HomeMy WebLinkAbout7/20/2005 - STAFF REPORTS (4) y�*?ALM Spy
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Cq41FORN`P City Council Staff Report
DATE: July 20, 2005 Public Hearing
SUBJECT: CASE 5.1034 — ADOPTION OF INTERIM DOWNTOWN URBAN DESIGN
GUIDELINES FOR THE AREA BOUND APPROXIMATELY BY ALEJO
ROAD TO THE NORTH, RAMON ROAD TO THE SOUTH, BELARDO
ROAD TO THE WEST, AND INDIAN CANYON DRIVE TO THE EAST.
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Department of Planning Services
SUMMARY
The Planning Commission voted 6-0 (1 absent) at their July 13, 2005 meeting to
recommend that the City Council adopt the interim downtown urban design guidelines
with the inclusion of Alternative B of the concept sketch, which shows the Central Plaza
as a floating asterisk.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Resolution No. "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING INTERIM DOWNTOWN URBAN
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE AREA BOUND APPROXIMATELY BY ALEJO ROAD
TO THE NORTH, RAMON ROAD TO THE SOUTH, BELARDO ROAD TO THE WEST,
AND INDIAN CANYON DRIVE TO THE EAST."
BACKGROUND:
It is recognized that the downtown area is losing its vitality and lacks a cohesive
physical form. However, the downtown and surroundings have the potential to be
transformed into a dynamic area structured around successful public spaces and
includes major assets such as the mountains, Palm Springs Art Museum, Spa Resort
Casino, and the Palm Springs Convention Center. The downtown urban design
guidelines provide a unified framework to tie together the various disconnected assets.
These interim downtown urban design guidelines have been prepared as a part of the
Community Design Element of the overall General Plan Update. The downtown
guidelines proceeded ahead of the rest of the General Plan Update due to a number of
Item No. 1 . F.
City Council Staff Report
July 20, 2005 -- Page 2
Case 5.1034— Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
projects that have been submitted or are in the planning stages in key areas of the
downtown. The City Council determined that interim guidelines were needed to
articulate the City's goals for the downtown area so that future projects could proceed in
a coordinated manner.
A City Council subcommittee was appointed and the Downtown Urban Design Task
Force was formed to work with The Planning Center, the General Plan Update prime
consultant, to develop the downtown urban design guidelines. The Downtown Urban
Design Task Force represents a cross-section of downtown interests including
MainStreet, business owners and operators, Uptown, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla
Indians, Palm Springs Art Museum, property owners, Historic Tennis Club
Neighbourhood Organization, PSEDC, City Council, Planning Commission,
Architectural Advisory Committee, Historic Site Preservation Board, and General Plan
Steering Committee. The Task Force met on 3 different occasions to review the drafts
of the plan and provide comments to The Planning Center. On June 30, 2005, the Task
Force voted unanimously to recommend approval of the guidelines to the General Plan
Steering Committee.
A day-long public workshop was held on February 19, 2005 to garner input from various
stakeholders and the general public. The result of that workshop was the identification
of a number of key issues including building height, mix of land uses, the need for a
more focused and walkable downtown core, and the need for a public plaza/town
square. The public comments from the workshop were recorded and incorporated into
the development of the interim guidelines.
The General Plan Steering Committee reviewed the downtown guidelines at their July 7,
2005 meeting and voted unanimously to recommend approval of the guidelines subject
to modifying the land use concept sketch to show the central plaza as a mixed-use core
with a floating asterisk placed on the sketch indicating that the location and size of the
central plaza is pending further study by the City.
At the July 13, 2005 public hearing, 4 members of the public spoke. A letter of support
from PSEDC was submitted to the Planning Commission and is attached to this report.
Concerns raised by other speakers included the scope of the public input into the
interim guidelines, concerns regarding the proposed building heights, and that a
stronger emphasis needed to be placed on adaptive re-use, particularly of historic
structures.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The key concepts for the plan are briefly summarized as follows:
➢ The creation of a new central plaza/town square somewhere within the study
area.
City Council Staff Report
July 20, 2005 -- Page 3
Case 5.1034— Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
➢ The creation of mid-block passages (pedestrian and vehicular) to connect Palm
Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive and to provide additional street frontage
for buildings.
➢ Encourage corner bulbs at key intersections to increase street activity.
➢ Encourage wider sidewalks (approximately 18-23 feet wide) that allow sufficient
space for outdoor dining and pedestrians.
➢ A pedestrian linkage between the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Convention
Center.
➢ The use of some of the landscape, streetscape, and signage guidelines from the
Section 14 Master Plan/Specific Plan.
➢ Divide the downtown area into 5 districts with the core being a more compact
area bound approximately by Amado Road, Arenas Road, Museum Drive and
Indian Canyon Drive.
➢ Stagger building heights to encourage variation in rooflines and protect public
view corridors along streets.
➢ Encourage the adaptive re-use of the Class 1 and 2 historic structures and those
resources listed on the 2004 Citywide historic resources survey.
The concepts that initiated the most discussion at the public workshop and at the Task
Force and Steering Committee meetings were the central plaza, the circulation pattern,
and building heights. With respect to the central plaza, the Task Force and Steering
Committee both expressed concerns about displacement of existing merchants, the
potential demolition of historic resources, and the scale of the public space. In
response to those concerns, the location and size of the central plaza is represented on
the concept plan as a floating asterisk pending further study.
Both groups also discussed the issue of whether Palm Canyon Drive and Indian
Canyon Drive should be one-way or two-way, however, the recommendation is to keep
the circulation system as it exists until the traffic study is complete. It should be noted
that the issue of making Indian Canyon Drive a two-way street was last studied in 1998.
At the time, the study concluded that changing Indian Canyon Drive to a two-way street
was feasible but the cost of the conversion ($1 million in 1998) was cost prohibitive.
Only a portion of the study's recommendation was implemented with the conversion of
Indian Canyon Drive between Granvia Valmonte and Alejo Road.
With respect to building heights, the guidelines follow what is already allowed under
current zoning regulations and places limitations on where the maximum building height
of 60 feet could occur. The diagram showing the building heights is on Page 36 of the
document and shows that the 60-foot height limit could be achieved at the south
City Council Staff Report
July 20, 2005 -- Page 4
Case 5.1034— Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
gateway, the north gateway, and the desert fashion plaza property. Building height for
the remaining transition areas is proposed at 30 feet on the west side of Palm Canyon
Drive and 45 feet on the east side of Palm Canyon Drive. The 45-foot building height
on the east side of Palm Canyon Drive is only applicable to residential lofts, otherwise,
the maximum building height is 30 feet. This staggering of building heights takes into
account that particular zones of the downtown should have more intense development
while other transition areas should have more low-scale, mixed-use development.
The attached document is intended to be a guide for the interim period between the
present and when the General Plan is adopted next year. It does not include a land
plan and the Council cannot adopt a land plan at this time because the environmental
review process is not yet complete. These interim guidelines are meant to establish a
framework for further discussion and study as part of the overall General Plan update.
It is anticipated that the guidelines will be refined as further public input, the preferred
land use plan, circulation studies, and community design goals and policies are
completed. It is expected that the guidelines will be ready for final adoption as part of
the Community Design Element next year.
Projects that have been or will be submitted in the downtown area will still be subject to
the normal public hearing process and environmental review. Ultimately, the
implementation of the design guidelines will be through future revisions to the zoning
ordinance.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND NOTIFICATION:
The City of Palm Springs, in its capacity as the lead agency for this project under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental
impacts of the interim downtown urban design guidelines. Pursuant to Section 15305 of
CEQA, these interim design guidelines are exempt from environmental review whereas
these interim guidelines represent a minor alteration in land use limitations for a study
area that has an average slope of less than 20% and does not result in a change in
density or land use. Any development which may occur pursuant to the interim
guidelines will not be approved until a complete environmental evaluation of the
proposed project has occurred.
City Council Staff Report
July 20, 2005 -- Page 5
Case 5.1034— Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
FISCAL IMPACT:
No fiscal impact at this time. A fiscal analysis of a preferred land plan will be completed
as part of the General Plan Update.
Norm anchola David H. Ready ~ u
Interim Director of Planning Services City Manager
Attachments:
1. Vicinity Map
2. Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
3. Resolution
N
Department of Planning Services W+E
Vicinity Map
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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CASE NO: Interim Downtown Urban DESCRIPTION:
Design Guidelines Interim downtown urban design guidelines for study area
bounded by Alejo Road, Ramon Road, Indian Canyon Drive,
APPLICANT: City of Palm Springs Belardo Road.
Palm Springs
5i "`"```` t°
Eeonomic Development Corporation —ex
July 12, 2005 ANm.FmOt Public lntemsl Cowmflon
Planning Commission
City of Palm Springs
3200 E Tahquitz Canyon
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Re: The Urban Design Plan
Dear Commissioners:
Based on the recommendation of the PSEDC board and members participating
on the General Steering Committee we would like to endorse and encourage the
planning commission to move forward with the Urban Design Guidelines for
Downtown Palm Springs.
As part of our support, we offer one recommendation to improve the project. We
suggest that further research be done on the location and scope of the proposed
public square to insure the overall success of the plan.
We believe the overall all design concept is favorable and with further analysis
the project will prove to be a vibrant source of economic development for the City
of Palm Springs.
If you should have any questions or want further comment, please don't hesitate
to contact me.
Sincerely, 7
i
a
President
Cc: City Manager's Office
Cathy Van Horn, Economic Development
—
— �-PALM SP RI NG S
Mayor Ron Oden July 20,2005
Mayor Pro tem Mike McCulloch
Councilmember Ginny Foat
Councilmember Chris Mills
Councilmember Steve Pougnet
City Of Palm Springs
3200 E.Tahquitz Canyon Way
P.O. Box 2743
Pahn Springs,Ca. 92263-2743
Re:Case 5.1034-Adoption of Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
Dear Mr.Mayor&City Council Members:
On Monday,July 18,2005,two days ago,we became aware that the above referenced Design Guidelines
for Downtown would be discussed and voted on at tonight's PS City Council Meeting. We received no
notice of any public meetings on this subject, including tonight's meeting. In checking with our neighbors,
none of them recall receiving any notice either.This is problematic for such an important issue that could
conceivably have a dramatic impact on the future look and uses downtown.
T
Our property consists of nearly 3 full acres downtown on the corner of Tahquitz&Belardo, immediately
adjacent to what is referred to as the"North Gateway"and the Desert Fashion Plaza property and the
transition area on the west side of Palm Canyon Drive in the Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines.
(Map&legal description attached.)
The main concern we have,since we were not invited to participate in these discussions, is that at some
point in the future,there may be projects proposed that would be of tremendous benefit to the City and
downtown redevelopment, on property such as ours, which is adjacent to,but not included in the footprint
identified by the City Council subcommittee.
We respectfully request that if the if the Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines are adopted tonight,
that they be used accordingly, as"guidelines",not hard and fast rules that could preclude an outstanding
project g%om being proposed on property immediately adjacent to the footprint identified as the"study
area". Some flexibility with regard to building height or density may be required and these"guidelines"
should not preclude that from happening.
Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sincerely,
Fred N.Grand
President
r
Cc:David Ready,City Manager F
Jon Caffrey,PSEDC
Mmmg,d by Pacific Hosp iafit y Gi m,p
155 South Belardo,Palm Springs,CA 92262 - (760)325-1301 � FAX(760)323-8937 (800)622-9451
www.palmmountalliresort.com
11126575
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
The land referred to heroin is situatedLM in the described Off"forrollowiLa+
County of RIVERSIDE, City of
IN BLOCK15 OF PALM SPRINGS, AS SHOWN BY 3 BYMAP ONGFILS IK BOOKI9
PAGE 432, MAPS IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RHOORDTR OF 9TH I3IEGO
COUNTY. CALIFORNIA, TOOSTHFR WITH THR EAST B_00 FEET OF THE
ORANGE VENUE, {NOW KNOWN 7*8 CAMILLA AVENUE) ADOFOININa LOTS 1,
23, 24, 25, 26, 27 AND 20 AS SRO" 0* SAID MAY, SAID A LAND IS
LOCATED IN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS. �.. .
End of Legal DOeCription "�
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MAILED AND FAXED — (760) 323-8207
Members of the City Council J
Gl
of the City of Palm Springs and
David H. Ready, City Manager
City of Palm Springs
3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way
Pahn Springs, California 92262
Re: Case 5.0874B - Proposed text amendment which would enable construction of the
Ocotillo Energy Facility
Dear Council Members and Mr. Ready:
This office represents interested community members who generally refer to
themselves as Businesses and Residents For Pahn Springs and who continue to concern
themselves with local decision-making in the City of Palm Springs. My clients adamantly
oppose the suggested zoning ordinance amendment and accompanying action which would
enable the placement of a structure in Palm Springs which will be an unprecedented and
illegal source of.visual blight and air pollution contrary to the basic values expressed in the
ity's General Plan and without any structural environmental review whatsoever. The City
of Palm Springs has been asked to abandon its basic land use principles and ignore state
law to provide legislative zoning legitimacy to a project to allegedly aid in solving an
energy crisis manufactured by officials at other levels of government. In order to buy into
the premise, Pahn Springs officials must conclude that no other location exists to site the
project which already is zoned for such a use. Even the applicants have stated (by way of
threats to move the project) that such a site or sites exist in an unincorporated area or areas
of Riverside County.
As you know, "the Project" is the contemplated construction of a natural gas
rof7 .1r" .I. " `
9/4/2001 4:41 PM
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energy generation facility of relatively mammoth proportions north of Dillon Road and east
of Diablo Road. This is the way in which the City's planning staff described the Project
(with emphasis added):
"The proposed energy plant will be located within an existing wind energy
facility. The placement of the proposed facilities will require the removal of existing
wind turbine generators. The project will be visible from the surrounding area
including I-10, Hwy 62m Dillon Road and Indian Avenue, due in part to the three (3)
combustion turbine generator stacks and six (6) wet surface, air-cooled (WSAC)
stacks that are 80 and 100 feet high, respectively. The WSAC stacks for the
combustion turbine generators will be removed when the facility is converted from a
simple-cycle system to a combined-cycle system during Phase 11 of the project
construction and replaced with cooling towers. The adjacent wind turbines range in
height between 103 and 180 feet. The proposed connecting transmission line from the
power plant to the Devers substation will utilize towers ranging from 73 to 106 feet
high. The plant will be clearly visible. The application information states that the
visual impacts will not be significant. Due to the size of the site area, equipment and
height of the stacks, the project will alter the landscape and, depending upon the view
location, visual impacts could be considered a significant change to the visual
environment...."
Compare that project description with the description of the business/industrial
land uses allowed in Palm Springs in the subject area on page 1-72 of your General Plan:
"The community's policy that nothing must be allowed to detract from the resort
attractiveness of Palm Springs is a cardinal principle of the General Plan. At the same
time, industrial development is to some extent an essential companion of population
growth. As the community grows, there will be need for industrial development as a
source of steady employment and to broaden the tax base and lend stability to the
City economy. Already, considerable interest has been expressed in Palm Springs as
a potential site for certain light, clean, no-nuisance industries and corporate centers.
Indeed, there is potential for industries which are not dependent on a central
metropolitan location, but which do value a warm, dry climate and fine community
advantages for their employees.
"This area lends itself well to the development of planned business/industrial
districts, a tract of land subdivided and developed according to an overall site plan
for the use of a group of small- to medium-sized industries, as well as corporate
centers. Important features of the plan for an industrial park include control of the
area, buildings, and operations through zoning regulations. The zoning regulations
pertain to setback, building height, landscaping, maintenance, and a full set of
performance standards. The intent is to protect the investment of the developers, the
industries, and the community. The comprehensive, planned approach basic to the
'of 7 9/4/2001 4:41 PM
industrial park makes it possible for industry and residences to be good neighbors."
More specifically, Policy 3.30.3 stated on page I-73 of the Palm Springs General
Plan describes the contemplated land uses for the proposed site as follows:
"Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS) may be permitted in areas
designated as Business/Industrial where such areas are also located in the Wind
Energy Overlay. Provide for industrial areas which combine alternative energy
development and industrial uses in those areas which are suitable for both.
Alternative energy development shall be the principal land use, and the allowed
industrial uses shall be serviced directly, and primarily, by alternative energy for
electrical needs. Industrial uses shall not occupy more than 15% of the area of any
property; multiple properties may be combined as a single entity for such purposes
under a Planned Development District. Such accessory industrial usage may be
allowed only upon the provision of adequate infrastructure."
Police 3.30.1 stated at page 1-73 of the General Plan even more clearly prohibits
approval of the zoning ordinance amendment and project by precluding the construction of
a structure more than 30 feet in height with justified exceptions up to 60 feet in height.
Again, the proposed structure includes 9 stacks which would illegally range from 80 to 100
feet in height.
The above-cited provisions of the Palm Springs General Plan contemplate and
allow a combination of alternative energy facilities and low-level, small- to medium-sized
industrial facilities and parks and businesses served by those energy facilities in the subject
area. Conversely, it does not allow or support a zoning ordinance amendment which
facilitates the construction of a very large industrial facility which covers far more than
15% of the parcel upon which it is located and which includes 9 smokestacks thrust 80 to
100 feet in the air belching pollutants. In summary, the Project is not consistent with, but,
rather, would violate the Pahn Springs General Plan provisions dealing with visual blight.
The proposed actions must be denied on that basis alone.
The Palm Springs General Plan also quite clearly precludes approval of projects
which further pollute the air in an area which already fails to attain federal air quality
standards. (See General Plan section on air quality commencing at page 111-8.) The
applicant's own estimates of daily emissions as stated in the staff report to the Planning
Coinmission are as follows:
of7 9/4/2001 4:4I PM
Pollutant Daily Annual SCAQMD Exceeds
(1b/day2) (tpd3) Threshold Threshold
NOX 4,350.24 416 25 Yes
lbs tons
SO2 90.20 9 tons 100 No
lbs
CO 2,687.57 228 100 Yes
It's tons
VOC 260.74 22 25 No
lbs tons
PM10 824.57 78 70 Yes
lbs tons
Source: Ocotillo Application for Certification and CEC Staff Comments.
The projected daily emissions for the project exceed SCAQMD thresholds in
three categories. Further, annually, the project will spew 753 tons of pollutants into the
atmosphere. One could not imagine a project which more clearly violates your air quality
policy stated in your General Plan. It also is difficulf to believe that the Palm Springs—City
Council would approve this zoning ordinance amendment and project without either
conducting its own environmental process or considering the detailed results of such a
rocess conducted by the California Energy Commission. Does the Council not wish to
understand the health hazards and other environmental damage which could result from the
annual dumping of 753 tons of pollutants into Palm Springs' atmosphere before enabling
this project?
Approval of the zoning amendment and Project also would be defective legally
for lack orthe Council's consideration of an environmental document. The zoning
amendment and Project have proceeded to this juncture on the assumption that the
California Energy Commission is the lead agency for the Project pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code Sections 21000, et seq.).
The lead agency has the obligation to produce, circulate and consider the contents of an
environmental impact report or its equivalent pursuant to laws governing the California
,f 7 9/4/2001 4:41 PM
Energy Commission. The City of Palm Springs then must be considered a Responsible
Agency under the California Environmental Quality Act with defined responsibility to
consider environmental materials before taking legislative action to change zoning
provisions and before approving the Project. The California Energy Commission staff
apparently is telling City staff that it cannot move forward with the Project until the City
legislates the amendment to the zoning ordinance allowing the use in the area in question.
But, as made clear by the regulatory provisions cited below, the City cannot act before
reviewing the environmental materials to be produced by the California Energy
Commission. The California Energy Commission cannot legitimately ask Palm Springs to
proceed to enable a project which will produce at least 753 tons per year of air pollutants
without taking environmental impacts into consideration. Evidently, the California Energy
Commission has created a chicken-and-egg situation and cannot expect that the City of
Pahn Springs will illegally change its zoning ordinance without the benefit of
environmental data.
Controlling California Environmental Quality Act regulations (Title 14 of the
California Code of Regulations) unequivocally require the Council to consider
environmental documentation before legislating the suggested change inrpermitted land
uses. Section 15050(b) of the regulations provides in pertinent part that f"...the
decisionmaking body of each responsible agency shall consider the lead agency's EIR or
negative declaration prior to acting upon or approving the project. Each responsible
agency shall certify that its decisionmaking body reviewed and considered the information
contained in the EIR or negative declaration on the(project�"�
Following its review of the California Energy Commission's environmental
document, the Council could require project changes to reduce negative impacts [Section
15041(b) of the Regulations] or refuse to approve a project in order to avoid
environmental impacts (Section 15042 of the Regulations). Clearly, the California
Environmental Quality Act regulations contemplate and require this Council's review of
sufficient environmental materials which disclose all impacts of the Project before
supplying zoning which will enable the plant to be constructed. "A responsible agency
complies with CEQA by considering the EIR or negative declaration prepared by the lead
agency and by reaching its own conclusions on whether and how to approve the project
involved...." (Regulations, Section 15096.) [Emphasis added.] All of the rantings and
ravings of the Project proponents to the effect that the City Council would be insensitive to
energy needs in denying the Project are fallaciously based on the assertion that the subject
site is particularly suitable for this use. Actually, the site clearly is unsuitable for the use
for all of the following reasons:
1. The Project placed on the site would violate the Pahn Springs General Plan's
vision for the area as an area containing clean, alternative energy facilities which provide
power to small to medium businesses and low-key industrial parks.
2. The Project placed on the site specifically would violate lot coverage and
building height criteria specified in the Palm Springs General Plan. )
3. The Project placed on the site will create visual blight due to its disregard of
the General Plan vision and criteria mentioned in 1 and 2, above.
4. The Project placed on the site will violate the Palm Springs General Plan's
proscription against exacerbating the area's air quality which presently fails to meet federal
standards.
S. The Project cannot be placed on the site without a modification to the City's
zoning ordinance which will create a permitted use which is precluded by the overriding
provisions of the General Plan.
6. The Project cannot be placed on the site without City legislation which cannot
occur unless and until the City reviews adequate environmental documentation which
presently does not exist.
We urge the Council to reject the Project and not enact the requested legislation.
By doing so, the Council will adhere to the City's General Plan and th_e�-conmm»n�alues
reflected_there ui, will recognize its moral andleg lohr
gatior o understand the health and
other environmental outcomes which could result from the Project before enablin it and
will avoid the wastefupnblic and private expenditure of time and money inherent in the
litigation which will ensue should the zoning legislation be approved. Palm Springs'
residents absolutely expect that the Council will act prudently and legally and not enact the
ordinance or otherwise enable the construction of the Project.
Very truly yours,
RICHARDS, WATSON & GERSHON
James L. Markman
Attorney for Interested Pahn Springs Residents
JLTvl:sjk
cc: David Aleshire
City Attorney, City of Pahn Springs
i of 7 9/4/2001 4.41 PM
or, City:w:artnci
cil and Staff, Good afternoon.
Dana L St James F. McKinley, Palm Springs 760-864-4181
,� __Z
We have been observing your agenda and we do wonder how you each find the strength
and time to do all that you do. For the most part you're handling it well.
We'd like you to slow down a minute to reflect. We are glad to see Ms. Foat and Mr.
Pougnet researching environmental solutions and even Mayor Oden and Mr. Mills are
beginning to see the solar-powered light. After all the money spent on the visioning
sessions to find out the pulse of the public and their hopes for Palm Springs, why have
you completely discarded them in favor of a mouthpiece for the over-developers'
desires? How is it, that all the so-called processes have discounted neighborhood
involvement? How can Planning, and the Council, and Staff, not understand that the vast
majority of citizens and tourists want density and height restrictions? How do we have
this 60-foot height proposal here tonight? How can you railroad these violations through
the process against all these protests? How can you circumvent the General Plan?We
thought that was illegal. How can the cronyism and collusion of Mr. Ogburn's contract be
surpassed by the reappointment of Mrs. Marantz as Chair of the Planning Commission,
after her husband's blatant permit violations and the ruination of the Araby Cove wash?
How can you allow Mr. Wessman to hold you, and downtown businesses, hostage to
that rat-infested toad in the road, the Deserted Fashion Plaza, for seven long years?
You have even twisted the bright idea, from Roxann Ploss, of the buyer's fee to refill
your coffers instead of using it for infrastructure and restoration, and the conservation of
lands. This is the buyer buying into our lifestyle and environment, in order to preserve it.
All of these improve our tourism, which you will need to support the Convention Center
into which you are pouring millions. Realtors that support over-development are cutting
their noses to spite their faces, and our noses too! According to their Board, 6 of 7
homes are re-sales. We have plenty of infill lands, we do not need to sacrifice the world-
famous National Monument in our backyard. Eco-tourism includes culture, lifestyle,
architecture, the arts, as well as health and nature. It is the fastest growing segment of
tourism. Eco-development is also a big draw. Using the fees for infrastructure
improvements means actually fully staffing and equipping our emergency personnel
needs. Over-development brings further strain on all our resources that are already
strained to the max. Our valiant men and women will never see funds from over-
development. They will see more cuts.
And last, but not least, you are attempting to fully disenfranchise us from our vote on the
water treatment facility. If it were true, and it isn't, that we had voted to sell it, why on
earth are you trying to ramrod this un-American denial of our rights through the state
legislature? This is a complete Contradiction, and an outright lie. Who sold you this lousy
bill of goods? It goes for less than 10 times earnings, the city still has not answered if it
has paid it back for the $9 million it borrowed, the DWA is using our money to buy it
through tax breaks you gave them, and now you want to break an 85-year-old law to
disenfranchise us when you were warned not to do it. You went right ahead anyway. Do
you wonder why we feel gypped? The old "bait and switch" routine is routine. We highly
recommend a junket to Buenos Aires, Argentina. They've just 9pened anew museum
this year. It's all about the dire consequences of selling out V0M-5&uFces to the "big
rape and pillage boys". Now, please, rethink your position"ifou can make a whole bunch
of political capital rescinding your decision. Try it. It'll be the only thing that will work.
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING INTERIM
DOWNTOWN URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE
AREA BOUND APPROXIMATELY BY ALEJO ROAD TO
THE NORTH, RAMON ROAD TO THE SOUTH, BELARDO
ROAD TO THE WEST, AND INDIAN CANYON DRIVE TO
THE EAST.
WHEREAS, the downtown area is recognized as a vital economic and cultural center of
the City; and
WHEREAS, a number of projects have been submitted or are in the planning stages in
the downtown area; and
WHEREAS, the City wishes to establish interim urban design guidelines for the
downtown area bound by Alejo Road, Ramon Road, Indian Canyon Drive and Belardo
Road so as to ensure an economically successful downtown that retains the historic and
cultural character of Palm springs; and
WHEREAS, the downtown urban design guidelines are a subset of the Community
Design Element of the overall General Plan Update; and
WHEREAS, these interim guidelines are subject to further refinement as studies
associated with the remainder of the General Plan Update are completed; and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing of the Planning Commission of the City of Palm
Springs to consider the interim downtown urban design guidelines was given in
accordance with applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on July 13, 2005, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to
consider the interim downtown urban design guidelines; and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs to
consider the interim downtown urban design guidelines was given in accordance with
applicable law; and
WHEREAS, on July 20, 2005, the City Council held a public hearing to consider the
interim downtown urban design guidelines; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence
presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including but not limited to the
staff report, all written and oral testimony presented.
Resolution No.
Page 2
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS DOES HEREBY RESOLVE
AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: Pursuant to Section 15305 of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA), the City Council finds these interim design guidelines are exempt from
environmental review whereas these interim guidelines represent a minor alteration in
land use limitations for a study area that has an average slope of less than 20% and
does not result in a change in density or land use. Any development which may occur
pursuant to the interim guidelines will not be approved until a complete environmental
evaluation of the proposed project has occurred.
SECTION 2: The guidelines encourage ways for downtown to remain the economic and
cultural center of Palm Springs by linking and protecting assets such as the Palm
Springs Art Museum, Spa Resort Casino, the mountain views, and the Convention
Center. In addition, design approaches such as pedestrian and vehicular mid-block
connections are proposed to not only connect Indian Canyon Drive and Palm Canyon
Drive but also serve to create additional street frontage for buildings. The land uses
and densities contemplated as part of the interim guidelines are a re-formatting of what
is already allowed by the General Plan in the downtown area. These interim guidelines
provide a cohesive approach to the downtown built environment and streetscape by
encouraging different mechanisms to achieve high-quality architecture, landscaping,
and pedestrian experience. The guidelines are intended to only be used in the interim
until studies related to circulation, land use, and community design and completed as
part of the overall General Plan Update.
SECTION 3: The key concepts for the guidelines include the creation of a central plaza
to serve as a public gathering space in the downtown core, the creation of mid-block
passages, increasing activity by encourage sidewalk bulbs at key intersections,
providing additional space for outdoor dining while not intruding on pedestrian flow by
encourage wider sidewalks, linking the Palm Springs Art Museum with the Convention
Center, a street tree program that includes a hierarchy of primary and secondary street
trees, staggered building heights to encourage roofline variation and protect public view
corridors, and the encouragement of adaptive re-use of historic resources, whenever
possible. These concepts are a guide for ensuring the continuity of future downtown
development with the existing built environment while not restricting the creativity of how
individual projects may achieve the stated goals.
Resolution No.
Page 3
ADOPTED THIS 20"' day of July, 2005.
David H. Ready, City Manager
ATTEST:
James Thompson, City Clerk
CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, JAMES THOMPSON, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that
Resolution No. is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular
meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on
by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs, California
V I.„yam,E a Yjf E,D
M 'L [ r�.f
PROOF OF Pi BJACATION, ! -
,� No. 2813
(ZOIS.S.C.CtI ul, NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
J CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clty Council
the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold a
public hearing at Its meeting of July 20,2005.The
City Council meeting begins at fl= p.m. in the
Council Chamber at Clty Hall,3200 East Tahqultz
Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA The purpose of the hearing Is to consider Interim
urban design guidelines for the Downtown area
County of Riverside bounded approximately by Alejo Road to the
north, Ramon Road to the south, Indian Canyon
Drive to the east, and Belardo Road to the west,
These Interim design guidelines will be sub))'ect to
further refinement as part of the Community De-
sign Element included In the overall General(Plan
Update.
® o.o.nm.m eRi a.rviv.
[am a citizen of the United States and a resident of Vim"ymAp I I"'
the County aforesaid;I am over the age of eighteen �'.��'"=�"i I'r'•a�;;'Ij9hPE
Y
Years,and not a party to or interested in the
above-entitled matter.I am the principal clerk of a !-
printer of the,DESERT SUN PUBLISHING
COMPANY a newspaper of general circulation,
printed and published in the city of Palm Springs, - +-rt ��. ) r-'I
County of Riverside,and which newspaper has been
adjudged a newspaper of general Circulation by the
Superior Court of the County of Riverside,State of -)(_-
California under the date of March 24, 1988.Case
i OF P/.1M 5
Number 191236;that the notice,of which the �*� `"�=sue."��3`P�"°
annexed is a printed copy(get in type not smaller
The City of Palm SphriP, in hs capaclN as the
than non pariel,has been published in each regular lead agency for this project under the California
and entire issue of said newspaper and not in an Environmental Quail Act (CEgA, evaluated the
Y potential environmental Impacts o the interim de•
supplement thereof on the following dates,to wit: sig n guidelines. Pursuant to Section 15305 of
CEOA,these Interim design guidelines are exempt
from environmental review whereas these guide-
July 9"',2005 lines represent a minor alteration in land use limi-
tations for a study area that has an average slope
-----------..----------------------_--------_________ of less than 20% and does not result In a change
In density or land use. Any development which
may occur pursuant to the Interim guidelines will
not be approved until a complete environmental
-------------------------- evaluation of the proposed project has occurred.
All In the year 2005 The staff report and other supporting documents
I certify(m•declare)under penalty of perjury that the view at regardin� matter are available public re-
this fohe City Hall between the hours of B:00
foregoing IS true and correct. a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Mond%yy through Friday.
Please contact the City Clerk's Department at
(760) 323-8204 If you would like to schedule an
Dated at Palm Springs,California this-----15u'----day appointment to review these documents.
Response to this notice may be made verbally ate
of---------- ? the Public Hearing and/or nt% In writing before the
July,------- v___�___________,2UU5 hearing. Written comments can r made li the
City Council by letter (for mall or hand delivery)
-. James Thompson, City Clark
___________________------- __ Clty of Palm Springs
3200 E.P O" x 2743yen Way
Signature/
J Palm Springs, CA 92263
Any challenge of the proposed prolact in court
may be limited to raising only those Issues raised
at the public hearing described In this notice or I
In written correspondence delivered to the bay
Clerk at, or pprior, to the ppublic hearing, (Govern-
ment Code Section 65009(b)(2)).
^ An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all
Interested persons be heard.Question.
uestl e, re or
this case may bea directed to Jing Yeo at`760)
s 323-8245.
SI necesita%ii, a con esta carte,eporce favor llama
a Is Nadine
Fie de Palm Springs y2 puede nobler con
Nadine Fieger telefono 78 3 2-8364 ext-8758.
James Thompson
City Clerk
Published:July 9,2005
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
Interim Downtown Urban Design Guidelines
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council the City of Palm Springs, California, will hold a
public hearing at its meeting of July 20, 2005. The City Council meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in the
Council Chamber at City Hall, 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs.
The purpose of the hearing is to consider interim urban design guidelines for the downtown area
bounded approximately by Alejo Road to the north, Ramon Road to the south, Indian Canyon Drive to
the east, and Belardo Road to the west. These interim design guidelines will be subject to further
refinement as part of the Community Design Element included in the overall General Plan Update.
The City of Palm Springs, in its capacity as the lead agency for this project under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the interim
design guidelines. Pursuant to Section 15305 of CEQA, these interim design guidelines are exempt
from environmental review whereas these guidelines represent a minor alteration in land use
limitations for a study area that has an average slope of less than 20% and does not result in a
change in density or land use. Any development which may occur pursuant to the interim guidelines
will not be approved until a complete environmental evaluation of the proposed project has occurred.
The staff report and other supporting documents regarding this matter are available for public review
at the City Hall between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please contact
the City Clerk's Department at (760) 323-8204 if you would like to schedule an appointment to review
these documents.
Response to this notice may be made verbally at the Public Hearing and/or in writing before the
hearing. Written comments can be made to the City Council by letter (for mail or hand delivery) to:
James Thompson, City Clerk
City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
P.O. Box 2743
Palm Springs, CA 92263
Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the
public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at, or
prior, to the public hearing. (Government Code Section 65009(b)(2)).
An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding
this case may be directed to Jing Yeo at (760) 323-8245.
Si necesita ayuda con esta carta, porfavor Ilame a la Ciudad de Palm Springs y puede hablar con
Nadine Fieger telefono (760) 322-8364 ext-8758.
ames Thompson
City Clerk
e vnie,
07/20/2005
V
Add'I Material Item No. 1 .F.
�u+W+
1 a. ✓" -04 V„1
T6e Cat o
Palm S ri s
� I (l
Downtown
r
Urban
Design
f - Phan
J14 7, 2005
Draft
1 YWW +II
t
1
1
1
i
DOWNTOWN URBAN DESIGN COMMITTEE
1
The City of Palm Springs would like to thank the following people for their
contributions to the development of the Downtown Urban Design Plan prepared
by The Planning Center:
City Council:
Chris Mills
' Steve Pougnet
i: Planning Commission:
1 f-t,f7 MarshallRoath
Leo Cohen
lr Design Community:
Jim Goff.,Architectural Advisory Committee Chairman
1 Don Wexler, Retired Architect
- .
Mainstreet:
Larry Pitts,Property Owner
1 Bill Matthews,Downtown Business Manager
Historic Tennis Club:
Bill Davis
Palm Springs Economic Development Corporation:
Steve Nichols, Property Owner
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI):
Todd Hooks, Director of Economic Development
1 Downtown Merchants Association:
Joy Meredith,Business Owner
Uptown:
Tony Larcombe, Business Owner
Historic Site Preservation Board:
Bill Scott
Palm Springs Art Museum:
Dr.Janice Lyle, Executive Director
- -
�j Staff:
Jerry Ogburn,Downtown Development Director
John Raymond,Director of Community and Economic Development
Jing Yeo, General Plan Update Project Manager
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
r
i
1
t
Vision
A d namic, vita[, and economical fN success f of downtown
tat retains the historic and cufturaf character of Palm
Springs and vget meets the changing needs of residents and
visitors atike.
r
r
r
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION & PUBLIC OUTREACH ................... z
z.Introbuction &Workshops................................................................ 2
2.Visioning Map......................................................................................... 5
3. Assets& Opportunities..................................................................... 8
4.Ibeas&Strategies.................................................................................... 19
DESIGN PRINCIPLES ........................................................................ 15
I. Urban Design concept...................................................................... 16
2.Streets&Circulation ..........................................................................20
3. Parking......................................................................................................... 26
4. Pubic Spaces &Gathering Places............................................. 30
5. Lana Use 8z Development/Districts..................................... 34
6. Builbing Height,Orientation, Massing, &Design........ 36
7. Lanbscaping.............................................................................................44
S. Signage,Lighting, &Street Furniture...................................... 52
r
i
1
M
;ems i �! �► i al !s !� !s +� swam i
U
Ihtrobuction & Public out-reach
7,
1
PzrJVKO!JT� I
Currently,a number of new,large scale development projects are '
proposed for downtown Palm Springs. These proposed projects,
in varying stages of completion,are important to the downtown
because of their location along Palm Canyon Drive and their '
large size. If completed,these projects are likely to dramatically
affect the life, character,and vitality of downtown. They have the
potential to infuse downtown Palm Springs with much needed
economic and social energy while encouraging future development
r of other under-utilized sites. However, to ensure continuity
�h+Yo1�Ctl�h D wo`r�Sl loj�s between these new and future projects and the existing built
L U L CX k r/ I' environment,a set of comprehensive downtown design guidelines
is needed. Thus, to have the greatest possible impact on the future
development of downtown, the downtown design element of the
General Plan update was East-tracked and this workbook produced
to serve as design guidelines for future downtown development
prior to the adoption of the complete General Plan document.
AI.eJLRa:...... a r. t 1�'J41
r A a Historically known as the desert playground of the rich and
famous,Palm Springs has a long and vibrant past. Originally a
a :
e:
2[ .2 small railroad town,Palm Springs became world renown in the
aE F u u a' 1920s and 1930s when Hollywood stars began flocking to the
Amado Rd. :............................
desert to enjoy the warm, sunny climate. The stars brought with
them the glamour and excitement of Hollywood, creating an
qi........f s Rd Andrea . -
unparalleled cultural oasis in the Coachella Valley.
Time has brought about change in Palm Springs. Today it is no
Tahquitz Canyon Way
longer just a seasonal tourist destination,but also the home of
many year-round residents. Some of the glitter of movie stars
....................................: y g
Arenas Rd. ;............ has worn off and man of the large retail stores that were so
a prominent in earlier times have moved on. However,Palm Springs
is still recognized worldwide as a destination resort. It has many
Rarista Rd.
advantages that perpetuate the reputation of the city including
uJ C° saturninoRdl the international airport, the village center,the convention center,
numerous first class hotels,the Desert Museum, and a wonderful
physical setting and climate. But if Palm Springs is going to
maintain its preeminence,it must take steps to energize the
Ramon Rd.,,,;
................................
community and ensure an ongoing vitality. This revitalization must
start in the downtown because it is the heart of the city.
The Study Area.
e aeallon l3_ress & Worl4ops
These interim guidelines were prepared to address the complex
issue of downtown development. Drawn from input from local
stakeholders at the Downtown Ideas and Directions Workshop
and the Downtown Urban Design Workshop held on February
24, 2005, these design principles are intended to apply to
downtown development.
ttvo
The input of local stakeholders was an essential part of
developing the design guidelines. On February 24,2005,Moore
Iacofano Goltsman (MIG) and The Planning Center hosted two
downtown workshops at the Hilton Palm Springs Resort. The
Downtown Ideas and Directions Workshop,which was held in
the morning,was open to the general public. It was designed to
create a forum for residents to express their visions for downtown
Palm Springs and their opinions on current obstacles and
opportunities in the downtown area. After a brief introduction
and large group discussion about Palm Springs, the participants } 9
were broken into four small groups. Each group rotated between intY�bwtion 8L worksbops
four themed stations to facilitate directed discussion on the natural
setting,social and economic trends, traffic and circulation, and the
built environment of Palm Springs. After circulating through all
of the stations, the groups came together for a final idea collecting
and summarizing session. -
The Downtown Urban Design Workshop %•'
took place in the afternoon. In this session,
select stakeholders,including several council
•-
members,planning staff,store owners,
developers,architects, and a Tribal representative, j
were divided into three groups. Each group was
asked to think about the best way to implement
the concepts that had been developed in the
morning session and to apply those ideas to a ~
map of the downtown, creating examples of
specific sites and strategies for future downtown
development. At the end of the day,the three
groups were gathered and each presented their
maps and the concepts behind them. --
Whil,: there were differing opinions on many
issues in both the morning and afternoon
sessions, the workshops provided a useful forum
for identifying the important issues in downtown
Palm Springs and possible ways to address those .
issues. Drawn from these discussions, a concept I
map and set of downtown design guidelines
(starting on page fifteen) were created to help a
shape the future development of downtown
Palm Springs, y,J
s�
Top: Partcipantr in Me Domntomn Urban Design lForksbop discos strategies for dolratomn
revitalization.
nBottom. Participants dram tloeir rrleat on a nrap of domutomn Paint Springs.
"■4, t(jree
Page Intentionally Left Blank
r
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four
Was and directions
works op visioning map
1*111 ��T,"I- �V
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F-d tj tic,
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=T It-
AA1 �Mpffift
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.�14t-fkec,
Pak, SPI-1,19S
'kill
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----------
.."OW
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The above exhibit is a saivok of Ybe ideas and concepts that were captared dlaing the Ideas and Directions fflorkshov.
This illustration was taken diructjhfi om the wallgi aphic developed dUTIng The workshop.
PVC
Page Intentionally Left Blank
Men
Participants in the Dotvntotvn Ideas and Directions Workshop were asked to think about the existing assets
and opportunities in donvto2m Palm Springs. Beloav is a summary of the assets and opportunities they
identified.
LOCATION—Palm Springs enjoys a desert climate,which
assets & opportunities
attracts people year round. Palm Springs also benefits from
its location at the head of the Coachella Valley, close to I-10
and the Los Angeles metro area.
HISTORY—Unlike many newer cities in the Coachella
F— Valley,Palm Springs has a rich social, cultural,and
1. architecnual history. This unique history creates a sense of
place and character,wh ch attracts visitors and residents alike
r
to downtown Palm Springs. Due in part to its history, Palm
Springs is internationally recognized as a premier tourist
�.
destination and desert resort city.
MOUNTAINS—Downtown Palm Springs is located at the
� .r x base of the San Jacinto Mountains, resulting in spectacular
r•.;.r 1 mountain views to the west and a dramatic backdrop for the
a
r,l city. Downtown also has more distant views of the Little
San Bernardino Mountains to the north and the Santa Rosa
Mountains to the south.
q
Y7
Top:Visa of the mountainsfrom Tabgxt{Crayon[pery at Calls Atvaado. -' ^
Moautain views along streets in the domntorva areas sboald be preserved - it
Lik
mheneverposseble. �i?�,,
Above:Dotvntmvn es an edertn anx of cu-bitedur it styles mitb Modem and
Spanisb Colonial being the most proonnent This architectural butory and
naaety sets Palm Springs apart from other deser9 cities and is an asset that
sboald he preserved and eebanced. .
Right:The lnstoric PlaZa Theatre on Palm Canyon Drive es one of Palm
S15nngs'btgest rultnral attractionr. -
ei,�7t
I CULTURE—Downtown Palm Springs boasts a wide assets & opportunities
array of cultural attractions. The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies
draws stars and guest acts from around the world. The
Palm Springs Art Museum displays excellent permanent
and traveling collections. The Annenberg Theater holds an
annual performing arts series along with other cultural events
and performances. The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
gives guests a better understanding of the Agua Caliente
Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI) and their history. Statues
of Hollywood stars, such as Sonny Bono and Lucille Ball, Below: 1{ie Aalm SprirtgrArxNfurenne it a monde jd cedterral arret. Irt
addition to world class permanent and traueluag collections,the mnseun+homer
complement the streetscape and create photo opportrm bes the AnnenbergTbeater. rnemg DaddG1...&.
for tourists.
Below:the Agra Caliente Banc!of Cahuilla Indians(ACBCI)plays an important
(�r,�,- r
role in the Cil�, ,Section 14,mGicG u partially located in the dm»ttomn,provider r
many cnUan'al arul recreational oppor7eutlkes. The A.gna Caliente Culinral RJu.ream --
`w n w w.r+ r+vwWwwr
Irtfwraratiort Center can be Eason(on the Village Creen(rLght bottom)and the Aqua
Culrente Tuba//fdnunirdnhon Plaza on Tahquitz Canyon Way(belov). �"'�"
Lin
.. ate
- .f AZA
i
RECREATION & RELAXATION—The climate
of Palm Springs makes it a year-round site for a wide
iNR range of outdoor activities and recreation. Located
on the edge of downtown is the historic O'Donnell I�
Golf Club. Downtown's prox imity to the mountains
provides access to mountain sports and activities. A
number of spas and resorts provide residents and
" visitors with many opportunities to relax and enjoy the
sunny climate.
ARCHITECTURE—Downtown Palm Springs is
set apart from other desert cities by its unique and
eclectic mix of architectural styles ranging from
Spanish Colonial to Modern. Numerous courtyards
and passageways create a varied pedestrian experience
and enhance downtown visits. The large number
of historical buildings also adds to the character of
" ,+= downtown.
DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES --
Downtown has a number of vacant stores,buildings, ,
:.
w and lots. These provide valuable opportunities for new
development downtown. One of the most important
development opportunities is the Desert Fashion Plaza,
F which is located in the core of downtown.
Tap: Pahn Spzngs'collection of eclectic and
historical anbiteccore creates a unigne sense of
place and identety. YGe Tovn eh•Country Center 0 r `and Lykken's Depareeeat She are just hvo of
i #
many unique buildings teat add to the character of
dorvntown.
Above d-Rigbt:There are n,,e)-ons resort and •n+ »Y. ` T recreation oppotrrniher in do wont Palm Springs -
.rncb as The.Springs(above)and die Spa Resort
Y
—nr r
Casino(right).
- r
TT
,I
Lem
RETAIL/ RESTAURANTS—Downtown Palm HISTORIC
Springs contains a unique mix of a wide variety of
restaurants and shops. Many locally owned boutiques PLAZA
THEATRE
and stores create a unique and pleasant shopping
experience. The large variety of excellent restaurants DISTRICT
and open air dining options adds to the vitality of
downtown.
VILLAGES / DISTRICTS—Downtown has a 1 °
number of existing and developing theme based w
districts,such as a furniture and art gallery district,a .: It '
restaurant district,the historic Tennis Club District,
and the historic Plaza Theatre District to name a few. "
These districts add to the vitality of downtown by
providing different experiences and serving as hubs of s ,
activity.
Top:Domtlomn has a mide varrei,of indoor and
outdoor dbdiog options. The Chop Honse anrd The
- - Deck are tmo Peg popnlm'elonmtoma restaurants
- --- i_ thatprovideoutdoordinivtgopportnnztz'esand
contibaie to the vitally of the sheet scene.
aAbove.•The damntomu area consists of many theme
based districts. These disbictr add to the eclectic
�-it
.• - -- -- - tr- nature of the domntomn area. Siguage sbould be
user)to strengthen the identities of the districts.
Left:The Mercado Playa offers a nmaber of
dffrent reta:!and dining options err addition to
creating an interesfingpnblic space.
.,,;fit,_- �`��• __ _
JO
eleven ^
Palm Springs has a unique and vibrant history. However, mith damn-valley development and changes in
demographics, it is a city in transition. With more and moreyear round residents, it is important to find a
balance between the needs and desires of the residents and those of the tourists while taking advantage of
the unique history and many assets downtown Palm Springs has to offer. Participants of the Downtown
Ideas and Directions Workshop and the Downtown Urban Design Workshop were asked to come np with
a number of goals and proposed actions to help shape the downtown design guidelines to best sweet this larger
goal Below is a summary of the generalgoals and actions proposed in the tivo workshops.
Was & strategies
Goals: Improve street life and the pedestrian experience;Slow traffic in the downtown core �.
(especially on Palm Canyon Drive);Connect areas of activity in downtown through stronger
vehicular and pedestrian connections; Enhance existing trails and create a city-wide trail
system
Proposed Actions: Create"sidewalk bulbs" at intersections and wider sidewalks in between
to facilitate pedestrian through traffic, reduce the length of pedestrian street crossings,
and slow vehicular traffic (for an illustration of a sidewalk bulbs see page twenty-two); '
Re-configure traffic patterns and create a hierarchy of streets based on "go" and"slow
go"concept("go" streets allow for faster vehicular movement while "slow go" streets
provide for slower vehicular movement and increased pedestrian activity);Open new
east-west vehicular and pedestrian connections to improve circulation and access; Connect
the Convention Center to the Desert Museum; Connect retail and cultural sites; Connect
villages/districts to"core" downtown;Improve existing trails and create an interconnected
trails system
PJA 110 A
Goals: More downtown parking;Easier access to popular locations
Proposed Actions:Build new, strategically located parking structures; Create design criteria
for parking structures;Ensure safety through the incorporation of safety measures such as
sufficient lighting,clear signage,and open stairwells
Goals: More public gathering places and pedestrian connections
Proposed Actions: Create a central public plaza or town center;Create more mid-block
pedestrian connections;Create more interesting courtyards and small gathering spaces with
places to sit
twewe
Was & strateoies
,c a, t i=;2_-_}_1e 1e tt 21 tF2b U,L1-lztriUs
Goals: More downtown residential uses; More mixed-use;More cohesive, compact,
and vibrant"core" of downtown; Strengthen the identity of the existing districts;
Create new districts or recognizable neighborhoods
Proposed Actions: Create more residential and mixed use developments in
downtown;Take advantage of the development opportunities provided by vacant
stores and lots; Find short and long term uses for the Desert Fashion Plaza site;
Develop Indian Canyon Drive to create a more pedestrian friendly street; Create an
"events/entertainment center"; Use specialized landscaping, signage,lighting, flags,
banners, and street furniture to differentiate between the various districts
, ariU�' I n i,Il)Pir.j1/I/tF�S719!�,_'_L'F,_;1!(
Goals:Allow for mixed-use hil w e preserving development reservin mountain views and
eclectic nature of downtown; Preserve view corridors and create new ones when
possible; Preserve pand enhance eclectic architecture
i
Proposed Actions: Orient buildings east-west to protect or create view corridors;
Develop and implement building massing guidelines to frame views; Step back the
upper floors of taller buildings to protect view corridors;Vary height and massing to
maintain eclectic nature of downtown;Design buildings to add to and reinforce the
eclectic nature of downtown architecture
Goals: Create a strong downtown identity through landscaping and signage;
Encourage pedestrian activities by creating beautiful and easily navigated streets and
spaces
Proposed Actions: Create comprehensive downtown landscaping and signage
�I guidelines; Use desert and eco-friendly landscaping
tyiyteevs
Page Intentionally Left Blank
I�
I�
fourteen
Design P-rindpfes
The bulletpoints below highlight the most important design andplanning concepts derivedfrom the downtown
workshops. The map as the opposite page is a conceptual map that is intended to demonstrate how many of
the design and planning concepts below could be implemented in the downtown area. The following parts of '
this section go into greater detail and expand upon these concepts to assist developers and planners in their
planning and design processes.
urban design concept
l e r es G,�ra_re} i for
• Create a new central plaza/public space
• Create new mid-block walkthroughs and pedestrian connections
• Protect or create public view corridors along streets
• Create distinctive gateways to downtown with large water elements and signage
• Ensure a vibrant, compact, and walkable"core"downtown
• Enhance the existing trails through appropriate signage and landscaping and create a
comprehensive trail system
• Create new mixed-use residential projects,especially in the central core area and the
northern and southern ends of downtown.
• Concentrate tall,high density projects in the central downtown core and at the north and
south gateways to downtown
• Strengthen or create pedestrian and vehicular connections between areas of activity/
districts
• Enhance the pedestrian experience through improvements to the streetscape, such as wide
sidewalks,ample shade,varied sidewalk pavements and textures,interesting public spaces
with focal points,and consistent landscaping, street furniture,lighting,and signage
• Create"hot spots"of activity at key intersections through the use of "sidewalk bulbs,"
special paving,building corner cutbacks,sidewalk cafes,kiosks, fountains, and public art
• Ensure access to safe and convenient parking through the creation of a comprehensive
parking system
• Encourage adaptive reuse of historic buildings and architectural excellence in the design
of new projects
• Ensure access to public areas and buildings for people of all ages and abilities through
consultation with appropriate City Staff and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Realize the role of the Section 14 Specific Plan in the success of downtown and ensure
strong pedestrian and vehicular connections between Section 14 and the rest of the
downtown area
sixteen
1
— - - - - - - — - -jI I_ — — —
AVENIDA CABALLEROS
c°cEa�'°x I I I wrnOHn7 t I
t ++
L —
CALLE ALVARADO - — -
- concept sketch
/
_ a
O CALLE EL SEGUNDO
� o LEGEND
ii 0 1 rn 'I Y nl I iJ'E I I o o SECTION 14 BOUNDARY
O1 Of
E cns�xO GI mLrOx t I I[ F, nnaouis / N o ? 0
t o o I I wI I ' I hill ❑ I vnvs l� a z
O _ a I uu L2 i5/ w ¢ � �JI I F — J■e Igr DOWNTOWN GATEWAYZ++ �a — �JP N
CALLE ENCILIA —
i t -j {x w VIEW CORRIDOR
r-t / V■14
+
O � !1I .i IHOTEL msO I I
OI MID-BLOCK PEDESTRIAN
T ' Ii __ CONNECTION
1
L-4
1._4 �_{ lI s, — xa, HERITAGE TRAIL
INDIAN CANYON DR. ! • O O o j, 0 o - j3a{ O 1mg 0 ft O %Kt O *w O O 't( O 0 sl 0 WATER ELEMENT
/ EEO
PEDESTRIAN LINKAGE
�LxmYCl 9
PALM CANYON DR. ��-'��}---i � �_� MIXED-USE CORE (COMM./RES.)
MIXED-USE (OFFICE/RES.)
HIGH INTENSITY GATEWAY (COMM./RES.)
Yt 7�f )•C i� J�C 7�t ]mot 1K. ]�K �[ ?O[
BELARDO RD. 1: 1�t �� �C -� J�C - i= TENNIS CLUB DISTRICT (RES./RESORT)
PAKRING
IEW r — CAHUILLA RD. -f PUBLIC/INSTITUTIONAL
VIEW V•I'EW V+E �.�
I II OOOw:eu cO auE }� LANDSCAPING/OPEN SPACE
yK
SECTION 14 LOCAL SERVING COMMERCIAL
� jljlff�( I
3.« SECTION 14 RESIDENTIAL HIGH
VIEW AHT
VIEW .i ruseun �` I I � SECTION 14 RETAIL/ENTERTAIN /OFFICE
SECTION 14 RESORT/ATTRACTION
VIEW VIEW VIEW C1Y * SIZE AND LOCATION TO BE DETERMINED
i 11 VIEW
F
VIEWS Z v wu
' J �' t1
)o
seventeen , ii
Page Intentionally Left Blank
nineteen
streets & circulation _ r
Streets,sidewalks,and trails are all
essential parts of the downtown
experience. Streets not only allow
vehicular movement between places, e
but also affect the vitality of downtown by either attracting or deterring CONCEPT: A PARKING STREET
pedestrian activities. Thus, streets and WITH ANGLED PARKING INCREASES
streetscapes must be designed with CONVENIENT DOWNTOWN PARKING,
both cars and pedestrians in mind to SLOWS TRAFFIC, AND CREATES A
ensure a healthy and vibrant downtown. MORE PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY STREET.
A pedestrian oriented linkage along
,rr�
Andreas Road (see the concept map on � 'f t CONCEPT. BUILDING
page seventeen) should be created to / _ CORNER CUTBACKS
strengthen the connection between the 1 SHOULD BE USED
Resort and Convention Center district '—• f TO CREATE SMALL
and the downtown core area (see the \ /. PUBLIC SPACES.
zones map on page thirty-four). _
Trails should connect downtown /
with other arts of the city and the \ 1
P
mountains, creating new greenway
connectors between districts and
providing better access to the
XJ-1
mountains.All street, sidewalk, and CONCEPT: LANDSCAPING
trail elements should include consistent ALONG THE STREET AND AT
detailing to create a sense of continuity. SIDEWALK BULBS CREATES ��
Additional,more specialized detailing A MORE COMFORTABLE
can be added to distinguish specific PEDESTRIAN EXPERIENCE.
sites,areas,or districts if desired.
However, this underlying design Top: Parking streets,mdch Aierfront other streets in thatparkmg is an integral design element,are
continuity is essential in strengthening rdwiforpedestnan oriented rommeraal uses and can be axed to create areas nrith nnigne and hve jh
the sense of place and identity for streetnapes. La Pla.Za and Arenas Road behveen Calle Encilia and Indian Canyon Dine(above)
aregood examples of parking streets that create anigne destination.spots in the donoatmvn.
downtown Palm Springs.
Bottom: Plan ueem of a parking street. Parking streets are eoconraged as east-melt connectors m the
do vatomu area to improve both uebrsnlar and pedestrian eirenladon.
tweatvd
1 Ve'e'-„S ": y Ypnl Rsmapp%
• Along downtown streets,all the elements—buildings, signs,
landscaping and street furniture—should work together to create a
p unified and coherent visual identity and public space.
® • Commercial and mixed-use buildings should be located close to
the public right-of-way to better define the urban space and create
pedestrian interest. However,building frontages should be relieved
with occasional courtyards,passageways,patios,and setbacks to add to
the unique and eclectic character of downtown Palm Springs.
• Streetscapes provide visual interest,continuity,and identity streets & circulation
and should include a consistent blend of themed street furniture,
consisting of streetlights,banners,benches,bollards,bus stops, and
trash receptacles. While retaining key basic detailing for downtown
continuity and identity, these elements should be further specialized to
help identify specific districts or villages within the downtown.
• Colorful and themed awnings and i 41
outdoor sidewalk umbrellas can add " c;- ii, c
a great deal of vitality and excitement
to an area as well as provide important
sources of shade for pedestrians and
customers. Downtown stores and it—
eating estabhshments are encouraged r .
to use either or both techniques when t
appropriate.
Street corners should be carefully —
defined by buildings that set the tone
for the entire block and provide visual +
interest for pedestrians.
Patterned pavement and special
paving materials should be used to
designate intersections,pedestrian ,.1—A
ad places
of pedal "
crossings,entries,parking plazas, ; -
and laces of special interest. The -
p p paving should be
designed in a style consistent with the
historic contest of the downtown area. -
r:
Top:The cola tal umbrellas on there outdoor doting -
areas add vitality and excitement to the don ilonn area.
Outdoor dining areas and shade ambrehas shonld he
interpolated into sheetnape design nfieneverposrible.
&ghd:l.a Plaj�a tomhines a number of desirable design
pti xg5les. Consistent arrhitecheral style,signgge,and
landscaputg create a sense of place. Special paving +
on Paba Catyon Drive clearly desigaaaspedesirdaa -
crossittgs. The design of 1-a Plaza}parking street
creates an eascivest mid-block vebicolar and pedestria:
comtettornndprautdes mucG Weeder/pmkueg ------------- ._._:
twevftvS-nne
��er,Ze�v.i�ts
• Corner building cutbacks create a
sense of place and help to create a
varied streetscape experience. They CONCEPT: SIDEWALK
are recommended at the gateways to BULBS ARE EXTENSIONS ,
OF SIDEWALK THAT
downtown,intersections along halm "BULB" INTO THE
Canyon Drive,Indian Canyon Drive, STREET.
and Tahquitz Canyon Way,and any
other important intersections in the
central core area to denote significant _
intersections or points of interest in the ,
downtown area.
• Corner"sidewalk bulbs"or"step-
outs" are recommended at intersections CONCEPT: BOLLARDS AND
to slow traffic, reduce the length of the LANDSCAPING CAN BE PLACED
ON SIDEWALK BULBS TO CONCEPT: SIDEWALK BULBS
crosswalk,and to create more sidewalk CHANNEL PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC CAN BE USED TO CREATE
space. AND TO PROTECT PEDESTRIANS AREAS FOR ON STREET
FROM VEHICULAR TRAFFIC. PARKING
• Clear sight fines should be maintained Ab,A, Plan view,of a sidewalk 1I Sidewalk bulbs increase usable.sidewalk area,allow for
at intersections to ensure pedestrian and on streetparking,slam traffic,and shortest the distance of erossnalks.They use ideally ruled
vehicular safety. for conmrerdal streets with on street parking and are reconanended in pedestrian oriented areas
nbere appropriate. '
CONCEPT CORNEfl OUILGMG CONCEPT TOWERS,ARCHITECTURAL
[Ui0PCK CAN BE USED TO DETAILING.AND LARGE DISPLAY
CREATE SNARL LIVELY WINDOW[ON FPEDE FLOOR flETERE
PURRI[SPACES- HELP CREATE PEOCBTRIDo INTEREST
CONCEPT ARCADES PROVIDE
SHADE FOR PEDESTRIANS
UI
WHILE STING STREET
A T CA
INTERESTING SiflEETSCAPE
j 11
t 4
CONCEPT BIDEWAut BULOs REDUCE
[ROSCWALIt LENGTH.GL01'!TRAFFIC.AND
ABLATE MORE BIOEWALtt SPACE THEY
ARE flECONME RCEO ON 1AFAING STREETS
CONCEPT GUIA.AR DINING AND AND AT IMPORTANT INTERSERIOIIS
UMBRELLAS SHOULD BE INCORPORATED
INTO STREEiSCAPE DEIGN WHEN
POBSI•LE
Above. Corner building cutbacks,sidewalk halbs,and toners sbaild be aced at important intersections to create sruall public spaces with a serve of place. Additional design
elements,sucb as arebat ctum!let iling,anrti g,first floor retail pith large Airplay vviadoms,outdoor eating areas,and landscaped areas,add to pedestrian comfort and are
recommended when appropriate. '
twenty twD
Top: Tbtr corner at TahquitZ Canyon
May and Indian Canyon Drive is an
ideal lonulonfar a smallpublic space.
By removing lbe one story building in the '}R `. -
foreground and adding additional ontdoor
0
eating Ipportunlnes and otberpedestnarr
amenities(see the 'Public Places"section
starting on pogo thirty)a new vibrant.pace - -� - -
along the street conld be created
Bottom:High density residential mixed-
use in the core dmvatwvn area and the L
north and.sontb gateway areas(see Zones ' n;
nup on page tlnrty four)can extend the -
hours of use and bring nodal and econwnic
vitality to ihc•downtown. This perpective
shores one concept for the possible
redevelopment of the Desert Fashion If'
Plaza,mhiclA is located in the heart of the —
dowretomn core. A new east-west connector
street opening rp to The Desert Moseam
and elements - - -- _
in Abe design of the proposed mixed-ase -
residentialprolect would reduce the visual
impact of the taller buildings and he y
retain fbe village character of the area
mbile adding much needed vitality to the
c%wutomn streets.
CONCEPT.STEP-6AC11 OWLOING
MASSING OPENS IIP q NEW
/r PUBLIC VIEW CORRIDOP
���
CONCEPT SHADE TREES COMEINEO ���
WITH PALMS CREATE MUCH NEEDED
�\ \ SHADE WHILE RETAINING THE PALI`
CHARACTERISTIC OF PALM
I
IVf
z RI Iy �
7 KA
1
I '
l k - DARNING NODS CONVENIENT
DOWNTOWN PARKING AND
SLOWS TfldFF1[
CONCEPT.SIDEVIALN DULSS PHYSI[gLLY AND
�`�C C PSYCHOLOGICALLY SHORTEN CR066WALI(LENGTHS,
ALLOW FOR ADDITIONAL LANDSCAPING,AND SLOW
teN�=V'�iT,v
Utrventq-Lie¢
• Sidewalk width is dependent on surrounding
uses and scale of street. Core commercial areas
need to include zones for window shopping, I '
through pedestrian traffic, outdoor eating,trees,and
landscaping.
• Where appropriate, sidewalks should reflect historic
scoring patterns or distinctive paving or surface
treatment to create patterns and consistency. w.•-.
m
• Along pedestrian-oriented streets,large windows of
ground-level retail should provide visual interest and
information for shoppers and strollers.
_. S' ' tG•a.w
• In commercial areas where pedestrian uses are M. - . G y `'
encouraged,wider sidewalks and sidewalk shade trees •..•
are preferred over landscaped medians to maximize the . y� ""'
k `id r.w •. Y.' �W"M1Y�+1'w-F4wws..
usable space for pedestrian activities and movement. ,'
• Sidewalks should be designed to be handicapped
accessible as set forth in the Americans with Above:The rection of the Heritage Trad along Belardo Road is a monder6d
asset. It is a goad exaarpIt,of Pion,a avid,srrlemalk can serve l)otb pedes/rran '
Disabilities Act(ADA). and hieyrle traffic. The Heritage Trail s/iondd he,.^,tended to connect mill)other
parts of the city and the mountains.
CONCEPT: STEPPED BUILDING SETBACKS
SHOULD BE USED IN TALLER BUILDINGS
TO PRESERVE/ENHANCE EXISTING VIEW
CORRIDORS ALONG STREETS.
CONCEPT: AWNINGS AND
UMBRELLAS SHOULD BE
INCORPORATED INTO
STREETSCAPE DESIGN _
WHEN POSSIBLE.
VY
-
R,ght Sidemalks.rhoaldprevzde
ample roomfortontw'rent User. Itir CONCEPT: ZONES FOR LANDSCAPING
mAseoded that sidewalks in pedestrian 1 (MIN 3 FT.), OUTDOOR DINING (MIN.
rero
0 FT.), AN PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENT
areas have at least tell feet far irindon, (MIN. 10 FT.) SHOULD ALL BE
shopping/pedestrian throngh-traffic,ten PROVIDED FOR ON PEDESTRIAN
feetforontdooi dining,andthreefeetfor ORIENTED COMMERCIAL STREETS.
landscaping and shade trees.
tYVBNLYJ-f OLIT
• An integrated trails system connecting the —
mountains,downtown,and other areas of the city
should be created.
IF The trail system should be clearly marked with
consistent signage and lighting where appropriate. -
ILI
• Landscaping and shade trees should be incorporated "� 1
into the trail design in the downtown and other x
l
developed areas.
IF Amenities, such as benches,public art, bike racks,
and water fountains, should be strategically placed
along the trails,especially in the downtown and
other heavily used areas. The incorporation of these
amenities into trail design will enhance the user's -
experience and create more interesting public spaces.
Ro•i Ogrcr
rh. P.r.n -r•h•a. nN.�l. ,-p.
IF Trails should be designed to minimize conflict ......
�11 rlcv.ln,..d in I..�e r„.• iu. .0 Iha NwA...hln
nI.Nnn Olim..
between pedestrians and bicyclists. This can be done
by creating separate,but parallel trails for differentr..p4
uses or by designating different parts of one trail for
different uses. "k 4 •-:. `
P.I P.hx`Y•n
�.M.in 11..E WWu.x-.•
U"0....eM
Gorl C.un. U•'•`� �n
Mn.enw.
y 11\N
i
f
m
To 1 Ge Herrin e I rail avin nrarkin s are
r.
M { ,� 'Y.'}:.:'...�.r�- e• . " r�"i _ _s an example of good troll sxgngge. They clear!}
�.: .. q T .•...q pa'ym -
- identI I the trail and add texture and roe roity to
tbepaving.
T ''�°'„ } 'fRr ' �`w'q •`+ Abore: Nlonume?v s),le Heritage Trail rzgw
IF
display lie recite and important areas along the
trail Similar.rigPssboalrlbecieatedfo,-tl)e
entire trails oistem.
„y, Lfr.the sidewalk attbe Mercado Pla:�a it
� P ,
FpF
_:± �.'{ .s- "d an excellent example of patterned paring.
s '( y- »,,`>• -m.. x a17% ;w r Speciall�ed paving adds to the anique,sense of
place and character in the davnto rn.
�5� ,✓
.`-- -
J� ! .4♦
�1 M�
twen[N-hve
paring
Tourists and residents alike come
n Palm Springs o
to downtown p gs to g • '' '
shopping, to enjoy restaurants and
cultural attractions,and to attend
special events. The majority of these
downtown visitors come by car.
Without easily accessible downtown _
parking,many potential visitors,whose M
business is essential to the downtown
economy,may be attracted to other r
�j
commercial and entertainment centersi
with more convenient parking.Thus, the —
continued vitality and future economic
success of downtown depends heavily
on providing access to convenient,
strategically located parking. �� y
The most effective way to maximize
access to convenient parking is through
the creation of an integrated downtown
parking system.This parking system
should build upon existing parking
programs and structures and should
provide short,medium,and long
term parking options in a number of
strategically located parking structures
and lots. These different parking areas
r �
should be integrated into the design of
the surrounding neighborhood both
architecturallyand in scale. Efforts
Top: Theproposed integrateAdo,ntorrrt parking�)utem should incorparatr exrstingparking
should be made to consult with the strildares(rnch as the one located on the corner of Indian Cayon Drive and Batista Road
City's ADA (Americans with Disabilities shonm above)and lots,hen appropriate and feasible.
Act) coordinator to ensure adequate Middle dr Bottom: ,Step backs and landscaping on the sides of taller building,sterb as
handicapped accessible parking in the the Hyatt on Palm Cayon Drive(middle),can bep frame vie,corridors along streets and
downtown. are reconmtended,lien appropriate.Likewise,step backs and landrVing sboald be aced to
minimi.Ze tl)e visual impact of parking strnctures(bottom).Fecrt floor retail along the base of
parking stradures is also encoaraged becmae it mbcleni:�es the impact of the struciare on the
pedwrian experience by redaringgaps in pedestrian user. '
tiventvs-six
■s The downtown parking system
should maximize the convenience of
downtown parking while minimizing its
impact on the visual quality of the street
and pedestrian movement along it.
• The different components of the
parking system should be easily located
and identified through the use of
consistent and unifying lighting and
signage. parking
l
Sti 'ar [ c'd T'n 2
• Structured when ro properly parking, P P Y fop; Pcnallelp Ilk ang on Palm Canyou Drive allomr for Gtgher traffic volnnre than angler/parking while still
�p designed, results in higher parking providingsonmon.rtreetp,,kn,gjor,rear/tyresLauratxtr and retailestahla.rl)nlents..
densides and fewer interruptions in Bottom.Tbeportion of Arenas Road between Calle Enaza and ladian Canyon Drive is agreat exanple
the pedestrian experience than surface of bow angled parking can create a anigete mrd pedestrian friendly re tail and renanranI area. Note the loge
parking lots. Therefore, structured dzrplay,vindona that also coatrehate to the interest of the streetrcape.
parking is recommended in the central
downtown area.
• Underground structured parking has �-
the least impact on the visual quality
of downtown and is encouraged when
feasible. � "
• When it is necessary to locate a
parking structure along a commercial
street, the structure should be designed
to provide ground level retail and office
Qspace. On streets where cars must
occupy the ground level,a landscaped -
setback should be used to minimize and µ �,
soften the visual impact of the structure.
• The facade of parking structures 11 �` y
-% ✓
should reflect the exterior building
materials, forms,and scale of
surrounding buildings.
• Parking structures should incorporate
security measures such as lighting, open -
stairwells,and clearly marked entry and
exit points.
• On downtown streets,both angled
and parallel parking have their
advantages. Compared to angled
parking,parallel parking provides fewer
trveutv�-seven
M�
spaces but can allow for wider sidewalks
and fewer traffic disruptions. As a
general Wile, angled parking should not
be used on arterial roads because of the
traffic interruptions and safety hazards
they create. However, on smaller ,
1% roads,angled parking can reduce the
speed of traffic and help create a varied
streetscape.
• Parking streets (streets that include
parking,usually angled, as a key design
element and often incorporate other
pedestrian friendly elements such as
sidewalk bulbs and landscaping) are
recommended as east-west connectors
in the downtown area, especially
between Palm Canyon Drive and Indian
Canyon Drive. It is also encouraged
f� that parking streets be used to create
special districts or destinations in the
downtown area,such as the small
y shopping/entertainment district on
Rh Arenas Road between Indian Canyon
,. Drive and Calle Encilia.
_ • Parking plazas contain a number of
design elements that make them more
_ convenient and pedestrian friendly than
_ traditional parking lots. They channel
vehicles to building entrances and
�,. adjacent parking plazas,clearly designate
parking areas and pedestrian crossing
- - areas through the use of landscaped
islands and special textured paving,
provide passenger drop off points at
- building entrances, create pedestrian
�-m links to buildings through arcades,and ,
increase pedestrian safety and comfort
through the inclusion of benches,
fountains, shade structures,and lighting.
ENO
r•Itl1
Y J r � � � 111� ��� VV4iii..••. .... '
AI ;
Top: Plan vaew of a parking street. A hno wcy parking
street slows traffic and it conrtadve to pedostrsau activities.
ng, ilq l�� Middle: Lory avallr anrd landscaping lake surface ,
0. . parking less risible from the street.Note that the
sidewalk in tGuphotograpb is too narrow to a nwimodate
s more than asinglepedestdaa. Wheupossible,serboalks
should he wider to allmv for more than one person at a
time. (See ':S'ule)valks"on page heenty four.)
Bottom:Sereeuing walls and lanrdnapiag reduce the
impact of surface parkeag or the pedestrian experience.
ttventv�-eig�jt
• Parking plazas should be used rather
than traditional parking lots whenever
possible.
• Because surface parking lots tend ✓
to create gaps along the sidewalk and
® interrupt the activities along the street,
they should be located in ways that
minimize their visibility from major
arterials and pedestrian streets. It is yyp
recommended that surface parking lots
not be located on Palm Canyon Drive
or Indian Canyon Drive.
• Techniques for screening surface
parking lots include perimeter-
landscaped buffers of shade tree
plamings or up to three-foot-high -K T
screen walls or shrubs.
• Surface parking lots should contain
interior landscaping with curbed islands _ ,,.1 t �• -«•� I�
planted with shade trees and desert
! R^
landscaping. One tree per four parking ��? ,`} �y=� ' " ` � •,_�`
spots is recommended. • ,;y� i'!l
a• I
• Tipu (Tipeaana too/) trees are
recommended in parking lots and
parking plazas.
f i
� 4
u
Top: Plan vzew of aparkingplaZa. •� ';�_ .' {*%fir,
Parking plazas that rue one-may streets ;;,.'Y,-
aspart of the arudatron fystem provide j>A
nrore parking spots than those teat have
a completely enclosed drenlakon ystem. C
Tts design is ideal far Me blocks baween
Pak;Catyau Drive attd Indian Cwyot,
Dripa
Middle da BOttam:Desert landscaping, --------- -
landscaped ulaurG,sbarle trees,and •"z ,,;�-uy' �� �
textured pae,ing atpedestrmi crossings are
all important elenrer is in parkirtgpla:as.
They help to maximize the convenience, -
safety,and vzsnal pleasure of ruert. -
twe>7tvd-nine
/1,
.o�i�I/00A _ "" .
puUic spaces &
oat�jering places
Public spaces provide the visual and
social accent for a downtown. Although
sidewalks are the most important public IN
planned
spaces in a downtown,well
plazas,squares,and courtyards add a
vital sense of place and comfort to the p,--Ar ,downtown experience. Every city should
have a large central public gathering place
near the heart of the city to create a center
of activity and vitality in the downtown '
area. This central area should provide } �N
civic,social,retail,and recreational uses
to meet the varied needs of different - -.
downtown users. Downtown Palm Springs
would benefit from a new large public t 1
space that can serve as a true town square - -
to attract visitors and to create a lively
and defined center of the downtown area sa
(see the concept map on page seventeen).
In addition,new mid-block pedestrian
connections (see page seventeen) should
be created in the downtown,which
should result in a more lively streetscape ? t
and better east-west circulation in the
downtown area. A series of smaller public _
spaces (including courtyards,patios,and
corner building setbacks) should also be
incorporated into the existing urban fabric �ypyi
of downtown Palm Springs.
Top&Middle: IZesephotos are examples of central _
squares, Tloe proposed ceiatral square in dmvntown Palm _
.Spriugr should include design elements to maximi.Ze pedestrian _
use and can fort _
Bolton. Smallerpnhlic spaces should tmlude as natty
pedestrian oriented amenities as feasible. This space includes
outdoor dining with sun nmhrellas,eontfortahle seating,
clear signege,consistent lightingfixtures,a water element,
landscaping,and shade trees.
Cr YtiJ
• Public spaces should be carefully integrated into the urban fabric
of the downtown and contribute to the pedestrian experience.
• A large,centrally located city square should be created in
downtown Palm Springs. To maximize accessibility and use by
the public,it should be strategically placed between Palm Canyon
Drive and Indian Canyon Drive. The central square should be a
hub of activity during both the day and night. In addition ma
varied mix of retai], restaurant,and office uses,the public square rr��r
should contain strong landscaping elements to create a sense of public Spaces Place,a central water element to serve as a focal point,ample }
pedestrian amenities to ensure pedestrian safety and comfort,and gahherlh9 places
® special features and events to attract users. el
OJ • Additional large public spaces should be located along the street
to provide maximum visibility and accessibility. The transition
from the street to the public space should be as convenient as
possible by not raising or sinking the space more than three to
four feet.
• Vibrant public plazas have a sense of enclosure defined by
surrounding buildings and streets. However,they should not Belonr The Mercado Plaza is a vibrant
public rpace because it contains mane
be completely enclosed or cut off from the street. Public areas eletuentr of amelldesignedgatheriug
should be defined by surrounding buildings with the general place.-retail and restanrant liar,aThong
guideline that the width of the public space should not be more mrderdeaient,outdeorseating,interesting
than three times greater than the height of surrounding buildings. arbitecture,shade elenrentr,consistent
landscaping,public m7,and speciati7ed
pavil%
oo
pyn
. i.,' ,'�ej' � ,i la. - Z •i ill � ill
I
t- S li
AAAh
• �Y4�hLH[ µ S,
N,
a j Attention to pedestrian amenities and comfort is
ca
crucial.
r w
�,' q, • All public spaces should have ample water misters,
Made trees,awnings,and other sun coverings to shelter
users from the hot summer sun and to provide a cool,
4
inviting place for visitors to sit and rest.
4.
Public spaces should include landscaping and water
_ elements to create a pleasant and relaxing environment. ,
%4. - -
Comfortable and movable seating is crucial to the
success public spaces. Seating can be built into
ledges,corners, and walls. Moveable seats provide
choices and comfort whereas fixed seating tends to
1 W, _ limit flexibility of use.
i�Q�� .%I y ;
® . ■ Y Outdoor eating and seating provides convenience and
social opportunities and should be incorporated into
public gathering places.
■••• —�■ • _u„ - Public spaces in the downtown area should have a
visual focal point that draws attention, connects visitors,
and further enhances the sense of place. The amenity
- might be a sculpture, fountain,historical reference,
— public art display,or entertainment venue. The central
plaza and north and south entrances to downtown Palm ,
Springs should all contain similar strong water elements
---_ a- __- _—_ r* that will create a sense of continuity and thus connect
_ the downtown area.
Top v5'Aliddk: Pedestrian odd block passageways can aid pedeshian cirenlation and provide interesting spacer and e,f5erienres for
asers. I liese connections provide shaded walkways lined with commercial uses. Landscaping,omtdoor dining,and water elements
all add interest and ranfo t to the spaces. Mid-block pedestrian and vehicular rmnaectionr are recommended on the blocks hetneen
Belardo Road and Indian Caryon Drive.
Bottom.This public spare provides a wide array of pedestrian amenities. Interesting architectural elements,ontdoornmbrella,
patterned paving,landscaping,and dearly defined signage all nvork together to create apedestrian friendlygathernngplace.
�"•�- '��!„'="-` �i =ram _ �"
i
.40ftipft .ift
t()irtvd-two
• The use of special paving features and public art adds richness
to the environment and are encouraged as long as they are
consistent with the character of downtown.
• Smaller scale public spaces should complement larger spaces
and add vitality and choice to the pedestrian experience. They
should also be located along the street,be comfortable, and have - -
amenities such as ample shade and seating.
• Mid-block pedestrian connections and walkthroughs connect
streets on opposite sides of a block, aiding pedestrian circulation
and creating a varied pedestrian experience. They are encouraged y
on the blocks between Belardo Road and Indian Canyon Drive.
(For examples,see the concept map on page seventeen.) -
• Connections and passageways should be umque spaces while � '.� -��_'�•V' '�
retaining continuity with the rest of downtown. Landscaping, t �
water elements,art, special paving,and shade are all encouraged. ! -
Tap:The Village Greeni fountain provider agood
example of a foaintain serving as a focal point in a pnhlic
space.
Middle: Public art,such as the Lucille Ball statue on
Tahgniq Canyon May,it encouraged
Bottom- Smallerpublic space,such as 1Se Corridor
off of Palnn Canyon Drive,shouldprovide a number
of different pedestrian amenities to ea.rma the comfort
and safety of the user. Shade element;,landscaping,
seating,lighting,and slguage.rhoedd abvays he included
in the design of ptbkcplaces. Other element,stab as
materfeatores,public ant,and special paring are all
recommended mben appropriate.
lo�lTtir - .e
� Su•�jl,.� c �: r.w.e —c
s■' !� yy,��.- H : y Zit "'i+»,
r
t�j'rrt�-t(7ree
_ HIGH INTENSITY MIXED-USE
(RES.'ICOMM.) GATEWAY
HIGH INTENSITY ` MIXED-USE
MIXED-USE ,- 1 (OFFICE/RES.)
(RES./COMM.)- TRANSITION JZONE
DOWNTOWN 1 - _ _ _•
CENTRAL CORE' ,
lV1I1.� use (x bevefo — 0 ENTION
} (RESORT/C NV
Ille bistricts CENTER DISTRICT
,�I�1y�L
rX 1
MIXED USE i '
DOWNTOWN
wn
Palm Springs is used primar
majority
duo ng the OUTER CORE MIRE
Y t1'
D-USE
daytime. However, there is potential to (OFFICE/RES.)
extend the hours of use and to create a more TENNIS __ TRANSITION ZONE
exciting and lively atmosphere in downtown CLUB
Palm Springs through the introduction of DISTRICT,I HIGH INTENSITY MIXED-USE
mixed-use residential developments and the (RES./COMM.) GATEWAY
expansion of nighttime commercial/retail N
uses. People create a sense of vitality through
HIGH INTENSITY
activity and use of the streets and sidewalks. V//A MIXED-USE (RES./COMM )
Downtown residents would enliven the
area by using downtown areas when others Above.- A map of Zones in domntomn Pala,Springs (f"'or bolding he ghts for the cations roarer
have left and by creating a new nighttime see the 'Bedding Height, Orientation,tVlasnng, &Design"section stm7inq on page the>y-.fav)
market for activities,stores,and restaurants. These zones should be fiutlier subdivided into tbene based districts to create areas null,separate
and unique,dentities mitbm the donmtmvn.
Therefore,downtown Palm Springs would
benefit from downtown residents and those
new residents would benefit from the exciting
and lively atmosphere of the area.
To achieve the desired mix of vitality and
activity,downtown Palm Springs should be
comprised of a number of different zones
distinguished by land use and height. These
zones include: the core (comprised of a
high intensity mixed-use center with taller
buildings surrounded by a vibrant mixed-use
area);two shorter,less intense mixed-use
transition zones to the north and south of
the core; taller,more intense north and
south gateway areas;the Resort/Convention
Center District;and the Tennis Club District
(see map to the right). Further defined theme
based districts (areas identified by specialized
uses,such as cultural and art uses,restaurant
uses,nightlife uses,etc.) within these larger
districts are encouraged and should be
strengthened where they already exist when
possible.
t(7irtvy-four
r.,u1 i6_I.752Or
• Downtown Core: The downtown core (approximate area
bounded by Amado Road and Arenas Road and Museum Drive
and Indian Canyon Drive) should be a vibrant,compact,and
walkable center of activity in the downtown area. The core should
be comprised of a central core area consisting of taller(max. 60
ft; see `Building Height,Orientation,Massing,&Design"section
starting on the next page for more detail on allowed building
heights in the downtown),high intensity mixed-use (residential/
commerical) buildings surrounded by an equally vibrant,but
shorter(max. 30 to 45 ft.) mixed-use (commercial/office/residential) outer core area. f ancb use & develop-
• Transition Zones: The transition zones should serve as less meat / districts
intense connector areas between the high intensity downtown core
and north and south gateways to help create a varied downtown
experience. These areas are ideal for theme based districts
(areas with similar or complementary uses such as restaurants,art
galleries,etc.) and should consist primarily of shorter,one to two
story (mas. 30 ft.) commerical/office mixed-use buildings. Slightly
taller mixed-use buildings with ground floor retail/office and
residential lofts above (max. 45 ft.) are permitted on the east side
of Palm Canyon Drive.
• Gateways: The north and south entrances to the downtown
(along Alejo Road and Ramon Road between Belardo Road and
Indian Canyon Drive) should be well defined areas that make
one's entrance into the downtown a memorable experience. They
should be taller (max. 60 ft.),high intensity mixed-use (residential/
commercial) areas with distinctive landscaping and signage
marking the entrance to downtown.
• Ttte Resort/Convention Center District: This district is
completely contained within the Section 14 area and its land uses
are defined by the Section 14 Specific Plan. The district's location
adjacent to the downtown core makes it an integral part of the
downtown. It should be well connected with the rest of the
downtown to ensure the success of the entire downtown area.
• The Tennis Club District: The Tennis Club district is an
important historic area in downtown Palm Springs. It contains
many architecturally, socially,and culturally important hotels, small
resorts,and residences. This district should continue to retain
the current land uses, sense of place,and character that currently
exists.
• Within all of the downtown zones (especially in the core and
transition areas) theme based villages or districts are encouraged.
These districts should be lively,walkable areas with similar or
complementary uses that create a sense of district identity.
These areas should be connected with each other and the central
downtown core to create a dynamic and pedestrian friendly
downtown. Existing theme based districts should be strengthened
and new ones created when possible.
GATEWAY
(30-60 FT.)
TRANSITION ZONE
14-JI (30 FT.; 45 FT.
DOWNTOWN FOR RESIDENTIAL
CENTRAL CORE-,�-�: IL �:=-LOFTS)
(30-60 FT.)
6VL�lV1IGUl �1e�9hti RESORT/CONVENTION,
(CENTER DISTRICT
aI ll�/�LVl IrioYt mQUSlrI OUTER CORE SPEC
aa - - SECTION-14
I t/� DOWNTOWN IFIC PLAN)
& �esi�n
(30 FT.;
45 FT: FOR ' -
RESIDENTIAL _I?` TRANSITION ZONE
LOFTS) __I_, �Z30,FT,p 45 FT.
Building height, orientation,and _4' , FOR';RESIDENTAIL
I
massing all affect the character of a TENNIS 14
I LOFTS)CLUB _I L==
downtown. Currently,the majority of I DISTRICT I
=t GATEWAY
build ngs in downtown Palm Springs (30-60 FT.)
o j\E(CONSISTENT _
are low-rise structures facia ontoWITH-CURRENT
g ,
the street. These building types help HEIGHTS) ® HIGH INTENSITY
create the pedestrian friendly village MIXED-USE (Res./COMM.)
character of downtown. If the correct
Above: A map of Guilrling heights Gjr.�nne in davntomra Palm Spruags. (Favuare rlatai!ou tGe
techniques are used, taller buildings can chararteristicr of the Zones see the "Laud Use&Deue%jenreat/Di.rtrictr"rertion rtartir{q on
produce the same effect while allowing pgge tbrrtyfonr) ,
for increased residential and retail uses
in the downtown area. However,care CONCEPT CORNIER
must be taken to protect existing public BUILDING U rcs '
P g P SHOULD BEE USED
view corridors along streets, and when TO CREATE SMALL,
INTERESTING PUBLICpossible,to create new ones. SPACES,
Another defining feature of the village 6
atmosphere of downtown Palm Springs j
is its eclectic architecture. Early homes `� t
were constructed primarily in Spanish
Colonial and Mediterranean styles. Mid- J BI
century and post-World War II buildings _ - PL
and homes were designed by an array
of well-known Modern architects.
The result is an architecturally rich
and varied downtown. New buildings
should be sensitive to the historic
context and complement the unique CONCEPT: TOWER ELEMENTSI CONCEPT: SIDEWALK '
mrx of architectural styles. In addition, AND DISTINGUISHING BULBS SLOW TRAFFIC
new projects should strive for excellence ARCHITTUL MORE
DETAILING OR CORNER PEDESTRIAN
PEDESTR AAND N FRIENDLY
in architectural design. BUILDINGS CREATE A SENSE OF STREETS.
ARRIVAL AND IMPORTANCE.
Above:Catemay corners,which bane dirkngaabeng Geaildingt set back from the comer,should be
used ate trances to the downtown area.
L�Ttrd-six
11a(i.,uLl_""'tt
• Downtown Core:Building height in the central core area should
be a maximum of 30 feet on the street front stepping back to 60
feet in height with minor intrusions for architectural features. The
surrounding mixed-use areas in the downtown outer core should
be a maximum of 30 feet for office/retail mixed-use and 45 feet
for buildings with ground floor office/commercial uses and second
story residential lofts with intrusion areas for architectural features.
• Transition Zones: Building height in transition areas should be a
maximum of 30 feet with intrusion areas for architectural features. }
On the east side of Palm Canyon Drive mixed-use buildings with �UIIUlh9 yei9ht�
residential lofts are excepted from the 30 foot restriction. They
should be a maximum of 45 feet (18 feet on street front stepping orientation, massing,
back to 45 feet on the second floor) to accommodate the residential
lofts. & Uesion
• Gateways: Building height in the north and south gateway areas
should be a maximum of 30 feet on the street front stepping back to
60 feet in height with minor intrusions for architectural features.
• The Resort/Convention Center District: Allowed building
heights can be found in the Section 14 Specific Plan.
• The Tennis Club District: Building heights should be consistent
with current heights and zoning restrictions.
• Building heights should result in a varied skyline. Taller buildings,
if properly designed,will create dramatic view corridors that will add
1 to the vitality of downtown.
• Talller buildings (in excess of three stones) should compensate for
their height through the provision of grade level public open space,
preservation of views,superior design, and quality of construction.
• First and second floors of taller buildings should be pedestrian
friendly through the use of large display windows,awnings or other
shade covers,architectural detailing,etc. They should contain
elements at a pedestrian scale and provide pedestrian uses, such as
retail., restaurant,and office spaces.
• An east-west orientation of taller buildings will reduce the bulk
facing the mountains,which will help create/preserve view corridors
in the downtown area. The east-west orientation of taller buildings
is recommended when appropriate.
• Building massing should step back above the ground floor to
maintain and protect public view corridors along streets. (See the
bottom of page twenty-four for a graphic representation of a
building step back.)
• Buildings should have variable roof lines.
t(7irtv�-seven
- i
• Every effort should be made to =
preserve and re-use historic buildings.
(See the historic sites map on page
forty-one.) A listing of historical
buildings can be found in the June ,
2004 Celt'of Palm Springs Department sue,
of Planning and Zoning cityrvide Historic
Resources Survey. """:i•.. - ' +
f,-
• New buildings should be sensitive
to the architectural styles and detailing
of surrounding buildings while adding
, Lv @ •, 1 . 4
to the architectural quality and eclectic
nature of downtown. $ 7'
• Detailed architectural treatment
should be integrated and consistent on
all of a building's exteriors (360 degree t
architecture). Provide the same level of
detail on rear-facing building facades as ,..
on front and side elevations.
• Storefronts are the most important
component of commercial architecture. -.�,•- -
They should have appropriate
decorative trim,ample window
exposure,and clearly marked entrances. '
• Distinctive architectural treatments
should be incorporated into building '
.Y x Top 6 Left Anadea aeld character to the
4-- streetnape and provide shade for padestriens.
=�"-�'• �; _ - ,_ -- '"- TGey are reconrnrended in areas of pedestrian
oriented retail,
t�irtu�-eiegjt
i
1 1/lT14
i
11 L,iUt
wr .�
i._—_—
lap d>Bo#om:The eclectic collection of,Spanish
Colonial Medeterranearn,and Modern architectural s�des
in dowutmYn Palls)j rungs is a valnahle asset. Nem
diailrbngs should sinve for excellence in architecdval
design when appropriate to the dertgn while preseruinq or adding to the eeleale nature of
architectural style of the building. Amvntonw.
• Buildings placed on street corners
define the street edge and create visual
and pedestrian interest. These buildings
should contain special design features and architectural detailing. .:
• Arcades,colonnades, overhangs,and ^..
awnings can add to the character of a w
building as well as provide pedestrians 'p .
with protection from the hot desert
sun. They are all encouraged when . u l
appropriate to the architectural style of , i'
the building.
_ it
• Building colors and materials
should be consistent with downtown
architectural styles and landscaping
themes. They should complement
surrounding buildings and public spaces
t(pirtr�-nine
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1
r
1
1
i
i
1
1
i
forts
Avenida Caballeros •••••••_•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••"•"'•
•'� I � _ ,+ � � ; ; _ I sites o f jisto rica� significance
I '
-
��
I ' ,v � I I• �f Class I Class IT
L � • _ 34.Welwood Murray Memorial Library 37.House of Murphy
- �•
35.McCallum Adobe 39.Carrell Building
36 Miss Cornelia's"Little House" 41.Indianoya Building
^� • � `^ ! • ��� { i 38.Lykken's Department Store 42.Desert Fashion Plaza
40.Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
;
_ -! • _ -� _ - 43.La Plaza,including The Plaza Theatre
- r - C`d-1 a El-.S'- Ujl�-- • _- _ -_- --_ -- -_ :•+• 44 Community Church
- -
_ � - ---- le r � � � � �� 45.Ingleside Inn
I� • 46.General Telephone Building
j II• • j I j 47.Drs.Pepper&Smith Building
-�� �1� _ i• -- -I' ''�-� 48. Cork'n Bottle
49 Palm Springs Art Museum
33 50.American Legion Post#519
_ �__� _ _ _-� �q 51.Fire Station#
li
Ca a nel `d Resource Survey
C 2 t j . 1. Villa Alejo
_ _ _ • _L 2. Palm Springs Main Post Office Building
• , -� I� � I � • � ` I • - 3. Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce Building
�� • • �_ 4. Commercial Block(200-298,201-299 E.Arenas Rd.)
• i 17 �.16 14,0 C �0 b �1 5. Chase Hotel
94 a Indian Can on Rd. p_- - -_ _ _iC _-_ • _ 6. Del Marcos Hotel
•"" - • 7. O'Donne]Golf Course
o _ 15 r-
+ I
-, 18�� �I "43 +L_� 1�� ' - is 9. Oasis
- L 'T' �9 1_; 9. Orchid Tree Hotel
p6 4 � �3 �� 1 j�Q389221 �id l �3 �!2828 �� 3 �: 10.La Serena Villas
�-- --Palm
-L -" I ]J "�_J _ - _
�allllCan On�r. __ 11.Palm prim
i Inn
12.Palm Springs s Women's Club
F �I �' `2; L 3 35 3.6 C 29 30 3 P g
L
;�� ���-12� �,42 I, �. � • 13.The Colony Apartments
_ i i- • 14 Spa Hotel
_4{t i i I _ � j r 8 j - - L - - P
_'40 ':, (?50 �7' f Re arrl Rd. r 5.& 16.Commercial Buildings(1]9&290 N.Indian Canyon Dr.)
•+••+•,.++++++++++.•+•.+++++•••••••....•• ��- 17.Downtown Shell Company Gas Station
, 45'9 '� 1 11 �� ]g, Greyhound Bus Station
Belardo Rd. -
• • 19.Commercial Building(454-462 N.Indian Canyon Dr.)
C C'44 12113
21. Co m e ciazz
I •••••••• ++.••+ . rra r++-r..-.-.+-••�`•+++•+++-++++�•�+++-+�+++++-!• ++• 21. Commercial Building(440-460 S.Indian Canyon Dr.)
_ + +� �.''ahUlll'sl ] d 22.The Town&Country Center
+ •-• ••••••• ••• i�- -- _ I 23.&24.Commercial Buildings(288&401-407 N.Palm Canyon Dr.)
�-Museuua r. 25.Casa de Bellas Arles
49 i 1-� F �I- 26.Oasis Commercial Building
in �I
IT 2 .Adagio Galleries Building
_ F 28.Wessman Development Company Building
29.The Alley
Map Shows General Location of Historic Sites in Downtown Palm Springs
Sources: Palm Springs Citywide Historic Resources Survey 2003 Addendum and Historic Site Preservation Board 30-June-03 List of Class I and Class II Historic Sites 30.&31.Commercial Buildings(383 &459-464 S.Palm Canyon Dr.)
32.Washington Mutual
33.NOIA Commercial Building
fartv�-one
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r
1
S
1
f ortv�-three
fancbscapin9 _ - ~
Landscaping is an important part of
the streetscape. It is essential in the
creation of attractive public spaces and "- --""'
n
5
pedestrian friendly streets. Currently,
downtown Palm Springs has an
assorted collection of landscaping,
s,
which lacks continuity and consistency.
The existing desert landscape theme
should be protected and enhanced to
crea
te a sense er stronbg of place and to
strengthen the historic "desert oasis"
theme of Palm Springs.
The trees in the Downtown Tree
Planting Plan and Landscaping Plan
(see pages forty--three and forty-five)
were chosen to be consistent with the
Section 14 Specific Plan Tree Planting ♦
{ N
Plan and to strengthen the desert
landscaping theme of the downtown.
The following trees were chosen to
provide shade: Acacia smaIN,Brachychiton
popubieu, Cercidittm floridum, Chilaprir h'neari,
Encal)ptus spathtrlata, Olea europea,Pins's adarica,
Piruu roxhur u,Proso is alba "Colorado,»Rhas - i "-
lancea,andTipaanatipu 1r� i���-'�'��'I}f,;i�'�ti
The following trees were chosen
because of their color:Acacia snfallii, "
Cerridium oridutr,and Chilo sis linearis "' :�,r " `"^`:�. •:�i`• :;' '� :e:�
The following trees were chosen for
decorative purposes: Brahea eduli, Citrus 1'op,PoJiddle, Bottom.A comprehensive desert landcraping theme is as attractive and
speae, Olea europeo, Washington fihfern, and environmentally soand landscaping strategy to strengthen the`Desert Oasis"theme of Pahu
lFlashington robusta Springs. '
f mtvd-four
T'aIiASCriy'
• Signature desert plants and distinctive
tree selection should be used to enhance
the special identity of the downtown
area. (See pages forty-three and forty-
five for the Tree Planting Plan and
Landscaping Plan.)
•Landscaped areas should be designed
with the objective of minimizing long
term water use. The use of native and
drought tolerant plant materials and [ane�sea�in9
water efficient irrigation practices is
recommended.
• Within the parameters of the
unifying desert landscaping design Behr:Landscaping ur parking lots neartheCosino ad
theme,distinctive landscaping for Convention Centerun Section 14 provide good examples
1 specialized sub-areas of the downtown of desere landscaping.
is encouraged. Lefl:Desert flavea can add brilliance and vilalto to the
don naown area.
• Smaller shade trees should be
combined with the existing palm trees
along commercial streets and within
surface parking lots. This alternation of
tree type will create a sense of rhythm
and continuity while providing shade
for pedestrians and parked cars.
• Landscaping should be used as a
buffering technique to soften the impact
.,.w
of adjacent land uses which may be
different in sca le,use, or design.
w
1 ifi n
1
fit
4 '—T
1
all. yL '.V.' {.a
u yPJ,
f OAN-five L
Page Intentionally Left Blank ,
1
fortr�-six '
.... AfejO R�. Arna001�0. i-inureGfS 1Ll�G�x7LZ 'Ai0naS 40. nCt"z iSLO n'u.�JG.Lx"r"vl l'v!� Ran i011 R�.� AVBnI�a Call lodfe.-O Cailc Ii1�iaYi i na.... BelC.r�O.R.I�.I CC.�"d7flC. NjxSex::1
RA Canvpn Rb. Cabafferos Afvarabo Seyxnrbo Encifia CanNon Canvgon RD. Dr.
Wa r.
^cacia smalls- S S S S S S P P P S S
Acacia Alinuta
Braclychiton popifIneus- S S S S
Bottle Tree
Brahea edulis- S S S S S S
Guadalupe Palm
Cercidium floyzdum-
Blue Palo Verde P S S S S tYee panting plr
an
Chilopsis lineans- S S S S S S S S S
Desert Willow
Citrus Species- Orange, S S S S S S S S S S S P
Lemon,Lime, Grapefruit
Er cal ptus spathulata- S S S S S S S S S P - Primary formal street
Swamp Mallee tree
Olea europea- S S S S S S S S S - Secondary and/or
"Fruitless" Olive informal tree grouping/
Pines eldwica- S S S S S S screening
Mondell Pine * _
Double row formal
PEnus ro%hnrgii-
Clur S S S S S S planting in core of city
Cbir Pine alba "Colo do"- ** - Sole primary tree
ProsS S S S S S west of Indian Canyon
Araentian Mesuue
Rhus lcnycea- ' Dr.; Double row formal
African Sumac S P P P P planting in core of city;
Tipuana 0;i- S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S If median provided, plant
Ti u
single row in median
Washington filifera- S S P* S** S S S S S S S S P P S S S
California Fan Palm
Washington rohusta- S P P S S P S P
Mexican Fan Palm
' • ! r
It
44
4
x,
Acacia Minuta Bottle Tree Mondell Pine African Sumac Guadalupe Palm Mexican Fan Palm California Fan Palm Blue Palo Verde
{or��-5eve�
II i I it it � I
PRIMARY FORMAL STREET- TREES
AVENIDA CABALLEROS _
^ ! `1 AFRICAN SUMAC
ACACIA MINUTA
} CALIFORNIA FAN PALM
MEXICAN FAN PALM
l 111 MIX OF FORMAL STREET TREES fanbscapin9 plan
AVENIDA ALVARADO1 —.
CZD MIX OF SECONDARY/INFORMAL TREES
r�
LANDSCAPING FOCAL POINT
Y
? ' NOTE: SEE TREE PLANTING PLAN (PAGE FORTY-SEVEN) FOR
SECONDARY TREE SELECTION AND LOCATION
CALLE EL SEGUNDOJ
a
w -
� � a r LLJ
E 1 CALLE ENCILIA
-
I
INDIAN CANYON DR
�=� -_sue—� \�rz���� e�
PALM CANYON DR. _, �} l
5 1
r�_i FcZ'Z�-
BELARDO RD. J
�CZ fix} �(
CAHUILLA P.D.
4
�..�� Q
MUSEUM DR. I� DO
i
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I� fife-ore
signage, [i�hting� r 1
& street furniture -
Signs,lighting,and street furniture
are all important elements of the
streetscape. They affect the overall �, J
ambiance of the area and can add '
to the comfort and safety of the
downtown area. They should be
appropriately sized to the scale of the
area. Pedestrian-oriented areas (Palm
Canyon Drive,Indian Canyon Drive,
and other streets with pedestrian-
oriented uses) should have shorter trees, G'
lower fights,and smaller signs than c
car-oriented areas. Many areas that '
involve both vehicular and pedestrian
traffic will have two different scales �-
and these streetscape elements should
accommodate both through the
concurrent use of multiple types and
sizes of signage,lighting,and trees. ._
These streetscape elements should also
add to the vitality and excitement of
the downtown area. Signs,lighting, =, _
and street furniture should create a
sense of continuity and unity within the
downtown area. Within the constraints
necessary to retain an overall downtown •' _, { 1
r
identity,these elements can be
specialized to differentiate specific parts
of downtown. Specialized event signs,
banners and flags should be used to
create a sense of excitement and activity Top: Good signage is ta.nefiI,,interesting,aad eag to read
in downtown. Permanent signs,lighting Middle:This awning sign attracts attention in a tartefid manner. The doo nward faring lighhog
fixtures,and street furniture should helps to prevent glare at night. '
be consistent with and strengthen the Bottom-Degatevars to rfowntmvn and the separate villages/distnas shoald each have their
own specialized signage,such as that of the Uptown Heritage Galleries&Antique Disaid.
overall character of the downtown area.
All damntonu:signage should have consistent unifying elements with areas that can 6e fia7her
specialized for specific sites,lacatzon, or districts.
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SMfTH/DR. PEPPERS OFFICE
Mat small sol"Ith FC!':t'C
-� signage, �i�hting,
& street furniture
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• Signs should be visually interesting
and informative. They should be
distinctive and eye-catching yet simple,
avoiding cluttered designs and excess
advertising. ^�
• Signs should complement the
architecture of the building and also
provide a unifying element along the Aill
e.
streetscap �et�le� k
tee/ Maur rlc% (ourunonly
• The size, scale,and style of signs
should be determined by the scale of
the buildings of which they are a part
and the scale and speed of the intended
viewer(pedestrian vs.vehicle).
• os Fa�Along traditional mult-story
�ylery.. •�'
commercial streets, the best placement
for signs is along the lintel or sign
frieze (generally defined as the area - ,'• ��
between the ground floor storefront or €wio ^r••
•,•;,,.
windows and the upper story windows 55��
or cornice).
7 af:Hzrtoric sgnage aroand the City arad tho downtown rt •• ` �f1 ' � � �,r •y ••
"il.. I+IM• •w p sea informu vi.ritarr of bzrtorzcal_ rZg,,aftantpdaces. - • `` "•fi+ i"'
YBottom:Tito sided>uonarrneat.rign,sad as the sign to
Me right,add visual interest to the streetscape and provzrle
vahrable itforwalionfor visitors. .,: 4,,,,,,,,;r;.;_-..._ �_"'-••.'�"'"'T L= ..-. •„
NtN-bee
�wv�.
• If possible,signs along a blockface should be located at
approximately the same height to create a unifying horizontal >' Ir
.V..)
pattern.
V.,
• Desirable sign types along pedestrian streets include
� � •ter.,
indirectly lit signs,raised letter signs,monument signs,wall
signs, awnings,and double faced projecting signs. '
• Double-faced projecting signs are desirable along
commercial streets provided that they are of an appropriate
size,scale, and location. ,
• Specialized City event signs,banners,and flags should
be used to create a sense of excitement and activity in '
downtown. They can also be used to define specific
downtown districts. — 4 -
• Window signs,where lettering is affixed directly on the ,
glass,can be attractive and eye-catching provided that the
style is in keeping with the scale and style of the building. ,
• Undesirable signs are internally illuminated,plastic, flashing
signs,billboards,generic trademark signs,and any sign ,
temporarily affixed to ground floor windows. Roof signs are '
discouraged,although exceptions for historically appropriate ,
designs can be made.
• Generally, signs should be externally lit with downward
facing lights to avoid nighttime glare.
• Signs should be located so that they do not interfere with
pedestrian movement or block the sight lines along the road. 1' 1
_ _ . _ _ ,. ' - --#•• - Top: f3wrrings protect from the hot snnuner
"•"P""'"""'�`""'*'"""'"^""• SIXand the rare rain shoe cr as me!!err.rerue ar
.a --• yam' Middle: '1'astefid signage can come in Mary
color.,shape,aarlformr. '
Bottom. N1onuMent style sigrgge placer!along
floe street caa dearly and taslefrdly identify
hnilr4'ngs localed off ibe street.
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fife-fa��T
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°�� „' • Top:Lighting elements in Section 14 combine attractive
lighting fixtares and.rignage to designate the area f can the
_ - j rest of Palm Springs.
ii Top Right.Street ftn'nitare can be.rpedah.Zed to designate
a✓•� u• .Y.•... i .rieaftr destinations or larger drstrictr.
Bottom:Th?ned srgaage or banners sboald be used to
strengthen the iclentiiy of nen and e^arting districts.
• Lighting and street furniture should
contain consistent, unifying elements
throughout the entire downtown area.
In specific districts or areas,lighting and
street furniture can be specialized to
1 create a sense of identity as long as they
contain the unifying elements.
• Lighting should be designed to
accommodate the scale of the user.
Thus, there should be taller lighting
fixtures for vehicular traffic and
shorter lighting fixtures for pedestrian
movement. For streets with both types
of movement,multiple types of lighting
should be used concurrently.
• Street furniture should be attractive a
and comfortable.
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Downtowns should be concentrated, compact and
walkable.
t'i > There should be a perception of safety.
r > There should be adequate parking without the creation of
"voids" in the street frontage.
> Street level activity should keep people out of their cars.
> There should be an attractive, well landscaped
environment and a positive identity.
t > Landscaping, sidewalks and buildings should be well
maintained.
> There should be a variety of unique retail tenants (not
found in malls).
> Cultural and recreational amenities are important;
museums and libraries can be viewed as anchors.
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> Nearby residential neighborhoods should have character.
> Institutional uses such as city halls, courts and jails should
not be located in the core areas of downtown.
Gathering places for people to socialize are important.
> Avoid super blocks and keep the downtown pedestrian-
friendly.
> There should be diversity and intensitrth�e mix of uses
should include offices, residential and entertainment, as
1 well as retailand restaurants.
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�d(PHLEAN ER
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4 1 . If we build it they will come.
2. If we demolish it they will come.
^ rid 3. If we complete it the will
p y come.
/ = 4. If we can't get a major department store to corne
back to downtown, downtown will never be healthy
again.
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5. We can't get a department store to locate downtown,
so downtown can no longer support retail trade.
6. Competition is bad for business.
7. To be successful, downtown's retail business must
keep uniform hours.
1 8. We have to be as lenient as possible with developers
' or they won't do business in our community.
9. We have to be as'tough as possible with,developers
or they'll take advantage of us.
10.If we had more parking they would come.
source: D1'estern Cii-vivagazine
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' 1 . Define and aggressively pursue a shared community
'r vision of downtown.
r dopo ', s;a
' 2. Form partnerships between the business sector, the
public sector, civic organizations and community
residents—none of these can or should go it alone.
3. Create and use a business plan and engage the
community leadership to implement it.
4. Be market-driven—the "field of dreams" approach
won't work.
5. Dare to be different—you can't outmall the mall, and
you can't out discount the discounters—find a niche.
6. Concentrate limited resources in well-defined focus
areas.
7. Know the indispensable 6 M's:
•Manage like a business
.Marketing,
.Maintenance
.Market knowledge--create a niche
.Money
.Mix uses
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> National retail chains achieve $250 to $300 of sales per square foot.
>40%of all retail sales come from discount stores.
>60%of all sales occur after 3:30 p.m.
►Online sales amount to only 2%of all sales today; it is projected to go up to 5% in
the future. This is not a significant percentage.
- >Stores have to be where people are.
>The U.S.A. has 20 square feet of retail commercial for each person.
ti, >Europe has 2 square feet of retail per person.
i ►The most successful stores operate during hours before 8:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m.
^ � >80%of strip malls are clying.
>Mixed use projects in town centers are proving to be up-scale.
>An ideal balance of retail downtown seems to be one-third national chains, one-third
raw, regional and one-third local.
1 - _ ►"In town" home sales will be high during the next six years because of the baby
� t boomers becoming empty nesters.
>There are 700 failed strip centers in the USA today,that number will double in the
next five years.
Downtown without an anchor is high risk.
>Anchor can be a post office or library or other similar use.
1 >When attempting to revitalize a town center, know the trade area and income
patterns.'
►Town centers should be located in areas of high income (an average of at least
1 $80,000 per year).
>Town centers thrive in high growth areas.
>Main Street should be no longer than 1,000 to 1,200 feet.
>Anchors should be in the middle of the block.
►Main Street should have at least 20,000 cars travel it per day.
>Town centers must have favorable weather. -
" ►The town center must be indigenous to the area.
>The most common problem in the design of down towns is trying to put too much
retail commercial in the center.
►There must be a partnership between the developer and the'City.
>Specialty food stores seem to be very important.
►Town centers range in size between 25 and 65 acres.
> Design urban streets at 62 feet from building face to building face.
►Width of sidewalks should range from 12 to 18 feet or wider.
►The most important part of any public space is the sidewalk.
>Public space is used to create a Focal point and sense of place.
> Design to create great corners.
>The setting of the town center provides a premium of between 10%to 30%.
> Design elements sliould include intimacy, pedestrian orientation, relationship of-uses
ancl;secure parking. Don't let any one use dominate the other.
>Residential densities in mixed use town center areas range 25 to 60 units per acre.
> It will be difficult to clefine costs because of mixed uses, civic uses, parking and-
ownership. This makes financing difficult but not impossible.
f >Successful developers work with the community from the get go.
►Successful cities help with parking, land assembly, and landscaped open space.
" >Successful developers know their market and share information with the City.
from msem'ch conducted by The Planning Center
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