Port of Dbq Design StandardsMEMORANDUM
January 31,2002
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
Work Session - February 4, 2002
Port of Dubuque Design Standards
In November 2001, the City Council held a preliminary work session with the City's Port
of Dubuque consultants. Bob Kost of URS/BRW and Anne Ricker of Leland Consulting,
to review and discuss proposed land use plans and design standards for development
in the 4th Street Peninsula and South Ice Harbor areas. A second work session has
been scheduled for February 4, 2002, to continue the review of the proposed design
standards and update the Council on revisions to the master plan.
The consultants have continued to work with the 4th Street Peninsula Workgroup since
the last Council work session to revise the master plan and standards. Property owner
meetings have been held to review the proposals, along with reviews by architects and
designers working on other America's River projects.
The 4t~ Street Peninsula Workgroup was created in the Platinum Hospitality
Development Agreement and consists of:
Jerry Enzler, Executive Director, Dubuque County Historical Society
Sue Czeshinski, Director of Convention & Visitors Bureau. Dubuque Area
Chamber of Commerce
Jim Rix, CEO, Platinum Hospitality Group
Rick Dickinson, Executive Director, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation
Bill Baum Economic Development Director
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
Pauline Joyce, Administrative Services Manager
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager (Facilitator)
The master plan and the design standards are public tools to encourage and implement
new development in the Port of Dubuque. Creating standards is very important to
protect the investment of Platinum Hospitality, the developer of the hotel and indoor
water park, and the Dubuque County Historical Society, the developer of the Mississippi
River Museum and Aquarium. Standards are also important as attempts are made to
sell and develop property in the Port of Dubuque Area. Investors must be assured that
their neighbors will develop and maintain their property ~n a way that will not diminish
the value of their investment.
Existing development in the Port of Dubuque area will have 18 months to comply with
the standards, and through the Fiscal Year 2003 Capital Improvement Program Budget,
it is recommended that $50,000 per year for five years be budgeted to assist owners in
financing improvements. The budget Public hearing is scheduled for March 5.
The public hearing, which involves the amendment to the existing Urban Renewal Plan
to include design standards, will be at the March 4 City Council meeting.
MCVM/jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
William Baum, Economic Development Director
CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
MEMORANDUM
January 29,2002
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
William Baum, Economic Development Director
City Council Worksession:
Port of Dubuque Design Standards
Introduction
In November 2001 the City Council held a preliminary worksess~on with the City's Port
of Dubuque consultants, Bob Kost of URS/BRW and Anne Ricker of Leland Consulting,
to review and discuss proposed land use plans and design standards for development
in the 4'n Street Peninsula and South Ice Harbor areas. A second worksession has
been scheduled for February 4, 2002, to continue the review of the proposed design
standards and update the Council on revisions to the master plan.
Included with this memo is the latest Design Standards booklet. Revisions to the
master land use plan, based on the previous worksession with City Council, will be
presented on boards at the worksession
Creating standards is very important to protect the investment of Platinum Hospitality,
the developer of the hotel and indoor water park, and the Dubuque County Historical
Society, developer of the Mississippi' River Museum and Aquariums. Standards are
also important as attempts are made to sell and develop property in the Port of
Dubuque area. Investors must be assured that their neighbors will develop and
maintain their property in a way that will not diminish the value of their investment
The standards will apply only to the designated Ice Harbor Urban Renewal District. A
map of the area is attached.
We acknowledge many existing property owners will need to make improvements to
their properties to implement the standards. To assist owners in financing the
improvements, the recommended FY2003 Capital Improvement Program budgets
$50,000 per year for five years for this purpose.
Discussion
The consultants have continued to work with the 4~" Street Peninsula Workgroup since
the last Council worksession to revise the master plan and standards. Property owner
meetings have been held to review the proposals, along with reviews by amhitects and
designers working on other America's River projects.
The master plan and the design standards are public tools to encourage and implement
new development in the Port of Dubuque. The pdmary objectives for redevelopment
include:
· Capitalize on previous and upcoming public investment
· Provide a mixture of uses
· Build on the activity of existing and pre-planned uses
· Create a pedestrian and transit oriented environment
· Use downtown as a model of street and block patterning
· Develop the area as a new neighborhood of downtown
· Balance creative vision and market demand
The proposed design standards, which are intended to apply to both new and existing
development in the Ice Harbor Urban Renewal District, will ensure that the Port of
Dubuque area develops as an attractive, high quality, pedestrian-oriented urban
neighborhood for visitors, residents and workers. The standards provide a set of "good
examples~ which will guide property developers' investment in this area.
Discussion of the standards will focus on several areas that have been points of
debate:
Applicability/Implementation
The standards will apply to all development - both existing and new - in the Ice
Harbor Urban Renewal District. The design review and approval process
involves submitting plans and specs to the City's Planning Services Department
similar to those required of any development in the City.
For existing uses, an amortization period allows up to 18 months to complete
necessary modifications and improvements [o come into conformance with the
new standards. This timeline is meant to coincide with the opening of the first
America's River projects.
The City Manager may modify the amortization schedule or the application of the
standards. If a property owner is not satisfied with the City Manager s dec's on,
an appeal may be made to the City Council.
2
Built Form
These are the standards for the buildings and structures themselves and cover:
Building setback
Building height
Rooflines
Windows and entries
Balconies and terraces
Building material
Accessory structures
Franchise architecture
Maintenance
Most of the discussion centered on Accessory structures and Maintenance
standards. Revisions were made to allow the use of accessory structures,
although their use is discouraged. New uses should design their projects to
include space within the primary building for such things as refuse, seasonal
maintenance equipment, housekeeping supplies, etc.
The timeline for making maintenance repairs has been extended based on
discussions with property owners.
Public Realm
The public realm includes both public and private property along the streetscape.
The proposed standards cover such things as:
Sidewalks
Streetscape furnish ~ngs
Public art
Street lighting
Parking lots
Landscaping
Refuse and outdoor storage
Fences and screen walls
Signs
The discussion with property owners has focused on bringing their properly up to
these new standards within the 18-month amortization period. Parking lot
landscaping, parking lot lighting, refuse storage, fences and signs have
generated the most debate. Revisions have been made to the proposed
standards eased on these discussions and some compromise has been
reached.
However, the standards will still affect existing properties and require them to
make financial investments in their properties to upgrade certain items,
especially parking lot landscaping and lighting and signage.
Action Step
The City Council is asked to review the proposed design standards for the Port of
Dubuque and give direction to the workgroup for their finalization.
Attachment
CCZ
Jim Rix
Dave Hockenberry
Rick Dickinson
Sue Czeshinski
Jerry Enzler
Cindy Steinhauser
Pauline Joyce
Laura Cars[ens
Mike Koch
Rich Russell
Parn Myhre
F:\USERS\WlSaum~Port of Dubuque\portofdbq2.cc.doc
DESIGN
STANDARDS
Port of Dubuque Master Plan
Dubuque, Iowa
Design Standards for the
Ice Harbor Urban Renewal District
Prepared for
The City of Dubuque, Iowa
Prepared by
URS Corporation
January 28, 2002 Draft
TABLE OF CONTENTS Ii. BUILT FORM Ill. PUBLIC REALM
!. DESIGN STANDARDS
Applicability
Design Review
Design Approval
Implementation
Ground Floor Uses
Minimum First Floor Elevation
Building Context and Swle
Vessel Context and Style
Building Setback/Build to Line
Building Height
Ground Level Expression
Roof Lines
Screening of Rooftop Equipment
Building Width
Facade Transparency
Entries
Balconies and Terraces
Building Maferials
Architectural Detailing
Parking Structures
Accessory Structures/Buildings
Franchise Architecture
Maintenance
Sidewalks and Walkways
Sidewalk Landscaping
Sidewalks on Parkways
Sidewalks on Local Streets
Walkways
Accessibility and Curb Ramps
Streerscape Furnishings
Public Art
Bike Parking
Sidewalk Lighting
Parking Lot Lighting
Parking Lot Landscaping
Surface Parking
Required Off-Street Paking
Refuse
Fences and Screen Walls
Outdoor Storage
Outdoor Audio
Newspaper Boxes
Vending Machines
Signs
GLOSSARY
APPENDIX
Design Vocabulary
Parking Lot Surface Water Run-Off Concept
B/biographies
Recommended Plant List
Streetscape Furnishings List
DESIGN STANDARDS
The design standards for the Port of Dubuque have been developed
to ensure that new and emsdng facilities work together to create an
artracuve, high quality, pedestrian-oriented urban neighborhood for
visitors, residents and workers. These standards are both prescriptive
and descriptive m nature. They prescribe specific mJrfimum
reqmremenrs for elements such as parking lot landscaping and signage
as well as describing parameters for the design of new buildings and
the remodeling of ex/sting buildings. A pictorial "design vocabular3~'
~s included to provide a set of "good" examples. Many of these
maages are of facil/fies from the Dubuque metropolitan area.
Failure to complywkh these design standards and procedures constitutes
a violation of the Ice Harbor Urban Renewal District ordinance.
Applicability
These design standards apply to the following:
New and existing parking facilities
All sites, exclusive of their existing building or vessds, and including
parking, outdoor storage and perwneters
New buildings and vessels
New site development
Painting of 25% or more of existing building exterior
Remodeling/renovation of 25% or more of existing building or
vessel exterior (exclusive of roof repair)
Interior remodeling/renovation of 50% or more of existing building
Renovations of existing sites
Expansions of existing facilities, buildings or vessels
Design Review
All property owners and/or developers shall meet with a representative
from the City Planning Services Department to discuss the interpretation
and application of these design standards to existing sites and any
prospective projects to which these design standards apply.
Following this meeting, a~ compliance projects, improvements, additions
and new facilities shall be described in narrative text and illustrative
engineering and architectural drawings, including the following:.
Colored front and side builctLng elevations (1/4" scale min.)
Colored illustrative site landscape plan (1:30 scale min.)
Din~ensioned site plan (1:30 scale min.)
Dimensioned ske l~ghting plan (1:30 scale min.) indicating proposed
iJluminanon patterns and light levels
Dimensioned architectural plans, including building elevations,
cross sections, floor plans and details
Exterior construction materials samples, including brick, stone,
glazing, windows and doors, s~gnage materials, fencing, etc.
These application materials shall be submitted to the Planning Services
Department.
Design Approval
Design approval, based on a review of the application materials
identified above, will be issued by the City Manager. A building permit
will not be issued by the Building Services Department until such
approval is given m writing.
The following new facilities have been subject to comprehensive
design review by the City and members of the 4th Street Peninsula
Workgroup:
The Mississippi River Discovery Center
The Hotel/Water Park
The Education and Conference Center
These facil/fies form the core of the America's River project and are
considered "icon proiects." In many respects, they have raised the
bar and set a level of design integrity and construction quality that
are the foundation of these design standards. As such, these facilities
are exempt from the Built Form section of these standards.
Implementation
Application of these design standards to new facilities shall be effective
as of ~st date).
Application of these' design standards to emsdng facilities shall be
effective as of (list date) and shall be implemented according to the
following 18 month schedule:
0-6 months Conduct property review meedng with the Planning
Services Department.
6-12 months Submit necessary plans and information describing
compliance plans and improvements to the Planning Services
Department.
12-18 months Complete necessary modifications and improvements.
The City Manager may modif7 the schedule or application of these
standards. A property owner who is aggrieved by the City Manager's
decision shall apply to the City Council for review thereof. The City
Council may modify such schedule or the application of these design
standards.
Ground Floor Uses
In order to promote street hfe and pedestrian actiwty, at least 60% of
the ground floor facing Bell Street and 5th Street shall be comprised
of commercial, retail, entertainment, restaurant or business service
uses,
!!. BUILT FORM
Minimum First Floor Elevation
To ensure that development is built consistent with district-wide storm
detention parameters, the minimum ftrst floor elevation of all new
buildings and structures shall be set at an elevation of at least 605.5
feet,
Building Context and Style
New buildings should relate to the tra&tional buildings common in
the downtown. This can be ach/eved by maintaining alnfilar setbacks,
building scale and height, cornice lines, fenestration patterns,
architectural styles and details, building materials and colors. The
preva'~ng building vocabularies in downtown Dubuque are traditional
"main street" style commerdal structures up to four stories, five to
ten-story office buildings with ground floor commercial uses designed
in a variety of classical revival styles, mid-rise, warehouse style
manufacturing facilities and residential row houses up to four stories,
predominantly in French and Italian rev/val styles. Although new
buildings may be designed in a variety of styles, they should draw
upon the design features found in existing, exemplary downtown
structures. These features are illustrated in the Design Vocabulary
in the Appendix.
Vessel Context and Style
Vessels to be used as a primary facll/ty or moored in the Ice Harbor
on a regular basis should relate to the vessels commonly found in the
Ice Harbor area. The prevailing vessel vocabularies are traditional,
rivercraft such as paddelwheel steamers. New vessels should be
compatible with this prevaJJing vocabulary.
Building Setbaclq Build-to Line
New buildings shall meet the defmed public sidewalk line except for
small setback areas (10-15 feet in depth) to create entry courtyards,
patios, or outdoor seating, dining and gathering areas.
New residential buildings shall be set back from the~publlc sidewalk
1/ne or right of way a minimum of 10 feet and a maximum of 20 feet
ro provide semi-private transiuon space between the public street and
the front entry.
Building Height
Building heights shall vat3, based on their proximity to the water front,
with taller buildings located adiacent to the river and the harbor to
capitalize on views and maximize land values.
Waterfront
New buildings adjacent to the Ice Harbor or Mississippi River shall
be a minimum of 3 stories (36 feet) and a maximum of 10 stories
(112 feet) in height.
Non-waterfront
In general, non-waterfront buildings shall be a minimum of 2
stones (22 feet) up to a maximum of 10 stories (112 feet) in height.
New free-standing restaurants and office-showroom buildings may
be of one-story construction and shall be no less than 22 feet in
height to the top of the front and side cornice lines,
Any new building located accross Bell Street from the Education
and Conference Center shall not obscure the view of the dome of
the historic County Courthouse as viewed from inside the central
corridor of the Education and Conference Center.
Ground Level Expression
In commercial, office and mixed use buildings, the ground floor shall
be distinguished from the floors above by the use of one ar more of
the following elements: horizontal banding, an intermediate cormce
line, a change in building materials, an awning or an arcade.
22 feet
Setback along side~valk line to provide enrr~ wurt and outdoor seating area. Single sto~ building a~ith 2 sto~ co~ice height. Examples of effective d~rentia~on betmeen $munkfloor and upper kvels.
Roof Lines
Flat roofs are the most common and traditional roof form. New
buildings should use flat roofs, although gable, hip ot traditional
mansard roofs are permitted.
On fiat roofs, rooftop terraces, decks and gardens are encouraged, ro
provide views to the river and cit3,scape and improve the view from
taller, adjacent structures. Arbors or other roof top structures may
be exempt from height resmcdons if they meet the following Conditions:
Screening of Rooftop and Mechanical Equipment
_~1 mechanical equipment shall be screened from street frontage view
with materials that are architecturally compatible with the primary
building hcades. Screening provided by the roof structure or by other
arch/tectural elements is preferred.
Rooftop eqmpment may also be screened by a smaller accent roof or
enclosure. If this structure is set back from the primary facade a
distance equal to its height, this structure may exceed the building
height limit.
Building Width
Non-residential buildings more than 30 feet in width shall be divided
into smaller increments through articulation of the facade. This can
be achieved through a varmty of techniques such as the following:
Divisions or variations in materials (although materials should be
drawn from a common palette)
Window bays
Separate entrances and entry treatments or pordcos
Variation in roof lines
Awnings
Vananons in brick or stone work
Colonnade or arcade
A maxLmum height of 12 feet above the roof deck
A setback from all building facades fronting a public street of at
least 10 feet or equal to the structure's height, if greater
Enclosed structures shall cover a no more than 20 percent of the
roof area
Arbors or other vertical "open" structures shall cover a maximum
of 80 percent of the roof area
Exampks of rooftop equipment screening.
Rooftops &veloped as useabk outdoor q)aoe.
Large buildings effeciivle3 broken domn to smaller,Oedestrian scale increments.
Facade Transparency
Where commercial or office uses are located on the ground floor, a
mum of 25 percent of the ground level facade fronting a publ/c
street and a mm/mum of 20 percent of the gromad level side and rear
facades shall consist of either windows or doors to allow views into
and out of the building~s interior.
A minimum of 15 percent of the front, side and rear facades of all
upper floors of office uses shall be transparent via windows and/or
balcony doorways.
A minimum of 10 percent of the front facade of all upper floors of
commercial, rettdl, restaurant and entertainment uses shall be transparent
via windows and/or balcony doorways.
Entries
The main entrance shall always face the prmtary street or street corner
with secondary entrances to the side or rear
The main entrance of commercial, office, and mixed-use facilities
shall be placed at sidewalk grade.
Balconies and Terraces
Upper floor balconies and terraces are encouraged to provide
opportunities fo~ outdoor activities, providing views and enl/vening
the port area.
Balconies fronting publ/c streets may project into the public right of
way/sidewalk zone a maximum of 5 feet. Balcony supports such as
columns or posts are not permitted in the public right of way. Under
no circumstances may balconies project into the travelway.
Effedive use of ground kvel and upper kvd tran¢aren~y.
W/ell defined and accessible em~yrvqs benefit vistors aM business omners.
Terraces and balconies enhancepublic safe~ and enliven the streetscape.
Building Materials
Buildings shall be constructed of authentic, long lasting materials such
as concrete, wood or steel and dad in brick, stone, stucco, and/or
architectural metal. Accent materials may include architectural metal
trim and panels, glass block, pre-cast concrete, splitfface or fractured
concrete block, or similar decorative or unique materials.
EFIS or smcco shall comprise no more than 20 percent of any building
exterior and shall be located a minimum of 3 feet above grade to
prevent discoloration from rain, snow, etc.
Wood or synthetic wood lap siding may be used on residential building
types only, up to a maximum of 20 percent of the first story and 50
percent of the upper stories.
The following bdlding materials and building systems are prohibited:
unadorned or painted standard concrete block
pre-fab "tilt-up" concrete wall panels
vinyl, aluminum or fiberglass panel and lap siding
highly reflective or non-transparent glass
standard, 3-tab, 2701b asphalt shingles
manufactured metal pole-barn type facilities
Architectural Detailing
Architectural detailing is encouraged to enliven building facades,
establish a human-scaled, pedestrian.supportive environment.
Architectural design shall be sensitive to the massing and proportion
of adiacent structures and reflect or compliment the detailing of
surrounding bukldings, such as lintels, cornice lines, balconies and
decorative brick or stone work.
Parking Structures
Parking decks and ramps shall be designed in compliance with these
design standards in order to appear compatible with and similar to
other nonresidential buildings:
The ground floor facade abutting any public street or sidewalk
shall be designed and architecturally detailed to resemble a
commercial/office building.
Where possible, a portion of the ground floor abutting a public
street or sidewalk should include commerdal or office uses.
The design of upper floors shall ensure that sloped floors do not
dominate the appearance of the facade.
Windows or opermags shall be provided that echo those of nearby
buildings and the Design Vocabulary.
D)nestone and face bffck are commonly
used building mate~iah in Dubuque.
Parking structure mith commerdal storefronls.
Accessory Structures / Buildings
Use of an accessory structure or accessory building for new office,
commercial service and residential facilities is prohibited. These
facilities shall include a sufficient amount of storage space for the
suitable storage of such things as refuse, seasonal maintenance
eqmpment, speeiai event equipment, housekeeping supplies, etc.
Use of an accessory strucmre/bnilding for existing facilities is
discouraged.
New free standing restaurants, mixed u§e facilities which include
commercial food service or restaurants over 1,500 gross square feet
may locate their refuse containers in an accessory structure or accessory
building.
The design of the accessory structure shall be in character with the
principal building and constructed of the same quality permanent
materials as the principal bnilding. The accessory structure shall be
located on the same lot and within close proximk7 to the principal
structure. Where such buildings exceed 200 square feet in area, at
least 1/3 of the bullding's exterior perimeter shall be landscaped with
ornamental trees and shrubs.
Franchise Architecture
Maintenance
Franchise architecture (building design that is trademarked or identified All facilities, including vessels, within the Port of Dubuque shall exhibit
with a particular chain or corporation and is generic in nature) is an exceptional standard of care and quality of appearance. To that
prohibited. Franchises or national chains must follow these guidelines end, all properties (buildings, parking lots, landscaping, etc.) shall be
and use the Design Vocabulary to create a unique building that is maintained in excellent repair at ail times including but not limited to:
supportive of the overall urban context being established at the Port
of Dubuque. Exterior materials
Exterior paint
Windows and doors
Awnings and canopies
Roofing systems
Eaves and cornices
Chimneys
Mechanical and electrical sysmms
Exterior walkways
Surface or structured parking facilities
Exterior lighting
Automatic landscape irrigation systems
Trees, shrubs, flowers, lawns and mulch material
Building and site signage
Fences and screening or retaining walls
· ~".~ ' Facilities shall receive regniar maintenance with replacement and
repairs budgeted and scheduled over the life of the facility.
Minor building and site repairs shall be made as soon as reasonably
possible (within maximum of 30 days) after the discovery of a
malfunction, failure or noticeable deterioration.
. Major building and site repairs shall be made as soon as reasonably
possible after the discovery of a malfunction, failure or noticeable
Tjrpical franchise architecture ~ unarceptable, deterioration.
Unhealthy or dead landscape plantings and lawn shall be removed as
soon as reasonably possible (within maximum of 7 days) and replaced
with suitable new plant materials at the earliest practical time (within
maramum of 9 months) based on the appropriate season.
Compatabk accessory siructure. Acceptabk franchise design uiilixineg
contextual, community ¢edfic architecture.
I!1. PUBLIC R£ALM
Sidewalks and Walkways
Pedestrian accessibilitT and continuity shall be provided throughout
the area.
Continuous sidewalks a minimum of 5 feet wide shall be provided
along all pubhc street frontages.
Clearly defined and lighted pedestrian walkways shall extend oerween
parking areas and all building entrances.
Sidewalk Landscaping
Street trees shall be planted within a landscaped boulevard or in tree
pits within the sidewalk area according to City standards. Street trees
shall be spaced between 30 and 40 feet apart.
Street trees planted within the sidewalk area shall be planted using the
latest, most advanced horticultural techniques such as "CU Structural
Soil," drip irrigauon, etc.
Where buildings front the sidewalk (such as commercial, office and
mixed use facilities) planter pots, planter boxes or hanging planter
baskets shall be included and integrated into the buildings' design ro
provide seasonal color and enhance the pedestrian experience.
Where present, all front yard areas shall be landscaped with trees,
shrubs, ground cover, and turf grass.
Sidewalks on Parkways
Public sidewalks on parkways shall be a minimum of 8 feet wide, and
constructed of integrally colored concrete, scored in an alternating
band and panel arrangement and textured with both a smooth and
medium broom finish. Joints shall be troweled not saw cut.
Sidewalks on Local Streets
Public sidewalks on local streets shall be a minimum of 5 feet wide
and constructed of concrete a minimum of 4 inches thick over a 4
inch deep compacted aggregate base. The surface shall consist of
broom £mish center field surrounded by smooth steel-troweled edge
bands. Joints shall be troweled not saw cut.
Walkways
Walkways in parking areas, around buildings or on private properties
shall be a minimum of 4 feet wide and constructed of either colored
concrete or brick pavers. Bitunainous wallovays are prohibited,
Accessibility and Curb Ramps
All sidewalks and walkways shall meet the Americans with Disab/lities
Act (ADA) standards for accessibility.
Where curb ramps are provided, the3, shall comply with City standards
and shall direct pedestrian flow in a continuous manner. They shall
be constructed of integrally colored concrete, scored in a one foot
square grid pattern and textured in a stiff broom finish.
5' 51P WA!.K-
8' 51P W, ALK
Expanded full corner curb ramp Jbr use at high pedesMan traffic areas.
11.
Streetscape Furnishings
Publ/c rights-of-ways within the Port of Dubuque will be designed
to provide visitors (~edestrians, bicyclists and motorists) with a safe,
converfienr, comfortable and attractive environment to circulate
through and inhabit The public streetscape w/ll serve as an outdoor
room where social discourse and exploration combine with vehicular
accessibility and mobility. To that end, a family of attractive, durable,
benches, litter receptacles, bike racks, dkectory kiosks, and light f~xtures
are proposed to be located along the streets, parking areas and parks
and plazas. (see appendix for product deaifitions)
Public Art
The use of public art to enliven and enrich the public and sem/-public
realm is encouraged. Consideration should be given during the site
planning and project review phases to incorporate works of public
art into the overall design of a particular development project.
Proposed public art works shall be subject to the same review and
approval procedures as described herein.
Outdoor Cafe Tqbk and Chair
Painted Metal W/oven Seat Bench
LiiterRecep~¢al 1
ArXist Carved Granite Bench
Artist Cast Utility Cover
Parking Lot Lighting
Painted Metal Bench
IVood Bench
La'lter Recep tical 2
12.
Bike Parking
Bike loops for parking at least 3 bicycles shall be provided within 20
feet of the main entry of commercial, mixedmse and public build/ngs.
31PE:DIRECTBURYIN CONCRETE
~CONC.SIDEWALK
COMPACTED SUB GI:~,D E
Painted bike loops
Sidewalk Lighting
Public sidewalks and private walkways shall be l/luminated with
pedestrian scale light fixtures (12 feet tall). Illumination shall be
provided by metal hal/de lamps arranged to produce a fakly even
distribution of light at levels of approximately one footcandle.
See appendix for light fixture i~rma~ion,
Parking Lot Lighting
All surface parking lots shall be provided with even illumination to
a minimum of three and a maximum of five footcandles.
Illumination shall be accomplished with a combination of commerdal
grade parking lot and pedestrian st34e fmmres. Pedestrian fixtures shall
be used for lighting internal parking lot walkways while parking lot
£zxtures shall be employed to ~uminate parking bays and drive aisles.
The commercial grade parking lot fixtures shall be comprised of
circular "hat-box" or "hockey puck" st34e lumina[res in either single
or double sets, attached to 24 feet tall, tapered metal poles by horizontal
arms. Fixtures shall util/ze metal halide lamps. Light poles located
within parking bays shall be mounted on 2 foot high, limestone
patterned, integrally colored concrete bases.
£ingle globe street and ~valk~vay ligh~
Doubk luminaire "hatbox"parking lot
light on limestone fia#erned concrete base.
13.
Parking Lot Landscaping
A landscaped buffer strip at least 7 feet wide shall be provided between
all surface parking areas and the sidewalk or street. The buffer strip
shall consist of shade trees, low shrubs and/or perennial flowers (3
feet in height max.), and a decorative metal fence no more than 4 feet
kigh supported between decorative masonry columns. Landscaped
earth berms are not permitted and sh~ not substitute for the landscape
screening described above. Use of bio-filtration methods of landscape
and drainage design are encouraged.*
A landscape buffer at least 7 feet wide shall be provided along the
rear and sides of all surface parking lots. This area shall be planted
with shade trees, coniferous trees, and a continuous 4 foot tall shrub
border or hedge of deciduous and/or evergreen shrubs.
Parking bays in excess of eleven spaces in length shall be divided by
intermediate landscape islands. Landscape islands shall provide at
least one parking stall width of landscape area (9 x 18 or 9 x 36 feet
for single or double bay 90 degree parking). A minimum of one shade
tree or two ornamental trees, low shrubs and/or perennial flowers
shall be planted in each intermediate planting island.
Double parking bays shall terminate with planting areas of a minknum
of a double parking space of landscape area and shall be planted with
a mmmaum of two shade trees, shrubs and/or perennial flowers.
All new parking lot landscaping shall comply with City standards, be
mulched to a depth of 4 inches with a high qualit3; freely shredded
hardwood mulch and shall be watered by an automauc, underground
irngarion system.
Surface Parking
Off-street parking lots shall be designed and constructed utilizing dvil
engineering "best practices." At a minimum, surface lots shall be
paved with asphaltic concrete over a compacted aggregate base with
edges and planting islands defined by concrete curb and gutter and
parking spaces de£med with painted striping. Parking on gravel, dirt
or unreinforced turf is prohibked.
Off-street parking shall be located to the rear and/or side of buildings.
Front-yard parking ~s permissible oniy along a maximum of 20 percent
of the total site frontage.
When parking or parking access must be located in the front yard, a
landscaped buffer shall be provided (see "Parking Lot Landscaping").
Examples of mell landscapedparking areas.
~ (',~ee appendi,5;') SUPPORTEO BY MASONRY
Off-Street ,Parking Requirements
The intent of this section is provide flexibility in the determination
of the number of off-street parking space required ro meet the
rninimum needs of each proposed building or use while taking toro
account the efficiencies inherent in the differing peak demand
requrrements of these uses and the overall sharing of parking facilities
between uses. Furthermore it shall be understood that there are
existing shared parking agreements in place which may require amending
in order to accommodate and facilkate the addition of new buildings
and uses.
The number of off-street parking spaces required for each building
or use shall be determined through the design review process for each
individual project.
Refuse
Outdoor placement of free standing dumpsters or refuse containers
is prohibited. Refuse shall be securely stored and enclosed as part of
the principal structure, and contained and disposed of in accordance
with applicable state, county and city health, safety and environmental
codes. Use of sealed compactors is encouraged.
Where food service/restaurant kitchen refuse storage is not
accommodated as parr of the principal building, refuse storage is
permissible in an accessory storage enclosure See Accessory
Structures/Buildings)
BUFFER STRIP
LANDSCAPED ISLAND
18'X9' (162 FT2 MIN, TYF.
LANDSCAPED ISLAND
3B'Xg' 1324 FT2 MIN. T'? p. }
Decoralive fence be~veen public sidewalk andparkh~g. Example of a&quate parking lol landsape layout
14.
Fences and Screen Walls
All fencing and screen walls shall be designed to incorporate intermediate
structural components in order to avoid a front and back side. Fencing
and screen walls shall be attractive from all views.
Residential Uses
Fencing placed in front yard areas between the sidewalk and the
building shall be up to 42 inches in height. The following materials
are acceptable in front yard locations:
Painted architectural metals, including heavy gauge metal mesh
in a square or rectangular configuration, with a painted metal frame.
Fendng may be mounted on decoranve masonry wall of brick,
stone, or architectural precast concrete units. Total height of wall
and fence shall not exceed 42 inches. Masonry walls shal/be of
durable, permanent construction. Dry-laid or stacked construction
is not permissible.
Unacceptable materials for front yard residential include:
Wood fencing of any kind.
Chain link fencing.
Fiberglass or plastic pickets or panels.
Rear or side yard areas may have privacy fencing up to 6 feet m
height.
Acceptable materials for rear and side yard residential include:
Solid wood board panels of rot-proof ltmaber such as cedar, teak,
or treated pine. Decorative wood lattice may occupy the top
portion of the fence up to a maximum of .18 inches.
Painted wood or plastic picket fencing.
Any of the acceptable front yard fence and/or wall materials.
Unacceptable materials for rear and side yard residential include:
Chain link fencing
Fiberglass or plastic panels
Plywood or chip board panels
Corrugated or sheet metal panels
Office and Commercial Uses
Decorative fencing for office and :ommercial uses m areas facing the
primary street, such as entry court3,ards or outdoor searing areas, may
be located between the building and the sidewalk.
Fencing in these areas shall be limited to the following:
Painted architectural metals, including heavy gauge metal mesh
in a square or rectangular configuration, with a painted steel frame.
Fencing may be mounted on decorative masonry wall of brick,
stone, or architectural precast concrete units. Total height of wall
and fence shall not exceed 42 inches. Masonry walls shall be of
durable, permanent construction. Dry-laid or stacked construction
is not permissible.
Unacceptable materials for front areas of office and commercial
include:
Wood fencing of any kind.
Chain link fencing.
Fiberglass or plastic pickets or panels.
Corrugated or sheet metal panels.
Commercial or oflce findng exampks.
Residenfial fendneg example~.
Pre-Development Temporary Fencing
Existing uses that require screening for outdoor storage and mechanical
equipment shall be a minimum of 8 feet in height, with a maximum
height of 10 feet. Acceptable materials include:
Solid wood panels - painted or stained and sealed
Fabric
Unacceptable materials for temporary screening include:
Chain link fence
Fiberglass or plastic panels
Corrugated or sheet metal panels.
See Parking Lot Landscapingfor fendng in parking lot areas.
Outdoor Storage
Outdoor storage of any kind including vehicles, raw materials, etc. is
prohibited. Seasonal equipment, supplies, etc. shal/be either stored
within each facillt3, or within a permanent accessory structure. (See
Accessory Structures/Buildings)
Outdoor Audio
Music, public address announcements and other forms of outdoor
audio are discouraged. Sound shall be contained within the site
boundaries. Outdoor music or other forms of outdoor audio associated
with special events shall be controlled by the City's regulations for
special events.
Newspaper Boxes
Newspaper dispensing units shall be clustered in small groups
(2 or 3) and be ground mounted, not chained or strapped to other
streetscape elements.
Vending Machines
Outdoor placement of vending machines including but not limited
to beverages and snacks is prohibited. Vending machines shall be
located indoors,
Signs
Building and vessel signs should be arch/tecturally compatible with
the style, composition, materials, colors and details of the building or
vessel. Signs should be an integral part of the building and site design.
A comprehensive sign program should be developed for buildings
or vessels which house more than one business. Signs should be
compatible with one another. No more than two t3~pes of signs should
be used on a single building facade or vessel (i.e. wall signs, projecting
signs, awning signs).
Sign Location: Wall s~gns on commercial or mixed-use storefront-
t3q?e buildings should be placed w/thin a "sign band" immediately
above the storefront display windows or enu3rway. Wall signs on other
building types should be placed where they do not obscure architectural
features.
Sign Materials: Sign materials should be consistent or compatible
with the construction materials and architectural style of the building
facade on wl-rich they are to be displayed. Neon signs are permissible
for display windows.
Sign Illuminauon: Both internal and external ~llumination of signs,
except for awnings, is permissible.
The following s~gn t3~es are prohibited:
Pole or pylon signs
Billboards
Internaily illuminated awmngs
Flashing and roradng signs
Portable signs
Search I/ghts
Audible or musical s~gns
Roof Signs
The following sign types are permissible:
Non-illuminated awning s~gns
Canopy or marquee signs
Wall signs
Projecnng signs
Window signs
Freestanding ground/monument signs
Freestanding non-flashing, electronic information or
message signs*
* (Limited lopublic and institutional uses such as a convention center or museum)
ProjectLng Signs:
Maximum dimensions for projecting signs: 9 square feet, with a
clearance of at least 8 feet from ground level, prolecting no more
than 3 feet from the side of the building.
Window Signs:
Window signs should cover no more than 10 percent of the
window area.
Directional Signs:
Dkectional signs shall be limited to 6 SF per sign and allowed as
needed subject to overall the review and approval of a
comprehensive sign plan.
coordinated tva//and awning sxgns.
16,
Freestanding ground/monument signs:
Freestanding ground/monument signs shall be limited to use by
commercial and institutional establishments such as hotels, restaurants,
gas stauons, museums, ere. Sign design materials, colors and detailing
should be similar to those of the principal building.
Maximum dimensions for ground/monument signs: 19 feet high by
7 feet wide by 5 feet deep.
Maximum sign message any one side: 95 SF
Maximum total sign message area all sides: 250 SF
Electronic Message Signs:
Maximum of 1 sign per facility.
Maximum sign size: 75 SF
Wall Signs:
Maximum dimensions for commercial / retail wall signs: 2 feet high,
50 SF of sign message per use/occupant.
Wall signs shall be limited to no more than 3 colones. Where multiple
messages such as a series of occupant names are displayed on a
sign band that extends across the building, the text should be one
CO1OL
Restaurant, nightclub or entertainment facility wall signs:
Maximum of 2 wall signs per use, on sepazate walls
Maximum total s~gn area per use: 100 SF
Maximuna total sign area per building, all uses: 400 SF
Hotel, gaming and institutional or pubhc building wall signs:
Maximum of 2 wall signs, per use on separate walls
Maximum sign size: 250 SF
Maximum total sign area for all wall signs: 500 SF
Cinema and theater signs:
Marquee sign: maximum 3 sides, maximum 300 SF of changeable
information area plus 150 SF of identity signage
Maximum of 2 wall signs, on separate walls
Maximum size of wall sign: 32 SF
Maximum total sign area for all wall signs (not including
marquee sign): '64 SF
Vessel signs:
Maximum area based on 50% of vessel length
(100 foot length = 50 SF maximum per s~gn)
Maximum of 2 signs (not including official Coast
Guard required vessel name display)
17.
GLOSSARY
Accessory Building:
A subordinate building, located on the same lot as the main building,
or a portion of the main building, the use of which is clearly
incidental to and customarily found in connecuon with the mare
building or principal use of the land.
Arbor:
A rooftop or garden structure which provides shade.
Arcade:
A roofed passageway, usually with shops on one or.both sides.
Building Frontage:
The front facade of a building, typically abutting the sidewalk.
Cornice:
Any prolecting ornamental moulding along the top of a building
Eaves:
The underpart of a sloping roof overhanging a wall.
EFIS (Exterior Finish Insulation System):
A coating of cementidous, stucco-like material over rigid insulation.
Entertainment Facility:
A business engaged in the provision of legal activities or
performances for the enjoyment.
Franchise Architecture:
Building design that is trademarked or identified with a particular
chain or corporation and is generic in nature.
Infiil Building:
A new building sited within an established neighborhood, often
between two exisung buildings.
New Building:
In addition m actual new buildings, the term "new building" shall
include any expansion of an erasting building that equals or exceeds
50 percent of the original building's floor area and shall also include
buildings which are the subject of substantial material and
comprehensive renovation.
Parapet:
A low, decorative wall or rafting along the edge of a roof
Gable Roofi
A pitched roof with a central ridge hne and vertical wall ends.
Gambrel Roofi
A roof with a double pitch terminating in a small gable at the ridge
Hip Root
A pitched roof with sloped instead of vertical ends.
Mansard Roof.'
A pitched roof having a double slope, the lower pkch being longer
and steeper than the upper.
Office / Showroom:
A product display or showroom facility with two prLmary uses:
office and showroom/display space. Storage, light assembly or
shipping and receiving may occupy no more than 20% and office
use may occupy no more than 75% of the facility's gross floor
area.
Primary Facade:
The facade fronting a public street. In the case of corner buildings,
the primary facade fronts the highest classification of street.
1) Any exterior remodeling and/or site alteration of 25% or more
of any existing vessel, commerdal, office, multi- family or institutional
building or structure; or 2) any exmrior remodeling that dearly
alters the appearance of such a building or structure, including
change in exterior paint color or material; or 3) any mmrior
remodeling/renovation of 50% or more of existing vessel deck
or building floor area.
Service Commercial:
Commercial uses that are primarily oriented to service rather than
retail sales, such as barbers, photocopying, photo development,
dry cleaners, shoe repair, etc.
Sidewalk Line:
The outer edge of the sidewalk, where the front facade of a
storefront building is typically located.
Storefront Building:
A commercial building located at the sidewalk line, with display
windows and principal entry on the ground floor facing the sidewalk.
Storefront bugdings typically include traditional elements such as
a sign band above the storefront, a transom, a recessed entry and
a kickplate as a base m the storefront.
Streetscape:
The public right of way, from building face to bulldMg face,
occupied by the street, boulevard, sidewalk and pedestrian amehides
such as lighting, benches, bike racks, etc.
Urban
Context
Building
Massing &
Proportion
t' il
MaterialSl :~
& C olo:': ~'
Buildi
Oraam
& Deta
Design Vocabulary
Entries
Windows
Building
Signs ~; .~-.,-
Awnin
Site Si
Design Vocabulary
Street &
Sidewalk
Streetscape
Elements
Streetscape
Element's,
Transit
facilitie
Design
Vocabulary
Parking
Design Vocabulary
Sp'
Open a
Parking
Open
CONCEPTUAL SECTION / ELEVATION OF VEGETATIVE SWALE FOR PARKING AREAS
URBAN TOI .F, RANT SHADE
TREES
NATIVE GRASSES, SEDGES
& WILDFLOWERS
COLORED CONCRETE--~
EDGE, 3' WIDTH
DIRECTION OF
SURFACE DRAINAGE
MIN. 2' WELL DRAINED,
COURSE PLANTING SOIL
12" SAND BED*
FILTER FABRIC
8" PEA GRAVEL LAYER*
CORRUGATED-
PERFORATED
DRAINTILE
TO STORM SEWER
~ All Dimensions are approximate,
final design shall be based on design
storm evens and existing subsurface
soil characteristics
/
/ /
/
/ /
/
/
/
/
BUTTERFLY WEED
LIATRUS
MARSHALL SEEDLESS ASH
INDIAN GRASS
BLACKEYED SUSAN
SWALE CONSTRUCTION
VEGETATIVE SWALE
VEGETATIVE SWALE
APPENDIX
Bibliographies
Bart Engineeting Company. 2001. Minnesota Urban Small Sites
BMP Manual; Stormwater best management practices for cold
climates. Metropolitan Council Environmental Services. Available
from the Metropolitan Council at 651-602-1000 or
www. metrocouncil.org.
Claytor, Richard A. and Thomas R. Schueler. 1996. Design of
Stormwater Filtering Systems. Chesapeake Research Consortium.
Available from The Center for Watershed Protection at 410-461-
8323
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. 2000. Protecting Water
Quality in Urban Areas; Best management practices for dealing with
storm water runoff from urban, suburban and developing areas in
Minnesota. /Wmnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Available from the MPCA contact Mary Osborn at 651-296~7523
Recommended Plant List
Trees
Autumn Blaze Maple
River Birch
Hackberry
Marshall Seedless Ash
Acer x freemanii ~Jeffers Red'
Betula nigra
Celfis occidentalis
Fraxinus pennsylvanica 'Marshall's Seedless'
Shrubs
Black Chokeberry*
Isanti Dogwood*
Smooth Wild Rose
Meadowsweet
Western Snowberry
Aronia melanocarpa
Comus sericea 'Isanti'
Rosa blanda
Spiraea alba
Symphoricarpos occidentalis
Grasses
Bebb's Sedge
Fox Sedge
Soft Rush
Torrey Rush
Litde Bluestem
Prairie Dropseed
Carex bebbii.
Carex vulpinoidea
Juncus effusus
Juncus torreyi
Schizachynum scoparium
Sporobotus heterolepis
Flowers
Yarrow
Marsh Milkweed
Alert Red Aster
New England Aster '~
Joe Pye Weed =
Meadow Blazing Star
Great Blue Lobelia
Bee Balm
Obedient Plant
Black Eyed Susan
Spiderwort
Culver's Root*
Golden Alexanders
Achillea 'Moonshine'
Asclepias incarnata
Aster novi-belgii 'Alert'
Aster novae~angliae
Eupatotium maculatum
Liatris ligulistylis
Lobelia siphilitica
Monarda didyma 'Marshalls Delight'
Physostegia virginiana
Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm'
Tradescanfia ohiensis
Veronicastrum virginicum
Zizia aurea
"Plants that should be reserved for buffer and screening areas
because they grow over 3 feet in height and may inhibit surveillance.
Streetscape Furnishings List
The following products are preapproved by the City for use at the
Port of Dubuque; however, it shall be understood that the items
listed are all subject to an "or equal" review process. Product
substitutions of equal design, quality and performance are permissable
per the review and approval of the City.
Cafe Table: "Steelhead" 36" table top with "Catena" surface mount
base, Grotto powdercoat, Landscape Forms, Kalamazoo MI Phone:
800-521-2546
Cafe Chair: "Verona" without armrests, Grotto powdercoat,
Landscape Forms, Kalamazoo, MI, Phone: 800-521-2546
Painted Metal Woven Seat Bench: "Scarborough Backed Bench"
72" long, Grotto powdercoat, Landscape Forms, Kalamazoo, MI
Phone: 800-521-2546
Litter Receptacle 1: "Scarborough" receptacle, side opening,
Grotto powdercoat, Landscape Forms, Kalamazoo, MI
Phone: 800-521-2546
Artist carved granite bench example: Stanton Sears for the City of
Minneapolis, Nicollete Mall Renovation
Artist cast iron utility cover example: Kate Burke for the City of
Minneapolis, Nicollete Mall Renovadon
Parking Lot Light Fixture: "Form Ten" round, arm mounted
luminaire by Gradco, CA 22" Style with 250 watt Metal Halide lamB
single or double head on a straight 4" round steel 25' pole, powdercoat
RAL 9017 (black) smooth gloss £mish.
Painted Metal Bench: "Hyde Park" model# HP3005-BS~75, metal
rod seat, Grotto powdercoat, Landscape Forms, Kalamazoo
MI,Phone:; 800~521-2546
Wood Bench:"Givemey" bench 6' model #U5547 by Smith and
Hawken Novato, CA, Phone:800-423-0117
Litter Receptacle 2: "Presidio, top-opening" Grotto powdercoat,
Landscape Forms, Kalamazoo MI, Phone: 800-521-2546
Street and Walkway Light: "Lumec" single acorn globe minimum
100 wat~ Metal Halide lamp on traditional I2 foot tapered steel
pole,
Powdercoat RAL 9017 (black) smooth gloss finish, model
# L52 L/vIS 13004A
APPENDIX