Professional Documents
Culture Documents
WALK TO WORK
..;,
llHkl111ylli INlil
IlilI
g`ll iUll
Tp
V110
nr-All
May 5, 2009
owntown p an
Acknowledgements
The Regina Downtown Neighbourhood Plan was
shaped by the enthusiasm and dedication ofthe citizens
of Regina. This included the residents, students, business owners, land owners, developers, local media, City
Council members, the Project Team and the Steering
Not only was the diversity of the participation exceptional, but the commitment of these community
volunteers to come out again and again to comment
on the evolving Downtown Neighbourhood Plan was
essential to our understanding of your City, and your
hopes for its future. You helped create the Vision and
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A successful Downtown is fundamental to the vitality
of any city. Downtowns are by nature environments
of complexity - a thriving Downtown contains
cultural activities, incubates creativity, stimulates
economic development, improves tourism opportuni-
In September 2007, Office for Urbanism in association with UMA, Goldsmith Borgal & Company
Architects, and urbanMetrics, was retained by the
City of Regina to consult the public, conduct analysis,
research, and to create a Downtown plan. The objective was to replace the existing Downtown Plan (Part
G of the Regina Development Plan Bylaw No. 7877)
The Plan sets the stage for great urban living by outlining the parameters necessary to build on existing
assets to create a complete Downtown neighbourhood.
By enhancing the role of Downtown as the heart of
Regina, and by creating a clear sense of place through
ii
The Vision, Principles, and 8 Big Moves these outcomes of the public consultations set
the direction of the Plan's philosophy and rationale.
The Principles
3.
1.
4.
5.
6. A Hub
7.
8.
9.
Safe
Healthy
10. Accessible, Inclusive and Diverse
11. Adaptive Re -use
The 8 Big Moves
iii
Executive Summary
2.
3.
4.
The Built Form Framework -a general framework for shaping the built form, the shape of
buildings and other structures that interact with
the public realm but define the overall shape
of the Downtown. This includes a bonusing
framework that allows for flexibility in the development of the built form and public realm.
play.
5.
by providing more certainty with respect to the character and quality of new development projects, and
will increase the desirability of Regina as a place to
Implementation Strategy - This section outlines the sequencing of actions to be undertaken, according to four time categories, as many
actions are dependent on the successful implementation of more foundational actions. Actions are to be initiated immediately (within 1
year), in the near term (within 2 -5 years), in the
medium term (within 5 -10 years), or the long
term (within 10 years).
Downtown Neighbourhood Plan will be incorporated into the Regina Development Plan (Official
Community Plan). It will function as a guiding
framework for the newly created City Center Branch
iv
CONTENTS
Executive Summary ...11
5.0
1.0
Introduction
1.0
1.1
1.2
2.0
5.2
5.3
5.4
Introduction ...3
Purpose & Objectives ...6
Study Process ...7
6.0
Introduction ...188
Heritage Objectives ...188
Approach ...189
Supporting Policy ...189
Heritage Guidelines for the Heritage
Conservation District ... 191
6.6 Heritage Guidelines for Downtown ...192
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
2.0
2.1
3.0
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
4.0
17
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
7.0
Heritage Guidelines
6.1
Background
Background ...12
Study Area ...12
2.2 Planning and Policy Context
2.3 Conditions, Constraints &
Opportunities ...22
Introduction ...100
Urban Structure ...103
General Design Guidelines ...123
BuildingTypology Guidelines ...143
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
8.0
Implementation Strategy
8.0
8.1
8.2
8.3
I:
to
0101k4
AO.
or
kitipr
111111111111P
111141111110
141111111110,
7".
11141111111111,
111111111111111%
ii%%UIU
J
114111110
all
UN"NIUE
ix
AMU 1-ml
oeristio,
ti
A
1M
!
inAINEME
119
Ill.
lik117
iitIMMEMEN IN
=UM
fil
MO
mm
l
II
'''`.bw-_=-
0 0 13
:1
or
.43
,i
%
L
'20,1 ti
'444
o
I iralal:
Introduction
1.0
Introduction
work hours. This, in turn, limits the viability of restaurants, galleries, services, cafs and niche retail.
Similarly, since public spaces are empty at night and
weekends, the streets do not feel safe. What is needed
is a direction for Downtown development that leads to
a critical mass of activity, increasing the viability of an
active and safe Downtown at all times.
And more than ever, citizens are aware of best practices elsewhere.
Walk to Work
Imagine Downtown Regina 20 years from now.
On a white winter morning, students, businessmen and businesswomen, shop owners, children
and seniors, emerge from their Downtown homes.
become more and more viable for "car share" enterprises (such as AutoShare and Zip) to operate. This
in turn will give more people the option to forgo car
ownership, or to own one less car. Accommodating
population growth through Downtown infill will also
make it possible for the City of Regina to choose to
reduce sprawl.
Introduction
Making Downtown a great place to live requires investment: great tree -lined streets, an efficient transit
system, a variety of interesting parks, new cultural
destinations, neighbourhood shopping and amenities
to support new residential developments. It is a circle of
public and private sector investment that builds overall
employment.
Many actions are interdependent and should be implemented together, while others are part of a sequenced
1.1
Introduction
1.2
Study Process
representatives from: heritage, arts and culture, adjacent neighbourhood representatives, resident's groups,
developers, land owners, various City departments,
special interest groups, transportation experts, and
members from the business community.
In December of 2007, "Forum 1: Downtown Planning
Symposium" was held at the Royal Canadian Legion
and was attended by over 200 people. The three -day
event included a walking tour and a "fresh eyes" analysis presentation on the first day, Visioning Workshops
on the second and third day, and a final Open House
on the evening of the third day. The key concepts
related to the Vision and Principles for the Downtown
Plan (see Chapter 3.0), as well as the 8 "Big Moves",
all emerged during this first Forum.
1 AT THE R
i
Phase 2 concluded with the January 2008 announcement of a $1 million initial implementation
project intended to visually signal change Downtown,
specifically for the public realm, in the 2008 operating
year. Branded the "WOW" project, it proposed redefining the function and edge of Victoria Park along
12th Avenue to recapture the historic idea of Victoria
Park Square. Forum 1 identified Victoria Park as
the heart of Downtown Regina, and as a key public
space where memorable civic events occur year- round.
Accordingly, the WOW project involves transforming
the portion of 12th Avenue along Victoria Park into
Introduction
introduction of the draft Downtown Plan, which included a concept drawing and key design moves. The
public was given a variety of opportunities to question
111111111
10
3 DISCUSSI
FT ACTIONS
CITY
OF
REGINA
WALK TO WORK
,
..
1141klllllililllilil
IIJIIi
111,I
Illlil
,em
owntown p an
Acknowledgements
The Regina Downtown Neighbourhood Plan was
shaped by the enthusiasm and dedication ofthe citizens
of Regina. This included the residents, students, business owners, land owners, developers, local media, City
Council members, the Project Team and the Steering
Not only was the diversity of the participation exceptional, but the commitment of these community
volunteers to come out again and again to comment
on the evolving Downtown Neighbourhood Plan was
essential to our understanding of your city, and your
hopes for its future. You helped create the Vision and
eofficeforurbanism
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A successful Downtown is fundamental to the vitality
of any city. Downtowns are by nature environments of
complexity - a thriving Downtown contains cultural
activities, incubates creativity, stimulates economic
development, improves tourism opportunities, concentrates commercial activity and provides housing
and mobility options for all. Not only is a successful
Downtown central to the identity of a city, the availability of unique Downtown amenities determines the
extent to which all residents feel welcome and at home
in their Downtown.
In September 2007, Office for Urbanism in association with UMA, Goldsmith Borgal & Company
Architects, and urbanMetrics, was retained by the
Itofficeforurbanism
The Plan sets the stage for great urban living by outlining the parameters necessary to build on existing
assets to create a complete Downtown neighbourhood.
By enhancing the role of Downtown as the heart of
Regina, and by creating a clear sense of place through
Gorgeous
4. Connected
5. Dynamic
6. A Hub
and families - the Plan aims to create an urban population that has the option of walking to work. Residential
development will, in the fullness of time, provide the
3.
7.
8.
9.
Safe
Healthy
10. Accessible, Inclusive and Diverse
11. Adaptive Re -use
12. The Best Place to Invest
The 8 Big Moves
iii
Executive Summary
2.
3.
4.
The Built Form Framework -a general framework for shaping the built form, the shape of
buildings and other structures that interact with
the public realm but define the overall shape
of the Downtown. This includes a bonusing
framework that allows for flexibility in the development of the built form and public realm.
5.
Implementation Strategy - This section outlines the sequencing of actions to be undertaken, according to four time categories, as many
actions are dependent on the successful implementation of more foundational actions. Actions are to be initiated immediately (within 2
years), in the near term (within 2 -5 years), in
the medium term (within 5 -10 years), or the
long term (within 10 years).
Itofficeforurbanism
Downtown Neighbourhood Plan will be incorporated into the Regina Development Plan (Official
Community Plan). It will function as a guiding
framework for the newly created City Center Branch
F_.
-[
CONTENTS
Executive Summary ...ii
5.0
1.0
Introduction
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.0
2.2
2.3
2.4
6.0
Background ...14
Study Area ...14
Planning and Policy Context
Conditions, Constraints &
Opportunities ...24
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
Heritage Guidelines
Introduction ...190
Heritage Objectives ...190
Approach ...191
Supporting Policy ...191
Heritage Guidelines for the Heritage
Conservation District ...193
6.6 Heritage Guidelines for Downtown ...194
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
19
7.0
Introduction ...102
Urban Structure ...105
Bonusing Framework ...121
General Design Standards ...125
BuildingTypology Standards ...145
6.1
4.0
Introduction ...3
Beyond Costing the Plan ...6
Purpose & Objectives ...8
Study Process ...9
Background
2.1
3.0
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
8.0
Implementation Strategy
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
_Ab
.44r1110
I"
jiiL qtrattri
ittuatit
111111111111UNEMBIL
:1U1UUUUUUUUi UI
iuiuui. II
-9 ORR!. iltinia
UAMM
K AMR 15
4111*!' ma mm
'ulti
=I
iminnhi,
-11
. IIII s
..mmossow lin
ommalui
oal' ea
.61.1e{
Introduction
1.1
Introduction
And more than ever, citizens are aware of best practices elsewhere.
Some of the Downtown development that has occurred since the early 1990s includes the Hill Centre
Tower 2, FCC Tower and Canada Life Place. These
constitute nearly 10% of the downtown office stock.
As well, in the last few years several buildings have
been adapted for reuse such as the residential conversion of the TD Building and Renaissance Plaza, and
the Leader Building. Office conversions have also
taken place, including the transformation of former
retail spaces such as the Army & Navy and the Bay
Building to office uses.
work hours. This, in turn, limits the viability of restaurants, galleries, services, cafs and niche retail.
Similarly, since public spaces are empty at night and
weekends, the streets do not feel safe. What is needed
is a direction for Downtown development that leads to
a critical mass of activity, increasing the viability of an
active and safe Downtown at all times.
Walk to Work
Imagine Downtown Regina 20 years from now.
On a white winter morning, students, businessmen and businesswomen, shop owners, children
and seniors, emerge from their Downtown homes.
Section 1 .1 : Introduction
officeforurbanism
Introduction
become more and more viable for "car share" enterprises (such as AutoShare and Zip) to operate. This
in turn will give more people the option to forgo car
ownership, or to own one less car. Accommodating
population growth through Downtown infill will also
make it possible for the City of Regina to choose to
reduce sprawl.
Making Downtown a great place to live requires investment: great tree -lined streets, an efficient transit
system, a variety of interesting parks, new cultural
destinations, neighbourhood shopping and amenities
to support new residential developments. It is a circle of
public and private sector investment that builds overall
invest.
Section 1 .1 : Introduction
officeforurbanism
1.2
1.2.1 As a Vision
Section 1 .2: Beyond Costing the Plan: Understanding the Plan as an Economic Development Tool
officeforurbanism
1.3
Introduction
Study Process
1.4
officeforurbanism
representatives from: heritage, arts and culture, adjacent neighbourhood representatives, resident's groups,
developers, land owners, various City departments,
special interest groups, transportation experts, and
members from the business community.
In December of 2007, "Forum 1: Downtown Planning
Symposium" was held at the Royal Canadian Legion
and was attended by over 200 people. The three -day
event included a walking tour and a "fresh eyes" analysis presentation on the first day, Visioning Workshops
on the second and third day, and a final Open House
on the evening of the third day. The key concepts
related to the Vision and Principles for the Downtown
Plan (see Chapter 3.0), as well as the 8 "Big Moves",
all emerged during this first Forum.
Phase 2 concluded with the January 2008 announcement of a $1 million initial implementation
project intended to visually signal change Downtown,
specifically for the public realm, in the 2008 operating
year. Branded the "WOW" project, it proposed redefining the function and edge of Victoria Park along
12th Avenue to recapture the historic idea of Victoria
Park Square. Forum 1 identified Victoria Park as
the heart of Downtown Regina, and as a key public
space where memorable civic events occur year- round.
Accordingly, the WOW project involves transforming
the portion of 12th Avenue along Victoria Park into
10
1 AT THE R
e.
Introduction
with 7 different stakeholder groups: developers, business associations, community groups, environment,
introduction of the draft Downtown Plan, which included a concept drawing and key design moves. The
public was given a variety of opportunities to question
A key outcome of Forum 2 was a list of risks, mitigating actions and critical success factors for successfully
implementing the Plan. A refined list of draft Actions,
and champions for each, was also generated. A second
officeforurbanism
11
12
2.0
Background
Or
ooo
A CITY
IS SHAPED NOT
WALTER H.A. HILL
1878 -1972
AND VISION OF
ITS PEOPLE.
DER J. MCPHA]L
883.1931-
PETER LAMONT
rrr -1941
2.1
Background
2.2
Study Area
14
Background
officeforurbanism
15
West Zone
North Zone
Early impressions of Regina were that it was a 'scattered town' or `splayed -out town', with destinations
and important buildings separated well beyond easy
walking distance from each other. Competing interests with regard to the location of the Township and
the location of its services meant that the rail station
and associated `tent' business communities - the North
Central Zone
Regina was rooted in societies, sports clubs, and political bodies that formed and conducted the rhythm
of daily life. Regina continued to diversify when
eastern European immigrants created sub -cultures
and communities, such as Germantown (in the Core
neighbourhood), resulting in language schools, religious locales, and business ventures that enriched the
quality of life for new -comers.
16
Background
In 1913, Thomas Mawson offered to draft a comprehensive plan for the City, which was "virtually"
completed in the following year. However, the plan
was not formally accepted by the City until 1923. The
City created a town planning board in 1924, comprised of senior municipal officials and members of
the Regina Town Planning Association. The board
prepared a draft zoning bylaw (the City's first), which
was adopted by City Council in 1927.
officeforurbanism
'
1114.
....-7...
,.
1
Ii':'-:;.-'.i-.
3.v.
.-e
PIV41. ...
'
ri
treje&-t
4,q1laIN:4110 :
.7.-...
'- '
..'
4d r 11
V'
.....,.,
1
,L 6; :
.., : IL'-)
4 'T
-"4---H 7 '
(gs-lei!
,1
Street
Rose Street
I,
..HamiltonStrel-
,,..r-""- to .. - --,
th
117
rh
-r
4.1_
"-I
%-
A7VslStre'etz,
Al,
'
(1)
.,
.i ."
r4 ...
.1 kinir"I 13
I.
'
- .p,
%.:
!"E
.('';
..-
t!;,4
lo
L.,
...
.11
.,
-I-
0.....,
'CL-3'
% (D
1
'
'
L,
7A I.
ad
'%
0
\ it :
t:
too
."
.....1-1.,.\\
LO;;-"`
''
,
_..
133 A.
IfIn
\,\af41.
0
,, .'
14
S : .:1":.
r2 11:
.,?(ri
t
.-
t:Q.1" :',.:
I*
"
..<;.1
1 '7--71i3L.7!
.... --
"I
.3 Z1 rj..
.,_
'
6110...
:-711 .
d'I
4, 1
InP
41.1
'
; : .;
i4.
'
' r.
'
.d' '
son .t..roat
)- - -
js-
-1
-.."--F
-_ -02
':-
`-
Al 1 I.*
,.. %
-.m11.0
'MI
4.
414601.. "L'4'in
.44
'ftlii
CL
o
C
o
o
o
o
o
rn
o
C
-n
Background
2.3
2.3.1
Plan
The principal policy objective of the OCP is to stimulate city development that will highlight Regina as the
Capital of Saskatchewan. The OCP strongly emphasizes
the importance of Downtown as the economic and cultural hub of Regina and emphasis is placed on achieving
Neighbourhood Plan is intended to replace the existing Part G, providing the policies and objectives that
will govern and guide future development and investment Downtown over the next 20 years.
Section 2.3: Planning and Policy Context 19
Itofficeforurbanism
FIGURE 4. Growth strategy by neighbourhoods as defined in the Regina Development Plan directs 75% of growth towards the
northwest, southwest, and southeast sectors, and 25% towards infill development throughout the municipality.
\fro
.
North
Sec
`21
24
t
1T------
LEGEND
OOMMER AL AREAS
RESDENTIAL
INDUSTRIAL
AIRPORT
URBAN HOLDINGS
-. -
4<INDUSTRIAL GROWTH :
20
East)
r
Alv MAJOR
ROADS
AN
PARK
Background
Plan.
Downtown.
Itofficeforurbanism
Use
support Saskatchewan -based non -profit arts organizations serving Regina to "establish themselves, enhance
22
The Festival Funding Program provides funds for cultural and /or artistic festivals /events that are open to
the general public and that promote an awareness and
appreciation for an arts or cultural theme. Applicants
must be a Saskatchewan -based non -profit organization and funding is based on organizational capacity.
Background
Itofficeforurbanism
2.4
2.4.1 Opportunities
Cultural activities - potential to develop cultural partnerships and programs given the interest of the arts
community in playing an active role in its future.
24
Background
character in Downtown.
infrastructure.
2.4.2 Constraints
Engrained social patterns - Downtown is no longer the
city.
officeforurbanism
25
Then...
.
.,...
- -,
JL r+l+-
ti.
r}`.
;
a
Y
r- LN't_.,`
'
,+
.k;''
.1 ^7.L
:_ .,`=
'
"
2......;-_r_.1/4.;-;, 't.
, ,,r-1r-_t
-!
,1 '
,.
.'
.ryC~
W -::"} '-._
7.4--=1
':
*`
f.::. ._I'._--
"
'.Sf,'!..-s_
: '-
-'rL :,y -
'
+'
`.
i'_
'
t,
,+
.'a '
..,"..Nil..
. 7*;"
1
, .'-',:-.s..-;,41:
;
.
-,*
"i
N' ;;IL
26
...and
now
Gaps in the urban fabric for parking lots. Abrupt transitions to surrounding neighbourhoods.
Tall buildings without continuous streetscapes. Significant amounts of heritage demolished.
Mature skyline with more landmark buildings. Some tall buildings not of landmark quality.
officeforurbanism
27
The Downtown
Neighbourhood Plan
.4
3.1
of life.
Itofficeforurbanism
3.2
The urban environment must comfortably accommodate people on the streets in all seasons. This can be
achieved though the effective and efficient maintenance of the streets such as removing snow from all
sidewalks and roads. It can also be addressed through
urban design measures that mitigate wind, snow and
cold, as well as through building designs and land use
planning decisions that explicitly seek to shelter people
from winter conditions.
32
For example, providing a continuous building frontage at the edge of a street, with awnings that shelter
a sidewalk, as well as multiple entrances, is a significantly different winter condition, with less negative
impacts, than walking through surface parking lots
(which provide no shelter and provide no opportunity
for reprieve). It is possible to plan to minimize these
negative experiences, thereby making the winter city
less harsh.
Providing spaces that can be used for winter celebration is essential to creating a culture that uses winter to
define its distinction. Flexible civic spaces that can be
programmed for festivals year -round exist elsewhere.
Great Canadian cities host outdoor winter festivals,
such as Winnipeg's Festival du Voyageur, Ottawa's
Winterlude, and the Quebec Winter Carnival. These
festivals are celebrations, important tourist attractions, and cultural rituals - and they usually take place
within the city's Downtown.
officeforurbanism
33
Identity can be heightened through a distinctive way finding and signage strategy that connects destinations
within Downtown and allows for convenient navigation between places.
Quality of life and community development is associated with, and directly affected by, pedestrian activity.
Pedestrian -oriented urban places are critical, as they
generate a lively streetscape and reason for people to interact with each other and contribute to the landscape
of civic life. Local businesses and restaurants located
34
customer for the success of their livelihood. By locating commercial amenities within walking distances, it
becomes possible to shape the built environment and
social infrastructure in a way that enhances pedestrian
movement, and ultimately reduces the dependence on
the automobile for short journeys.
..
.'i
n..
1R
z`
3.2.8
driving force for economic development in urban environments. Further, the clustering - in which people,
officeforurbanism
35
3.3
Vision Statement
3.3.1
This neighbourhood will include families, students, older and young adults, empty nesters and
professionals, and will be sustained by a strong
employment, retail, and commercial base.
i.
.._
'.
..
-6,Fw
,.
.c _
:Y`'r'(...1d'-.''{^ -
_ , ,.:
' __
; d..
*;;
r.
,.s
_.
...,,
F
--
-. o,`'
36
' . . ..
r.
" ^`1 ,U.. I ,o. :. ..
..
'.
_J.__ K.+fi-7rti. .,_ I...Y,-+}s!
+'.
~fY,'
r..iL
:7t7
; -.
3.3.2
Principles
Gorgeous
Downtown should be a source of civic pride, with a strong
identity.
officeforurbanism
37
,
-----....
4
5
9
h.r
I i'
Connected
Downtown should connect to surrounding
neighbourhoods and to the activities within.
Dynamic
Downtown should be animated and vibrant 24 / 7 / 12.
Built form should encourage small enterprises, different scaled spaces and a mix of uses.
A Hub
,Rr!
A'c
/
AR!
8
38
Safe
Downtown should be an environment where people feel
safe and welcome, providing "eyes on the street ", animation and clear pedestrian environments.
Healthy
Downtown should foster healthy lifestyles and sustainable
environments.
11
Adaptive Re -use
Downtown should build upon its unique
identity and heritage: buildings, streets, and
landscapes.
officeforurbanism
39
3.4
40
Walk to Work
A Downtown that is defined and framed by
residential neighbourhoods.
Regina is an exceptional place - exceptional because it bucked the trend,
embraced sustainability and became one of the first medium -sized cities
in Canada to provide a big -city opportunity - the opportunity to own one
less car, to use active transportation as a primary way of moving about.
Stop and say hello to your neighbours, grab a coffee, get some exercise
and know that you are doing something to address climate change - all
as you walk to work. Downtown Regina should accommodate 25% of
the city's annual residential growth, creating the critical mass of people
neccessary for a vibrant lifestyle.
officeforurbanism
Pedestrians First
All streets designed for walking.
Streets for walking are streets with wide sidewalks; with pedestrian
amenities such as lighting and benches; and, with great buildings
that interest pedestrians, make them feel safe, and offer them opportunities to take shelter from the cold and to interact with the city.
4A Green Zone
A well maintained urban forest that adds
seasonal ambience and urban wildlife
habitat.
Every street is a warm and inviting public space lined with lush trees
that bring warmth and life back into Downtown, in all seasons.
Aside from creating beautiful views, the trees offer shaded places to
rest or walk under, they recharge the air, and provide friendly urban
wildlife habitat. Green roofs and community gardens add a level of
sustainability to the urban landscape and buildings are retrofitted for
energy efficiency.
A Cycling Culture
Cultivate and support cycling as a viable
means to move about.
Every street has been designed with the cyclist in mind. Broad
cycling paths provide a key clue: this is a great city in which to cycle.
Employers encourage cyclists by providing the amenities they need
such as safe bike storage and showers, and reward them with incentives. The City hosts an Annual Bike to Work Week, closing some
roads for cyclists and holding celebrations in the park.
42
7Friendly Faades
Existing buildings, at grade level,
remediated to create a lively, animated
pedestrian realm.
Following the lead of the Atlantis Coffee site, existing buildings that
do not support the experience of the pedestrian will be transformed
to enhance it. The Cornwall Centre, on all sides, will be opened to
8Festival Places
Create places for gathering, to allow
arts and culture to flourish and to be
celebrated.
The transformed portion of 12th Avenue adjacent to Victoria Park
will act as the new festival and market street that includes the width
of the street and both sidewalks, from park edge to the building
faces, and will contribute to a renewed concept of the WOW Project.
Queen Elizabeth II Court will become a ceremonial space for formal
events and year -round civic celebrations, and together with the
WOW Project will clearly mark the festival centre and cultural heart
of Downtown.
officeforurbanism
44
3.5
2.
3.
4.
5.
11
6.
7.
8.
9.
officeforurbanism
45
4.0
Public Realm
Framework
47
REGINA
downtown plan
4.1
48
4.2
4.2.1 Safety
CPTED is a proactive crime prevention strategy utilized by planners, architects, police services, security
professionals and everyday users of space. It is a strategy used around the world and operates on common
sense. CPTED advocates the proper design and effective use of the built environment to lead to a reduction
in the incidence and fear of crime, and to the overall
improvement of quality of life.
Building upon CPTED, the following are key principles for all public realm design:
49
REGINA
downtown plan
4.2.2 Wayfinding
Wayfinding orients all users of Downtown to ensure
they are able to move with ease and confidence. All
elements of the public realm and built environment
have the potential to contribute to this orientation.
Wayfinding tools include signs, graphic communications, spatial markers, streetscape elements, building
design, the street network and space planning. All
elements should work together to ensure that routes
are easily understood and navigated, and destinations
are clear. The public realm framework is designed to
contribute to clear wayfinding, such as designing for
visual prominence, and providing unique streetscape
treatments. These approaches are useful for both
residents and visitors.
Of particular assistance to visitors are graphic communications, including street signs, directional signage
and maps. Downtown Regina should establish a
continuity of signs throughout, with all key cultural
destinations identified by signage and maps. This may
require the co-ordination or redesign of signage for
transit.
50
4.2.3 Accessibility
Downtown Regina should promote barrier-free accessibility for all users throughout, particularly to improve
opportunities for employment and education. This includes careful attention to navigation: smooth grading
of surfaces, clear routes, and obvious wayfinding cues.
51
REGINA
downtown plan
Saskatchewa
n Drive
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
Grand Avenue
52
4.3
Streetscape Typologies
53
REGINA
downtown plan
30.5 m
sidewalk
1.75m
2.4m 2.7m
parallel
parking
bike lane
travel
lane (bus)
travel
lane
Turn
lane
travel
lane
travel
lane (bus)
bike lane
sidewalk
2.7m 2.4m
parallel
parking
5.0m
new
building
setback /
build-to
1.75m
new
building
5.0m
new
building
setback /
build-to
ROW
new
building
existing
building
new
building
54
30.5 m
sidewalk
travel
lane
travel
lane
6.2m
median
travel
lane
travel
lane
sidewalk
new
building
setback /
buid-to
5.0m
5.0m
new
building
setback /
buid-to
ROW
new
building
Turn Lane
Where Required
existing
building
new
building
55
REGINA
downtown plan
20 m
ROW
4.05m
sidewalk
1.5m
bike lane
travel
lane
1.5m
3.25m 3.25m
travel
lane
2.4 m
bike lane
sidewalk
4.05m
parallel
parking
56
57
REGINA
downtown plan
(20 m)
ROW
sidewalk
bike lane
5.2m
parallel
parking
travel
lane
sidewalk
5.25m
58
building
setback varies
2.0m
sidewalk
3.2m
sod
2.4m
parallel
parking
1.5m
bike lane
3.25m
travel
lane
2.4m
parallel
parking
3.2m
sod
sidewalk
building
setback varies
2.05m
(20 m)
ROW
bike lane
travel/
bus
lane
1.5m
2.4m
5.15m
sidewalk
parallel
parking
3.25m
parallel
parking
3.65m
bike lane
1.5m
travel
lane
2.4 m
sidewalk
5.15m
25 m
ROW
59
REGINA
downtown plan
4.3.8 Crosswalks
Crosswalks serve two functions: the clear demarcation of a safe route for a pedestrian to cross; and as a
traffic calming measure. Frequent crosswalks will help
promote slower traffic speeds and cautious driving. All
intersections Downtown should have crosswalks, with
the following design objectives.
60
61
REGINA
downtown plan
Saskatchewan Drive
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
Transit Route
62
Transit Route
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
Heating;
Seating;
63
REGINA
downtown plan
Landmark terminus
Special
Features
Crosswalks
Transit shelters
Future Building
Heritage Building
Laneway
Heritage Building
Figure 13. A transit mall should be accommodated Downtown. The above conceptual demonstration shows how the public realm could be
configured to accommodate a transit mall.
64
BUS
LANE
1.4m 2.0m
Trash
Newspaper box
Bench
Ticket vending
Shelter
Bus
Potential indoor
transit waiting
area
Heritage
Building
Heritage Buildings
Laneway
Laneway
Heritage Building
65
4.05m
sidewalk
1.5m
travel
lane
bike lane
1.5m
3.25m 3.25m
travel
lane
2.4 m
bike lane
4.05m
sidewalk
downtown plan
parallel
parking
REGINA
20 m
bike lane
bike lane
bike lane
bike lane
bike box
bike lane
bike lane
Bike Lanes
Bike lanes are recommended for almost all Downtown
streets with the exception of roadways recommended
for transit lanes and Victoria Avenue, (because of its
intended ceremonial function). Bike lanes should be
highly visible including bright paint on the road surface
with clear lane markings, and overhead or street-side
signs. Lane widths should be generous, particularly
along the arterial roads, in order to create a sense of
security for cyclists. Bike boxes are recommended
at intersections (Figure 14). These are areas where
cyclists, at a red light, can advance ahead of stopped
vehicles while waiting for the light to turn green.
Cyclists are therefore more visible to vehicles and are
prioritized higher as a road user. In the fullness of
time, when streets are renewed, bike boxes should
become coloured asphalt.
Bike Parking
Additional bike parking facilities should be provided
throughout Downtown, in a variety of configurations.
New Development
Major new developments Downtown should provide
facilities for cyclists.
67
REGINA
downtown plan
68
Typical Interface
property
line
property
line
build-to
line
Figure 15. Typical interface along primary and secondary streets with continuous sidewalk to building edge at property line.
Figure 16. Typical interface along Avenues. Building is set back from edge of right of way creating a more spacious sidewalk and
public realm zone. In this example, the second row of street trees (in sod) is privately owned and maintained, but publicly accessible.
69
REGINA
downtown plan
property
line
Figure 17. Interface along Individual Residential Units. Individually accessed units face the street. Modest setback includes a small
grade change (steps up), portico treatment, and landscape treatment.
70
Institutional
property
line
Figure 18. Interface along Institutional buildings. This library sets back a part of the building mass to create a seating/amenity area
and a fore court entry.
71
REGINA
downtown plan
72
4.4
Open Spaces
These new open spaces should be implemented strategically. They may be constructed up front as catalysts
or incentives to development, or in conjunction with
major new redevelopment projects.
Public parks can be complemented by privately owned
but publicly accessible open spaces, such as building
courtyards or fore courts.
73
REGINA
downtown plan
Sask
rive
D
wan
atche
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Cornwall Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
11th Avenue
12th Avenue
Victoria Park
Queen
Elizabeth II
Court
Victoria Avenue
Potential
Pocket
Park
13th Avenue
Parks
Plazas
Civic Heart
Mid-block Connections
Avenue
Pocket Park
Desirability
Zone
74
Plazas
Civic Heart
This area has a concentration of civic uses and destinations. The public realm treatments of streetscapes and
open spaces in this area should be of high quality and
create a seamless pedestrian environment. Refer to
Map 1.
Mid-Block Connections
Opportunities to increase the pedestrian permeability
of the downtown should be provided wherever possible through mid-block connections. Areas of highest
density, public activity, and traditionally long block
sizes (approximately 150 feet) are the most appropriate
locations for mid-block connections. Two key midblock connections have been identified which enhance
the connectivity between uses in the Civic Heart,
connecting Victoria Park to City Hall. Mid-block
connections should be designed with the same built
form relationship as streets and public spaces, with
active at-grade uses and transparency, facing onto
them. The design should ensure sightlines are clear
with no hidden or dead areas, with landscaping that
permits clear views, including signage for wayfinding.
75
REGINA
downtown plan
Artists concept of 12th Avenue - traffic can move slowly through the WOW Project space, defined by a consistent plaza treatment
and enhanced streetscaping around its edges.
Artists concept of 12th Avenue - during special events, the square will close to traffic and intense events can be held in the hard
surface plaza areas.
76
77
REGINA
downtown plan
presents a unique opportunity to create a clear connection between this urban space and a key public
destination.
Currently, the uses that front Victoria Park on the north
side of 12th Avenue do not provide for street-oriented
activities, such as restaurants with patios and uses that
are highly accessed by the public. Implementation
should involve collaboration with land owners and the
Regina Downtown Business Improvement District
to encourage the clustering of the kinds of uses that
will best celebrate the park edge and add to the public
amenity of the WOW Project. Facade improvements
to buildings that face the square should be supported
through city policy and incentives.
Great edges will promote the everyday use and animation of the heart of the city. Sidewalk patios, benches,
public art, and other attractions should be located
around the edges. The Regina Public Library is recognized as a key urban amenity - its redevelopment
nu
ve
ia A
or
ct
Vi
Sm
ith
Str
eet
Lo
rne
Str
eet
nu
ve
hA
12
78
79
REGINA
downtown plan
80
What Programming?
Imagine...Concerts, holiday celebrations, ice-skating, winter ice sculptures, Christmas displays and events
(parades), neighbourhood festivals, childrens events: story time - park rangers - urban camping, arts outreach
through the Dunlop & MacKenzie Art galleries, native and ethnic seasonal celebrations, part of Agribition
and Farm Progress, buskers, vendors, tai chi, day care, live theatre and dancing, seniors outings, historical
tours and reenactments, media coverage of news events, community forestry, community gardens, central
library programs, running club, tournaments - chess - video games - table tennis, sidewalk sales, RCMP day,
outdoor movies, Roughriders events, and of course all the existing events.
F.W.Hill Mall
11th Ave.
WOW Project
12th Ave.
Library
Park
Queen
Elizabeth II
Court
Victoria Park
Figure 19. Spaces for programming within the Civic Heart. A variety of spaces, and combinations of spaces, around the Civic
Heart can accommodate a wide range of programming.
Section 4.4: Open Spaces
81
REGINA
downtown plan
82
seating.
Existing Condition
83
REGINA
downtown plan
LIBRARY PARK
In the warmer months, Library Park becomes a
welcoming reading nook where Library patrons
will be well-sheltered by the shade of the existing
trees and accompanied by permanent and
dynamic art pieces of the Dunlop Art Gallery.
84
Existing Condition
LIBRARY PARK
As a winter city, Reginans will enjoy the new
Library Park within the enclosed seating/reading
area that provides an open view to the outdoors,
a great opportunity to people watch and
contribute to life on the streets.
85
REGINA
downtown plan
86
87
REGINA
downtown plan
88
89
REGINA
downtown plan
Albert Street
Promenade continues
along North Railway
St. or beside the rail
right of way
Primary gateway
treatment to Downtown
includes wide crosswalks
and public art
CPR
track
ewan
atch
Sask
Drive
Figure 20. Conceptual conditions for an improved connection to the north overlain on top of existing street configuration.
90
4.5
Visual Prominence
Further guidelines for public realm responses to visually prominent locations are on the pages following.
Built form responses to visually prominent locations
are in Section 5.4.9.
91
REGINA
downtown plan
Saskatchewan Drive
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
Primary
Gateways
Public Realm
View Terminus
Secondary
Gateways
Built Form
View Terminus
Built Form/Public
Realm View
Terminus
Views
Landmark Frontages
92
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
4.5.1 Gateways
Clearly defining gateway areas helps to enhance orientation, lends to a sense of place and can generate
civic pride. These locations provide key opportunities
where coordinating the design of landscapes, signage,
public art and buildings can create a sense of entry and
orientation. The expression of a gateway can take on
many forms.
There are four primary gateways for Downtown,
located at the intersections of the Grand Avenues.
Their gateway character will result primarily from
coordinated streetscapes, public art, and built form.
These locations have good potential for new buildings
designed to create a gateway character. Principles for
gateway design of the public realm include:
The northern primary gateways can include an integrated treatment with the rail overpasses and Train
Station Park.
There are two secondary gateways to Downtown along
Victoria Avenue on either side of Victoria Park, at
Scarth and Lorne Streets. Buildings at these intersections are of landmark quality, though not in the same
style. These gateways should be enhanced through
a coordinated public realm. Treatments should have
similar design characteristics to primary gateways but
smaller in scale and extent.
Bonusing provisions allow for reductions in setback
requirements at primary gateways, in keeping with the
intent of the overall public realm vision (see Section
5.3 Bonusing Framework).
93
REGINA
downtown plan
94
95
REGINA
downtown plan
Sask
rive
D
wan
atche
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
Heritage Heart
Streetscape Area
Complementary Heritage
Streetscape Character
Heritage Heart
Streetscape Area
96
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
97
REGINA
downtown plan
Examples of unique paving treatments and inserts (top) and vertical elements (bottom) that can enhance the sense of place and
interpretive experience of heritage resources. Special streetscape elements can be used throughout the heritage heart and/or at
gateways, corners, or other key locations.
98
99
5.0
Built Form
Framework
REGINA
downtown plan
5.1
Introduction
Built form is the shape of buildings, not only individually, but as a collective. How buildings relate in terms
of height, scale and character determines the extent to
which they will define the public realm the outdoor
rooms that are the streets and gathering places of the
city. Buildings, through their individual beauty and
idiosyncrasies, collectively define a sense of place.
The Built Form Framework is intended to shape individual buildings, one by one, to create the collective
whole for Downtown Regina. It works together with
the Vision and Public Realm Framework to create a
cohesive environment for Downtown. It is primarily
concerned with creating a comfortable, safe and interesting pedestrian environment as perceived from
sidewalks and public spaces, by focussing on creating a
fine-grained, human-scaled building fabric.
The Built Form Framework responds to, and enhances,
the unique circumstances of Downtown Regina including the grid pattern of streets and blocks, Victoria
Park and its Heritage Conservation District, numerous
other historic buildings, and the role of Downtown in
Regina and of Regina in Saskatchewan.
102
5.1.1 Purpose
Downtown Regina is a complex environment with a
significant obligation to create a lasting legacy of the
highest quality for its citizens. It is also the most organic
place in Regina, continually changing, renewing and
evolving. The Built Form Framework also includes
design standards that shape the qualitative aspects of
the built environment. Most importantly, it defines
a cohesive structure and pattern for Downtown as a
whole and places it in context with its surroundings.
The framework provides policies related to the scale,
character and design of new public and private developments. While it is primarily concerned with
buildings, it also influences how access, parking, and
privately owned outdoor spaces should be configured.
Goals of the framework include the following.
5.1.2 Components
The Built Form Framework is composed of the following sections.
Urban Structure: informing the shape of Downtown
as a whole, including its overall height and density,
street wall heights, setbacks/build-to lines, and
distinct functional and character areas. The urban
structure builds on existing and historic development
characteristics, and considers linkages and interfaces
with the surrounding context.
General Design Standards: informing the look and
feel of buildings in general with a focus on creating a
continuously connected network of pedestrian friendly
streetscapes. This section includes standards for building placement, orientation, faade design, and special
conditions Downtown.
Building Typology Standards: informing the general
shape, mass, and articulation of a variety of building
types, including low, mid and high-rise residential
and office buildings, civic buildings, and parking
structures. Different building types are appropriately
located in different areas of Downtown, as set out in
the urban structure.
Each component of the framework must be considered
in concert with the others, as well as the Downtown
Neighbourhood Plan Vision and Public Realm
Framework.
103
REGINA
downtown plan
Precinct
Boundaries
Grand
Avenues
104
Core/Cathedral
Neighbourhood Edge
Centre Square
Neighbourhood
Urban Core
5.2
Urban Structure
Cathedral Interface
This precinct may benefit from proximity to a neighbourhood that has become more desirable. A key goal
is the continuity of residential from this neighbourhood into Downtown. Public realm investments in
this precinct, particularly along Albert Street to help
create the Grand Avenue, may assist this transformation. Building typologies should include multiplex
house forms, low-rise, as well as mid-rise types.
105
REGINA
downtown plan
Core Interface
Like the Cathedral interface, a key goal is the continuity of residential into Downtown from the Core
Neighbourhood. However, this area will be more
flexible in character, including a mix of institutional,
employment and other uses. This reflects the mixed
character of the Core Neighbourhood itself, as well
as better linkages in general with eastern Regina due
to continuous street connections. It also reflects Broad
Streets role as the spine of the knowledge corridor.
Broad Street also has an existing height peak at Victoria
Avenue. In this respect, this precinct is an ideal location for facilities such as a Downtown campus of the
University of Regina or student housing. Building
types will be mixed, from high (at Victoria Avenue),
to mid- and low-rise, further north and south.
106
Central Downtown
Urban Core
All of the blocks contained by the Grand Avenues
are the urban core. Buildings in this area will generally be located at the street edge and occupy 100% of
their frontages. New buildings will tend to be built
with side parti walls, particularly at the podium level,
in expectation of future change or infill. Buildings
within the urban core should be permitted the greatest
latitude with respect to individual design expression,
while creating a pedestrian scale, legible environment
consistent with this framework.
107
REGINA
downtown plan
Sask
rive
D
wan
atche
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
Required at-grade
retail frontage
Convertible retail
frontage
108
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
The extent of required at-grade retail frontages is deliberately conservative in extent, in order to create a
critical mass of successful retailing, without spreading
it too thin: the objective is to create a core of continuous retail, both to support retail success and to support
pedestrian activity. In the future, as the street retail
scene flourishes, this area may be expanded.
109
REGINA
downtown plan
rive
Sask
D
wan
atche
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
Build-to
Property Line
2-4m
Build-to Range
110
2-6m Residential
Build-to Range
5m Build-to
Primary Gateways
eligible for setback
reduction on one side
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
5m Build-to
This condition exists along the Grand Avenues. New
buildings must be built to a line 5 metres set back
from the current 30.5m (+/-) right of way. The 5 metre
wide privately-owned area between the buildings and
right-of-way must have an easement or other mechanism allowing public access. This is to facilitate a wide
public realm extending from the building face to curb
edge. In retail or convertible retail conditions, this
area should have a continuous sidewalk treatment.
In non-retail conditions, this area is appropriate for a
fore court treatment. In the case of the Regina Public
Library site (south-west corner of Lorne Street and
12th Avenue), the 5m build-to is desired, but will be
assessed in the context of its redevelopment.
In areas identified as Primary Gateways (see Map 5),
an exception to the 5m build-to requirement may be
considered on one or both of the Avenue frontages, as
reviewed on a case-by-case basis, in exchange for public
benefits and negotiated through the established bonusing
framework. In the case of exceptions granted on both
the Avenues, the 5m set-back will be split between the
two frontages in any combination that equals 5m.
111
REGINA
downtown plan
Sask
rive
D
wan
atche
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
7.5m
(2 residential storeys
2 commercial storeys)
10.25m-13.25m
112
13.25m
(4 residential storeys
3 commercial storeys)
19.25m
(6 residential storeys
4-5 commercial storeys)
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
113
REGINA
downtown plan
Sask
rive
D
wan
atche
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
Victoria Avenue
13th Avenue
No Visible Parking
No Visible Parking
114
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
5.2.7 Parking
Parking Standards
Active Uses
Active Uses
Active Uses
Sidewalk
Streets with no visible parking: above grade structured parking
is completely screened by active uses
Active Uses
Sidewalk
Streets with parking standards: refer to building typology
standards for above grade structured parking facilities.
Section 5.2: Urban Structure
115
REGINA
13.25m
downtown plan
30m
Sask
rive
D
wan
atche
55m
30m
Osler Street
13.25m
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Cornwall Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
11th Avenue
12th Avenue
30m
40m
55m
30m
0m
40m
0m
20m
55m
13.25m
Victoria Avenue
30m
40m
13.25m
13.25m
Angus Street
40m
30m
13th Avenue
13.25m
4 residential storeys
3 commercial storeys
20m
6 residential storeys
5 commercial storeys
116
30m
10 residential storeys
7 commercial storeys
30m
40m
13 residential storeys
10 commercial storeys
40m
55m
55m
18 residential storeys
14 commercial storeys
Area eligible
for height
bonus
117
REGINA
downtown plan
2.5
rive
Sask
D
wan
atche
5.5
2.5
Cornwall Street
11th Avenue
4.0
2.5
5.5
Victoria Avenue
4.0 residential
2.0 commercial
2.5
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
12th Avenue
5.5
2.5
13th Avenue
2.5
118
4.0
4.0 residential
2.0 commercial
5.5
5.2.10
Density
119
REGINA
downtown plan
120
5.3
Bonusing Framework
5.3.1 Introduction
The Built Form Framework assumes maximum asof-right heights and densities for development in
Downtown, and identifies areas where additional
development rights may be achieved as a bonus in exchange for public benefit, as per Map 12 and Map 13.
The Downtown Bonusing Framework is a system
designed to achieve specific public benefits above and
beyond those required in the RDNP, in exchange for
increased development rights. It should replace those
parts of Chapter 17 of the Zoning Bylaw that apply
to Downtown, and will require amendments to the
Zoning Bylaw.
As it is implemented, the Bonusing Framework will
contribute to an increasing residential population
Downtown, while also encouraging new development
to contribute to the desired character, livability, and
sustainability of the Downtown neighbourhood.
It must be noted that the value of public benefits
achieved through bonusing will vary with the peaks
and troughs of real estate development activity. Thus,
it is important to bear in mind that while bonusing
can be a valuable tool to encourage the contribution of
amenities Downtown, bonusing is not a substitute for
stable, predictable, and ongoing sources of funding to
support Downtown services, development, amenities,
and improvements to the public realm.
121
REGINA
downtown plan
5.3.4.1 A contribution gradient for community amenities will apply to all office developments Downtown.
All office developments Downtown will be required to
pay four ($4) dollars per square foot of office space above
podium height, which will be earmarked for downtown
improvements and implemented by City Staff.
Above podium
$4 per square foot
122
Below podium
$0 per square foot
123
REGINA
downtown plan
Public Realm
Public Art
Park/Parkette
Street furniture
Street trees
Sustainable landscaping measures (i.e.
permeable surfaces, native species plantings)
Use
Public Gallery
Space for Non-Profit services
Public Meeting Room
Child Care Centre
Public Patio
Built Form
Heritage preservation
Green Roof
Rain Garden (landscaped rainwater
catchment area)
Affordable Housing
Faade improvements (on or off-site)
Atrium on corner site (i.e for waiting)
Energy efficiency or innovation measures (i.e.
solar energy, geothermal)
LEED certification, non Class A office space
Construction
Waste minimization program for
construction (i.e. waste recycling, material
minimization)
Sustainable materials (e.g. use of locally
produced materials, products that are nontoxic)
124
5.4
In general, when evaluating the merits of a new development, the following conditions must be met.
Contributes to pedestrianism.
125
REGINA
downtown plan
126
127
REGINA
downtown plan
Retail frontages should be highly transparent and located immediately adjacent to the sidewalk.
128
5.4.4 Entrances
An entrance to a building is often the most recognizable and used part of its faade. It is what people look
for when they interact with the building. It must be
prominent, recognizable and accessible.
129
REGINA
downtown plan
130
Top
Middle
Base
Figure 22. Buildings must be designed with a distinct base, middle and top.
131
REGINA
downtown plan
132
5.4.7 Materials
The building materials help define the character and
quality of a building and how it relates with other
buildings or structures in its context. In an area
where brick is predominant, new buildings will define
themselves by the use, or lack of brick. Of much importance, as well, for the selection of materials is their
longevity and ability to age with grace. Materials such
as stone, brick and glass will endure well over time.
133
REGINA
downtown plan
134
View Termini
Buildings, structures, or sites that are visual termini
are at the end of a view, typically when looking along
at street. Given their prominence within the urban
context, they must enhance the level of design quality,
as well as promote their image.
Corners
Corner buildings have a greater visual prominence
given that they terminate two street walls and that
they can be viewed from a greater open space, at the
street intersection. This special condition must be recognized through appropriate design responses.
135
REGINA
downtown plan
Gateways
Gateway buildings have the greatest visual prominence, as they are located at corners that are gateways
to Downtown. Gateway buildings must provide a
deliberate and significant response befitting their
role. New gateway buildings Downtown may provide
a massing set back from the street wall, in order to
appropriately address the intersection, provide a larger
pedestrian realm, and define new public space. All
other standards that apply to corner buildings also
apply to gateway buildings.
136
Existing Landmarks
Existing landmarks contribute to the cultural history
and distinct sense of place of Downtown Regina.
Examples include the church towers, the Federal
Building tower, the old post office, tall buildings such
as the Saskatchewan Power building, and the marquee
of the Plains Hotel. New buildings should ensure their
visual prominence is maintained and enhanced.
Landmark Frontages
Landmark frontages are the building faces defining
the edges of Downtowns most important streets and
open spaces. New buildings should reinforce the edges
of these features and the linkages between them.
137
REGINA
downtown plan
138
139
REGINA
downtown plan
5.4.11 Signage
Signs play an important role in the overall image of
Downtown. Signs should contribute to the quality of
individual buildings and the public realm. They should
reflect the unique characteristic of their context. This
includes compatibility with heritage buildings and
districts, where appropriate. High quality, imaginative, and innovative signs are encouraged. Design
objectives for signs include:
Signs should be located within defined architectural spaces,
such as sign bands or windows (green, above). This also
includes areas that are defined by, or reinforce, datum lines or
proportional characteristics of the faade (red, above).
5.4.12 Lighting
Night image is an important aspect of Downtowns
urban character and form.
Ensure light does not spill onto adjacent lowrise residential areas.
141
REGINA
downtown plan
5.4.13 Transition
Transitions between buildings help create continuity
and cohesiveness in the streetscape. They occur when
buildings that are beside each other, across the street
from each other, or are otherwise part of a building
grouping, have design elements that reference each
other. Transitions can be articulated through a wide
range of design elements, particularly those at a pedestrian scale, including:
Massing
Projections
Proportion
These buildings have appropriate transitions due to similar
setback, massing, street wall height and projections. These
characteristics of building form are more important than their
style and material dissimilarity.
Setback
Floor heights
Cornice line
Building base
Proportion
Colour
Pattern
Texture
Entry Treatment
Window Treatment
Placement
Proportion
Materials
Datum lines
Roof profile
Orientation
Architectural style/period
The new building (right) responds to the materials, design language and rhythm of the historic building (left), to create a consistent
transition. Note this would be appropriate along landmark frontages.
143
REGINA
downtown plan
144
5.5
5.5.1 Introduction
The following building typology standards build upon
the general design standards by providing more specific design direction for various types of buildings.
The typologies included are:
Civic Typology
145
REGINA
downtown plan
5.5.2 Definitions
Build-to Line
Step-back
This term denotes a specific distance from the property line to which the street wall of all new buildings
must be constructed. All new construction must
be built to the Build-to Line. The Build-to line is
measured at grade. Relaxation of the build-to lines
are achievable through bonusing where allowable
as shown on Map 9.
Setback
Property Line
Build-to Line
Street Wall
Step Back
(from laneway)
Step Back
(from street
wall)
Setback
Construct to Build-to line
Sidewalk
Podium
Street Wall
Street Wall
Sidewalk
146
Podium
Sidewalk
Lan
ew
ay
t
cen y
a
j
Ad pert
Pro
Ste
(fro p ba
pro m s ck
pe har
rty ed
lin
e)
Ste
(fro p ba
m ck
str
ee
t)
ack t)
p b stree
e
t
S m
(fro
Str
ee
y)
ck
ba newa
p
Ste m la
(fro
Podium
Bu
ild
-to
lin
e(
Bu
lin ild-to
e(
5m
)
0m
ee
Str
Str
ee
tW
all
all
tW
ee
Str
Step
Back
Podium
Street
Wall
Podium
Build-To
Line
147
REGINA
downtown plan
Central
Downtown
Downtown
Edge
Multiplex
Residential
Lowrise
Commercial
Lowrise
Small/Mid Format
Large Format
Mid-rise
Hi-rise
Civic
Parking Structure
148
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Victoria
Avenue
P
P
P
P
Core
Interface
Cathedral
Interface
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Residential Buildings
Multiplex
Low Apartment
Low-rise
Mid-rise
High-rise
Low-rise
Civic Building
Mid-rise
High-rise
Parking Structure
149
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Multiplex
Multiplexes have multiple units within a house form building. The street edge is animated with balconies, windows, and a porch.
Residential Multiplex
5.5.3 Multiplex Residential/Mixed Use
Description & Use
Massing
Articulation
151
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Low-Rise
152
Residential Low-Rise
Parking Pads or
garages in rear
Convertible retail
frontage at grade
153
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Low-Rise
These stacked row houses emphasize entries and articulate the faade well given multiple entrances and stairs.
Base, middle and top are clearly defined for this low apartment. Change in plane and materials articulate a series of smaller masses.
154
Residential Low-Rise
Stacked Row House
Parking at rear
screened by building
mass
No step back from
shared property lines
Active or residential
uses face street
Massing
Height: 3-5 storeys
Parking at rear
screened by
building mass
155
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Low-Rise
Articulation
All of these low apartments have transparent ground levels and articulate a base, middle and top. Downtown needs much more of
this type of building.
156
Residential Low-Rise
Laneways should provide the primary access for parking and servicing functions. Where appropriate, laneways should be
designed as high quality spaces where they can be overlooked by residences or active uses.
157
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Mid-Rise
Mid-rise residences. Note well articulated roof profile integrating all mechanical penthouse equipment. Materials, windows, and
projections provide articulation and interest.
158
Residential Mid-Rise
Prominent main
entrance
Potential common
amenity area
Individual units
accessed from
street
Podium/ Street
wall
Underground
parking preferred
20m separation to
tall building
Ma
x.
sla
2.5m minimum
step back from street
Prominent entrance
bl
en
gth
55
Potential amenity
space on deck
above parking
Parking at rear
screened by
building mass
159
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Mid-Rise
Above grade step back creates balcony and terrace opportunities for upper units.
160
Residential Mid-Rise
Massing
Height: 6-12 storeys
Articulation
161
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential Mid-Rise
Mid-rise building addresses both street frontages with high quality articulation. Corner entrance is well lit and weather protected.
Faades have been divided vertically to be consistent with traditional bays and building widths.
Residential Mid-Rise
163
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential High-Rise
164
Residential High-Rise
20m separation to
tall buildings
2.5m minimum
step back from
building face
above podium
Prominent
entrance
2.5m minimum step
back facing streets
Massing
Height: 13+ storeys
Roof: flat
Ensure adjacent buildings relate in terms of scale,
height and configuration.
Tall buildings contribute to the skyline and
therefore are important in shaping the image of the
city. Ensure the top of the building is articulated
through architectural detail, has a well-defined
three-dimensional form, and integrates mechanical
penthouse equipment into the building design.
Break down the massing of large buildings
horizontally and vertically into a hierarchy of
volumes.
Street-edge massing should generally be 3-4 storeys
in height through a base or podium building, with
taller building elements stepped back.
Underground
parking preferred
Podium /
Street Wall
Prominent
entrance
High quality front faade
to parking integrated with
overall building design
Active or residential
use at grade
165
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential High-Rise
Lower, grade-related building forms line the street with above grade step backs. The high-rise
is articulated vertically through a first-floor canopy/overhang, a mid-rise massing to the 7th
storey, and then a stepped-back tower.
166
Residential High-Rise
Can be sited more freely than slab highrise because of their lesser bulk, including
at gateways, corners, terminus views and
landmark sites, however, they do have a
greater obligation towards high quality design
and materials given their visual prominence.
167
REGINA
downtown plan
Residential High-Rise
The visual impact of this parking lot is mitigated by landscaping, as well as by screening provided by a retained building faade.
168
Residential High-Rise
Articulation
169
REGINA
downtown plan
Commercial Low-Rise
Small to Medium Format
Parking at rear
screened by building
mass
Prominent entrance
Individual entrances
wherever possible
Large Format
Massing
Height: 2-3 storeys
Ensure adjacent buildings relate in terms of
scale, height and configuration.
Smaller format
retailers at grade
facing streets
170
Articulation
Commercial Low-Rise
171
REGINA
downtown plan
Mid-rise office incorporates heritage building as a street edge podium. Change in materials, plane, and upper level step backs
divide a large massing into smaller forms. The newer portion of the building was added many years later.
172
Mid-Rise
Prominent Entrance
Podium / Street wall
Active use
High-Rise
20m separation to
tall buildings*
2.5m minimum
step back from
shared property
lines
Podium/
Street wall
2.5m minimum
step back from
streets
Underground Parking
Preferred
173
REGINA
downtown plan
The Maritime Life building incorporates a heritage building as the podium, stepping back from the street wall to the new office
tower above.
174
Massing
175
REGINA
downtown plan
Street edge podium has retail at grade with awnings over sidewalk. Main entry to tower is articulated.
176
177
REGINA
downtown plan
Civic
This police department building is well integrated in the streetscape. It is located at the street edge, has a prominent corner
entrance treatment, fenestration, and an articulated base, middle and top.
178
Civic
Pronounced public
entrances
179
REGINA
downtown plan
Civic
Massing
Height: 2 storeys+
Articulation
180
Civic
181
REGINA
downtown plan
Parking Structures
This parking structures faade is completely integrated into the design of the streetscape. Parking is located behind the upper level
windows.
182
Parking Structures
parapet condition
screens rooftop parking
Active Uses
Active Uses
Active Uses
Sidewalk
A
B
183
REGINA
downtown plan
Parking Structures
Articulation
Massing
Height: 2 storeys+
Roof: flat
Ensure adjacent buildings relate in terms of
scale, height and configuration.
184
active uses at
grade
parking structure
residential uses
Parking Structures
Minimum acceptable standard for above grade parking integrated into faade. Vertical pillars and pilasters unify
garage faade with upper residential faade. Glass screens facing street disguise internal sloped garage. Banners
create pedestrian interest.
Section 5.5: Building Typology Standards
185
REGINA
downtown plan
Streetscape Building
186
Public Art
This parking garage has active at grade uses and a faade that incorporates public art for the entire faade facing the street.
187
6.0
Heritage
Guidelines
REGINA
downtown plan
6.1
Introduction
190
6.2
Heritage Objectives
Heritage Guidelines
6.3
Approach
The built form design standards are based on the following assumptions:
6.4
Supporting Policy
191
REGINA
downtown plan
Sask
rive
D
wan
e
atch
11th Avenue
Cornwall Street
Osler Street
Broad Street
Rose Street
Hamilton Street
Scarth Street
Lorne Street
12th Avenue
Smith Street
McIntyre Street
Albert Street
Angus Street
Victoria Avenue
*
13th Avenue
Designated Heritage
Conservation District
Expanded Heritage
Conservation District
Designated Heritage
Buildings
Potential Heritage
Buildings
Designated Heritage
Landscapes
192
Landmark Heritage
Buildings
Potential Heritage
Landscapes
Heritage Guidelines
6.5
193
REGINA
downtown plan
6.6
194
Heritage Guidelines
195
REGINA
downtown plan
Setback
New buildings beside heritage buildings should ensure
the heritage building has visual distinctness. This can
be accomplished in a variety of ways (Figure 28) , 3 of
which are illustrated here:
2m
Separation
Figure 26. This building in Old Montreal (above) and the
Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto (below) exemplifies
an appropriate setback and height articulation to a heritage
building.
3m
2m
Shadow Line
New Building
Heritage Building
1m
Transparency
196
Heritage Guidelines
New Building
Heritage Building
New Building
Street Wall
1.5m
step back
1.5m
step back
Heritage Building
Figure 28. The diagrams above illustrate: for heritage buildings of one or two storeys, the requirements for a 1.5m heritage step
back, as well as an additional step back from the street edge as per the Built Form Framework; for heritage buildings of three
storeys or more, the requirement for a step back from the street edge for additional floors above the existing heritage building, as
per the step back requirements of the Built Form Framework.
Heritage Building
New Building
197
REGINA
downtown plan
Rhythm
Rhythm of a buildings faade or along the street wall
refers to the recurrence at regular intervals of design
elements that help structure their visual character and
definition. For example, a vertical line dividing buildings every 6 to12 metres, will create a rhythm for the
street that supports a pedestrian scale and intimate
character. Principles for rhythm of new buildings adjacent to heritage buildings are:
198
Heritage Guidelines
Contemporary design
New work should be neighbourly and should respectfully fit its heritage context while at the same time
representing current design philosophy. Quoting
the past can be appropriate, however, it should avoid
blurring the line between real historic buildings and
structures.
199
REGINA
downtown plan
Material palette
Whereas there is a very broad range of materials in
todays design palette, materials proposed for new
buildings in the district should include those drawn
from ones historically in use. The use and placement
of these materials in a contemporary composition and
their incorporation with other modern materials is
critical to the success of the fit of the proposed building in its context. The proportional use of materials,
drawing lines out of the surrounding context, careful
consideration of colour and texture all add to the
success of a composition.
Proportions of parts
Architectural composition has always had at its root
the study of proportion. In various styles, rules of
proportion have varied from the complex formulas of
the classical orders to a more liberal study of key proportions in buildings of the modern movement.
In the design of new buildings in a heritage context,
work should take into account the proportions of buildings in the immediate context and consider a design
with proportional relationships that make a good fit.
An example of this might be windows. Nineteenth
century buildings without fail used a vertical proportion system in the design and layout of windows
including both overall windows singly or in built up
groups and the layout of individual panes.
200
Detailing
For new buildings, detailing should refer to the heritage attributes of the immediate context. Detailing can
be more contemporary yet with a deference to scale,
repetition, lines and levels, beam and column, solid and
transparent that relates to the immediate context.
In past styles, structure was often unseen hidden behind
a veneer of other surfaces and detailing was largely
provided by the use of coloured, shaped, patterned or
carved masonry and /or added traditional ornament,
moldings, finials, cresting and so on. In contemporary
buildings every element of a building can potentially
add to the artistic composition architectural, structural, mechanical even electrical systems.
7.0
Action Plans
for Downtown Regina
201
REGINA
downtown plan
7.1
202
Implementation Categories
Action Plans
7.2
Leadership
203
REGINA
downtown plan
204
Action
Time Frame
Immediately
Responsibility
Planning and
Sustainability
Department
Action Plans
7.3
Neighbourhood
Action
Select a residential pilot project. In the event that interest abounds, consideration Immediately
should be given to selecting more than one pilot project.
Create a working group to liaise and coordinate with development interests to Immediately
ensure the pilot project embodies the Downtown Vision and Principles it must
support animated streets, and be of a high aesthetic quality. Further, this working
group could continue into the future to work with development interests and identify other opportunities for partnerships in other residential projects.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
City Centre
Branch
205
REGINA
downtown plan
Action
The following considerations should be made for creating a Downtown Housing Strategy for a Downtown
Neighbourhood:
1. Aim towards a residential population growth
goal of 5000 persons in the next 15 years. This is
approximately 25% of population growth in the city
projected for the next 15 years.
2. Aim towards a residential community of mixed
tenures, housing forms, and housing options,
including affordable housing, market housing
(including high-end), sustainable buildings,
rental, ownership, co-ops, student housing, hotel
accommodation and emergency shelters. Downtown
should provide affordable family housing (including
access to supporting services such as schools).
It should be noted that the term family refers
also to couples, new parents or small families.
The policies contained within the Downtown
206
Time Frame
Near Term
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Comprehensive
Planning Branch
Action Plans
Action
Rationale:
Direct Control Districts are intended to identify
areas of the City where sensitive control of the use,
development, and location of buildings is necessary in
order to establish, preserve or enhance; (a) a unique
character; (b) a special environmental concern; or (c)
a special historic, cultural, archaeological, natural,
scientific or aesthetic site identified in any municipal,
provincial or federal legislation. This provides a
necessary tool to accomplish, through time, the vision
and urban design objectives of the Plan.
Time Frame
Immediately
Responsibility
207
REGINA
downtown plan
A design review process will not only include an evaluation of the aesthetics of a development in relation
to context and land-use, but should also review the
functioning of the site in terms of pedestrian experience and the overall benefit to the quality of life of
Downtown. The outcomes of a design review process
will be advisory in nature, informing the regulatory
approval process, but not replacing it.
Rationale:
To ensure that development compliments existing
built conditions; respects the unique character of
Downtown; and, contributes positively to the public
realm and to the overall quality of life Downtown.
Action
208
Immediately
Responsibility
Development
Review Branch
The Urban Design Review process shall include the following components:
1. Prior to the formal regulatory process:
Time Frame
Action Plans
209
REGINA
downtown plan
210
Action
Time Frame
Update City policies to reflect and support Downtown as a complete Near Term
community.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Action Plans
Action
In considering the size and location of the first permanent community garden, the Public Realm Framework
and Built Form Framework should be used as a guide.
Following implementation of a Downtown Housing
Strategy, a re-established community will provide the
right conditions and opportunity for a community
garden to be successfully maintained.
Rationale:
Community gardens can provide affordable amenity,
places of recreation and gathering, and visual interest
Downtown. These attributes will become increasingly
valuable as the residential population Downtown increases. Community Gardens can also contribute to
the sustainability of the Downtown Neighbourhood,
greening Downtown and providing a local food
source. Initial investment or incentives from the City
of Regina may be required.
Time Frame
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Community and
Protective Services Division
211
REGINA
downtown plan
212
Continuous street trees can have a significant ameliorating impact on wind conditions. Street trees can also
play a role in traffic calming by effectively narrowing
the visual corridor of roadways, leading to reduced
traffic speeds and more attentive drivers.
A Downtown Urban Forest Strategy should consider
introducing a variety of tree species and ornamental
plants to highlight important streets and introduce
new colours and shapes into the urban environment.
The size, shape, seasonal colour, growing conditions
and other characteristics can delineate certain clusters of uses, or districts , within Downtown, such as
the heritage heart and the streetscape hierarchy (the
Avenues, Secondary Streets, etc.). Street trees can also
be used to decorate the Downtown Gateways (refer to
the Public Realm Framework). Tree selection should
be carefully considered to determine which varieties
will be suitable in Reginas context. This initiative
may be integrated with the creation of pocket parks
described in the Public Realm Framework.
The strategy should include a maintenance plan for
Downtown trees, based on an exploration of best practices with respect to urban forestry.
Rationale:
Renewing the urban forest Downtown will enhance
the comfort and aesthetic appeal of the public realm;
will advance the sustainability agenda; and, will reestablish a visual connection between Downtown and
adjacent neighbourhoods.
Action Plans
1
2
Action
Time Frame
Responsibility
Integrate replanting with the creation of pocket parks and side- Medium Term
walk replacement.
213
REGINA
downtown plan
214
Action Plans
Action
Time Frame
Consult service groups to determine the specifications of flexible spaces Near Term
that would be required to support their programming, to be used in conjunction with the bonusing framework.
Reduce or waive fees for permits required by non-profit organizations Near Term
wishing to campaign, solicit or conduct an event, to encourage non-profit
activity in Downtown.
For
215
REGINA
downtown plan
Background:
Safety is a concern for Downtown residents and visitors
that will best be transformed by adding a critical mass
of people living, walking and working downtown. In
the short term, and as redevelopment begins to take
shape, a soft approach to policing is to increase the
number of people intentionally watching the streets.
Time Frame
Responsibility
Work with the RDBID Downtown Ambassador Program, Medium Term City Centre Branch,
Community and ProtecRegina Police Services, and other interested groups to co-orditive Services, Regina
nate initiatives relating to Downtown safety and security.
Police Services, Regina
Downtown BID
216
Action Plans
Rationale:
A Downtown waste management strategy will be
necessary to manage the increased volume of waste generated by a growing residential population Downtown,
and to effectively accommodate the challenges posed
by waste collection in a mixed-use environment.
1
2
3
Action
Time Frame
Review and revise the solid waste management strategy so as to create a Long Term
specific Downtown strategy.
Update the Downtown waste management strategy at regular intervals, Long Term
so that it continues to respond effectively to the changing Downtown
environment.
A capacity analysis should be completed through a larger more comprehen- Medium Term
sive servicing analysis study which should assess the capacity of developing
soft sites given the projected 5000 new residents.
Responsibility
Comprehensive
Planning &
Public Works
Comprehensive
Planning &
Public Works
Comprehensive
Planning &
Public Works
217
REGINA
downtown plan
Background/Rationale:
Snow plowing on Downtown streets and sidewalks
should be improved, thereby improving the
accessibility and safety of pedestrians, cyclists,
and travellers using assisted forms of movement
(wheelchairs and walkers).
Background/Rationale:
Should 5000 new residents be attracted Downtown,
the servicing capacity for wastewater (sewage) will
have to be increased. In order to determine the
amount of additional capacity that will be required, a
detailed servicing review of wastewater will have to be
conducted for the Downtown.
218
Action
Time Frame
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Action
Time Frame
Near Term
Responsibility
Comprehensive
Planning and
Public Works
7.4
Business
Background:
A successful downtown is organized. An organized
downtown allows people to visually orient themselves,
and to find their destinations quickly. Destinations
that are clustered within a block or two create sub-districts with distinctive characteristics and experiences,
improving the organizational structure and legibility
of Downtown. Clustering uses also facilitates the
sharing of resources among organizations, or in the
case of businesses, sharing of customers as a cluster of
uses concentrates pedestrian activity in that particular
destination. Clustered uses become self-sustaining
districts that evolve their specific identity, distinctive
from others, depending on their ability to partner and
respond to each other. For example, a business located
within a fashion cluster may choose to hold a sidewalk
sale event, or in an arts & design block organizations
and businesses may hold an annual art fair or open
house. Clustering uses makes great business sense.
1
2
3
Action
Time Frame
Responsibility
Near Term
City Centre
Branch, Regina
Downtown BID
Urban Planning, the Regina Downtown Business Improvement District, and Near Term
developers in partnership should identify suitable blocks to be identified as
clusters.
City Centre
Branch, Regina
Downtown BID
City Centre
Branch
219
REGINA
downtown plan
Action
Rationale:
The facilities available in a permanent venue would
allow the market to host a larger diversity of vendors,
providing a greater variety of foods and services, seven
days a week. A permanent venue will also allow the
market to remain open in colder weather, providing year-round amenity and service to the growing
Downtown residential community.
220
Time Frame
Near Term
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Action Plans
Action
Time Frame
Conduct a study to determine the scope of research and specific data to be Immediately
collected in annual surveys, the methodology to be employed, and the cost
of and approach to administering an annual undertaking of this nature.
Based on the study outcomes, implement a baseline survey followed by Immediately
annual surveys to collect data related to employment, market compositions,
and vacant properties Downtown.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Comprehensive
Planning Branch
City Centre
Branch,
Comprehensive
Planning Branch
Section 7.4: Business Action Plans
221
REGINA
downtown plan
222
Nurturing the local creative economy and attracting innovative industries to Downtown, including
potential future growth industries.
Action Plans
Action
Time Frame
Host a charrette where developers, businesses and artists can explore strate- Immediately
gies to foster relationships and engage in the mutually beneficial exchange
of services.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Community and
Protective Services
Division
City Centre
Branch,
Community and
Protective Services
Division
223
REGINA
downtown plan
224
Action
Time Frame
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
7.5
Culture
Time Frame
Develop a Cultural Plan in consultation with the Regina Arts Commission Near Term
and a cultural planning consultant.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Community
and Protective
Services
225
REGINA
downtown plan
226
Action Plans
This is an extremely important goal. Cultural attractions in Downtown are anchors attracting both
retail and a residential population. As a capital city,
without a civic cultural plan to guide decision making, cultural institutions in Regina have generally
gravitated to sites and partnerships that presented
themselves. For example, the Symphony plays
in Conexus Arts Centre in Wascana Centre; the
RCMP Heritage Centre, is located on RCMP/government of Canada land on the edge of the city; the
Canada Saskatchewan Sound Stage, Saskatchewan
Science Centre, CBC building and MacKenzie Art
Gallery all located within Wascana Centre. Artists
should not be expected, as a matter of public policy,
to provide services under fair market value. Cultural
institutions require sustainable capital investments,
and they require civic partners.
6. Financing strategies.
227
REGINA
downtown plan
publicly announced during the process of generating the Downtown Neighbourhood Plan, the timely
completion of the project is imperative to maintaining the credibility of the Plan and the trust of all
stakeholders.
Rationale:
The initial project signals a commitment to the
Downtown Neighbourhood Plan and the beginning
of a series of investments into Downtown, and is imperative to maintaining the credibility of the Plan.
City staff are already engaging in the implementation process for this project. As this project was
228
Action
Time Frame
Immediately
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Action
Time Frame
Near Term
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
229
REGINA
downtown plan
230
Action
The Heritage Framework (refer to Section 5.6) presented in this Downtown Neighbourhood Plan
contains two main components. The first is a rationale and recommendation to expand the existing
Heritage Conservation District, and the second is a
set of general and specific built form guidelines for
new buildings within a heritage context. Included are
recommendations for policy changes to support the
Framework intent.
Rationale:
The effective management of heritage buildings and
landscapes Downtown is important from the standpoint of maintaining a tangible link to the citys history,
and of establishing and strengthening a distinct character and identifiable sense of place Downtown.
Time Frame
Update the heritage inventory to include modern architectural forms and Near Term
heritage landscapes. This will require a complete assessment of existing
Heritage Stock and buildings listed in the Heritage Holding By-law.
Amend the tax structure that currently encourages and provides an incen- Near Term
tive for landowners to remove heritage buildings and build parking lots.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
City Centre
Branch,
Comprehensive
Planning Branch
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
Action Plans
Through the authority of the City Development Officer, demand the highest Near Term
standards of design and compatibility of all new development in a heritage
context. Explore the possibility of amending The Heritage Property Act to
delegate authority from City Council to City Development Officer to deny
applications to demolish heritage resources.
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
Formally adopt the Federal Standards and Guidelines for heritage, and align Near Term
heritage policy language with those Standards.
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
Develop a specific policy that makes the connection between heritage policy Near Term
and the fulfilment of other Downtown goals such as attracting tourists,
faade improvement, and the objectives of the Culture Plan.
Action
City Centre
Branch,
Development
Review Branch
Time Frame
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
231
REGINA
downtown plan
232
Action
Time Frame
Create a Signage and Wayfinding Strategy that will address matters such Near Term
as: pedestrian context maps; well designed street signage; and, clear signage
orienting tourists to key destinations.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Action Plans
Regina Downtown Business Improvement District encourages busking and street activity. The Downtown
Patrol Ambassadors of the BID encourage panhandlers to busk as an alternative way to receive money
while avoiding fines or having to confront Regina
Police Services (RPS).
To reduce confusion and encourage busking, a panhandling bylaw should be created, such as that in
Saskatoon (Bylaw No. 7850), which differentiates
busking from panhandling. Regina Police Services
should be knowledgeable in these two definitions to
avoid wrongfully fining a busker.
Rationale:
Patio uses refer to the use of outdoor public space for
cultural or retail uses an important part of active
streets and a vibrant public realm. Management of
these spaces require policies that encourage safe uses
and discourage unsafe activities.
Action
Time Frame
Prepare a Patio Management Strategy to guide the use of outdoor public Immediately
space for cultural or retail uses.
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Consider allowing the temporary use of on-street parking spaces to expand Immediately
the public realm in warmer months.
City Centre
Branch
City Centre
Branch
Immediately
233
REGINA
downtown plan
Background:
The Civic Heart presents an opportunity to embody a
key principle of the Downtown Neighbourhood Plan
a place for all of Regina. The Civic Heart includes City
Hall, the Regina Public Library, Knox-Metropolitan
Church, and Victoria Park - uses that currently function as disparate parts, but that together can create a
critical mass of civic facilities that, linked by public
realm improvements, will become an important Civic
destination in the City of Regina.
Rationale
The objective of the Civic Heart Revitalization
working group will be to oversee and connect a series
of initiatives in the Civic Heart in such a way as to
work towards a larger vision of this area as an important Civic precinct. Additional objectives to be met,
include, but are not limited to:
Action
234
Time Frame
Immediately
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
3. The Working Group should work cross-departmentally to create a programming strategy for promoting the Civic Heart.
4. Identify targets and goals related to transportation,
business, and cultural components and public realm
improvements of the Civic Heart, and monitor and
evaluate progress annually.
Action Plans
7.6
Transportation
streets, in the short term and due to their one-way operation, some of the existing pavement width should
be converted for other uses, such as adding corner
bulbs, cycling lanes and wider sidewalks. In the long
term, as the critical mass of activity in Downtown
continues to increase, consideration should be given to
also converting these north-south streets to two-way
operation.
The potential benefits of converting one-way to
two-way operation are:
1. Routes become less circuitous. This increases accessibility into Downtown from the periphery (Broad
and Albert Streets), and within Downtown to key
destinations, as more route options are available
for vehicles. Drivers will drive less within the
Downtown if they are able to drive directly to their
destination. This in turn will reduce the levels of
emissions from vehicles within Downtown.
2. Potentially, vehicles will move more slowly within
Downtown, thereby increasing the safety of pedestrians. As such, the Downtown will no longer be
viewed as a through route, but rather as a destination. The perception of Downtown as a place
will be further reinforced.
3. Allows for the implementation of cycling infrastructure.
All streets will have the capacity to support cycling
infrastructure with a variety of route options for
the cyclist. Streets will become better recognized
as environments that support a variety of ways of
moving from one place to the next, as opposed to
places primarily for vehicular movement.
4. Increases the viability of Downtown businesses. A
more permeable, walkable Downtown will draw
more customers. Precedents demonstrate that it is
difficult to create retail viability in small and midsized cities without two-way infrastructure.
Section 7.6: Transportation Action Plans
235
REGINA
downtown plan
236
Action
Study the cost and impact of converting all one-way east-west roadways to
two-way streets both in Downtown and immediately south of Downtown.
Time Frame
Immediate to
Near Term
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Action Plans
Rationale:
A Downtown transportation system that recognizes
pedestrianism as an important form of movement has
right-of-ways and public spaces that are supportive
of pedestrian activity. The safety and convenience of
the pedestrian is prioritized, as a minimum standard
objective. Current road standards are suburban in
nature, and are no longer in keeping with the priorities
of the Downtown Neighbourhood Plan.
In order to bring road design into alignment with the
Downtown Vision and its priorities, a new approach to
designing and planning roads Downtown is required.
The new approach will need to consider a variety of
forms of movement, including cyclists and pedestrians.
Streetscape design should clearly articulate the importance of the pedestrian experience as fundamental to a
thriving Downtown.
Time Frame
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Focus additional resources on the care and maintenance of existing down- Immediately
town trees (supported by action N.7).
Embed alternative road design standards for Downtown into engineering Medium Term
and planning policy.
City Centre
Branch
Considerations:
Alternative road standards for Downtown should take
into consideration the following priority objectives, to
ensure that they are able to meet the objectives of the
Downtown Neighbourhood Plan:
1. Minimize Environmental Impacts
Maintain tree health, maintenance, and amenity
as a priority in Downtown cross sections.
Winter sidewalk and road maintenance should
be improved, including the enforcement of
standards related to Downtown sidewalk
237
REGINA
downtown plan
238
Action Plans
Action
the narrowest sidewalks Downtown; other civic destinations; or, following the establishment of business
clusters around these blocks. Visibility of crosswalks
is also a factor in pedestrian safety and should be improved, as per a new city-wide standard of crosswalk
visibility, as streets are renewed.
Corner bulbs are an excellent way of shortening the
walking distance across roadways, placing a higher
priority on the pedestrian network, delineating onstreet parking areas and slowing automobile traffic by
visually narrowing the road. One of the key challenges
with these treatments is the potential change to drainage patterns. Short medians at intersections can also
be used for the same effect of breaking the street crossing distance and providing safe shelter for pedestrians
especially at un-signalized crossings. Corner bulbs are
most desirable on the widest roads, (i.e. the Avenues).
Arterial roadways are also currently a major barrier
for pedestrians moving between Downtown and
surrounding neighbourhoods. Adjustments to better
accommodate pedestrians crossing these roadways is
important, particularly in cold weather.
Time Frame
Immediately
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Considerations:
The use of interlocking pavers needs to be reevaluated for its practicability and safe use. Maintaining this type of surface
so that it is level for walking on is labour intensive, requires regular levelling and is costly. Textured concrete and precast
sidewalk sections might be considered instead. The needs of visually impaired and disabled persons should be considered,
and these groups should be consulted in the process of developing new standards.
2
Change relevant street maintenance policies to ensure that Downtown Near Term
streets and sidewalks are maintained as the highest material and aesthetic
standard in the city, and above and beyond the existing policies.
City Centre
Branch
239
REGINA
downtown plan
Near Term
City Centre
Branch
Considerations:
The task of widening a sidewalk is fairly significant as it generally involves altering the roadway cross-section. This often
results in drainage and parking challenges. As such, the provision of wider sidewalks should be staged as part of street
renewal projects. This action is linked to T.2. and N.7.
4
Immediately
Considerations:
City Centre
Branch
Visibility and safety for pedestrians could be improved through better definition of the crosswalks at both
signalized and un-signalized locations. Textured crossings, coloured crossings, raised crosswalks and improved
paint markings could be used to serve this purpose. These should be considered as street renewal projects are
pursued.
5
Immediately
Considerations:
City Centre
Branch
As part of the implementation of corner bulbs, the City should prepare a phasing strategy to prioritize the near-term
improvement of street crossings at key locations, including at gateways and the Civic Heart.
6
Adjust signal timing on the main arterials to shorten the wait times for Immediately
pedestrians.
Considerations:
City Centre
Branch
Wait times to cross Albert Street could be in the order of a minute and a half. While shorter cycle times would improve
the situation for pedestrians, the level of service would be heavily impacted for vehicular traffic. A potential solution is
to lengthen the minimum walk times. Displaying longer walk times increases the likelihood that pedestrians will arrive
at the intersection and be able to cross immediately. The installation of crosswalk countdown timers along the interior
intersections would support safer crossing for pedestrians.
7
Considerations:
Near Term
City Centre
Branch
Improvements to the Broad Street and Albert Street underpasses should be considered to provide connectivity and the
perception of safety. The level of lighting in the underpasses also should be reviewed. As a long term measure, a pedestrian link half-way between Broad Street and Albert Street could be planned to address the desired connection from
Downtown to the Warehouse District (refer to Section 4.4.9).
240
Action Plans
Rationale:
The Comprehensive Planning Branch has conducted
an online survey of peoples modes of transportation
to work, and results indicated that there is a favouring
towards cycling to work. The surveys indicated the
following needs and concerns:
241
REGINA
downtown plan
Action
Time Frame
Near Term
Considerations:
Responsibility
Comprehensive
Planning
Shifting a car-oriented culture to a cycling or walking culture is by no means a quick process and must occur
in a phased manner to allow the public to learn that alternative modes are also viable as a means of transport. What a Bike to Work Week can do, which the Commuter Challenge cannot, is quickly generate huge
momentum towards the goals of the Commuter Challenge in reducing the number of cars on the streets. By
focusing on cycling alone, this shift would begin to happen in a phased manner as well as place Regina on the
international map of this global movement.
Establishing a Bike to Work Week involves minimal administration and organization. Promotion, registration, and
selection of dates, as well as presenting any follow up promotion of the event might require three or four months of
organization as participants are expected to self-organize their participation after registering online. Over time, the
momentum generated through Bike to Work Week should build towards a full cycling awareness campaign.
2
Near Term
Considerations:
Comprehensive
Planning
Commuter cyclists prefer direct A to B routes with minimal stops or delays. In most cases this means providing a separate
on-road cycling lane (1.5m wide with an additional offset from traffic on high volume roads). Appropriate overhead
signing and paint markings help designate the bicycle lane. Lorne Street and Smith Street are good examples of this. A
higher profile can also be added by the use of bike boxes at intersections (i.e. a staging area at intersections where bicycles
are given priority) and cyclist-actuated signals at key locations (e.g. Ottawa uses 3 dots on the road where a waiting
bike will trigger the traffic signal). Improving cycling conditions in the underpasses as Broad and Albert need special
consideration. Refer to Section 4.3.9.
3
Update the cycling network plan and integrate it into the city-wide trans- Near Term
portation plan.
Considerations:
Comprehensive
Planning
The cycling network needs to be a series of interconnected facilities that access key employment, residential, institutional
and educational facilities on a city-wide basis. When complete, the updated cycling network plan should connect work,
home, shopping, school, and institutional destinations in a comprehensive manner.
242
Action Plans
Near Term
Considerations:
Comprehensive
Planning
North-south cycling lanes are currently provided by the one-way cycling couplet of Lorne Street and Smith Street.
These north-south lanes provide access to nearby destinations such as City Hall and Victoria Park. With the conversion
of east-west roadways to two-way travel in Downtown, cycling lanes should be considered on 12th Avenue and 15th
Avenue. These are long, continuous streets that are used by surrounding neighbourhoods to access the heart of Downtown
(Victoria Park) and the transitional area immediately south.
5
Provide readily available secure bike parking, lockers, and shower facilities
Considerations:
Medium Term
Comprehensive
Planning
Through awareness, encouragement and definition of a proper cycling network, companies should consider
adding showers and lockers as part of their employee recruitment and retention programs. The City may want
to work with companies that provide free parking stands. The stands are maintained by companies in exchange
for allowing advertising tab signs on the bike rack. In addition, the City should require that all new major
developments include bike facilities, or encourage it through the Bonusing Framework.
243
REGINA
downtown plan
244
Action
Time Frame
Improve total transit times to Downtown and through Downtown, con- Near Term
necting key sectors of the city (e.g. Post-secondary schools, large shopping/
commercial areas, and key city facilities such as hospitals and tourist sites).
Study the feasibility of a central location for an off-street bus-to-bus trans- Near Term
fer location in the short term and a transit exchange in Downtown in the
medium to longer term.
Near Term
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch,
Community
and Protective
Services
City Centre
Branch,
Community
and Protective
Services
City Centre
Branch,
Community
and Protective
Services
Action Plans
Action
Time Frame
Immediately
Responsibility
City Centre
Branch
Considerations:
Immediately
City Centre
Branch
A portion of the revenue generated from parking meters and enforcement (some cities use a figure of 50 percent) should
be reserved to fund parking studies and initiatives, streetscape improvements in Downtown, and transit initiatives. This
has been done in the past to fund the Cornwall Centre Parkade.
Section 7.6: Transportation Action Plans
245
REGINA
downtown plan
Immediately
Considerations:
City Centre
Branch
In addition to the existing minimum parking requirements, implement a maximum allowable parking requirement for
new developments. Also, consider implementing mandatory cash in lieu of parking for all developments. The in-lieu
money would be reserved to provide additional parking facilities while providing the City with a measure of control over
where and when additional parking facilities are provided.
4
In the future, and as demand warrants, consideration should be given to the Immediately
viability and value of implementing a parking authority.
Considerations:
City Centre
Branch
The long-term goal should be to create a Downtown Parking Authority. In the interim, the City Centre Branch should
be responsible for managing parking issues. In particular, the CCB would manage parking strategies, parking policy,
revenues, enforcement, money received in-lieu of providing parking, and marketing. A key objective would be to develop
cooperative relationships with private companies that operate parking facilities in Downtown and at other major centres
such as the University of Regina and the Regina Airport Authority. As well , it will be imperative to encourage shared
parking arrangements in Downtown as a means to reducing overall parking spaces available while maintaining access to
parking for various user groups.
246
8.0
Implementation
Strategy
247
REGINA
downtown plan
8.1
Implementation Strategy
8.2
Action Description
N6
B2
B5
C2
T3
Capital Improvements
T4
T6
248
Implementation Strategy
8.3
Action Description
N2
N4
N7
N8
N10
N12
B3
B5
C1
C3
C6
C7
T1
T2
249
REGINA
downtown plan
250
Implementation Strategy
8.4
Sequencing
Each of the Actions in Section 7.0 have been categorized as either primary actions or secondary actions
and sequenced or non-sequenced.
Primary actions are outlined with a bold/thickly bordered box. These actions are either critical success
factors, or key capital projects pivotal to the overall
success of the plan. Primary actions will typically
require a significant level of attention, resources and
commitment from throughout the entire organization.
It is imperative that these are completed successfully,
and on time, to gain sufficient headway for the remaining actions.
Secondary actions are outlined with a thinly bordered
box. These actions are typically stand-alone actions
that act in parallel to primary actions but that may not
necessarily involve the entire organization, or are not
as critical to the overall success of the plan. These may
be supportive of other sequenced or non-sequenced
actions and may lead to the generation of further subactions as implementation progresses.
Primary Action
Secondary Action
Sequenced
Action
251
REGINA
downtown plan
252
Primary Action
Secondary Action
Sequenced Action
253
Appendix 1
REGINA
downtown plan
Bollards
Adaptability
Building Articulation
Amenity
Aesthetic or other features of a development that increase its marketability or usability to the public.
Atrium
A fully enclosed or semi-enclosed rectangular court
surrounded by a single building or between buildings
that is open air.
Bay
A part of a building marked off by vertical elements,
such as columns or pilasters.
Bike Box
Delineated areas where cyclists, at a red light, can
advance ahead of stopped vehicles while waiting for
the light to turn green. Cyclists are therefore more
visible to vehicles and are prioritized higher as road
users.
Building Typology
The general shape, mass, and articulation of a building, categorized by type.
Build Form
The shape of developments including buildings, and
other structures, not only individually, but as a collective. How buildings relate in terms of height, scale,
and character determines the extent to which they will
define the public realm.
Build-to-Line
The required placement of the front of a building relative to the street right-of-way, to ensure an appropriate
street or open space enclosure. The objective of a builtto-line is to maintain a consistent street wall along the
edge of a street.
Bump-Outs
Enclosure
Civic Heart
An open space that has a concentration of civic uses
and destinations.
Compatibility
Gateways
Locations where a significant number of people enter
and exit Downtown. They occur at a variety of scales,
including to Downtown as a whole, to precincts, or to
specific streets or open spaces.
Gateway Treatment
Grand Avenues
Gateways into the Downtown defined by their generous public realm treatments and mid-rise buildings.
Buildings along these should be a little grander than
most, in the sense that they will have careful attention
to the building quality and articulation.
Corner Treatment
A unique built feature on a corner building that acknowledges its prominence on the street in terms of
views and architectural presence. Can be achieved by
adding to building articulation with elements such as
a turret, or by subtracting from the building volume
resulting in conditions such as recessed entries.
Datum Lines
The horizontal or base line, from which the heights of
points are reckoned or measured.
Height Transition
The tapering of building heights as a way of achieving
compatibility of built forms and mitigating impacts
(views, sunlight etc) of shifts from areas of one character (i.e. low-rise) to another (i.e. high rise).
Density
The floorspace of a building, or buildings, in relation
to a given area of land.
REGINA
downtown plan
Heritage Conservation
Massing
Human Scale
The impression of a building when seen in relation to
its surroundings, or the size and proportion of parts of
a building or its details, that relates in a positive way to
the visual and physical experience of a pedestrian.
In-Fill Development
The development of vacant parcels in urbanized or
suburbanized areas, typically bringing the density of
the area closer to that allowed by the existing zoning
regulations.
Landmark
A building or structure that stands out from its background by virtue of height, size or some other aspect
of design.
Landmark Frontages
Locations which are prominent because of their
context, such as adjacency to a public open space or
important street, or because of their content, such
as heritage resources or public art. These are closely
related to gateways.
LEED Certification
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. A
system of measurement which rates new buildings (or
their plans) on their level of energy use and environmental consideration. It is meant to encourage new
developments to become more energy efficient and
environmentally sensitive.
Mid-Block Connections
Linkages between two streets in the middle of larger
blocks. They should be designed to have uses other
than as mid-block pedestrian links (i.e. laneway or
library/gallery galleria).
Mixed Use
A mix of uses within a building, or a site, or within a
particular area, possibly including employment, residential, commercial, live/work, or retail.
Modal Split
How the total number of journeys in an area or to a
destination is split between different means of transport, such as train, bus, car, walking and cycling.
Multiplex
Multiple residential units within a house form
building.
Node
A place where activity and routes are concentrated,
often used synonymously with junction.
Pedestrian Orientation
The characteristics of an area where the location and
access to buildings, types of uses permitted on the
street level, and storefront design are based on the
needs of persons on foot.
Permeability
Rhythm
Pocket Park
Small outdoor areas intended to provide intimate, yet
high quality open spaces for an immediate neighborhood or catchment area. Generally are no larger than
1,000 square metres.
Podium
The lower portion of a building that defines the street
edge or public realm, typically between 3-6 storeys in
height. The podium refers to the overall massing of
this portion of the building, and can be considered as
the base of a building.
Public/Private Interface
The point at which public areas and buildings meet
private ones.
Primary Streets
Active for all modes of transport, but have less vehicular
traffic than do avenues, so they are the most balanced
streets downtown. Used to move people within the
downtown.
Right-of-Way: (ROW)
A strip of land, including the space above and below
the surface, that is platted, dedicated, condemned,
established by prescription or otherwise legally established for the use of pedestrians, vehicles, or utilities.
Secondary Street
Streets used to access destinations within Downtown,
rather than to access Downtown itself.
Setback
The minimum distance from the property line at which
a building must be built.
Step Back
A recess of taller elements of a building in order to
ensure an appropriate built form presence on the street
edge. Usually articulated at the top of the building
base.
Street Wall
A condition where buildings consistently line or front
onto the edge of a street. Best achieved where buildings have consistent setbacks built out to the sidewalk.
REGINA
downtown plan
Urban Grain
Transparency
The degree of visibility through a building faade.
Transition
Occurs between buildings to help create continuity
and cohesiveness in a streetscape, with buildings that
are beside each other, across the street from each other,
or are otherwise part of a building grouping which has
design elements that reference one another. Can be
articulated through a wide range of design elements
(i.e. overall building height, massing, setback, materials etc.)
Tower
Upper portion of a building that is exceptionally high
in proportion to the width and length of the base.
Urban Structure
The shape of Downtown as a whole, including its overall
height and density, street wall heights, setbacks/buildto lines, and distinct functional and character areas. It
builds on existing and historic development characteristics, and considers linkages and interfaces with the
surrounding context.
View Corridors
The long, straight streets Downtown and in the surrounding neighborhoods with direct views.
Visual Terminus
The end point of a view corridor. Often accentuated
through design elements public art, adding/subtracting from the building mass, or landscaping.
Walkable
A condition of a system of routes which are barrier
free, interesting, safe, well-lit, comfortable and inviting to pedestrian travel.
Wayfinding
Tools which orient users of an area to ensure the ability
to navigate through an area. Tools include signs,
graphic communications, spatial markets, streetscape
elements, building design, and the street network.
urbanMetrics