Page 33 - TransportationPlanUsetsGuide

Livable Streets
“Livable streets” is a term used to reflect enhanced street design features that may encourage more walk-
ing, bicycling and transit use and foster economic development. Careful consideration must be given as to
the appropriate locations for enhanced street designs, and how the improvements will be maintained in
the long term.

Enhanced street designs are encouraged in Regional Centers, Town Centers, Station Communities and Main
Streets (as designated in the Metro 2040 Growth Concept), and in Pedestrian Districts identified in the Wash-
ington County TSP. These enhancements can help foster the land use, economic and transportation mode
share targets envisioned for these areas.

Equity
Equity in transportation planning includes both social and geographic equity.

Planning for equity often means examining socio-economic, demographic and geographic characteristics.
Some demographic groups may not have been engaged in planning efforts in the past. Currently, a concerted
effort is made to engage these historically underrepresented populations of Washington County – including
low-income, minority, youth and low English proficiency residents – and provide them a voice throughout the
planning process. A livable future is one that engages and benefits all residents and users of the transporta-
tion system.

Goal 3: Livability
Preserve and enhance Washington County’s quality of life for all residents, workers and visitors. ADOPTED TEXT

Objective 3�1 Strive to maintain and enhance the livability of existing and future communities and
neighborhoods�
• Strategy 3.1.1 When considering transportation improvements that create new, expanded or
extended roadways, evaluate and balance the needs of the traveling public with the livability
and viability of neighborhoods, business districts, agricultural areas, historic places and other
cultural resources.
• Strategy 3.1.2 Strive to limit inappropriate through-traffic and speeding in residential areas us-
ing the Neighborhood Streets Program, while maintaining adequate neighborhood and emer-
gency access.

• Strategy 3.1.3 Consider low-impact strategies to improve traffic flow including appropriate lane-
markings, safety improvements, roundabouts and other operational devices.

• Strategy 3.1.4 Identify scenic view corridors and vistas and strive to maintain and enhance
these visual resources for residents and users of the transportation system.
• Strategy 3.1.5 Follow federal and state regulations and guidelines on reducing transportation-
related noise.
• Strategy 3.1.6 Work with appropriate entities to identify, avoid and/or mitigate negative impacts
on the community from airport, rail freight, pipeline and electric transmission projects.
• Strategy 3.1.7 Regulate the provision of parking as identified in the Community Development
Code (CDC).

PART 2: GENERAL TRANSPORTATION POLICIES FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY 23
Effective November 27, 2015 • Updated December, 15 2016