2007-06-11 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City of University CitySecond Century Commission Recommendations. The City should maintain and expand policies which provide housing for all aspects of the economic spectrum. The City’s zoning should allow for a variety of housing options to enable additional density in existing residential neighborhoods and to create more housing opportunities in commercial corridors in order to provide more affordable housing. To protect the historic character and esthetic charm of its residential and commercial buildings, the City should establish an architectural review board. This board should review all proposals for new construction and renovations to insure that each promotes orderly and harmonious development. The City should enforce its building codes equitably and efficiently. It should make this process more open, friendly, and transparent. The City should adopt additional policies and programs that make it a welcoming and manageable residential alternative for the growing number of older adults. These might include enhanced senior transportation and retirement communities where necessary services are within walking distance. Vision Three: Expand Commercial Base with Distinctive Developments Background. During its first century, the City emphasized residential development more than commercial development. More recently, the City provided key assistance in developing the distinctive Loop District, now a destination for the entire region. Additional commercial development would enrich City revenues, enable maintenance of quality governmental services, and provide more options for residence. Such development should respect the City’s unique character and promote sustainable living. Recommendations. The City should strengthen Olive Boulevard’s international character between Hanley and Interstate 170. This corridor should become a multi-cultural shopping and dining destination for the entire metropolitan area. The City should work with existing Olive Boulevard businesses, Olive Link, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, and other entities to fulfill this goal. The City should devote more resources to economic development, making it a major unit within municipal government. The City should encourage local businesses to establish a University City Chamber of Commerce–or its equivalent–to enhance networking and marketing opportunities. This would enable all businesses to work together to improve the City’s commercial vitality. The City should maintain the unique character of the Loop and help expand its eclectic commercial mix east to the Delmar Metrolink Station and north along Kingsland Avenue to Olive Boulevard. June 11, 2007 - 5 -