Division 10-24.3.4 — SPECIFIC TO CIVIC SPACES

This Division sets forth the standards to provide a diverse palette of parks and other publicly accessible civic spaces that are publicly or privately owned throughout the Code Area. These standards supplement the standards for each zone in which the civic spaces are allowed and are intended to complement development and reinforce the character and scale of Mission Boulevard and the adjacent walkable neighborhoods. Civic space is a public benefit intended for use by the general community, and is distinct from private or common usable open space typically required as part of a residential project.

This Division applies to any project where civic space is required, including Section 10-24.3.6.030(E), and is not exclusive to the MB-CS Zone.

A.

Table A (Civic Space Type Overview) provides an overview of the allowed civic space types in the Mission Boulevard Corridor Zones.

B.

The civic spaces specified in Table A (Civic Space Type Overview) are allowed as follows:

1.

Allowed by Review. Allowed if in compliance with the standards of this Division and if approved as part of Site Plan Review or Major Site Plan Review, or with an Administrative Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit.

2.

Not Allowed. Civic Space Types not allowed in the zone.

(Amended by Ordinance 24-01, adopted Jan. 23, 2024)

A.

Minimum Dimensions. Minimum dimension of 25 feet by 25 feet.

B.

Building Frontage. Buildings on lots adjacent to or across a thoroughfare from a civic space must be oriented to have the building facade face the civic space.

C.

Public Access. Public access and visibility from a public street and from on-site areas normally frequented by nearby uses, must be maintained.

D.

Accessory Structure Standards. Accessory structures within civic spaces, including, but not limited to, restrooms, open-air pavilions, gazebos, picnic shelters, and outdoor theaters, are subject to the standards of the applicable zone in Division 10-24.2.2 (Mission Boulevard Corridor Zones).

E.

General Characteristics. The placement of objects within the civic space.

Natural. Civic spaces with natural character must be designed in a natural manner with no formal arrangement of elements.

2.

Formal. Civic spaces with a formal character must be designed in a more rigid layout that follows geometric forms and has trees and other elements arranged in formal patterns.

3.

Informal. Civic spaces with an informal character must be designed to have a mix of formal and natural characteristics.

F.

Design Criteria. An area used for civic space must comply with the following:

1.

Unless the land includes sensitive natural resources, a civic space area must be readily accessible and usable.

2.

The area may be developed using any practical combination of high quality plant and hardscape materials such as bricks, stone, concrete, permeable paving, or tile.

3.

The surface of the civic space must be suitable for outdoor activities, such as a lawn or paving for designated activities.

4.

Seating areas and plazas should be located in areas with good solar exposure and wind protection.

5.

Civic space shall include benches or other seating. Amenities shall be included that enhance the comfort, aesthetics, or usability of the space, including but not limited to trees and other landscaping, shade structures, drinking fountains, water features, public art, trash receptacles, information kiosks, or performance areas.

(Amended by Ordinance 24-01, adopted Jan. 23, 2024)

Note: Images on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

A. Description Linear space for community gathering and strolling for nearby residents and employees, defined by tree-lined streets forming a one-way couplet on its flanks and by the fronting buildings across the street. Greenways can serve an important role as a green connector between destinations. Appropriate elements include community facility < 5,000 gsf., fountains, and benches. B. General Character Formal or informal Hardscape or natural path Spatially defined by tree-lined streets and adjacent buildings C. Size and Location Must front at least one street D. Typical Uses Passive recreation General Walking/Running Formal or informal seating

Note: Images on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

A. Description Open space available for unstructured and limited amounts of structured recreation. Appropriate elements include community facility <5,000 gsf., fountains, and benches. B. General Character Informal or formal Primarily planted areas with paths to and between recreation areas Spatially defined by landscaping, tree-lined streets, and adjacent buildings C. Size and Location ½ acre, min. D. Typical Uses Unstructured passive and active recreation Civic uses General Temporary commercial uses

Note: Images on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

A. Description Neighborhood focal point available for civic purposes, commercial activity, and passive uses. Appropriate elements include kiosk, pergola, community facility < 5,000 gsf., fountains, and benches. B. General Character Formal Combination of hardscape and planted areas in formal patterns Spatially defined by tree-lined streets and adjacent buildings Walkways and plantings at all edges, shaded seating areas C. Size and Location ½ acre min., 5 acre max. D. Typical Uses Unstructured or structured recreation Commercial and civic uses General Casual seating and/or outdoor dining

10-24.3.4.090 - PLAYGROUND