Flexible Planning Is Goal

The Planning Commission has approved a new system of zoning classification which members hope will p'ermit the emergence of new and varied urban designs. Called the Planned Unit Development (PUD) classification system, it allows developers to submit plans which are unrestrictive in terms of use, height area and placement regulations. The conventional zoning classification standardized the development process by applying uniform regulations to the design and improvement of land and buildings. However, PUD classifications will only be assigned after commission and City Council approval of the entire development proposal. "The concept would promote a variety of living units suitable for all age groups and income levéis," according to a Planning Department statement. The major oojective of the PUD classifications are: to maximize choice in the types of environment available; encourage a creative approach to the use of land and related physical development; encourage the creation of a desirable visual character; encourage renewal in blighted or declining área; provide for the enhancement and preservation of property with unique features ; and to include non-residential development in primarily residential districts and vice-versa. PUD proposals must demónstrate compatibility with the city's general development plan and provide uses which will not be detrimental to present and potential surrounding uses. Occupancy standards will also have to be compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Open s p a c e requirements will remain the same, and offI street parking, landscaping, utility service and preservation of natural, historical and architectural features of the parcel will be required. The Planning Department cautions t h a t "in using the PUD approach to produce a variation in urban form or to utilize new techniques and ini novations, it is of major importance that the effect of developments and their compatibility to the surrounding areá be evaluated. A large rental project in a predominantly single family área, although well designed, could still be an compatible use w i t h i n the neighborhood." The department also stated that the regulations would not be intended for use as a crutch to build up the development potential of problem pareéis of land left over due to subdividing or expressway construction. Administratively, the enactment of any PUD development I will be the same as the 1 ment of any conventional 1 ing elassification' and plan ap-J proval. Planning Department! review and recommendationfl of the development plan ar followed by Planning Commisi sion review and recommendaa tion to City Council.