-sufficiency and permanent housing. 423-752-4807 The Salvation Army addresses physical, emotional and spiritual needs to the Community. They provide emergency and disaster services, a Thrift Store and Food Pantry and Transient Shelter & Sanction Center. They pursue new programs and partnerships to meet community needs through their many ministries for every age group. Contact (423) 756-1023 or http://salvationarmy.chattanooga.net. The Partnership for Families, Children and Adults of Chattanooga is a comprehensive social services agency that has been serving the community for over 130 years with the mission of empowering people to build better lives by addressing problems associated with family crisis, rape, divorce and domestic violence. Through professional counseling, crisis intervention, education and prevention services, they touched over 60,000 people in Southeast Tennessee, Northwest Georgia and North Alabama in the past year. For further information, call the Administrative Offices (423) 697-7130 or http://www.partnershipfca.com. 105 SECTION 4 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs The Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency’s (SETHRA) transit and training center will open in early 2009. The Center will house buses coming in from outlying Southeast Tennessee counties and take people to medical visits and other services. Contact (423) 698-7377 or http://www.sethratransit.org Senior Neighbors provides a myriad of on-going services supporting senior community members. Programs may include financial education, referral services, meals, health and fitness, social programs and transportation. Contact (423) 7556143. Neighborhood Watch and crime prevention programs are headed by the City Police department. They may involve Weed and Seed programs, study of crime reports, increased patrols, etc. For issues of traffic speeding or illegal parking, the City Traffic Engineering department may also be involved. Call 696-2525 for nonemergency related issues. EDUCATION, CULTURE AND RECREATION Bessie Smith Hall opened in 1996 and was named in honor of Chattanooga-born Bessie Smith, “Empress of the Blues.” The 23,255 square-foot facility features a performance hall, catering kitchen, resource library, activity/rehearsal rooms and a permanent exhibition about the artist herself. Contact (423) 757-0020. The Chattanooga African American Museum, a cultural center exhibiting AfricanAmerican contributions to Chattanooga, houses the Bessie Smith Hall. Contemporary artwork and African artifacts along with music and memorabilia of Bessie Smith are on display. Other exhibits change on a regular basis. Contact (423) 266-8658. Established in 1986, the Association For Visual Arts (AVA) has a membership of over 600 and serves as an advocate for the visual arts through programming, arts advocacy, exemplary community citizenship and by an increase in diversity among artists and art advocate members. AVA’s mission is to promote, support and advocate for original visual art and artists. Contact (423) 265-4282, [email protected], or see http://www.avarts.org. Outdoor Chattanooga was formed in 2004 as a direct result of a Strategic Plan for Outdoor Recreation in the Chattanooga region with facilities dedicated to the recreational use, education, and stewardship of the region’s natural areas by promoting outdoor recreation as a signature lifestyle. It strives to increase tourism, bring new residents to the community, protect our natural resources, and enhance the health and well-being of citizens and visitors alike. Contact (423) 643-6888 or http://www.outdoorchattanooga.com. CreateHere, a non-profit project engaged in stimulating the creative economy along with retaining and attracting creative, innovative and entrepreneurial citizens, was founded in July, 2007. It is a collective of programs, projects, incentive funding, and individuals working for creative economic and cultural development in Chattanooga. Contact (423) 648-2195. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 106 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Incentives & Programs The City of Chattanooga, Education, Arts and Culture Department is the creative office where ideas flow and creative opportunities flourish for education and outreach to the community. The EAC’s mission is to develop a broad base of programs that will give residents of all ages, incomes and ethnicity a chance to connect the dots between social issues and the arts. For the many programs, see http://www.chattanooga.gov or contact (423) 425-7823. Brown Academy for Classical Studies, located on East 8th Street, is one of two downtown urban schools for K- 5. The school works in conjunction with UTC as part of educator training and internships. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) was founded in 1886 as the private Chattanooga University and, following other changes, merged with the University of Tennessee System and Chattanooga’s historically African American Zion College in 1969. UTC uses the semester system with five optional “miniterms” in the summer. Campus leadership rests with the Chancellor and his staff of directors. The Student Government Association is the voice of student leadership on campus. Academics range from engineering, nursing, English, chemistry, fine arts, accounting, music, psychology and education with 43 undergraduate majors, 39 undergraduate minors and 21 graduate programs. The SimCenter is UTC’s computational engineering and simulation Center. Contact (423) 425-4111. Trust for Public Land (TPL) addresses local parks, conservation, financial benefits, tax credits, easements and coordinates the area greenways. They provide staff to the City’s Greenways Task Force. This nationwide network provides important programming and education on urban parks and the role of green in the urban environment. (423-265-6681). City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Department at Warner Park, located at 1254 East Third Street, operates indoor/outdoor pools and many other recreational activities throughout the year including the Chattanooga Zoo and a Recycle Center. Call (423) 697-1330. SECTION 4 107 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Resources The following agencies and organizations were identified in the MLK community, or exist as entities that may have a role to play in its revitalization. While not every listing has been identified here, these basic resources should prove helpful as the community moves forward. Air Pollution Control Bureau 6125 Preservation Drive Chattanooga, TN 37416 (423) 643-5970 Air and Open Burn permits, Air Quality (24 Hour Hotline 6435971) www.pollutionsolution.org Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga 406 Frazier Ave Chattanooga, TN 37405 (423) 756-2787 Public Art American Red Cross 801 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 265-3455 Emergency prevention, preparedness and response www.chattanoogaredcross.org American Institute of Architects 3423 Missionaire Avenue East Ridge, TN 37421 (423) 867-0444 www.aiachatt.org American Institute of Architects (AIA) 1105 Gartland Avenue Nashville, TN 37206 (615) 255-3860 Design competitions, architectural services resource list American Society of Landscape Architects www.asla.org Battle Academy for Teaching and Learning 1601 Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37408 (423) 209-5747 Bessie Smith Hall 200 E. MLK Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 757-0020 Bicycle Task Force Regional Planning Agency 1250 Market Street, Ste. 2000 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5216 Invigorate neighborhoods, expand education & safety, enhance the region’s potential for recreation & bicycle use Brown Academy for Classical Studies 718 E. 8th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 209-5700 Central City Complex 332-1/2 E. MLK Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-756-2694 Chattanooga African American Museum 200 E. MLK Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 266-8658 Association For Visual Arts (AVA) 30 Frazier Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37405 (423) 265-4282 Art in work program, artist database, exhibits, masonry works, education / workshops http://www.avarts.org MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce 811 Broad Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 756-2121 Brings area businesses together in support of economic growth and initiatives that support the community www.chattanooga-chamber.co Chattanooga Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 2 Broad Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 756-8687 Strengthens the area’s economy by marketing Chattanooga as a yearround destination Chattanooga Area Food Bank 3402 N. Hawthorne Street Chattanooga, TN 37406 (423) 622-3663 Food bank and Community Gardens Chattanooga Area Historical Association (CAHA) 404 South Crest Road Chattanooga, TN 37404 (423) 622-2420 Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) 1617 Wilcox Blvd. Chattanooga, TN 37406 (423) 629-1411 Park & Ride, Incline, main line bus routes, electrical shuttle, parking shelters and garages, parking meters, special services Chattanooga Association of Realtors 3963 Amnicola Highway Chattanooga, TN 37406 (423) 698-8001 108 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Resources Chattanooga Community Kitchen 727 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-756-4222 Chattanooga Downtown Partnership 2nd Floor Miller Plaza 850 Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 265-0771 Downtown programming and animation www.downtownchattanooga.org Chattanooga Green Development Resource Center 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 668-2262 www.chattanooga.gov/ chattanoogagreen Chattanooga-Hamilton County Bicentennial Library 1001 Broad Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5310 www.lib.chattanooga.gov Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Agency (RPA) 1250 Market Street, Ste. 2000 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5216 Comprehensive planning, zoning & subdivisions, transportation planning, historic preservation, and design review www.chcrpa.org Chattanooga-Hamilton County Small Business Development Center (SBDC) 100 Cherokee Blvd., Chattanooga, TN 37405 (423) 756-8668 Start up business classes and loans Chattanooga History Center 615 Lindsay Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 265-3247 Chattanooga Historic Zoning Commission 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 643-5884 www.chattanooga.gov/Public _Works/70_2281.htm Chattanooga Housing Authority (CHA) 801 N. Holtzclaw Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 752-4893 Providing quality, mixed income housing, develop effective community partnerships Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise (CNE) 1301 S. Market Street, Suite 100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 756-6201 Chattanooga State Technical Community College 4501 Amnicola Hwy. Chattanooga, TN 37406 (423) 697-4400 Chattanooga Tree Advisory Commission C/O City Forester Department of Public Works 900 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 757-7283 Chattanooga Urban Area Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) 1250 Market Street, Ste. 2000 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5216 Regional and long range transportation planning & programming Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition 801 N. Holtzclaw Avenue, Building B Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-752-4807 City of Chattanooga, Office of the Mayor 100 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5252 Special programs, Brownfields City of Chattanooga Department of Public Works, Administration 1250 Market Street, Suite 2100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5110 City Wide Services For Assistance – Dial 311 City of Chattanooga Office of Multicultural Affairs 100 E. 11th Street, Suite 301 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 643-6696 City of Chattanooga Land Development Office Development Resource Center 1250 Market Street, Suite 1000 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423)757-5101 Building Permits, Inspection Codes and Inspection 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 (423) 643-5883 Signs and Zoning 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 (423) 643-5883 Historic Zoning 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 (423) 643-5884 Chattanooga City Council 1000 Lindsay Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 757-5196 109 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Resources Design Review 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 (423) 643-5884 City of Chattanooga Engineering 1250 Market Street, Suite 2100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423)757-5117 City of Chattanooga Department of Education, Arts & Culture Memorial Auditorium 399 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 425-7823 www.chattanooga.gov City of Chattanooga Fire Department, Station #5 809 S. Willow Street Chattanooga, TN 37404 (423) 622-2314 (Non-Emergency) Emergency: Dial 911 City of Chattanooga Neighborhood Services and Community Development 101 E. 11th Street, Suite 200 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 425-3700 Dial 311 (for neighborhood concerns, immediate service). www.chattanooga.gov City of Chattanooga Parks & Recreation 1102 S. Watkins Street Chattanooga, TN 37404 (423) 643-6050 www.chattanooga.gov City of Chattanooga Police Department, Downtown Chattanooga Precinct 224 Walnut Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 643-5116 (Non-Emergency) Emergency: Dial 911 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 City of Chattanooga Stormwater Management 1250 Market Street, Suite 2100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423)668-2530 Crabtree Farms 1000 E. 30th Street Chattanooga, TN 37407 423-493-9155 www.crabtreefarms.org City of Chattanooga Technical Information Center 1250 Market Street, Suite 2100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423)757-5124 Sewer Location, Right-of-Way, Flood Zone Information City Forester Department of Public Works 900 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 757-7283 City of Chattanooga Traffic Engineering 1250 Market Street, Suite 3030 Chattanooga, TN 37408 (423) 757 - 5005 CreateHere 55 E. Main Street Chattanooga, TN 37408 (423) 648-2195 Local Historic Districts www.cr.nps.gov/hps/ workingonthepast/index.htm City of Chattanooga Urban Forestry and Landscaping 1250 Market Street, Suite 2100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 668-2523 Forestry, Landscape Ordinance Federal Tax Incentives www.cr.ns.gov/hps/TPS/tax/ incentives/index.htm; www.cr.nps.gov/hps/tps/tax/ index.htm Comcast Cable 2030 Polymer Drive Chattanooga, TN 37421 (423) 855-4300 Electric Power Board (EPB) 10 W. M. L. King Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 648-1500 Green Power, street lights, utilities Common Ground 423-820-1357 Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, Inc. 1270 Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 756-7288 Community Impact of Chattanooga, Inc. 517 E. 5th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 756-0763 Cornerstones, Inc. 736 Georgia Avenue, Suite 100 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 265-2825 www.cornerstonesinc.org 110 The Enterprise Center 1250 Market Street, Suite 3020 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 425-3770 Renewal Community, technology development and transfer, High Speed Rail, Maglev, Brownfields [email protected] (423) 425-3776 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 61 Forsyth Street Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 562-9900 www.epa.gov Section Four - Resources for Implementation Resources Erlanger Medical Center 975 E. 3rd Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 778-7000 Memorial Hospital 2525 De Sales Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 (423) 495-2525 Garden Clubs of America www.gcmerica.org National Archives http://lyonresearch.com green|spaces 63 E. Main Street Chattanooga, TN 37408 (423) 400-9461 (423) 827-9320 http://greenspaceschattanooga.com National Alliance of Preservation Commissions www.uga.edu/sed/pso/programs/ napc/napc.htm Habitat for Humanity (HFH) 1201 E. Main Street Chattanooga, TN 37408 (423) 756-0507 Build simple decent mixed income housing in partnership with people in need Hamilton County Commission 111 Courthouse Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 209 -7200 Home Builders Association of Southern Tennessee 3221 Old Harrison Pike Chattanooga, TN 37406 (423) 624-9992 Interfaith Homeless Network 711 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 756-3891 www.ihnchattanooga.org MLK Community Development Corporation 332-1/2 E. MLK Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-756-2694 National Register of Historic Places www.nps.gov/history National Trust for Historic Preservation 1785 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20036-2117 (202) 588-6000 www.nationaltrust.org Ochs Center for Metropolitan Studies 739 McCallie Avenue, 2nd Floor Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 425-5610 www.ochscenter.org Outdoor Chattanooga Development Resource Center 1250 Market Street, Suite 1006 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 643-6888 www.outdoorchattanooga.com Partnership For Families, Children & Adults of Chattanooga Administrative Offices 1800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 697-7130 www.partnershipfca.com Martin Luther King Neighborhood Association PO Box 11222 Chattanooga, TN 37401-2222 Planning & Design Studio Development Resource Center Regional Planning Agency 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 668-2262 Recycle Right / City of Chattanooga www.recycleright.org Renewal Community Office The Enterprise Center 1250 Market Street, Suite 3020 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 425-3776 [email protected] RiverCity Company 2nd Floor Miller Plaza 850 Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 265-3700 Riverfront/Downtown Development Salvation Army 800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-756-1023 Secretary of the Interior’s Standards (for Historic Buildings) www.cr.nps.gov/hps/TPS/ standguide/index.htm; www.cr.nps.gov/hps/tps/ standards_guidelines.htm Scenic Cities Beautiful 900 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN, 37403 (423) 757-0061 Scenic Tennessee 1250 Market Street, Suite 3010 Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 668-2262 Senior Neighbors 1000 Newby Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 755-6143 111 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Four - Resources for Implementation Resources Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency Hamilton County 1617-B Wilcox Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37406 (423) 698-7337 Transportation www.sethratransit.org Tennessee Historical Commission 2941 Lebanon Road Nashville, TN 37243-0442 (615) 532-1550 Grants, surveys, historic tax credits, inventory, consultation on historic registry, Section 106 Review [email protected] (x106) Small Business Administration (SBA) www.sba.gov Tennessee Multicultural Chamber of Commerce 535 Chestnut Street, Suite 200 Chattanooga, TN 37402 423-265-0021 Southeastern Tennessee Development District (SETDD) 1000 Rivefront Parkway Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 266-5781 National Register of Historic Places, cell tower permits, federal regulation, Section 106, career counseling, community development, economic development www.sedev.org The Take Root Initiative C/O Department of Public Works 900 E. 11th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 643-6952 Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Chattanooga Environmental Assistance Center State Office Building, Suite 550 540 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 634-5745 Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) James K. Polk Building 505 Deadrick Street, Ste. 600 Nashville, TN 37243-0341 (615) 741-5312 Environment & Planning, alternative transportation, road improvements MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Tennessee Preservation Trust P. O. Box 24373 Nashville, TN 37202 (615) 963-1255 www.tennesseepreservationtrust.org Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC) www.tufc.com Tennessee Valley Authority www. tva.gov Trust for Public Land (TPL) 202 Tremont Street Chattanooga, TN 37405 (423) 265-6681 www.tpl.org 28th Legislative District Community Development Corporation 815 N. Hickory Street Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-698-8190 United Way 630 Market Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 752-0300 UTC Community Outreach Partnership Center 401 M. L. King Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 266-5729 112 University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) 615 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37403 (423) 425-4111 University of Tennessee Collge of Architecture & Design (UTK) 1715 Volunteer Blvd. Knoxville, TN 37996-2400 (865) 974-5265 University of Tennessee Extension Service / Hamilton County Extension Office 6183 Adamson Circle Bonny Oaks Industrial Park Chattanooga, TN 37416 (423) 855-6113 Agriculture, 4-H Club, Master Gardeners http://hamilton.tennessee.edu Urban Land Institute (ULI) 1025 Thomas Jefferson St., NW Suite 500 West Washington, DC 20007 (202) 624-7000 Urban League of Chattanooga 730 E. MLK Boulevard Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-756-1762 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 451 7th Street, SW Washington, DC 20410 (202) 708-1112 City renewal programs, loans, public housing, Hope VI U.S. Department of Geological Survey (USGS) Bioremediation http://www.usgs.gov Section Four - Resources for Implementation Resources U. S. Department of Interior National Park Service Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park 3370 Lafayette Road Ft. Oglethorpe, GA 30707 (423) 752-5213 (706) 866-9241 Warner Park, City of Chattanooga 1254 E. 3rd Street Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-697-1330 www.chattanooga.gov Whiteside Faith Manor 735 E. 10th Street Chattanooga, TN 37403 423-266-8325 Young Mens Christian Association (YMCA) 301 W. 6th Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 266-3766 Memberships, youth leadership activities and camps SECTION 4 113 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices List of Appendices Appendices A. Action Steps Matrix B. List of Previous Plans C. Public Responses D. RPA Grocery Store Study E. Additional Maps Police Precinct Renewal Zone F. Urban Design Standards Land Use Site Design Building Design Signs Residential Standards G. Zoning Categories H . Bibliography MLK Community PLAN February 2009 114 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION SECTION 5 115 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION MLK Community PLAN February 2009 116 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION SECTION 5 117 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION MLK Community PLAN February 2009 118 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION SECTION 5 119 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION MLK Community PLAN February 2009 120 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION SECTION POTENTIAL ACTION 5 121 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION MLK Community PLAN February 2009 122 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION SECTION POTENTIAL ACTION 5 123 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix A - Action Steps Matrix POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION POTENTIAL ACTION MLK Community PLAN February 2009 124 Section Five - Appendices Appendix B - Previous MLK Plans MLK Plans - This following is a list of past planning processes that have occured for the MLK area. Although every attempt was made to be all inclusive, every plan may not be shown, - the next few pages account for plans from 1986 to 2007. MLK Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan (September 1986) Prepared by: Wilson Dagenhart Johnson This report proposed several recommendations such as stimulating the housing redevelopment of the MLK neighborhood by removing dilapidated building, rehabilitating substandard building, and minimizing land use conflict. M. L. King., Jr. Boulevard Study (December, 1991) Prepared by: East Ninth Street Community Development Corporation and ChattanoogaHamilton County Regional Planning Agency This study identified neighborhood problems and assets. It proposed a Neighborhood MLK Taskforce Subcommittee on Housing (July 1993) Draft Report of the MLK Boulevard Area Taskforce (April 1994) Report made several recommendations such as revitalization of area including development of institutional property and greater coordination and communication between UTC and community. Report reviewed the historical properties, physical condition and demographics in the MLK area. Offered recommendations for housing (rehabilitate twelve neighborhood homes), institutions (neighborhood clean-up and improve neighborhood exchange), and neighborhood organization (small minority business assistance). MLK Taskforce Subcommittee on Housing (August 1993) Report suggested improvements that could be made over a twelve month period for instance a neighborhood organization, neighborhood cleanup, and speed controls. MLK District Comprehensive Housing Plan: Final Report & Recommendations (May 1998) MLK Taskforce Subcommittee on Housing (October 1993) The Comprehensive Housing plan called for a diverse neighborhood of single-family homes, multi-family apartments/town homes, retail services, office and local institutions. The district could be divided into two distinct sub-areas: (1) residential core located to the east of the partially abandoned railroad right-ofway and (2) the commercial/ institutional/academic uses to the west of the railroad right-of-way. Plan reviewed places in community for redevelopment, discussed ways to advertise new homes and inform residents of new improvements. Revitalization Plan including Physical Improvements (housing, commercial and industrial structures, community facilities and historic/architecturally significant structures), Economic Development and Community Services. MLK Taskforce Subcommittee on Housing (November 1993) A Redevelopment Plan for the Martin Luther King District (19921993) MLK Taskforce SubcommitteeEconomic Development (November 1993) Prepared by: The Georgia Tech Urban Design Workshop, Georgia Institute of Technology Report proposed several actions such as developing the 2nd floor of the Progressive Teachers Credit Union building, pursuing a contract and/or business service opportunities for MLK merchants and minority entrepreneurs and conducting and completing analysis of existing merchants/party owner needs. The plan proposed is a compilation of students’ ideas in response to the perceived goals and objectives of the City, Community and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Report aimed to rehab twelve existing units and construct four new homes and have all occupied in twelve months. 125 Prepared by: Urban Collage, Inc. M. L. King District Demographic / Consumer Survey (September 1998) Prepared by: Inner-City Development Corporation The survey was developed to capture demographic data, purchasing habits and the changes desired in the community from the residential population. MLK Development District Business/Commercial Inventory (October 1998) Prepared by: Juliette Thorton MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix B The purpose of the Business/ commercial Inventory was to make available an aggregate list of current data which cataloged the businesses and other related establishments located in the District. The Inventory identified the business by addresses and land parcel, property ownership, description of the physical structure, and types of operation. outcomes. Also, provided a marketing plan aimed at increasing the rate of home ownership in the neighborhood MLK Boulevard Commercial Corridor Plan, Project Area Profile: Final Recommendations (April 1999) Assessment for subject properties along 400-500 blocks of the MLK corridor and 1000 Park Place School. Purpose was to assist business owners to plan for specific improvements, renovation activities for specific structures along the corridor. Info provided: costs, schedule, and structural date for planning purposes. Prepared by: Urban Collage This report described building conditions, occupancy, property ownership, public environment, historic resources, traffic/ transportation, market study and demand analysis. MLK Boulevard Commercial Corridor Plan (August 1999) Prepared by: Urban Collage, Inc. Plan attempted to define a physical blueprint for future redevelopment within the corridor including costs and necessary implementation partnerships. MLK District Infrastructure Revitalization Strategy & Marketing Plan (August 2000) Prepared by: Michael Schubert, Community Development Strategies and Maria Nedland, Fall Creek Consultants Plan offered strategies to MLK neighborhood on improving image, market, physical condition and neighborhood management. It outlined the characteristics of a healthy neighborhood and identified a set of healthy neighborhood MLK Community PLAN February 2009 MLK Assessment Survey Report (May 2001) Prepared by: Artech Design Group and M.L. Johnson & Company One-Way Transportation Analysis: MLK Boulevard, Bailey Avenue, and McCallie Avenue (May 2002) Prepared by: Glatting Jackson, Kercher Anglin, Lopez Rinehart, Inc. Plan offered recommendations to converting MLK Boulevard, Bailey Avenue, and McCallie Avenue into two-way lanes. Also, the plan included potential economic opportunities resulting from two-way conversion such as business visibility. MLK Urban Retail District Location Analysis (October 2002) Prepared by: KHAFRA Engineering Consultant Location Analysis Report designed to concentrate on relevant results of previous studies and provide an updated picture of existing conditions in the area. This report made several recommendations such as the City of Chattanooga revising the 1998 redevelopment plan, 126 reinforcing commitment to housing codes, committing to historic preservation programs, and developing a series of infill/rehab projects block by block. MLK Neighborhood Residential Development Focus Group: Final Report (December 2002) Prepared by: Kennedy & Associates, Granger Advisors LLC Five focus groups conducted to gather opinions and ideas from prospective neighborhood residents about living in the MLK area. Approximately 50 participants discussed topics such as the types of homes preference (single family, detached or renovated), amenities (grocery store, drycleaner, or pharmacy), and preferences for onstreet/off-street parking. MLK District Infrastructure Revitalization Strategy & Marketing Plan (August 2004) Part I - Offered strategies and goals for revitalization of the neighborhood: defined a healthy neighborhood, such as image, market, physical conditions, and neighborhood market; vision for MLK, neighborhood of commitment, choice, reinforced as a “special place”; strategies, such as image, current situation—community policing and code enforcement, carry on activities that enhance MLK as a special place—, positive images of neighborhood to potential buyers, cont. on next page Section Five - Appendices Appendix B - Previous MLK Plans market real estate (long-term), and collaborative team efforts which provide input to developers so that new developments help achieve neighborhood successful and healthy outcomes and improve physical conditions (i.e. add sidewalks, parkways); neighborhood management through a neighborhood association. Part II Neighborhood marketing plan for increasing home ownership, market goal 10 new homeowners. Target markets are neighborhood churches young African American professionals, UTC employees, Erlanger employees, existing neighborhood renters, and friends and family from existing owners. Advancing UTC Student Patronage on MLK Boulevard: A Think Tank Study (Fall 2006) Prepared by: UTC Community Outreach Center The Study provided an evaluative analysis about UTC student interest on M.L. King Boulevard and provided recommendations for increasing student interests. Strategic Planning Survey: Executive Summary Report (May 2007) Prepared by: Steering Committee of UTC Strategic Planning UTC Steering Committee designed and posted an open and anonymous survey on the web, its goal to collect opinions and ideas from campus community and other interested parties about the campus. We Shall Achieve Excellence through Partnerships: The Strategic Plan of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (September 2007) Prepared by: Steering Committee of UTC Strategic Planning The UTC strategic plan emphasized specific directions and opportunities that are critical to UTC’s future successes and will help make UTC a ‘distinctive’ place. Moving Forward: A Study of the Martin Luther King Community (August 2007) Prepared by: UTC Community Outreach Partnership Center This report provided updates on commercial and residential properties in the MLK area including property ownership, physical condition, new properties and land uses. 127 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix C - Public Responses MLK Community Plan ______________________________________________________________________________________________ UTC Workshop M.L. King Plan Input – Suggestions & Comments • A total of 23 surveys were returned • Approximately 25-28 people gave their input PREVAILING SUGGESTIONS: 1. 2. Safety Issues: Homeless campus proposal makes students extremely uncomfortable about getting out into the neighborhood. Panhandling and loitering also makes students feel unsafe. They wish for more of a police presence in the neighborhood, whether on foot or on bicycle. Restaurants & Coffee Shops: Catering to both the 18-20 year old crowd as well as the 21+ crowd. Affordable but quality food available during the day and at night. Sunday brunch. Being able to use student Meal Cards at those places would be a huge incentive to get them off campus (on weekends, campus restaurants close!). People waiting on the streets outside the mission housing on 8th Avenue makes students feel uncomfortable and unsafe. The neighborhood should have more “college friendly” restaurants, including buffet-style, café style, and more affordable (in the $4-6 range). East 10th Street does not seem friendly or safe; new businesses could give it a better feel. “college friendly” places for student employment More efficient bus service. Need shopping areas (Clothing, music, books & video shops) along with parking. Be able to use Meal Card at offcampus restaurants. Show student ID/Mocs Card for discounts at places. Need more neighborhood events & activities, such as scavenger hunts or block parties. 4. 5. Bars & Music Venues bigger than JJ’s are needed. Affordable Housing is needed for students wishing to live off-campus. Neighborhood Grocery Store: Campus store is overpriced and convenience stores don’t carry all the essential items. It would keep students from going to Wal-Mart and attract a regular crowd from the neighborhood and beyond. PUBLIC COMMENTS Need affordable and nice rental apartments. Existing student housing is $1700/semester. Ithaca, NY is a good example of a college town, with the Ithaca Commons pedestrian mall and police on foot instead of in cars. The public market should be moved closer to town; perhaps even into a temporary facility. More people makes pan-handling “less noticeable”. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Shopping is needed: vintage clothing stores, used music and bookstores Improve communication about what exists in the city: better stuff on TVs Market/advertise to students on the internet instead of just magazines and papers More things for the under 21 crowd: cool bands and activities in the neighborhood Have a City/Farmer’s Market More advertising ON-campus is needed to get the message out about what’s OFF-campus. Most students have little knowledge of what actually exists in the neighborhood. “Party Train” connection to Finley is a great idea. Homeless issues should be removed. 3. Internet cafes would attract many students. New businesses needed: market, cafes, and movie theatre. Affordable housing off-campus for students A safe park On weekends, the food closes on campus Have more concerts, esp. blues and jazz The homeless give the neighborhood diversity; vocational ideas are good for them Get a larger grocery store like Bi-Lo or Food Lion. Tired of going to Wal-Mart! DO NOT build the HOMELESS SHELTER near campus! Loitering and panhandling are huge issues Use the same buildings/preserve already existing structures instead of demolishing Places for student employment Continuation of Riverwalk Museum? Grocery Store A variety of restaurants is needed including fast food and late night restaurants, as well as coffee shops. Safety improvements should be made A community center is needed; a place for students from Brown to go after school and students can volunteer there 128 Section Five - Appendices Appendix C - Public Responses to make room for new ones. Save resources! Theatres, concert venues, and other activities need to be available Good lighting, sidewalks and landscape to make people want to walk around The Institute of Archaeology at UTC offers archaeological services as far as cultural resource management plans and site nominations for the Nat’l Register of Historic Places. Integration, NOT segregation! More Police patrol – either on foot or bicycles. Just make their presence known! Homeless situation makes students feel unsafe; we don’t want to be harassed when walking down the street. People ask us for money all the time. Do not let the area return to the ways of the past with men gathering to drink, build fires to stay warm, etc Video game arcade / tournament center Clean up Miller Park A Recreation area off-campus Foot bridges over McCallie Ave. and M.L. King Blvd. Spread out services in the community. Can’t use public spaces (such as feeding the homeless in Miller Park) Aesthetic seasonal plantings around sidewalks and streets GET RID of the homeless shelter More restaurants, cafes and lounges More restaurants like the Yellow Deli A “strip” in the commercial district offering restaurants, hang out areas and services More affordable student housing Eclectic food/restaurants A place to play board games, eat simple food, and drink coffee Make students feel safer Put a Greek Row on MLK on property NOT owned by UTC, or at least closer to MLK instead of away from (like on Vine Street). Subsidize entrepreneur restaurants, for example like Memphis’s “Midtown” district More security and police on foot, or even cameras at major places – just to let people there is a presence of authority Bridge the gap between the north side of campus and the south side of campus – there is a major difference in the feeling A private bus/van system for UTC students, like “Dial-A-Ride” The homeless shelter should be relocated Give the students more opportunities to have fun in their neighborhood Affordable restaurants and coffee houses, art galleries, a grocery store… things that would pull in a regular business clientele as well as people traveling through the area and UTC families Offer shuttle services Ethnic restaurants, vegetarian eateries, smoothie bar Places where underage students can be after 10 PM; perhaps a music or poetry venue Continued renovation and new properties; make MLK a safe and inviting area Have a shuttle/tram service to all apartment buildings, for example, like the University of West Georgia More restaurants & restaurant diversity Indoor and outdoor gathering places: bowling alleys, paintball & laser tag park, video game arcades, internet café/ community rooms Build a “Lazy Study River” with plastic book protectors available Need an easy way to learn about the area and its past More reasons to go there, or want to walk there on your way home from school or work, including a bookstore or inviting park SECTION 5 129 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix C - Public Responses Summaries from 10/2007 meeting NOTE: - Drawing summary: map comments written by participants/ citizens. Words in brackets are for clarification purpose, written by map interpreter. Table 1 Drawing summary: • • • [All] commercial along MLK Blvd, McCallie and Central Learning Center [at the corner of E. 10th and Magnolia] Shuttle [along McCallie, MLK, E. 10th, and E. 11th ] • Make E. 8th two-way • Move trucks from E. 11th to E. 12th • Grocery store with Pharmacy inside on McCallie or MLK • Line McCallie and MLK with businesses • Green along old railroads (not in use) • High density housing near Whiteside Manor and at the corner of MLK and Magnolia • Greening along Central • Movie theater in front of Bessie Smith Hall • Underground utilities • Urban, small, specialized grocery stores • Community center along MLK and W. of railroad on E. 10th • Shuttle along McCallie, E. 10th, Magnolia, Peeples, Fairview, Palmetto, Park and Central • High density housing on Flynn (W. of Palmetto) and Magnolia • Whiteside Park needs beautification Big trees need to come down too close to utilities on MLK and Park • Park at the corner at Fairview and E. 10th • Security (better response) • • Want electric shuttle Recreation including ball park, tennis court, and pool at E. 11th near Central • Farmer’s Market and grocery store • Low density at the corner of Magnolia and E. 10th • Pave streets • Grocery store (fresh market), Pharmacy and Farmer’s Market • [Police precinct near railroad at the corner of Peeples and E. 11th ] • • Bus services should go twoway down McCallie and MLK • Lacking art, murals and flowers • Farmer’s Market turned into two parks with Recreation Center • Beautification and art on MLK (similar to Main St. and Frasier) • [Greenway on old railroad racks] • Limit street parking • Improve existing especially on E. 10th and E. 11th near railroad, need sidewalks and lighting • Possible review committee • Something to attract outsiders • [Beautification/greening on Peeples and Baldwin near Community Kitchen] Table 2 Drawing summary: • Electric shuttle along MLK and McCallie and thru Douglass (south of MLK) • Want commercial district on MLK to resemble Frasier Ave with cool shops MLK Community PLAN February 2009 better lighting all over MLK area and on every street] Table 3 Drawing summary: • [Public Art themed “caboose” or “Big 9” and 130 Table 4 Drawing summary: • [commercial highly concentrated from MLK south to E. 12th and on Newby, Foster, Douglas, Baldwin and Peeples] • Bus travel on E. 10th , McCallie and MLK Section Five - Appendices Appendix C - Public Responses • More bus stops • [High density housing on Baldwin, [where current UTC student housing is located on E. 8th and University], Magnolia at MLK, and Flynn at Palmetto] • Low density and new residential between Central and O’Neal Table 7- Drawing summary: • [Greening/beautification along MLK and the old railroad track on MLK] • [Beautification or maintenance] of Whiteside Park • High density housing at Fairview and at UTC student housing (south campus) • [Some high density housing on Central] • Park at the corner Fairview and e. 10th • Low density on E. 8th between Palmetto and Magnolia • [Trees on MLK behind Tommie Brown] • [Incubator] across from Community Kitchen Art in front of Bessie Smith Hall • [Low density housing in current residential housing] [Add tennis courts, parks and trees at the end of E. 10th near railroad tracks] • Electric shuttle [travel down] McCallie and MLK • Art in Whiteside Park • Greening/beautification at the corner of Fairview and E. 10th • [School/Institution] at the corner of Park and E. 10th • Low density housing [where current residential housing is located between E.8th south to MLK] • • New lighting on Fairview [N. of MLK] • All streets need paving • • Bus [travels] on Central • Commercial on MLK, Flynn, Palmetto at Flynn Incentives for storefront improvement • Signage and lights • More commercial on Central • Improved smooth sidewalks • • Sculpture garden [Greenway on old railroad tracks] • [UTC needs more garage parking] • Some interpretation of history on MLK • Festival/ recreation on MLK High density on Central, Palmetto, E. 8th, and W. of railroad on MLK • History preservation • Low rise parking • Parking in rear • Better lighting • Rename the streets • Table 5 - Drawing summary: Table 6 - Drawing summary: • Bicycle routes on E. 10th • Manufacturing on E. 12th • Park, trees, and art [at the corner of Baldwin at E. 11th] • Low density where current housing is located [Park along old railroad track that crosses MLK] • Greening on McCallie, Douglas and on railroad tracks • • • [Grocery store on Whiteside Park?] Table 8- Drawing summary: • Greening/beautification in front of Bessie Smith Hall • Office and Retail along 11th • Shuttle along MLK • Commercial along MLK • Grocery store on McCallie • Park and open space on 8th • [Drug store, restaurant, grocery and retail at the corner of Park and McCallie] • Greening/Beautification on central and MLK (W. of railroad) • Beautification (greening) on Fairview 131 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix C - Public Responses • Landscaping needed on E. 10th St. • Low density housing on Douglass, Flynn and E. 10th and low density housing, [E. of railroad track on MLK Blvd.] • Recreation centers • Retain old buildings and historic architecture and new construction should try to fit into old character. • Complete greenway • UTC partnership • Public art/museum • Need smoke detectors • • Maintain streetscape with bricks (no new areas needed) Smoke detectors in every home (placement, education and committee) • [Community center] • Sidewalks (especially brick sidewalks), supermarket, retail and health clinic • Can’t go 3 blocks without sidewalk needing repair • Park at the corner of Fairview and E. 10th • Need handicap accessible [sidewalks] on all streets (now only on MLK) • • Storefront improvements needed along MLK Blvd. • Sidewalk improvements needed on E. 10th • Retail (grocery store, drycleaning & drug store) along on E. 10th St.,W. of railroad Table 9 Drawing summary: • More single family housing (no duplexes or condos) on Park Ave. and Central Ave. • More single family housing on O’Neal and Magnolia [N. of MLK Blvd.] • Park near Whiteside Manor • Streetlights and trash receptacles, [S. of MLK on Magnolia, Park Ave., Fairview and 11th St.] • Need smoke detectors • Maintain streetscape with bricks (no new areas needed) • Park at the corner of Fairview and E. 10th • Need handicap accessible [sidewalks] on all streets (now only on MLK) • Repair needed along MLK near Olivet and Whiteside Manor MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Repair needed along MLK near Olivet and Whiteside Manor • • • Businesses need street addresses visible (people always asking directionshard to give) Business service on weekends, now M-F 6 to 6, [should operate until] 8PM and add Saturday and Sunday Need free use of Whiteside Park (can’t bring music without paying, [should be] better maintained) Table 10 Drawing summary: • More police and a police precinct at the corner of Peeples and E. 11th • Some restaurants and housing in the block between Peeples and Baldwin • Transit and other transportation along railroad tract that goes thru E. 12th, E. 11th, and along E. 10th and MLK Blvd. • All low density housing in current residential housing (W. of railroad track located on MLK Blvd.) • Higher density housing, E. of railroad track along E. 11th, E. 10th, MLK, and E. 8th and Houston near the State Building. • Calm traffic/cut speeding, need route for big trucks • Get abandoned cars off the street • Add streetscaping and lights along E. 10th • Home maintenance by landlords • Electric bus route • Bikes on sidewalks, educations of bikers • Improve Whiteside Park 132 Section Five - Appendices Appendix C - Public Responses • Add lights in front of Tommie Brown Academy • Electric bus connecting to downtown • Store/Restaurant/Office needed on McCallie • • Connect walking trail to river trail Move utilities on Central Ave. from 11th to McCallie – there is no place to walk, the utility poles are in the middle of the sidewalk • Park at the corner of Central and Flynn • • Electric buses connecting the neighborhood to downtown business district I would like to see MLK Blvd. treescaped and the City of Chattanooga taking care of the sidewalks and grass areas! And picking up trash on streets other than MLK. • A great many residents fear the MLK area is in danger of reverting to a haven for the homeless, drug, and alcohol addicts and low income renters in Section 8 housing. The streets are littered and efforts to combat these populations are failing as activists become disillusioned. The fight over the homeless complex has divided the community and participation in neighborhood activities is declining. • There is absolutely NO assistance to encourage commercial revitalization of MLK Blvd. 5. Other Comments: • We love MLK! • Would like to see old Farmer’s Market site on 11th become a mixed use/retail/ restaurant site to attract residents to our community • East-west electric shuttle • We want the traffic on 10th to move slower. They seem to be avoiding traffic lights on MLK by traveling on 10th • To attract more businesses; increase population density • To attract home owners/ renters and improve area through beautification (greenery, flowers, improve store front-appearances) • Boutiques/ethnical retail shops/art galleries, make improvements to area that will encourage walking and bicycles (especially lighting streets and sidewalks), a great University/community street, retail (strips) with pharmacy SECTION 5 133 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix D - Grocery Store Study See www.chcrpa.org website for full document MLK Community PLAN February 2009 134 Section Five - Appendices Appendix E - Additional Maps Police Precincts 135 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix E - Additional Maps Renewal Zone MLK Community PLAN February 2009 136 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F - Urban Design Principles URBAN DESIGN PRINCIPLES The economic redevelopment of urban districts will not be successful by following suburban development models. Vibrant downtowns and center city neighborhoods thrive because they provide a unique experience. The typical big box retailers and national chains, on the other hand, can be found in almost any city and they all look pretty much the same. Downtowns and urban neighborhood commercial centers usually include more local businesses that keep more money in the local economy and provide a unique shopping “experience” not found anywhere else. Similarly, urban neighborhoods provide alternatives to the more homogenous, single-family subdivisions found in the suburbs. Smaller lots help foster a sense of community by bringing things closer together and a variety of housing types and proximity to downtown jobs makes urban neighborhoods more affordable. Good design principles should guide ALL development. Urban areas, however, have particular characteristics that require very different solutions from those usually seen in the suburbs. It is these unique urban qualities that make downtowns and center city neighborhoods attractive to residents and shoppers in the first place. If we allow these urban qualities to be replaced by suburban solutions, the urban area loses its competitive advantage and begins to look like every other place. Like the MLK of long ago, buildings should also be built for 100 years of use and should not be designed solely based on the latest retail trend (typically lasting 3-5 years). Design principles are not to be confused with architectural styles. Architectural style is a matter of taste and something that changes over time; design principles, on the other hand, are always applicable to an urban area. These urban design principles focus on the public realm – the streets, sidewalks, parks and plazas – and how individual buildings interface with that public realm. As a result, building facades, parking, and other site elements that can be seen from the street or sidewalk are considered part of the public realm. The location of buildings, their doors and windows, the building height, parking lots, landscaping, and other exterior site elements all have an impact on the people who walk or drive by them every day. Individual property owners, therefore, have a responsibility, as good citizens, to maintain their property and follow these principles. Revitalization of the MLK commercial corridor will depend, in large part, on the quality of new infill development and the adherence to these urban design principles. These urban design principles can be generally divided into five categories: Land Use, Site Design, Building Design, Signs and Residential Standards. Based on many years of experience, the Chattanooga community has learned that these primary elements are critical for urban revitalization. Addressing location and site placement, along with human scale and the quality of the public realm (what people see and experience from the street) must take priority when creating a truly urban environment. SECTION 5 137 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F URBAN DESIGN Elements • Mixed use developments • Corner stores • Setbacks & outdoor cafes • Screened parking • Parking behind the buildings • Trees and pervious paving in parking lots • Streetscape • Dumpster screening • Street frontage • Façade elements • Good signs • Residential types LAND USE PATTERNS: Mixed Use - A mix of uses should be provided on each site and within each building in order to bring daily activities within walking distance, reduce the number and length of automobile trips, and establish densities that support the use of transit and neighborhood stores. Neighborhood Commercial Centers - Neighborhood commercial uses should generally be clustered at intersections and built at a scale that does not overwhelm the residential uses. Walkability - Residences should be located within a quarter-mile of commercial centers that include schools, jobs, and shopping to encourage walking. Transit stops should also be located in these commercial centers. Density - Residential areas should achieve a minimum density of 12 units per acre to support transit use. SITE DESIGN: Setbacks - Commercial buildings in the urban area should be built to the sidewalk to maintain the street edge and create interest for the pedestrian. If an outdoor café or other pedestrian activity is provided in front, buildings may have a deeper setback. Under no circumstances should parking be placed between the front of the building and the street. For corner buildings, both facades should be built to the sidewalk. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 138 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F - Urban Design Principles Street Edges - If a building is not built to the sidewalk, a 3 to 4-foot masonry wall or decorative fence with landscaping should be built along the right-of-way to maintain the urban street edge and delineate the public and private spaces. Lighting- Lighting should be used to make an area attractive and safe, but should not create light pollution or excessive glare. The mounting height of parking lot lighting should not exceed 20 feet. All exterior lighting should include full cut-offs to direct light downward. Screening- All dumpsters and mechanical equipment should be located behind the building and should be screened from view with an opaque fence, wall or landscaping. Open space - Parks and plazas should incorporate fountains, public art, attractive shelters, and seating. Demolitions- To maintain the continuity of the street edge and urban fabric, the demolition of buildings should be avoided until redevelopment plans are approved. Landscaping / Trees- A tree canopy cover of 15% or greater is necessary in the urban area to provide shade, reduce urban heat build-up, and filter pollutants from the air and stormwater. All parking lots should include at least one tree for every five parking spaces to achieve this goal. Stormwater - Pervious paving is encouraged on all parking lots to reduce stormwater runoff. Sidewalks - Sidewalks in commercial areas should be at least 10 feet wide to allow room for pedestrians to pass. Sidewalks in residential areas should be at least 5 feet wide with a planting strip between the sidewalk and the street to accommodate trees and to provide some barrier between pedestrians and moving cars. Sidewalk cafes help animate urban areas, but they must be designed to allow sufficient room for pedestrian travel along the sidewalk. A minimum clear zone of 6 feet is required for handicap access, but 10 feet is preferred in highly traveled areas. For cafes with a substantial numbers of chairs or for those that serve alcohol, a decorative fence or planter is needed to delineate the public realm from the private commercial space. Streetscape - For commercial streets, street trees should be located in tree wells near the curb edge of the sidewalk to prevent trees from “growing into” the buildings and to maintain a clear zone for pedestrians on the sidewalk. Consult the Planning & Design Studio or Public Works Department for appropriate spacing and species of trees. Pedestrian lights, planters, waste receptacles, and other street furniture should line up with the trees to leave ample walking room for pedestrians. 139 SECTION 5 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F For residential streets, street trees should be located in a continuous planting strip between the curb and the sidewalk. This planting strip should be a minimum of 4 feet wide. Parking & Vehicular Access - Parking lots fronting the street create “dead spots” in the urban fabric and too many surface parking lots along a street can actually discourage pedestrian travel. Parking should be located behind buildings and alleys should be used for vehicular access. A mid-block passage can provide pedestrian access. If parking behind the building is physically impossible, parking may be placed to the side of the building, but only if it is screened from view with a 3 to 4-foot masonry wall or decorative fence and landscaping along the sidewalk to maintain the street edge. The number of parking spaces should be limited to promote the use of transit in the urban area. Shared parking is encouraged. Drive-through windows create safety conflicts with pedestrians and should not be used in the urban area unless they are located behind the building and a side street or alley is used for vehicular access. Curb cuts (driveways) should not be located on MLK Boulevard, McCallie Avenue and other major streets in the Downtown. They create safety conflicts with pedestrians and contribute to traffic congestion. Alleys or secondary streets should be used for vehicular access. All multi-story parking garages should include retail or offices on the ground floor to increase pedestrian activity. BUILDING DESIGN: Green Buildings - Building designers should strive for L.E.E.D. (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification to increase energy efficiency, reduce stormwater runoff, and minimize waste – all of which saves money in the long run. Consult the U.S. Green Building Council at www.usgbd.org or Green/Spaces at www.greenspaceschattanooga.com for more information. Historic Buildings - Buildings more than 50 years old are considered historic and should be preserved if they contribute to the historic character of the district. For more information, contact Chattanooga’s Public Works Department at http:// www.chattanooga.gov/Public_Works/70_HistoricPlanning&DesignReview.htm or Cornerstones at www.cornerstonesinc.org. Historic buildings should only be demolished if: MLK Community PLAN February 2009 a. Public safety requires the building’s removal; or b. The building has lost its architectural and historic value and removal of the building will improve the appearance of the area. 140 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F - Urban Design Principles Building Height & Mass - Buildings should establish a well-defined street edge and urban character and respect the pedestrian scale. Buildings should be similar in height and configuration to nearby buildings on the same street. Commercial streets should accommodate higher densities, and therefore taller buildings, than predominantly residential streets. MLK Boulevard and McCallie Avenue can accommodate buildings in the 2 – 5 story range. Commercial buildings Signs should be located in the lintel or sign frieze that separates the ground level from the upper façade, on the upper façade walls, or projecting from the face of the building. Corner buildings may have a slightly greater height and mass than surrounding buildings to “anchor” the street corner. Roofs - Roofs should reflect traditional urban commercial patterns and provide some visual interest to the tops of buildings, but should not overwhelm the street facade. For commercial buildings, flat roofs with a decorative cornice are encouraged. Hipped and front-gabled roofs are acceptable, but shed roofs (single pitch) and mansard-style elements attached to the building facade are not acceptable. Occupied roofs, such as roof gardens and terraces, are encouraged. Facades - Building facades should reflect traditional urban patterns and provide interest for the pedestrian. Each building should have an identifiable base, middle, and top to create pedestrian interest at the street level and to cap the building. Long uninterrupted horizontal stretches of facades should be avoided. Building bays, storefronts, doors, columns, and other vertical elements should be used to “break up” the building façade. Storefronts should include display windows, transoms, awnings, and doors. Horizontal elements – windows, cornice lines, stringcourses - should be generally aligned with those of adjoining buildings and be substantial enough to provide interest to the facade. Doors & Windows - Openings and bays should reinforce the human scale, maintain traditional urban patterns, and provide interest for the pedestrian. The ground floor of all commercial buildings should contain lots of windows and doors. Heavily tinted windows should not be used as they create the appearance of the building being empty. A small but important detail: window frames (except glass block) should always be recessed at least 2 inches from the building face to create some depth and shadow on the façade. SECTION 5 141 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F Pedestrian Access - The primary pedestrian entrance should be located along the primary street to encourage pedestrian activity. Mechanical Equipment - Mechanical equipment should be screened from the public right-of-way whether located on the ground or on the roof. Metal buildings are not appropriate. Metal siding may be used sparingly as an architectural element. SIGNS: Signs should balance the need to market individual businesses with the objectives of maintaining traditional urban patterns and minimizing visual clutter. A rule of thumb for the size of signage on an individual facade is 1.5 square feet of signage for every linear foot of that building side. Internally illuminated box-type signs are not appropriate. Individually illuminated letters are more appropriate. Awnings and banners should be designed as an integral part of the building signage. Roof signs, billboards, and other off-premise signs are not appropriate. RESIDENTIAL STANDARDS: Elements such as building setbacks and parking for residential uses are often different from those for commercial development. Residential Parking - Parking for residential uses should be located behind the primary residence and accessed from an alley to maintain pedestrian safety on the primary streets. If alley access is not possible, shared driveways should be used to limit the number of curb cuts and the amount of paving. Garage doors should not face the public street. A street vista of garage doors does not create an appealing pedestrian environment. Residential Setbacks - Residential buildings may be set back from the sidewalk to allow front porches, stoops, and small landscaped areas. Residential building setbacks should be consistent along the same street to establish a continuous street edge.should be at least 2 stories to frame the street, provide for a potential mix of uses, and create densities high enough to support transit and other services. Materials - Exterior materials should reflect a sense of permanence and urban character. Materials such as brick, split face concrete block, concrete block finished with stucco, and stone are preferred. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 142 Section Five - Appendices Appendix F - Urban Design Principles Porches - Townhouses and single-family homes should include porches and stoops to encourage interaction between residents and pedestrians. Porches should be deep enough (8 feet) to accommodate seating. Residences should be elevated at least 2 feet from the ground level to provide some privacy from the street. Garages, Outbuildings and Accessory Units – Garages should be located behind the primary house and accessed from alleys, where they exist. If a garage must front the street, it should be recessed from the primary façade so as not dominate the front of the house. Garages and other outbuildings should be constructed of similar materials to the primary house and should not be as tall or as large as the primary house. A building footprint of 500 square feet or less is preferred. Landscaping - New residential development should include trees to add to the overall canopy and greening of the neighborhood. SECTION 5 143 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix G - Zoning Categories City of Chattanooga Zoning Categories R-1 Residential Zone Single-family dwellings, parks, schools, churches, accessory uses, etc. RT-1 Residential Townhouse Zone Residential townhouses; attached single-family units - may be sold individually, parks schools, churches, accessory uses, etc. RZ-1 Zero Lot Line Residential Zone Single-family zero lot line dwellings (patio homes) - units may be sold individually, parks schools, churches, accessory uses, etc. R-T/Z Residential Townhouse/Zero Lot Line Zone Single-family detached dwellings, townhouses, single-family zero lot line dwellings (patio homes), parks, schools, churches, accessory uses, etc. R-2 Residential Zone Single-family dwellings, two family dwellings (duplexes), parks, schools, churches, accessory uses, etc. R-3 MD Moderate Density Zone Offices, Single-family dwellings, two family dwellings (duplexes), three family dwellings (triplexes), four family dwellings (quadraplexes), parks, schools, churches, accessory uses. R-3 Residential Zone Single-family dwellings, two family dwellings (duplexes), multiple family dwellings, boarding houses, lodging houses, bed & breakfast, schools, parks, golf courses, fire stations, churches, accessory uses, etc. R-4 Special Zone Single-family dwellings, two family dwellings (duplexes), multiple family dwellings, boarding houses, lodging houses, bed & breakfast, churches, colleges, schools and libraries, dormitories, professional, medical or dental offices & clinics, offices, studios, parks, banks & bank branches, accessory uses, etc. MXU Zone The purpose of this zone is to allow medium intensity mixed-use suburban development-Residential, Office, Limited Retail, Limited Lodging, Civic Spaces. R-5 Residential Zone Single family dwellings, two family dwellings (duplexes), manufactured & modular homes, parks, golf courses, schools, churches, accessory uses, etc. O-1 Office Zone Offices, colleges, schools and libraries, professional, medical or dental offices & clinics, laboratories & research centers, fire stations, parks, radio, television & other broadcasting studios & facilities, accessory uses, etc. C-2 Convenience Commercial Zone Retail and service commercial uses, bakeries, deli’s, banks, indoor amusement establishments, vehicle repair, office, restaurants, hospitals, commercial signs & billboards, schools, churches, dwellings, motels & hotels, furniture & appliance sales, mini-warehouses, wholesaling with accessory warehousing & related office space UGC-Urban General Commercial Zone Intent of zone is to promote, where need exists, the clustering and development of business, offices, and residential development by allowing retail, office and residential development to occur within one development. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 144 Section Five - Appendices Appendix G - Zoning Categories C-3 Central Business Zone (Downtown only – within the adopted area) Any commercial use, governmental agencies & buildings, offices, dwelling units, multifamily units & townhouses only. C-4 Planned Commerce Center Zone Intended for major shopping centers, department stores, eating & drinking establishments, barber & beauty shops, offices, studios, medical & dental clinics, banking facilities, hotels, multifamily dwellings & townhouses, theaters & other indoor entertainment and cultural facilities, warehousing & wholesaling, vehicle repair facilities C-5 Neighborhood Commercial Zone Small commercial uses such as grocery stores (no gas pumps or car washes), gift shops, drugstores, barber & beauty shops, shoe repair, offices, medical & dental clinics, banking facilities, dwellings. C-7 Northshore Commercial Mixed Use Zone (North Shore area only) Mixed use subject to approval. M-1 Manufacturing Zone Heavy manufacturing or industrial uses, commercial uses. M-2 Light Industrial Zone Light manufacturing, dwellings (if in combination or associated with any of the permitted uses), warehousing, wholesaling, offices. M-3 Warehouse and Wholesale Zone Warehousing, mini-warehouses, wholesaling, offices, retail sales (when directly related to one of the permitted uses), re-packaging. M-4 Outdoor Industrial Use Zone Coal screening and sieving plants, junk or salvage yards, landfills, sawmills, stockyards, stone mills or quarries, gravel pits, asphalt plants, cement or concrete plants or any other similar outdoor industrial use. F/W Floodway Zone The river channel or other watercourses and adjacent land areas which must be reserved for the discharge of base flood waters. F/H Flood Hazard Zone All areas covered by the Floodway Zone plus all areas of special flood hazard as set forth by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Planned Unit Development: Residential Permits multi-family development at varying densities-gives bodies greater control over development, building locations, traffic pattern, etc. It may be located in any residential zone, R-4 zone, A-1 zone and in commercial zones in which dwellings are permitted. Planned Unit Development – Institutional Primarily for college and university facilities. Must be located in an R-4 zone. Also allows multi-family development, offices, churches, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, fraternity and/or sorority houses, public, private & parochial schools, accessory uses, etc. A-1 Urban Agricultural Zone Agricultural uses such as growing of crops, dairying grazing, raising & maintaining of poultry and livestock, horticulture, viticulture, floriculture, forest and woods, detached single family dwellings, churches, schools, parks, accessory uses, etc. 145 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 Section Five - Appendices Appendix H - Bibliography 1 Community Historic Resources Summary – Historic Neighborhoods. Bessie Smith. Retrieved April 2, 2008, from Wikipedia Web site: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bessie_Smith 3 Community Outreach Partnership Center. (2007). Moving forward: Commercial development in the Martin Luther King community (p. 5). CRS, Inc. 4 “History of Park Place,” Cornerstone, Inc., April 2005 5 Community Historic Resources Summary – Historic Neighborhoods, p.53 6 Wynn, L. T. Emma Rochelle Wheeler (1882-1957). Retrieved January 23, 2008, Web site: http://www.tnstate.edu/library/digital/wheel.htm 7 Community Outreach Partnership Center. (2007). Moving forward: Commercial development in the Martin Luther King community (p. 5). CRS, Inc. 8 Lake, Z. (1942 October 4). It’s fancy thoroughfare now. Chattanooga Times Free Press, p. M2. 9 Ninth street in the new gown. ( 1917 September 2). Chattanooga Times Free Press. 10 Widening ninth for 14 squares requires $1,148,223. (19 June 1929). Chattanooga Times Free Press, p. 5. 11 Community Outreach Partnership Center. (2007). Moving forward: Commercial development in the Martin Luther King community (p. 8). CRS, Inc. 12 Scaifel, C. (1980 December 6). East ninth starts long road back. Chattanooga Times Free Press, p. A1. 13 Scaifel, C. (1980 December 6). East ninth starts long road back. Chattanooga Times Free Press, p. A1. 14 Community Outreach Partnership Center. (2007). Moving forward: Commercial development in the Martin Luther King community (pp. 8-9). CRS, Inc. 15 Housing Renewal a Major Aim. (1980 September 6). Chattanooga Times Free Press. 16 Donna C. William. Retrieved April 2, 2008, from Community Research Center Web site: http://www.researchcouncil.net 2 17 ML King Neighborhood Association invites its Community Partners to pay tribute and celebrate successes of the M.L. King revitalization. Retrieved May 27, 2008, from City of Chattanooga Web site:http:/ www.chattanooga.gov/General_Government/ 62_HistoricNeighborhoodinDowntown.htm. 18 (2005). Chattanooga Celebrates Greenway Opening. Retrieved April 2, 2008, from Conserving land for people Web site: http://www.tpl.org/ tier3_cd.cfm?content_item_id=19954&folder_id=670 Special thanks to the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Bicenntennial Library - Local History Department, for assistance with the photo archives. MLK Community PLAN February 2009 146 147 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 MLK Community PLAN February 2009 148