I n t e g r a t e d C o m m u n i t y S u s t a i n a b i l i t y P l a n

A u g u s t 2 0 1 1

C o r p u s C h r i s t i

M a s t e r I m p l e m e n t a t i o n M a t r i x

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents 01020608091315182124262830

Introduction

General Recommendations

Data Collection Recommendations

Destination Nodes Plan Overview

01 Downtown/Uptown

02 Annaville

03 Morgan Avenue/Baldwin Boulevard

04 Six Points

05 Bear Lane

06 Weber Road/Saratoga Boulevard

07 Sunrise Mall

08 Flour Bluff

09 The Island

Introduction In April of 2010, the City of Corpus Christi received $2.7M in direct allocation Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds from the Department of Energy (DOE) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The largest of the nine projects funded by the EECBG grant was the creation of an Integrated Community En-ergy Efficiency/Sustainability Plan and Implementation Program.

This Implementation Matrix, developed as part of that planning effort, is essentially a stepwise recipe for real-izing a more livable and sustainable community. The rec-ommendations herein range from no-cost, community-based activities to large capital improvement projects. In all cases, each line item constitutes an individual action item and includes, where possible, a suggested lead entity for administering the action, potential teaming partners, and relative priority.

**The project planning team, working closely with City staff members from several departments, identified twelve broad categories, or Elements, of a complete community; these Elements provide the framework for the integrated community plan-ning work that yielded the recommendations in this Implementation Matrix . These Elements range in scope and type from essential, quantifiable municipal services such as Energy, Water, and Waste to issues that pertain more to quality of life, such as Knowledge and Culture.

These action items—referred to here as Strategies—are organized by geography, where those found in the General Recommendations section refer to the broader community, and those listed in each of the nine Destina-tion Node sections refer to opportunities at those particu-lar locations.

In addition to organization by Geography, individual strat-egies are also categorized by Element** and by Activity Category. In the digital form of the Implementation Ma-trix that resides on the Integrated Community Sustainabil-ity Plan website (http://www.cctexas.com/sustainability), individual strategies can be sorted and searched by any of these three modes. For example, with a few clicks of a mouse, users can view all recommended strategies that involve planning/policy action items relating to the Ele-ment MOBILITY within the Downtown/Uptown Destina-tion Node.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The strategies recommended in this section of the Implementation Matrix address a wide range of objectives that apply to the broader community and are not location-specific.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Expedite implementation of Integrated Community Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Program

Create dedicated position for a Community Sustainability Coordinator who reports directly to City Manager (or an AssistantCity Manager)

Staffing All City Manager Corpus Christi Economic Development Corporation

High

2 Promote traditional neighborhood development (TND)

Develop and implement a Traditional Neighborhood Development Overlay District Ordinance that creates incentives for largedevelopments (e.g. ~ over 40 acres) to include features such as interconnected street grids, a mix of housing types, multi-usepublic spaces, and sidewalks or trails to provide pedestrian connections.

Planning/Policy Energy; Mobility; Economy

Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association; Bay Area Smart Growth Initiative

High

Encourage the development of alley-fed neighborhoods Planning/Policy Energy; Mobility; Economy

Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association

High

Use the existing Del Mar neighborhood as a reference for revising development codes for residential zones Planning/Policy Energy; Mobility; Economy

Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium

3 Promote the construction of healthier, less resource-intensive, buildings

Establish a supplemental green building standard (e.g. Energy Star, EarthCraft, LEED) as an overlay for new constructionwithin Destination Nodes (Target Areas) and create incentives for adoption (e.g. fast track permitting)

Planning/Policy Buildings; Energy

Development Services US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter

High

Provide incentives to residential and commercial building owners to incorporate a full range of energy-conservingtechnologies (e.g. high efficiency windows, solar screens, radiant barriers, super insulation, high albedo roofing material, highperformance lighting) into new construction and retrofits, including the use of renewable systems (e.g. solar, wind,geothermal)

Planning/Policy Buildings; Energy

Development Services US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter; AEP Texas; Corpus Christi Builders Association

High

Encourage homeowners, property owners, business owners and developers (through education) to optimize new construction for applicable renewable energy systems and technologies (e.g. by orienting new construction along north/south axis and design homes to be solar-ready)

Buildings/Facilities Buildings; Energy

Development Services AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society; Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium

Revise section 301.3 of the City's plumbing code to allow (incentivize) reuse of AC condensate for non-potable uses(particularly irrigation)

Planning/Policy Water Development Services US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter

Medium

Revise the City's plumbing code to require the installation of pressure reducing valves in the City's high pressure distributionzones

Planning/Policy Water Development Services US Green Building Council, Central Texas Chapter; Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium

Revise the City's building codes to incentivize (e.g. by providing free fast track permitting) the installation of rainwaterharvesting systems on both new and retrofit construction; consider using the City of Austin's codes and the Texas RainwaterHarvesting Manual as a reference

Planning/Policy Water Development Services Texas Rainwater Catchment Association; Corpus Christi Builders Association

High

Revise the City's building codes to require the use of rain sensors and/or evapotranspiration controllers on irrigation systems;consider pursuing grant funds to support the bulk purchase of this hardware for distribution to water customers at a reduced(subsidized) cost

Planning/Policy Water Development Services; Water

Texas Turf Irrigation Association

Medium

Revise the City's building codes to incentivize (e.g. by providing free fast track permitting) the use of drip irrigation systems Planning/Policy Water Development Services; Water

Texas Turf Irrigation Association

Low

Pursue supplemental funds to support continuation of the High Efficiency Toilet Distribution Program Community-based Action Water Water TBD High

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

When establishing an independent funding mechanism for the stormwater management program (e.g. a stormwater utility),consider assessing fees on the basis of EFFECTIVE on-site impervious cover (i.e. the volume of runoff leaving the site forthe target design storm, as demonstrated through engineering calculations) in order to create an incentive for property ownersto lessen their annual fee burden by installing on-site retention- and/or infiltration-based BMPs to reduce the amount of runoffleaving their site

Planning/Policy Water Stormwater Management; Water

TBD High

4 Initiate long-range regional climate adaptation/sea level rise response and greenhouse gas management planning

Lead an effort to coordinate other municipalities/counties in region by establishing a Coastal Bend Climate AdaptationConsortium to facilitate coordination of planning/policy and the sharing of resources; develop a Climate Adaptation Plan thatincludes both mitigation and adaptations strategies; key steps in plan development include: 1) gathering and reviewingclimate data and assessing projected regional impacts, 2) Assembling a climate preparedness team of technical experts andregional decision makers, 3) Assessing the risks to and resiliency of key community elements, 4) Setting preparedness goalsand developing a plan to achieve them, including defining intermediary objectives, metrics of success, and prioritypreparedness actions, 5) Devoting sufficient resources to implementation of the plan (identifying and pursuing supplementalfunding as opportunities arise), 6) Measuring progress regularly by tracking key metrics and updating the plan on an iterativebasis

Planning/Policy Health/Safety/Wellness; Economy

City Manager; Community Development

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Coastal Service Center; Other municipalities and counties in the region

High

Develop a Greenhouse Gas Management Plan for the City of Corpus Christi; key steps include: 1) Conducting a baselineinventory of GHG emissions by sector, 2) Establishing an interdisciplinary GHG Management Team, 3) Establishingemissions targets by sector using benchmarks from other communities, 4) Identifying, prioritizing, and implementing actionitems for the highest-emitting sectors (e.g. transportation, energy, waste, water, land use), 5) Devoting sufficient resources toimplementation of the GHG Management Plan (identifying and pursuing supplemental funding as opportunities arise), 6)Measuring progress regularly by tracking key metrics and updating the plan on an iterative basis

Planning/Policy Health/Safety/Wellness; Economy

City Manager Other municipalities and counties in the region

High

Create permanent budget line item and identify and pursue external funds to support implementation of: 1) the ClimateAdaptation Plan developed by the proposed Coastal Bend Climate Adaptation Consortium and 2) the City of Corpus ChristiGreenhouse Gas Management Plan

Planning/Policy Health/Safety/Wellness; Economy

City Manager Other municipalities and counties in the region

High

5 Support, enhance, and further develop the local food production and distribution system

Conduct a land audit to identify potential locations for conversion to community gardens (e.g. City-owned parks, open space,and floodplains)

Planning/Policy Food Parks and Recreation TBD Medium

Convert under-utilized City-owned parks, open space, and floodplains to neighborhood community gardens Planning/Policy Food Parks and Recreation TBD High

Partner with local Master Gardeners clubs to provide instructional opportunities to promote community participation Community-based Activity Food Parks and Recreation Local Master Gardeners clubs Medium

Revise zoning/land use classification so as to explicitly define urban agriculture as a designated, permitted use as-of-right inany residential zone as well as within any zoning district under specific conditions

Planning/Policy Food Development Services TBD High

Work with local institutions (e.g. hospitals, government agencies, schools, etc.) to establish markets for locally grownproduce

Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity

Food; Economy

TBD Chamber of Commerce; Economic Development Corporation

Medium

Work with Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation to determine interest from local restaurants,stores and groceries to work with local farmers, community gardeners

Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity

Food; Economy

TBD Chamber of Commerce; Economic Development Corporation

Low

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

6 Enhance data collection to facilitate goal setting and assessment

Designate oversight and coordination of key community data as an explicit responsibility of the proposed CommunitySustainability Coordinator

Data Collection Economy City Manager TBD Medium

Provide the Community Sustainability Coordinator with: 1) the financial and technical resources necessary to develop a long-term data collection plan that defines protocols and responsibilities for addressing the data collection gaps identified underData Collection Recommendations in this document and 2) the institutional support to delegate specific data collectionresponsibilities to staff in the appropriate departments

Data Collection Economy City Manager TBD Medium

Institute a rigorous, periodic process, to be managed by the Community Sustainability Coordinator, to assess progress relativeto priority City goals and objectives

Planning/Policy Economy City Manager TBD High

7 Promote City-wide bike connectivity

As opportunities to plan/construct new storm water conveyance infrastructure arise, include provision for a multi-use(potentially unpaved) trail (8' minimum width) within the easement

Construction Recreation Parks and Recreation; Stormwater

South Texas Area Runners, Riders, and Swimmers (STARRS); Local cycling clubs, shops, or enthusiasts

High

Coordinate with AEP Texas about opportunities to designate multi-use trail segments within power line easements Planning/Policy Recreation Parks and Recreation AEP Texas High

Adopt the recommendations and standards included in the Hike/Bike Trails Concept Plan*Planning/Policy Recreation;

MobilityParks and Recreation TBD High

*Delivered under separate cover

8 Increase operational efficiency of the City's water and wastewater systems

Implement the recommendations defined in the 2011 Strategic Implementation Plan for Energy Efficient Improvements toWater and Wastewater Facilities in prioritizing capital improvements and in optimizing chemical processes

Planning/Policy; Construction

Water Water TBD High

Create a cross-functional Water Loss Control Team (including representation from Engineering, Finance, and Waterproduction, treatment, and distribution) to develop (or oversee the development of by a consultant) a strategic plan for waterloss reduction

Planning/Policy Water Water TBD Medium

Create a dedicated Water Auditor position with a reasonable budget and the responsibility for coordinating the creation andfunction of a cross-functional Water Loss Control Team and managing the strategic planning process for water loss reductionby that team

Staffing Water Water TBD Medium

Implement acoustical leak detection and/or water flow measurement testing of water delivery infrastructure (overseen byWater Auditor)

Planning/Policy Water Water TBD Medium

Implement a rigorous program for meter testing (commercial and large system meters) and meter replacement* (residentialand small system meters)

Planning/Policy Water Water TBD High

*Testing and repair of small meters can exceed the cost of replacement; given a 20-year lifespan for small meters, an on-going replacement program should target 5% of all small meters each year

Perform complimentary or subsidized water audits of large scale irrigation customers to encourage conservation Planning/Policy Water Water TBD Low

Implement protocols to enhance documentation of maintenance performed to water/wastewater pumping equipment Planning/Policy Water Water; Wastewater

TBD High

9 Enhance monitoring and reporting of key economic performance indicators

Generate a periodic (e.g. annual) Municipal Economic Indicator Report that builds upon the regional indicator report (usingsimilar metrics) generated by the Economic Development Corporation

Planning/Policy Economy Public Information Office Economic Development Corporation

High

Develop a customized ROI model (using references such as those developed for the Urban Sustainability Directors Network)to help evaluate and prioritize future investments, make investment decisions more transparent, and to facilitatecommunication of the economic, social and environmental benefits of sustainable investments

Planning/Policy Economy Public Information Office Economic Development Corporation

Low

Develop an Economic Vibrancy Index for downtown Corpus Christi; establish metrics to specifically measure downtownactivity over time (see Data Collection Recommendations); report results in Municipal Economic Indicator Report

Planning/Policy Economy Public Information Office Economic Development Corporation

Medium

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

10 Promote nature-based tourism

Enhance coordination with the Convention and Visitors Bureau by designating City staff liaison(s) and/or establishing aregular coordination meeting

Staffing Economy Public Information Office Convention and Visitors Bureau

Low

Refine City branding to reflect a clear identity and established priorities relating to Corpus Christi as a nature-based touristdestination

Planning/Policy Economy Public Information Office Convention and Visitors Bureau; Economic Development Corporation

Low

Coordinate with the Economic Development Corporation to conduct a detailed economic analysis of the contribution thatnature-based tourism represents annually in the local economy (see Data Collection Recommendations); disseminate thefindings of the analysis among decision makers

Planning/Policy Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation

Medium

Use the results of the economic analysis to conduct inclusive long-range goal setting and strategic planning to ensure thatstrategies for economic growth (particularly with respect to the balance between tourism and industry) are well aligned withthe economic reality and long-term vision of the community leaders.

Planning/Policy Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation

Medium

Coordinate with the Convention and Visitors Bureau to implement the recommendations of the Nature Tourism InitiativeInventory

Planning/Policy Recreation; Economy

Parks and Recreation Convention and Visitors Bureau

High

11 Enhance the environment for economic development

Partner with the Economic Development Corporation and economic development interests in neighboring communities tocreate an enhanced comprehensive strategic economic development plan for Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region

Planning/Policy Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation; Other municipalities and counties in the region

Medium

Pass, implement and promote the remaining new zoning and platting ordinances that are under review in DevelopmentServices (technical assistance for which was provided through the integrated community sustainability planning process) tofoster more compact, efficient development and to create a development climate that is more attractive to outside investors

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association; Bay Area Smartgrowth Initiative (BASGI)

High

Leverage the City's Tax Increment Financing (TIF) policy and district to use tax increment funds for "smart" infrastructureupgrades in existing built areas (water/sewer, streets, etc.)

Construction Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation

High

Promote (i.e. market locally, regionally, and nationally) local efforts to enhance the number and quality of concerts, sportingevents, and other social events intended to improve quality of life and attract/retain creative, well-educated workforce (e.g.Destination Bayfront, sports teams) and to attract visitors and investors

Planning/Policy Economy Public Information Office Downtown Management District; Convention and Visitors Bureau

Medium

Partner with the Economic Development Corporation and economic development interests in neighboring communities tocreate a strategy for business expansion/recruitment in the industrial sector that balances traditional strengths (manufacturing,port/trade, oil/gas) and emerging opportunities (e.g. clean energy innovation, engineering, health care)

Planning/Policy Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation; Other municipalities and counties in the region

Low

Enhance coordination and collaboration with Del Mar Community College, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, andWorkforce Solutions to build a skilled workforce to meet the range of technical and professional skills needed to supporttarget industries (particularly renewable energy development)

Planning/Policy Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation

Medium

DATA COLLECTION RECOMMENDATIONSThis section of the Implementation Matrix identifies specific strategies by which the City might begin to fill critical gaps in available data so as to facilitate future goal setting and assessment efforts.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Provide opportunities for local food production at the neighborhood scale

Map potential locations for urban agriculture based on critical variables and available data (e.g. soil, floodplains, etc.) Data Collection Food Parks and Recreation Local Master Gardeners clubs

Medium

Document number of farms in City limits (excluding Extra-territorial Jurisdiction) and net production for each Data Collection Food Development Services TBD Low

Map potential locations for farmer's markets based on critical variables and available data (e.g. residential density,vehicular access, etc.)

Data Collection Food Development Services Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market; Metropolitan Planning Organization

High

Document number of farmers markets, number of vendors, and number of customers at each Data Collection Food Parks and Recreation Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market; Metropolitan Planning Organization

Low

2 Initiate long-range regional climate adaptation/sea level rise response and greenhouse gas management planning

Compile total electricity consumption data (from electric utility) by department (and at finer scale, i.e. individual buildings,where possible) on a quarterly basis; convert to CO2 equivalent (CO2e) to determine Green House Gas emissions fromfossil-fuel-based energy consumption

Data Collection Energy TBD TBD High

Assess (annually) total onsite renewable energy generation and stand-alone renewable energy generation at municipalfacilities

Data Collection Energy TBD TBD Low

Quantify (annually) electricity used to power streetlights and traffic signals and convert to CO 2e Data Collection Energy Engineering TBD Medium

Quantify (annually) electricity used in raw water collection/treatment/distribution; convert to CO 2e Data Collection Energy Water TBD Medium

Quantify electricity used in wastewater collection/treatment/distribution (per gallon); convert to CO 2e Data Collection Energy Wastewater TBD Medium

Assess fugitive methane emissions from wastewater treatment plants and convert to CO 2e Data Collection Water Wastewater TBD Low

Assess methane combustion from anaerobic digeters at wastewater treatment plants and covert to CO 2e Data Collection Water Wastewater TBD Low

Assess NO2 production from nitrification/denitrification at wastewater treatment plants and convert to CO 2e Data Collection Water Wastewater TBD Low

Collect data from transportation emissions used to distribute food, fertilizer, chemicals and convert to CO 2e Data Collection Food TBD TBD Low

Collect data from emissions resulting from production of fertilizer and convert to CO2e Data Collection Food TBD TBD Low

Coordinate with local or regional agricultural trade groups to assess total fertilizer application to farmland within City andETJ; extrapolate NO2 emissions associated with this application; convert to CO 2e

Data Collection Food TBD TBD Low

Monitor composition and percent mix of landfilled and diverted waste streams Data Collection Waste Solid Waste TBD High

Assess methane production potential (annually) for existing landfills; assess methane capture capability and efficiency Data Collection Waste Solid Waste TBD High

DATA COLLECTION RECOMMENDATIONS

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

Coordinate with the Department of Motor Vehicles to compile data on vehicle types and percent mix (e.g. full, mid orcompact size cars; heavy duty or light trucks; vans, motorcycles; unleaded vs. diesel) for vehicles registered in greaterCorpus Christi area

Data Collection Mobility TBD Department of Motor Vehicles

Low

Coordinate with the Metropolitan Planning Organization, Department of Motor Vehicles, and/or other partners to collectdata on vehicle fuel economy, and number of alternative fuel vehicles

Data Collection Mobility TBD Department of Motor Vehicles

Low

Coordinate with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to compile data on the number (and type, if possible) of motorizedboats registered in greater City area; extrapolate aggregate fuel consumption; calculate CO2e

Data Collection Mobility TBD Texas Parks and Wildlife Low

Compile airport data: total gallons of plane fuel used per day (extrapolate emissions; convert to CO2e); assess number ofcurbside passenger pickups per day and average idling time; extrapolate vehicle emissions; calculate CO 2e

Data Collection Mobility Airport Federal Aviation Administration

Medium

On the scale of individual municipal buildings, quantify total volume of Hydroflourocarbons from refrigerants and firesuppression equipment; convert to CO2e

Data Collection Buildings General Services TBD Low

3 Promote the construction of healthier, less resource- intensive, buildings

Maintain database of the physical addresses of building permit recipients whose plans include pursuit of a supplementalgreen building certification

Data Collection Buildings Development Services US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter

Medium

Maintain database of the physical addresses of building permit recipients whose plans include solar hot water heatingsystems (passive solar) or on-site generation of solar energy (solar photovoltaic)

Data Collection Energy Development Services Texas Solar Energy Society; TX Renewable Energy Industries Association

Medium

Maintain database of the physical addresses of recipients of permits for residential or commercial scale wind turbines Data Collection Energy Development Services Texas Renewable Energy Industries Association

Medium

For building permittees whose plans include systems for rainwater capture and/or reuse, coordinate with the WaterDepartment to capture monthly water use data in the proposed (above) database in order to track savings realized throughthese systems

Data Collection Water Development Services Texas Rainwater Catchment Association

Low

Track pump performance at water and wastewater facilities by way of routine pump testing and monitoring Data Collection Water Water; Wastewater

TBD Medium

Enhance tracking* of energy consumption per discrete water and wastewater process steps Data Collection WaterWater; Wastewater TBD Medium

*May necessitate installation of additional meters at pump and lift stations

4 Enhance monitoring and reporting of key economic performance indicators

Implement protocols for collection of municipal economic data from the Texas Labor Market Information (TRACER),Comptroller's Office, and other key sources in order to inform generation of the (proposed) annual Municipal EconomicIndicator Report

Data Collection Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation; Texas Labor Market Information

High

For all future "green" construction and retrofit projects related to municipal buildings, facilities, or infrastructure,implement data collection protocols at the project level to measure Sustainable Return on Investment, including: a) cost,b) jobs generated (by month), c) economic impact compared to "standard" materials or construction methods; thisinformation can be used to track economic impact of these efforts and measure sustainable return on investment

Data Collection Economy TBD US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter

Medium

Partner with the Economic Development Corporation and Convention and Visitors Bureau to collect more accurate dataabout the tourist economy in Corpus Christi; in particular, consider partnering with these organizations and/or local hotelsto implement a survey protocol to begin tracking: number of tourists (by season), length of stay, principal motivation forvisit, average daily expenditure per capita, first time or repeat, relative satisfaction with available amenities, intention toreturn; survey data collection should be ongoing; compilation and analysis of results should be periodic (annual);incentives (gift or coupon) should be offered to participants to encourage participation

Data Collection Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation; Convention and Visitors Bureau; Local hotels

Medium

 

 

 

 

 

 

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NODE 1: DOWNTOWN/UPTOWNThe principal access to the heart of Downtown Corpus Christi is Highway 37/181, which, inits current form, bisects adjacent neighborhoods and creates a barrier between the northernand southern sectors of the Downtown; the proposed realignment of this corridor as part ofthe planned replacement of the Harbor Bridge would create an opportunity to establish a newgreen gateway into the City that builds upon the vision of the Downtown Vision Plan (2008),the Bayfront Master Plan (2007) and the Destination Bayfront proposal (2010) to help createa cohesive, vibrant, 24-hour mixed use urban center that is both defined by and connected toits waterfront.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Coordinate the physical, economic, and functional aspects of Downtown redevelopment

Coordinate with the Downtown Management District and private interests who have proposals for downtown developmentto strengthen the SEA Town development concept (as defined in the 2008 Downtown Vision Plan)

Planning/Policy Recreation; Economy; Knowledge/Culture

Development Services Downtown Management District

High

Coordinate with the Economic Development Corporation and Downtown Management District to solicit proposals forresidential projects in the Central Business District; look for ways to provide assistance to those that address significantgoals of various initiatives and plans (e.g. support finding and providing parking, etc.)

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Economic Development Corporation; Downtown Management District

High

Develop a parking master-plan for the Downtown that is built around the concept of several linked "park once" districts Planning/Policy Mobility; Economy

Engineering; Development Services

Downtown Management District

High

Coordinate with private and non-profit interests to implement the phased 2010 Destination Bayfront plan:http://www.destinationbayfront.org/

Construction Recreation; Economy; Knowledge/Culture

Development Services; Parks and Recreation

Destination Bayfront; Economic Development Corporation; Downtown Management District

High

Coordinate with TXDOT to realign IH 37/US 181 as part of the Harbor Bridge replacement Planning/Policy; Construction

Mobility Engineering TxDOT

Coordinate with TxDOT to plan for the creation of a multi-modal (auto, bike, streetcar) green boulevard into downtownwithin the old IH 37 right-of-way after the Harbor Bridge relocation

Planning/Policy Mobility; Economy

Engineering; Development Services

TxDOT; Regional Transportation Authority

Medium

Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to build upon the Downtown Transit Circulator Concept* to implementa feasibility study for a downtown transit circulator

Planning/Policy Mobility; Economy

Engineering; Development Services

Regional Transportation Authority

High

*Delivered under separate cover

Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to implement a feasibility study for waterborne transit and, ultimately,to locate a water taxi hub within the Destination Bayfront plan area

Planning/Policy Mobility; Economy

Engineering; Development Services

Regional Transportation Authority; Destination Bayfront

High

2 Enhance local/informal market economy in the Central Business District

Revise the existing regulations for street vendors to encourage their presence in target locations as a strategy to fosterpedestrian activity; eliminate the requirement that vendors be separated by 75' to promote clustering of complimentaryvendor types

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD High

Partner with the existing South Side Farmer’s Market to establish regularly scheduled farmers market, perhaps inassociation with a larger crafts fair, in the proposed urban green district around Heritage Park

Community-based Activity Food; Recreation; Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Community Development Southside Corpus Christi Farmers Market

Low

Partner with T-Head and L-Head business owners, fish market owners from nearby communities (e.g. Rockport), and/orlocal fishermen’s organizations to establish a regularly scheduled fresh local seafood market on T-Head and/or L-Head

Community-based Activity Food; Economy

Community Development T-head and L-head business owners

High

Coordinate with local building owners to support the development of incubator spaces (i.e. gallery or studio space) forentrepreneurs, artists and other members of the "creative class"

Community-based Activity Economy; Knowledge/Culture

Community Development Downtown ArtWalk; Downtown Management District

Medium

NODE 1: DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

3 Enhance the Bluff as a distinct geographic feature within the Downtown/Uptown Destination Node

Strengthen the relationship between Uptown and Downtown by beautifying and improving the functionality of the LipanStreet, Mestina Street, Leopard Street, Antelope Street, and Buffalo Street connections

Planning/Policy; Construction

Mobility Development Services; Community Development; Parks and Recreation

Beautify Corpus Christi High

Capitalize on the elevated view of Downtown and the waterfront from the Uptown and the Bluff by establishing scenicoverlooks with amenities (e.g. benches, planters, signage, fixed spotting scopes), possibly through partnership withBeautify Corpus Christi or an equivalent community group

Construction Recreation Parks and Recreation Beautify Corpus Christi High

4 Promote transit-oriented development (TOD) around City Hall

Capitalize on the existing urban streetscape along Staples Street to promote it as a primary north/south connection to theUptown district; when considering proposed development projects along the Staples Street, promote mixed-use, pedestrian-and transit-oriented development with a defined pedestrian connection to the Staples Street transit station

Planning/Policy Mobility; Economy

Development Services TBD Medium

Establish a designated, safe pedestrian connection between the adjacent neighborhood, the elementary schools, and theexisting library

Planning/Policy Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness

Development Services TBD Medium

After the proposed re-alignment of the Harbor Bridge, enhance the Staples Street bridge over the current IH 37 right-of-way to create a scenic vantage over the (proposed) green gateway into Downtown and to foster pedestrian/bike connectionbetween the transit-oriented development (TOD) hub around the Staples Street trasit station and the neighborhoods to thewest

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Beautify Corpus Christi Low

5 Capitalize on opportunities for vacant lot and building rehab and reuse

Coordinate with the Downtown Management District to identify candidate buildings for rehabilitation Planning/Policy Buildings Development Services Downtown Management District

Medium

Foster private-public partnerships to spur reuse of existing structures, in general, and landmark structures, in particular(e.g. old Federal courthouse)

Planning/Policy Buildings Development Services Downtown Management District

Low

Explore options for condemning blighted properties; capitalize on the availability of grant funds through the City'sBrownfields Redevelopment Program to implement Phase I and Phase II assessments to promote re-development

Community-based Activity Economy Development Services Uptown Neighborhood Initiative; Downtown Management District

High

Establish a Green Building Overlay in the Central Business District, under which incentives (e.g. fast track permitting, taxincentives) are offered for voluntary adoption of a referenced green building standard

Planning/Policy Buildings Development Services Downtown Management District

Low

Coordinate with the Downtown Management District and private interests to provide short-term (i.e. one week to threemonth leases) of the ground floor (frontage) in vacant buildings in key locations in order to activate downtown streetscapesand stimulate economic growth

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Downtown Management District

Medium

Investigate the potential to open and operate the existing tunnel under the bluff for special events or to lease the existingretail space as a bar*

Community-based Activity; Construction

Economy TBD Downtown Management District

Low

*If implemented in tandem with other recommended enhancements of La Retama park, this could create a novel nighttimeattraction that would bring enough activity (i.e. "eyes on the street") to alleviate safety concerns

NODE 1: DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

6 Rejuvenate the downtown identity by launching a Green City campaign

Install new, brightly colored trash and recycling receptacles in prominent but unobtrusive locations at all majorintersections

Community-based Activity Waste Solid Waste Pride Corpus Christi High

Prioritize enhancement of pocket parks along Shoreline Boulevard and Chapparal Street with additional amenities (e.g. bar-b-que stations, benches, shade structures, exercise stations, play structures for children)

Construction Recreation Parks and Recreation Beautify Corpus Christi Medium

Coordinate with Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Oyster Shell Recycling Program to facilitate collection of oystershell from seafood restaurants downtown and on the T and L heads

Community-based Activity Waste Solid Waste Texas A&M University Corpus Christi Oyster Shell Recycling Program

Low

Coordinate with local chapter of the Surfrider Foundation and with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program toimplement a storm drain stenciling campaign

Community-based Activity Natural Resources; Water

Community Development Surfrider Foundation; Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program

Medium

Partner with community outreach specialists at local education institutions and historical societies to enhance downtowninterpretive signage regarding City maritime history, natural history, green initiatives, and unique environmental features(particularly along the waterfront)

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture; Natural Resources

Community Development Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History; Convention and Visitors Bureau

Medium

Coordinate with the Downtown Managament District, Peoples Street business owners, organizers of the DowntownArtWalk, and other partners to improve La Retama Park (e.g. remove the large planter by the tunnel opening, hang festivelights and/or banners, construct a stage, encourage street vendors), institute free programming (e.g. outdoor moviescreenings, concerts) and promote it as a downtown destination to encourage pedestrian traffic and support bugeoning re-development on Peoples Street

Community-based Activity Recreation; Economy

Parks and Recreation Downtown ArtWalk; Peoples Street business owners; Downtown Management District

High

Coordinate with the Beautify Corpus Christi to improve Artesian Park (e.g. hang festive lights and/or banners, encourage street vendors), institute free programming (e.g. outdoor movie screenings, concerts) and promote it as a downtown destination to encourage pedestrian traffic in support of nearby businesses

Community-based Activity Recreation; Economy

Parks and Recreation Beautify Corpus Christi; Downtown Management District

High

Create an urban garden district (inspired by the Garden District in New Orleans) around Heritage Park with a reliable connection to public transit (downtown circulator and broader Regional Transportation Authority service)

Planning/Policy Economy; Recreation

Development Services Downtown Management District

Low

Establish private/public partnerships with downtown land owners and local renewable energy interests to plan, design, and install demonstration projects in prominent locations

Community-based Activity Energy; Economy

Engineering; Development Services

TBD Medium

NODE 2: ANNAVILLEA few minutes drive from downtown Corpus Christi, the Annaville neighborhood is a quietriverside district with a distinct rural character. The Leopard Street corridor and adjacentdevelopment between McKenzie Road and Violet Road includes stable neighborhoods, acommercial corridor, schools, parks, civic institutions, and other components of an exurbansatellite destination. Median household income and residential density are typical of the Cityaverages. The concept for this Node pays homage to a slower "down-by-the-river" pace of lifeand the ranch-inspired character of this community to create a destination that offers a flavor of the South Texas experience that generally can’t be found in Corpus Christi proper.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Improve regional multi-modal transportation options and internal connectivity

Coordinate with the Regional Transportation Authority regarding their planned service expansion (including express busconnection to downtown Corpus Christi) in order to assess the need to establish a regular transit connections betweenAnnaville and key destination (e.g. airport)

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Regional Transportation Authority; Metropolitan Planning Organization

Medium

Develop a multi-modal mobility plan for the entire Annaville community; designate safe routes to schools and civic institutionsto foster pedestrian and bike connections between these locations and adjacent residential neighborhoods

Planning/Policy Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness

Community Development; Engineering

Regional Transportation Authority; Metropolitan Planning Organization

Medium

2 Define the Annaville destination

Coordinate with TxDOT regarding scheduled maintenance activieies and/or improvements associated with privatedevelopment to identify ways to reduce the functional speed limit to 35MPH on Leopard Street between McKenzie Road andViolet Road; assess the opportunities for a "road diet," involving traffic calming and a "complete street" design approach

Planning/Policy Mobility Engineering TxDOT High

Partner with Annaville-based community groups or youth organizations to install landscaping in the median along the stretchof Leopard Street between McKenzie Road and Violet Road; establish "Adopt-A-Highway" program to foster long-termstewardship

Construction; Community-based Activity

Knowledge/Culture Community Development TxDOT; Beautify Corpus Christi

Medium

Coordinate with the Chamber of Commerce and/or the Convention and Visitors Bureau to assess the marketability of adesignated bed-and-breakfast district on the northwest side of I-37

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Chamber of Commerce; Convention and Visitors Bureau

Medium

Partner with Texas Heritage Society or similar entity to establish a South Texas Heritage Center and Annaville Visitor’sCenter in connection with the existing public library and proposed gateway landmark at the intersection of Leopard Street andMcKenzie Road

Planning/Policy; Construction

Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Community Development; Parks and Recreation

Texas Heritage Society Low

3 Build complete neighborhoods

Collaborate with the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce or an equivalent entity to identify commercial services presentlymissing from the community; promote infill and small business development along Leopard Street that provides these keyservices

Planning/Policy Economy Community Development Chamber of Commerce Medium

Vision, plan and re-zone the Leopard Street corridor between Violet Road and McKenzie Road as a walkable, mixed-use"Main Street"

Planning/Policy Mobility; Economy

Community Development TBD High

Designate re-commissioned City pocket parks (two opportunity sites) or other available City parcels for community gardens;work with neighborhood or community groups or local institutions to foster investment and to identify sponsors

Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity

Food; Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Parks and Recreation Local Master Gardeners clubs Medium

Facilitate private/public partnerships to establish a regular community farmer’s market along Leopard Street corridor Community-based Activity Food; Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Community Development Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market

High

Plan multi-use open spaces to serve as recreational use areas and stormwater dry detention/conveyance Planning/Policy Recreation Engineering; Parks and Recreation

TBD Medium

Designate non-development uses (off-road trails, recreational open space, community gardens) for floodplain Planning/Policy Natural Resources Development Services TBD Medium

Maintain a riparian buffer of native vegetation along the river to provide habitat, protect water quality, and enhance the ruralcharacter of the community

Planning/Policy Natural Resources Development Services The Nature Conservancy or other environmental non-profits or land trusts

High

NODE 3: MORGAN AVENUE/BALDWIN BOULEVARDThe intersection of Morgan Avenue and Baldwin Boulevard is an important, albeitunderdeveloped, hub that is central to the rich cultural fabric of Corpus Christi’s Westside.The orientation of the major thoroughfares creates unique spatial opportunities for civicactivities and community functions. Median household income in this Node is lower than theCity average while density is somewhat higher than average. The Node includes twoelementary schools, a state school, an adult learning center, and a senior center. The conceptplan for this Destination Node reinforces the current diverse ethnic character of theneighborhood and celebrates its cultural identity. Grassroots, Community-based programs andopportunities are emphasized to encourage participation by as many individuals and groups aspossible and to foster investment and active buy-in among residents and businesses.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Enhance walkability and connectivity throughout the Node

Repair and widen sidewalks (to a minimum width of 5 feet throughout the Node and wider in high-traffic areas); install sidewalks where they are currently absent; focus initially on high-traffic areas and key community locations, such as the senior center, recreational center, industrial school, Mercado, etc.)

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD High

Develop a bike mobility plan for the entire Node to include designated stand-alone bike paths, striped and buffered on-street bike lanes, and signed bike routes throughout; construct on-street bike lanes in key high-traffic locations to enhance connectivity between existing community gathering places

Construction Mobility Engineering Metropolitan Planning Organization

Medium

Partner with the Regional Transportation Authority to establish additional bus routes, where effective, as well as additional bus stops along high-volume routes; enhance the accessibility, comfort, safety and physical character of existing stops

Planning/Policy; Construction

Mobility Development Services Regional Transportation Authority

High

Partner with Beautify Corpus Christi or similar organizations to sponsor a competition among different classes or clubs at the multiple neighborhood schools to decorate (paint) the shelters and/of benches at neighborhood stops

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture Community Development Beautify Corpus Christi Medium

2 Work to increase grassroots community participation and investment

Partner with Beautify Corpus Christi or a similar organization to sponsor a neighborhood yard and garden competition Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture Community Development Beautify Corpus Christi; Local Master Gardener clubs

Low

Develop an urban agriculture program for this Node, including formal education and training programs; designate (and invest in) community gardens on undeveloped City-owned property and/or re-commissioned pocket parks; partner with local church groups or senior center to provide oversight

Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity

Food; Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Parks and Recreation Local Master Gardener clubs Medium

Partner with neighborhood church or community groups to plan a formal neighborhood Latin American Cultural Festival; provide support in the form of police presence, street closure, vendor permits, and announcements on the City web-site and other City forums

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture Community Development TBD High

3 Reconfigure the Morgan Avenue/Baldwin Boulevard intersection to facilitate multiple forms of mobility, increase safety and utility, and enhance the overall sense of place

Reduce travel lanes on Morgan Avenue and Baldwin Boulevard and designate bike lanes along the outside edge of the street sections; design these to be protected from adjacent traffic by way of a painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD High

Redesign intersection with roundabout configuration* *See Roundabout Implementation Plan (delivered under separate cover)

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD Medium

Solicit sponsorship from a community arts organization to commission a local artist to create a centerpiece for the roundabout that reflects the cultural identity and character of the neighborhood

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture Community Development TBD Low

Facilitate private/public partnership to establish a Mercado on the vacant land immediately west of the proposed roundabout in order to activate the intersection as a focal point for the neighborhood

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Development Services; Community Development

TBD Medium

NODE 3: MORGAN AVENUE/BALDWIN BOULEVARD

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

4 Enhance urban tree canopy to help mitigate urban heat-island effect, reinforce stormwater systems, shade and cool adjacent buildings, provide on-site habitat, and generally enhance the physical and aesthetic character of the Node

Invite participation from Beautify Corpus Christi, Arbor Day Foundation, or equivalent non-profit to identify target neighborhoods, provide local education programs, distribute trees and provide technical assistance in planting and maintaining them

Community-based Activity Energy; Natural Resources

Community Development Arbor Day Foundation; Beautify Corpus Christi

Medium

Explore the opportunity to convert vacant land on Highland Avenue and Morgan Avenue to community gardens Community-based Activity Food Parks and Recreation; Development Services

Local Master Gardeners clubs High

Establish farmer's market as part of proposed Mercado on the vacant land immediately west of the proposed roundabout Community-based Activity Food Food Corpus Christi South Side Farmers Market

Medium

5 Establish pilot City-sponsored compost program

Partner with community organizations (those who sponsor community gardens) to establish pilot compost collection program Community-based Activity Waste Solid Waste TBD Low

6 Support age-in-place approach to family and community

Partner with existing Adult Learning Center and Senior Center on Morgan Avenue to enhance non-traditional learning opportunities for older residents

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture; Economy

Community Development Adult Learning Center and Senior Center

Low

 

 

 

 

 

 

NODE 4: SIX POINTSThe Ayers Street corridor between the East Campus of Del Mar College and Shoreline Drive isanchored by two key employment centers and already includes a transit hub and multiplecommercial enclaves. The concept plan for this Node capitalizes on the presence of these twoactivity generators (Del Mar East and Christus Spohn Hospital Complex) and promotes theircontinued growth by expanding the commercial services, mobility options, and housingavailable along the corridor.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Create transit-oriented development (TOD) centered round the Six Points Regional Transportation Authority transit station

Work with the Regional Transportation Authority to enhance transit service to the existing transit station* Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Regional Transportation Authority High

*According to the Regional Transportation Authority, the current station is at capacity; consider assessing the feasibility ofrelocating the station across Staples to the larger, triangle-shaped property, which would allow buses to pull in off thestreets to access the station

Re-align the Six Points intersection by eliminating the sixth point (the leg of Alameda Street that is north of Ayers Street) inorder to: simplify the functionality of the intersection, prevent dangerous situations in which cars queue with the intention ofturning left onto the Alameda Street, create a larger area of contiguous property in order to foster cohesive commercialredevelopment

Construction Mobility Engineering TxDOT Medium

South of Baldwin Boulevard (16,600 average daily trips (ADT)), Alternative 1: Reduce the street from a 5-lane section to 3lanes; center turn lane becomes an intermittent landscaped median in locations where turning movement is not required;designate bike lanes on the outside edge of the street sections that are protected from adjacent traffic by way of a painted(striped) buffer (several feet wide)

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD High

South of Baldwin Boulevard (16,600 ADT), Alternative 2: Create on-street parking in locations along Ayers Street wherecommercial frontage is proposed (see rendering), particularly near the Baldwin Boulevard intersection on the west side of DelMar College, where there is an opportunity to develop live-work units; without the on-street parking, town homes would be amore appropriate format for these units

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD High

Between the Ayers Street/Port Avenue and the Ayers Street/Baldwin Boulevard intersections, move the curb line inwardseveral feet, effectively narrowing lane width to control traffic speeds and to accommodate an off-street, shared-use path thatwould be 12 feet in width

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD Low

North of Baldwin Boulevard, average daily traffic counts drop (5,600 ADT); convert the existing 4-lane section to a 3-lanesection that includes a center turn lane and designated bike lanes on the outside edges of the roadway; protect these fromadjacent traffic with a painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD High

Designate a “safe route to school” between Ayers Street and Travis Elementary School to the west; as opportunities arise,widen sidewalk along this route to a width of 10 feet to accommodate student travel

Construction Mobility Engineering TBD High

2 Create a mixed-use hub to serve the Del Mar Community College population and the surrounding neighborhoods with an emphasis on expanding housing options within walking distance of basic services and the College campus

Partner with Economic Development Corporation to study the potential for new food options in these locations, including afull-service grocery or urban market and new restaurants

Planning/Policy Food Development Services Economic Development Corporation

High

NODE 4: SIX POINTS

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

Make the most of the shallow lot depths on the property west of Del Mar campus by promoting a live/work format* to simultaneously attract new commercial services (dry cleaner, copy service) and provide student housing within walking distance of the campus**

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD Medium

*Provision of on-street parking along Ayers Street would support a live-work format; if this parking is not implemented, a townhome format may be more appropriate to this location; townhouses and live/work units have similar footprints and forms but different functional characteristics ** Parking is in short supply on Del Mar East Campus; increased availability of nearby student housing would help alleviate traffic/parking issue at the College by reducing the number of students who commute by automobile

As redevelopment opportunities arise, redirect commercial land uses currently located further south on Ayers Street to thismixed-use center in order to allow for the natural conversion of marginal commercial uses in the district to more appropriateuses, possibly single- and multi-family residential

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD Low

Promote mixed-use infill development and redevelopment along Ayers Street between Six Points and Del Mar with anemphasis on rehabilitation of buildings that address the street; the old ButterKrust facility is a notable opportunity, althoughthe site includes very little dedicated parking*

Planning/Policy Building Development Services TBD Medium

*This shortage of dedicated parking could present an opportunity for the creation of a coordinated district parking plan

Foster the location/relocation of complimentary services (e.g. doctor’s offices and clinics, labs, surgery centers, medicalsupply stores, pharmacies, etc.) into this district to reinforce the district identity and to provide the market base to support theburgeoning commercial enclave at Six Points and further down Ayers Street; develop a coordinated parking plan for the entiredistrict

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD Low

 

 

 

 

 

 

NODE 5: BEAR LANEThe quadrant on the north side of South Padre Island Drive between Bear Lane and OldBrownsville Road is home to one of the largest employers in Corpus Christi (First Data), yetthe surrounding land is almost entirely undeveloped and there are currently no basic servicesor amenities available to the thousands of employees who commute to this location daily. Assuch, the concept plan for this Node focuses, in large part, on fostering infill developmentthat capitalizes on the accessibility of the site and existing employment uses to create athriving mixed-use, data-oriented, regional employment center. This Node is alsodistinguished by the presence of two public schools, the presence of which highlightsopportunities to integrate higher density (multi-family) residential development withenhanced connections to the schools and to potential locations for service-oriented infilldevelopment.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Capitalize on the presence of existing businesses to create a regional Data Management Employment Center

Work with the Economic Development Corporation to recruit complementary and supportive professional employment opportunities

Planning/Policy Economy TBD Economic Development Corporation

High

Partner with Goodwill Industries and/or other entities engaged in electronics recycling to establish an electronics recycling pilot program to assess the feasibility of a larger scale program

Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity

Waste; Economy

Solid Waste Goodwill Industries Medium

Explore the potential for district heating and cooling within all or some designated parts of the Node; in particular look at the opportunities to use combined heating and power systems derived from geothermal applications

Planning/Policy Economy; Energy

Engineering TBD Low

Explore the potential to integrate renewable energy systems into the development of all or some parts of the Node, or into individual buildings and structures; assess the economic and operational viability of solar, wind and geothermal operations

Planning/Policy Economy; Energy

Engineering AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society; Corpus Christi Builders Association

Low

2 Expand the amenities and services immediately available to professionals and residents currently working and living in the Node

Work with the Economic Development Corporation to foster commercial infill development to provide support services to professionals working within the Node (e.g. restaurants, shops, dry cleaners, etc.)

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Economic Development Corporation

High

Partner with land and business owners within the Node to install outdoor gathering/recreation features (e.g. shade structures with picnic tables for outdoor eating, walking/jogging trails for lunchtime exercise, communal wildflower garden)

Construction Recreation Parks and Recreation TBD Medium

Encourage development of a daycare facility and/or child care operation to serve the professionals at the employment centers in the node; explore the potential to secure and utilize grant funds to offer subsidized child care for employees within the Node so as to foster parent-child contact time

Planning/Policy Economy; Health/Safety

Community Development TBD High

Work with administrators and faculty at the West Oso Elementary and/or High School to develop a urban agriculture program on or adjacent to school property and formally integrated into the school curriculum

Planning/Policy Economy; Food; Recreation

Parks and Recreation School Board Medium

Promote high density residential/mixed use development adjacent to both schools within the Node to establish the schools as neighborhood focal points and activity centers and facilitate walking/biking connections

Planning/Policy Health/Safety/Wellness; Mobility; Knowledge/Culture; Recreation

Development Services TBD Medium

Work with the Economic Development Corporation to plan for the development of additional hotels and/or extended stay accommodations within the Node to meet the needs of visiting professionals and create an incentive for development by business entities with a regional or national presence; incentivize development to work within the overall planning framework for the node to encourage pedestrian activity and park-once districts

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Economic Development Corporation

Low

NODE 5: BEAR LANE

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

3 Capitalize on existing highway access to plan for multi-modal transportation service and alternative fuel vehicles

Designate the location for a future public fast-fill CNG fueling station and begin to pursue supplemental funds Planning/Policy; Construction

Mobility; Economy

Gas TBD Medium

Assess need for a charging station for plug-in electric hybrid vehicle Planning/Policy Mobility Engineering TBD Low

Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to establish a park-and-ride service connection to the airport and other priority locations from which professionals commute (on basis of findings from needs assessment)

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Regional Transportation Authority

High

In order to support the Data Management Employment Center concept, and to foster efficient use of available land and to enhance the walkability of the Node, prepare a Node-wide parking plan structured around the concept of "park-once" parking districts that carefully integrates the full range of options: on-street, surface lots, parking structures; prepare design guidelines for all three conditions, as well as locational criteria

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services; Engineering

TBD Low

 

 

 

 

 

 

NODE 6: WEBER ROAD/SARATOGA BOULEVARDThe intersection of Weber Road and Saratoga Boulevard is representative of many of themajor intersections along Southside corridors, wherein strip commercial development issurrounded by, but not connected to, residential development. The concept plan for thisNode aims not to replace the auto-urban/suburban lifestyle but rather to enhancetransportation options by fostering pedestrian and bicycle connections within the discretequadrants of the node, and expanding the mix of uses, particularly with respect to residentialtypes. Additional outdoor gathering and recreation spaces are intended to promoteneighborhood cohesion and overall wellness among residents.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Expand the mix of development (commercial, multi-family, single family) within each quadrant of the Node

As rezoning opportunities arise, establish a general gradient in land use intensity and density from a peak at the commercial core to lowest level at the single-family fringe of each quadrant; provide for a judicious and harmonious mix of uses, focusing on a range of residential types, but facilitating the development of effective, neighborhood-serving commercial and retail uses

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD High

2 Provide multiple forms of connectivity within each quadrant and between quadrants at key locations

Designate pedestrian paths and bike routes/lanes/paths to establish safe, effective non-vehicular connections between the commercial center of the Node and the residential development within the quadrant

Planning/Policy Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness

Development Services TBD High

Establish greenway connections from each quadrant to the regional recreation and trail system*

Planning/Policy; Construction

Mobility; Recreation

Development Services; Parks and Recreation

TBD High

*See Hike-Bike Trails Concept Plan delivered under separate cover

3 Enhance opportunities for outdoor gatherings, active recreation, and activities to build community

Create gateway parks in the highest density residential section of each of the quadrants; where effective, place parks adjacent to neighborhood-serving retail and restaurants and develop an integrated district approach to meeting parking requirements

Construction Recreation Parks and Recreation TBD Low

Designate vacant City property and/or re-commissioned City parks as locations for community gardens; work with neighborhood or community groups or local institutions to foster investment and to identify sponsors

Planning/Policy; Community-based Activity

Food Parks and Recreation; Community Development

Local Master Gardener clubs High

Promote alley-fed, single-family residential development as part of a broader strategy to foster safe, active, and efficient neighborhoods

Planning/Policy Economy; Health/Safety/Wellness

Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium

4 Capitalize on large areas of contiguous natural open space to enhance recreational and conservation opportunities

Work with land owners and environmental non-profit partners to promote preservation in perpetuity of a riparian buffer along the Oso Creek by way of a deed restriction, conservation easement, or equivalent legal vehicle; uses within the buffer should be limited to non-development recreation use (e.g. off-road trails, wildlife viewing)

Planning/Policy Natural Resources; Recreation; Knowledge/Culture; Health/Safety/Wellness

Parks and Recreation TBD High

Assess the feasibility of designating the mowed/maintained vehicle right-of-ways around the perimeter of the property behind the Corpus Christi Natatorium, northeast of Cabaniss Field, as part of an off-road trail network*, including installation of a trail head (potentially on Cabaniss Parkway across from the Natatorium parking lot) as well as some complementary facilities (e.g. BMX dirt bike (non-motorized) park)

Construction Natural Resources; Recreation

Parks and Recreation Corpus Christi Independent School District; Naval Air Station Corpus Christi

High

*See Hike-Bike Trails Concept Plan (delivered under separate cover)

Establish partnership with Naval Air Station Corpus Christi (owner of Cabaniss Field) to assess the feasibility of establishing a network of off-road (non-paved) nature trails in vegetated habitat around the air field facilities; partner with local chapter of the Sierra Club and/or other non-profits to construct wildlife viewing stations with fixed spotting scopes and interpretive signage about native flora and fauna

Construction Natural Resources; Recreation; Knowledge/Culture

Parks and Recreation Naval Air Station Corpus Christi; Coastal Bend Sierra Club

Medium

NODE 7: SUNRISE MALLFormerly a prominent commercial center at the geographic heart of the City, the SunriseMall has been overshadowed in recent years by the more contemporary La Palmera Malland the more utilitarian Moore Plaza. Because of its central location and regionalaccessibility, the Sunrise Mall property—currently for sale at a very competitive price—isan ideal location for a walkable, mixed-use town center that would serve as an archetype forstate-of-the-art development in Corpus Christi. The concept plan for this Node capitalizeson the high visibility and favorable orientation of the site for a self-contained, "net zero"campus that is a declaration of Corpus Christi’s place in the renewable energy marketplaceand would serve as a learning laboratory for those interested in keeping the City is thisposition.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Facilitate public-private partnerships to define a collaborative and innovative vision to guide development ofthe site

Implement a form-based code (under an overlay designation) to allow maximum flexibility in land use types (office, specialty retail, commercial, residential, educational) while maintaining architectural, aesthetic and functional cohesion and adherence to an overarching vision

Planning/Policy Buildings Development Services TBD High

Facilitate the creation of a vision for the proposed town-center development, which will support subsequent master-planning, urban design, and coding to establish guidelines and covenants that will help facilitate the implementation of this vision

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD High

Coordinate with the Economic Development Corporation to establish incentives and recruit private investors to implement select components of the master plan

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Economic Development Corporation

High

Coordinate with the Regional Transportation Authority* to establish interior transit stops and connections Planning/Policy Mobility Development ServicesRegional Transportation Authority Medium

*Regional Transportation Authority staff expressed strong support for this concept during the preliminary planning for the reuse of this site

Treat the entire site as an integrated "park once" environment and develop a comprehensive parking plan that integrates on-street, surface lot and structured parking options into a coherent organization that supports the underlying goals of optimizing the efficient use of land, promoting pedestrian- and bicycle-mobility, and facilitating a wide range of low-impact development approaches

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services TBD Medium

*Two parking structures exist on the site and should be prioritized for re-use in the interest energy and resource efficiency

2 Capitalize on the site’s visibility to create a showcase and learning laboratory for renewable energy and other green technologies

In the vision and master planning/policy processes, prioritize consideration of the potential for solar and wind energy production

Planning/Policy Energy Development Services AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society; Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium

Establish green building and "net zero" energy covenants (under an overlay district) Planning/Policy Energy Development Services US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter

Medium

Partner with renewable energy interests to install demonstration projects (wind, solar, geothermal) on site; capitalize on the installation of these features by establishing interpretive stations for public learning and outreach

Planning/Policy Energy Development Services; Community Development

US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter

Medium

Partner with Texas A&M University Corpus Christi and Del Mar College to create a learning laboratory for renewable energy technology; include designated classroom and “smart” audio/visual rooms and/or meeting spaces in the master plan

Planning/Policy Energy; Knowledge/Culture

Development Services; Community Development

US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter; Texas A&M Corpus Christi; Del Mar College

Medium

In the vision and master planning/policy processes, prioritize integrated water resource management techniques, including: water conserving fixtures, rainwater harvesting for non-potable uses, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) condensate capture, on-site stormwater management (net zero runoff)

Planning/Policy Water Development Services US Green Building Council Central Texas Chapter

Medium

Locate (City Gas Department) a public Compressed Natural Gas fast-fill fueling station on-site Construction Energy; Air; Economy

Gas TBD Medium

NODE 8: FLOUR BLUFFThe Flour Bluff Node currently includes strip-style retail and commercial developmentalong the SPID corridor that is bordered to the south by single and multi-family residentialdevelopment. The concept plan for this Node focuses, in large part, on integratingneighborhood-scale commercial development and enhancing non-vehicular connectionsbetween key amenities and between the residential neighborhoods and nearby commercialdevelopment. The recommended actions are also intended to build upon the existing big-box retail to create more cohesive commercial development that takes advantage of sharedparking and maximizes the street presence of the buildings.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Foster bike and pedestrian connections between key amenities and between residential and commercial development

Assess the feasibility of re-commissioning the deteriorating Holly Road roadbed between Flour Bluff Drive and the Cayo de Oso as a City-owned, off-road trail (forest road) and public coastal nature park; key steps would include re-grading/removal of deteriorating asphalt and the installation of basic infrastructure, including picnic tables, trash/recycling receptacles, and signage

Construction Recreation Parks and Recreation TBD High

Capitalize on existing easements for drainage channels (e.g. between Knickerbocker Street and Graham Street) as well as any opportunities for land acquisition or roadway re-alignment to create a designated multi-use trail connection* between the Cayo de Oso (at Holly Road) and the Laguna Madre with intermediary connections to the Cayo de Oso (at Holly Road) at Wranosky Park (location of planned skate park) and Parker Park (basketball, tennis, and swimming facilities, picnic area, senior center)

Planning/Policy Recreation; Mobility Parks and Recreation TBD High

*See supplemental Hike-Bike Trails Concept Plan (delivered under separate cover)

2 Promote residential infill in existing neighborhoods to create pockets of density and enhance mix of residential types

Promote infill of single family residential development on already platted parcels between Division Road and Don Patricio Road on the west side of Waldron Road; this neighborhood is within the walk/bike shed of the concentration of Flour Bluff ISD schools at Purdue Road and Waldron Road

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD Medium

Promote additional multi-family residential projects southwest of the intersection of Waldron Road and Compton Road, where residents have immediate access to Parker Park; depending on ownership and intended use, the wetland feature and associated habitat to the west of the existing multi-family housing could be enhanced with interpretive trails, wildlife viewing stations, etc. to provide an additional recreational amenity to residents and visitors

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD Medium

3 Enhance the cohesion of the commercial development along South Padre Island Drive and Waldron Road corridors

When re-development or transfer of ownership opportunities arise, reduce the proportion of surface parking at the strip commercial centers; encourage and proposed alteration of site design to enhance the separation between pedestrian and vehicular realms

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD Low

Promote neighborhood-serving commercial infill on vacant parcels along Waldron Road in order to provide basic neighborhood services and promote walkable neighborhood connections

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services TBD High

4 Capitalize on environmental conditions and Do-It-Yourself neighborhood character to promote on-site renewable energy generation (with a focus on solar and residential-scale wind turbines)

Coordinate with AEP Texas or TX Solar Energy Society to assess solar energy generation capacity of the existing housingstock

Planning/Policy Energy Community Development AEP Texas; TX Solar Energy Society

Low

Encourage applicants for construction permits for platted, single-family residential lots between Division Road and Don Patricio Road to capitalize on favorable lot orientation by installing rooftop solar systems (solar photovoltaics or passive water heating systems); coordinate with AEP Texas to deliver information about available rebates and incentives

Planning/Policy Energy; Economy

Development Services AEP Texas; Corpus Christi Builders Association

High

Capitalize on favorable environmental conditions and the pioneering interest in wind energy demonstrated by Flour Bluff residents to encourage installation of residential-scale turbines (under the City’s new wind ordinance) by applicants for construction permits in this area

Planning/Policy Energy; Economy

Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association

High

NODE 9: THE ISLANDThe principal concept behind the proposed plans for the Island Destination Node is the creationof a low-impact, context-sensitive beach destination that affords visitors and residents alike awide range of recreation options and an enhanced sense of connection to the unique naturalamenities of a South Texas barrier island. The current automobile-dependent character of thedevelopment on the northern end of Padre Island serves as a challenge to enhance non-vehicular transportation options to foster a simpler, slower island feel.

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

1 Expand mobility options with an emphasis on alternatives to private cars

Coordinate with Regional Transportation Authority to assess the utility of a designated (year-round or seasonal) IslandCirculator, possibly making use of de-commissioned downtown trolleys after the implementation of a downtown streetcarsystem

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Regional Transportation Authority

High

Coordinate with the Regional Transportation Authority to establish park-and-ride routes to key attraction; investigatecandidate sites for park-and-ride lots in Flour Bluff along the HW 361 corridor and on the Island at the base of the JFKCauseway

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Regional Transportation Authority

Low

Capitalize on the recently passed ordinance to coordinate with the Corpus Christi Police Department and TxDOT to designategolf cart paths, signage, and to make provisions for safe interactions between carts and automobiles

Planning/Policy Mobility Development Services Corpus Christi Police Department; TxDOT

High

Prioritize the designation of a multi-use trail network (bike, pedestrian, and golf carts) to connect neighborhood green spaces,commercial enclaves, and coastal/waterfront recreation areas

Planning/Policy Mobility; Recreation

Parks and Recreation TBD High

Along Park Road 22, designate stand-alone bike paths or on-street bike lanes that are protected from adjacent traffic by way ofa painted (striped) buffer (several feet wide)

Construction Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness

Engineering TBD High

Plan for safe pedestrian/cyclist/golf cart travel during the design and construction of the proposed Park Road 22 bridge Construction Mobility; Health/Safety/Wellness

Engineering TBD Medium

2 Promote the recreational opportunities afforded by access to unique natural amenities

Coordinate with Padre Island National Seashore, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and/or other area environmental non-profits toprovide interpretive signage--preferablywith a uniform appearance to enhance the sense of place and identity on the within thenode--about ecological features/habitats

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture Parks and Recreation Padre Island National Seashore; US Fish and Wildlife Service

Medium

Coordinate with Padre Island National Seashore, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and/or other area environmental non-profits toestablish observation stations and/or wildlife viewing area with fixed spotting scopes, interpretive signage, benches/picnictables etc. at accessible points along Packery Channel

Construction; Community-based Activity

Knowledge/Culture; Recreation

Parks and Recreation Padre Island National Seashore; US Fish and Wildlife Service

Medium

Coordinate with Padre Island National Seashore, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and/or other area environmental non-profits to establish regular, year-round or seasonal, tours, lectures, educational programs and/or other offerings that highlightthe unique natural features of the island

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture; Recreation

Parks and Recreation Padre Island National Seashore; Convention and Visitors Bureau

Low

Partner with the Convention and Visitors Bureau and/or the Padre Island Business Association to establish an Island FunTeam, with paid staff tasked with traveling around the tourist district in distinct vehicles (e.g. Segways or decorated golfcarts), to serve tourists and promote local businesses by distributing flyers and coupons, promoting local activities, andanswering questions

Community-based Activity Knowledge/Culture; Recreation

Community Development; Parks and Recreation

Padre Island Business Association; Convention and Visitors Bureau

Low

NODE 9: THE ISLAND

OBJECTIVE STRATEGY (ACTIVITY) ACTIVITY CATEGORY ELEMENT ADMINISTRATION POTENTIAL PARTNERS PRIORITY

3 Capitalize on the distinct character of the “The Island” to create a complete destination

Establish gateways to the Island Destination Node with a distinct landmark features along Park Road 22 Construction Knowledge/Culture Community Development TxDOT; Beautify Corpus Christi

Medium

Revise the existing Island Overlay District to provide incentives (e.g. fast track permitting, tax incentives) for voluntaryadoption of a reference green building standard with an emphasis on fresh water conservation and on-site stormwaterinfiltration

Planning/Policy Building; Natural Resources

Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium

4 Promote additional business infill development to create a complete community in which (permanent) residents live, work, and play

Promote externally accessible and internally walkable pockets of mixed-use commercial and retail development along ParkRoad 22

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Padre Island Business Association

Medium

Promote (via entitlements, fast-track permitting and other incentives, and/or subsidies) smaller-scale retail and neighborhood-oriented business at the intersections of Park Road 22 and key neighborhood streets so as to provide a transitional bufferbetween business and residential uses, and make supportive commercial uses more accessible to adjacent residents

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Padre Island Business Association

Medium

Promote low- to mid-rise multi-family residential immediately west of Park Road 22 in order to created pockets of density tosupport the development of more robust, pedestrian-oriented commercial clusters

Planning/Policy Economy Development Services Corpus Christi Builders Association

Medium