The Plan Is Long-Range in Its View and Is Intended to Guide Development in the Township Over the Next 10 to 20 Years

master plan

Watertown Charter Township Clinton County, Michigan

October 2009

table of contents

3 introduction

7 regional setting

15 existing conditions

21 goals and objectives

29 future land use plan

43 implementation

51 attachments

MASTER PLAN contents 1 Watertown Charter Township

Planning today will make a difference for generations to come.

2 MASTER PLAN existing conditions introduction

he Watertown Charter Township Master Plan portrays a T clear statement of community goals and objectives, establishes a vision of the future, and includes strategies to achieve that vision. The Master Plan promotes a future land use pattern that is consistent with the community’s long-range goals.

The information and concepts presented in the Master Plan are used to guide local decisions regarding public and private uses of land and the provision of public facilities and services. The Plan is long-range in its view and is intended to guide development in the Township over the next 10 to 20 years.

Why Prepare a Master Plan?

The Michigan Planning Enabling Act states that the Planning Commission “shall make and approve a master plan as a guide for development” within the Township. In addition, the Michigan The Master Plan is a Zoning Enabling Act requires that the Township’s Zoning set of policies, Ordinance be based upon a plan designed to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare. strategies, and plans to enhance and Zoning is a regulatory mechanism for controlling the classification improve the Township and regulation of land use. It has the force of law. The Master Plan is not an ordinance, does not change the zoning of property, over a long-range and does not have the force of law. Rather, the Master Plan is a planning horizon. set of policies, strategies, and plans to enhance and improve the Township over a long-range planning horizon. While the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map regulate current land use and development, the Master Plan is intended to guide future land use decision-making. The Master Plan is the community’s vision; the Zoning Ordinance governs the path to achieve that vision.

MASTER PLAN introduction 3 Watertown Charter Township

State law requires that a Zoning Ordinance be based on a plan. Therefore, the Master Plan forms the basis upon which zoning decisions are made. With a valid Master Plan in place, zoning decisions consistent with the Plan are presumed by the courts to be valid.

The Planning Process

Watertown Charter Township’s Master Plan update process began in August 2008. The Planning Commission reviewed the Township’s regional setting and its physical and demographic characteristics. Problems, opportunities, and community assets were identified.

During October 2008, the Planning Commission reached out to its residents, property owners, community leaders, business owners, and neighboring townships to gain input and ideas. A Community Visioning Session provided an opportunity for interested parties to raise concerns, offer suggestions, and participate in a process designed to establish a long-range vision for the community.

Based on the Township’s existing conditions, input received during the Community Visioning Session, and the experience of Township officials, a set of goals and objectives were formulated as a basis What do we have? for the Master Plan. A Future Land Use Plan and specific action The planning process items were also developed to provide a roadmap for achieving the begins with a look at the Township’s vision and goals. Township’s existing conditions. Upon completion of a final draft, the Planning Commission held a public hearing to obtain additional public opinion prior to adoption What do we want? Public input establishes a of the Master Plan. vision for the future of the Township. By working closely with residents, business owners, Township officials, planning experts, surrounding communities, and other How do we get there? stakeholders, Watertown Charter Township has sought to develop The Master Plan outlines a Master Plan that balances the competing interests that affect specific actions, land use decisions. These include, for example, the creation and recommendations, and strategies for achieving the retention of jobs and increase in tax base on one side and the Township’s vision. protection of natural resources and community character on the other.

Through careful implementation of the Master Plan recommendations and policies, the Township hopes to build on its tax base and provide for high quality new growth, while preserving important community assets and protecting the overall health, safety, and welfare of its residents.

4 MASTER PLAN introduction Watertown Charter Township

MASTER PLAN introduction 5 Watertown Charter Township… “Bringing resources together for a community focused on the future.” regional setting

atertown Charter Township is located northwest of the W City of Lansing in southern Clinton County and at the heart of the Tri-County Region (Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties). In Clinton County, the Township is bordered by Eagle Township to the west, Riley Township to the north, and DeWitt Charter Township to the east. To the south, the Township is bordered by Delta Charter Township in Eaton County. The City of Lansing and Lansing Charter Township are directly to the southeast in Ingham County. (Refer to Figure 1.)

The Township is also located between the smaller cities of DeWitt and Grand Ledge. Its open spaces and natural features offer a country atmosphere for those who prefer a rural or small town setting. However, given its proximity to Lansing, the Township is well positioned to accommodate future growth and development of the Lansing metropolitan area.

The Township is situated approximately half way between Grand Rapids and the Detroit Metropolitan area at the intersection of Interstate 69 and Interstate 96. Its location at the crossroads of these two major interstates afford the Township a ready connection to Grand Rapids, Detroit, Flint, and Battle Creek, as well as Indiana and Illinois.

Watertown Township is conveniently located between the Capital City International Airport to the east in DeWitt Township and Abrams Municipal Airport to the west in Eagle Township.

Five school districts serve Watertown Township: Grand Ledge Public Schools, Waverly Community Schools, DeWitt Public Schools, Lansing Public School District, and St. Johns Public Schools.

MASTER PLAN regional setting 7 Watertown Charter Township

Figure 1. Regional Location.

Data Source: Michigan Geographic Data Library

Township residents are within minutes of a number of opportunities for higher education in and around the Lansing area, including Michigan State University, Lansing Community College, Cooley Law School, and Olivet College, Davenport University— Lansing, Spring Arbor University—Lansing Campus, and Central Michigan University—Lansing Center. Convenient access to Interstates 69 and 96 provides residents the ability to easily commute to additional colleges and universities in the Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo areas.

Planning Influences

Factors outside of the Township’s borders are essential to consider in the planning process. The long-range goals and activities of neighboring communities and the County may impact the Township’s planning efforts, particularly near the Township’s borders.

8 MASTER PLAN regional setting Watertown Charter Township

Figure 2. Excerpt from Clinton County Comprehensive Land Use Plan (2002) Future Land Use Map.

Clinton County. The Clinton County Comprehensive Land Use Plan was adopted in November 2002 and consists of goals, objectives, The Clinton County and development policies for the 13 unincorporated townships in the County. Watertown Township’s neighbor to the north, Riley Comprehensive Land Township, and its neighbor to the west, Eagle Township, are both Use Plan recommends covered by the County plan. The southern edge of Riley Township, adjacent to Watertown, is planned for Rural and Rural—Low primarily rural and low Density Residential uses (refer to Figure 2). The Plan describes density residential and these areas as being rural with more intensive residential development than agricultural areas. Clustered development is agricultural uses along promoted to preserve open space. The eastern edge of Eagle Watertown Township’s Township, adjacent to Watertown, is planned primarily for north and west Agricultural Preservation and Rural uses (refer to Figure 2). A small area between I-96 and Grand River Avenue is planned for boundaries. Mixed Use which is described as a growth area that can accommodate retail services, offices, entertainment, mixed uses, and single-family and multiple-family residential uses.

MASTER PLAN regional setting 9 Watertown Charter Township

DeWitt Charter Township. The DeWitt Charter Township Comprehensive Development Plan was adopted in August 2005. The western edge of DeWitt Township, adjacent to Watertown, is planned for a mix of uses (refer to Figure 3). The area north of the Looking Glass River is planned primarily for Single Family Residential uses with low and medium densities. A small Neighborhood Oriented Commercial node is planned for the southeast corner of Airport and Cutler Roads. The area south of the Looking Glass and north of I-69 is planned for Community Oriented Commercial and Office uses. South of I-69 is planned for Medium Density Single Family Residential uses. The southwestern portion of DeWitt Township, where the Capital Regional International Airport is located, is planned for Institutional and Airport Commercial uses.

Figure 3. Excerpt from DeWitt Charter Township Comprehensive Plan (2005) Future Land Use Map.

DeWitt Township is planning for a range of uses along Watertown’s eastern border including single family residential, office, neighborhood and community commercial, institutional, and airport commercial.

10 MASTER PLAN regional setting Watertown Charter Township

Delta Charter Township. The Delta Charter Township Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 2004. The northern edge of Delta Township, adjacent to Watertown, is planned for Single Family Residential uses (refer to Figure 4). Hawk Meadow Park, located one half mile east of Ingersol Road, is planned for Parks and Recreation use.

Figure 4. Excerpt from Delta Charter Township Comprehensive Plan (2004) Future Land Use Map.

The Tri-County Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. The Tri-County Regional Planning Regional Planning Commission prepared a Summary Report titled Regional Growth: Choices for Our Future in September 2005. This Commission promotes report promotes a “Wise Growth” Scenario in which new “Wise Growth” which development would be directed to existing urbanized areas. The adopted regional land use policy map illustrates strengthened city focuses new and village centers, focused and clustered growth areas, and development around minimal development in rural areas to preserve agriculture and open space. existing city and village centers while persevering agriculture and open spaces in rural areas.

MASTER PLAN regional setting 11 Watertown Charter Township

Capital Region International Airport. The Capital City Airport Master Plan was developed in 2006 by the Capital Regional Airport Authority. The Plan establishes a preferred alternative for future facility improvement and expansion to meet forecasted aviation activity at the Airport. The Recommended Airport Development alternative (refer to Figure 5) illustrates “future” and “ultimate” improvements that include construction of a new passenger terminal complex and additional parking facilities, extension of existing runways, construction of a new runway, and expansion of cargo and general aviation areas and facilities. Future improvements include those planned for the short-term to meet current demand as well as those planned for the long-term to meet expected demand in the next 5 to 20 years. Ultimate improvements, such as a new runway, are those for which a demand is not foreseen within the planning period but that could materialize with increased demand or beyond the planning period.

Figure 5. Excerpt from Capital City Airport Master Plan (2006) Recommended Airport Development.

12 MASTER PLAN regional setting Watertown Charter Township

MASTER PLAN regional setting 13 “Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” -Thomas Alva Edison existing conditions

efore the Township can decide what it wants for the future, B it is helpful to understand what it has and where it is in the context of today.

The Watertown Charter Township 2002 Comprehensive Development Plan Amendment contains a number of detailed background studies that inventory and analyze the existing conditions of the Township, including natural features, socioeconomic characteristics, existing land use, community facilities and services. The 2002 Plan also includes a market assessment of the potential for future residential, commercial, office, and industrial uses in the Township. The following discussion is intended to summarize and highlight important findings from these background studies, as well as identify factors and conditions that have changed since the 2002 Plan was completed. All population and housing data is from the U.S. Figure 6. Watertown Census unless otherwise noted. Township Population Growth. Population and Housing

5000 4,582 The Township’s population has grown steadily over the last three 4,162 decades (Figure 6). According to the U.S. Census, Watertown 4000 3,731 Township had a population of 4,162 in 2000. The Census Bureau 3,602 3000 estimated the Township’s population to be 4,582 in 2007. This estimated increase of 420 persons represents a ten percent 2000 growth in population since 2000. This estimated growth rate is 1000 slightly higher than the nearly eight percent rate of growth that the Census has estimated for Clinton County over the same time 0 period. 1980 1990 2000 2007 If current development trends continue, the Tri-County Regional Source: U.S. Census 1980, 1990, Planning Commission (TCRPC) population forecast for Watertown 2000, 2007 Estimate

MASTER PLAN existing conditions 15 Watertown Charter Township

Township indicates an increase to 5,415 by 2020 and 5,874 by 2030. Under the TCRPC’s recommended Wise Growth Scenario, however, the Township’s population is forecasted to be 4,265 by 2020 and 4,270 by 2030.

In the past, the largest age group in the Township has been the family formation group (ages 20-44 years). However, the Township’s population appears to be aging consistent with national trends (Figure 7). Census data indicates that between 1990 and 2000, the family formation group experienced a decrease of eight percent, while the empty nest group (ages 45- 64 years) experienced an eight percent increase. It is important to note that while the Township’s population will likely continue to age, the pre-school/school-aged group (ages 0-19 years) and the family formation group together comprise a significant segment of the total population. This is an indicator that the Township continues to be an attractive location for families.

Figure 7. Watertown Township Population by Age.

1990 2000 45% 40% 39% 35% 32% 31% 31% 30% 30% 25% 22% 20% 15% 8% % of Total Population 10% 7% 5% 0% 0-19 Years 20-44 Years 45-64 Years 65+ Years

Source: U.S. Census 1990, 2000

Watertown Township’s population is predominantly white (96%). Township residents are also black (0.7%), American Indian and Alaska Native (0.2%), Asian (0.8%), Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (0.1%), another race (1.2%), or two or more races (1%). Over two percent (2.4%) of the population is of Hispanic or Latino origin.

16 MASTER PLAN existing conditions Watertown Charter Township

Figure 8. Residential Building Permits Issued in Township.

Thru 07-2008 4

2007 19

2006 35

2005 59

2004 81

2003 61

2002 44

2001 39

0 20406080100

Source: Watertown Township

There were a total of 1,502 housing units in Watertown in 2000. Between 2003 and 2005, the Township experienced an increase in building activity (Figure 8). Several new residential developments were approved along Airport Road, including the 302-unit Nottingham Fields single-family development and The The Township Links at Royal Scot 156-unit single-family and two-family development. Recently, however, residential building activity in estimates that there are the Township has slowed dramatically consistent with what is approximately 750 occurring in many other communities across the State and the nation. The Township estimates that there are approximately 750 approved home sites in approved home sites in the Township that remain undeveloped. If the Township that all 750 sites were built out, it would represent a 40 percent increase in the Township’s total housing units. Given the current remain undeveloped. development climate, the market absorption rate of these available home sites will likely be slow. Based on the absorption rate from 2000 to 2008, this represents a 17-year supply.

According to the Township’s data for residential building permits, a total of 345 new residential units were permitted between October 2000 and July 2008. While there is a gap between the Census data and the Township’s data, the total number of housing units in the Township is estimated to be 1,847.

MASTER PLAN existing conditions 17 Watertown Charter Township

Land Use

Watertown Township is comprised of primarily agricultural lands, open spaces, and rural large-lot single-family homes located along the main roads (Figure 9). The majority of the Township’s smaller- lot single-family neighborhoods are located along the west side of Airport Road. There are also several older neighborhoods along the Looking Glass River near the Wacousta village center. A recent development, Somerset Hills, is located southwest of Clark and Wacousta Roads and will bring additional single-family development to this area of the Township.

Figure 9. Existing conditions.

important gateway

Wacousta village

agriculture & residential residential rural residential neighborhoods neighborhoods

Looking Glass River

I−69 East

I−96 West agriculture & rural residential

to Portland landfill residential neighborhoods agriculture & rural residential

commercial & to Lansing CSX Railroad industrial corridor I−96 East & I−69 South

18 MASTER PLAN existing conditions Watertown Charter Township

The majority of non-residential uses in the Township are located within the Grand River Avenue corridor, primarily east of Interstate-69. Development in this corridor includes auto-oriented commercial establishments and industrial uses. The Township’s light industrial district provides Watertown with a solid industrial tax base. Its proximity and access to interstate and rail transportation make this a prime location for additional industrial development.

The Granger Sanitary Landfill, located between I-96 and Grand River Avenue and between Wacousta and Forest Hill Roads, encompasses over 178 acres of the Township’s land area.

Gateways

Watertown Township is conveniently located at the intersection of I-69 and I-96, with interchanges located at Airport Road and Grand River Avenue. These two interchanges not only provide excellent access to the freeways, they also serve as important gateways into Watertown Township. Grand River Avenue is also an important gateway into the Township from the east and west.

MASTER PLAN existing conditions 19 Public input is a key contributor to the Master Plan’s policy basis. goals and objectives

he Watertown Township Master Plan is a guide for future T development. It establishes public policies regarding long- range land use. Public input is a key contributor to this policy basis.

In October of 2008, the Planning Commission hosted a well- attended public input workshop. The purpose of the workshop was to educate the public about the Master Plan and engage them in the planning process. The facilitated workshop was designed to obtain ideas directly from those in attendance. Participants worked in small groups to identify important characteristics or “snapshots” of the Township and to identify issues important to the planning process. Participants then worked together as a whole to brainstorm potential solutions to the identified issues.

The results of the workshop were recorded and used to refine and update the goals and objectives of the 2002 Comprehensive Development Plan. The following goals and objectives serve as the policy framework of the Master Plan. Strategies and actions for achieving the overall goals and objectives are addressed in the Future Land Use Plan and programmed in the Implementation Matrix.

The goals and objectives are intended to result in a specific quality and character for the community. This will be achieved by following strategies designed to permit measurable progress toward achieving the Township’s objectives. These strategies will have to balance the public purposes inherent in planning for the long-range future of the community with the rights of private property owners to develop an appropriate use of their land.

MASTER PLAN goals and objectives 21 Watertown Charter Township

GOAL: Preserve lands particularly well-suited for agricultural production.

Objectives: Manage growth to reduce encroachment of non-farm uses into prime agricultural lands. Separate higher density development from agricultural areas. Discourage the premature conversion of agricultural lands into residential and suburban development. Coordinate land use decisions with utility planning.

GOAL: Maintain and enhance the Township’s rural character and historical resources.

Objectives: Encourage the preservation, reuse, and rehabilitation of historic buildings and landmarks. Encourage the preservation of farmhouses, barns, silos and other architectural features which symbolize the Township’s rural history. Discourage the premature conversion of agricultural lands and open spaces into residential and suburban development. Encourage new development and redevelopment that reflects the Township’s rural and agricultural character. Protect scenic views throughout the Township. Protect natural elements which contribute to the overall rural quality of the Township, including fence rows, woodlots, fields, natural topography, native plants, and wildlife habitat. Promote development that reflects the Township’s existing character and strengthens the community’s image. Provide for appropriate transition between residential and nonresidential uses.

GOAL: Encourage development of land in an environmentally and economically sound manner that optimizes development possibilities and natural resource protection for future generations.

Objectives: Implement and enforce land use regulations that are consistent with the Master Plan. Coordinate land use decisions with utility planning. Promote the use of planned unit development and cluster

22 MASTER PLAN goals and objectives Watertown Charter Township

housing as a means of encouraging efficient use of land and preservation of natural and open spaces. Prevent the premature conversion of open space into residential and suburban development. Encourage the use of low impact development techniques, native plant species, energy conservation, and renewable energy sources. Balance and mitigate the impacts of economic uses of natural resources with the preservation of topography, plants, water, woods, and natural terrain.

GOAL: Conserve the natural resources, open spaces and environmental assets of the Township.

Objectives: Minimize the negative impacts and disturbances to surface water, groundwater, wetlands, riparian areas, natural drainage, sensitive topography, woodlands, native plants, and wildlife. Protect natural elements which contribute to the overall rural quality of the Township, including fence rows, woodlots, fields, natural topography, native plants, and wildlife habitat. Encourage the preservation of natural resources and wooded areas. Protect wetlands, surface water, and groundwater quality. Encourage the protection of wildlife habitat and retain native vegetation on developing and developed sites to guard against excessive runoff, soil erosion, and sedimentation. Promote the preservation of the Looking Glass River corridor through Ordinances that regulate setbacks, land uses, and building height. Encourage new public access opportunities along the Looking Glass River. Preserve and protect landmark trees and unique, large stands of trees and encourage planting of new trees. Promote the use of planned unit development and cluster housing as a means of encouraging efficient use of land and preservation of natural and open spaces. Prevent the premature conversion of open space into residential and suburban development. Protect scenic views throughout the Township. Encourage the elimination of all invasive plant species in the Township.

MASTER PLAN goals and objectives 23 Watertown Charter Township

Encourage the use of low impact development techniques, native plant species, energy conservation, and renewable energy sources. Minimize noise and light pollution.

GOAL: Promote and attract diverse, high-quality, sustainable development in the Township that has minimal negative impact on adjacent land uses, creates a sound economic tax base, and maintains high levels of aesthetic character.

Objectives: Cooperate with regional business groups to identify economic development issues and opportunities. Encourage design and landscaping that focus on quality materials and architecture, extensive use of plantings, low signs, and minimizing impervious surfaces. Promote development that reflects the Township’s existing character and strengthens the community’s image. Provide for appropriate transition between residential and nonresidential uses. Plan for appropriate development in proximity to the Capital City International Airport. Encourage the use of low impact development techniques, native plant species, and renewable energy sources. Encourage building designs that are both energy efficient and environmentally sensitive.

GOAL: Ensure the long-term stability of the Township’s residential areas and neighborhoods.

Objectives: Allow for high-density single-family residential growth in areas where community services, including police protection, fire protection, water, sewer, and adequate transportation facilities, are provided. Provide for a wide variety of housing choices (density, size, type, and price) within the Township to promote a sense of community and a mix of ages and interests. Encourage residential developments to be designed as neighborhoods, including amenities such as bike paths, pedestrian paths, natural open space, recreation areas, and path linkages with other portions of the Township.

24 MASTER PLAN goals and objectives Watertown Charter Township

Encourage the maintenance and preservation of the existing housing stock through housing rehabilitation programs and code enforcement. Encourage building designs that are both energy efficient and environmentally sensitive.

GOAL: Provide for a mix of commercial and office uses to serve the needs of existing and future residents.

Objectives: Preserve and enhance the character of the Wacousta village. Provide for appropriate business locations to meet the needs of Township residents for small commercial nodes. Consider the availability of existing and proposed commercial uses in the surrounding area when allocating land for future development to avoid premature development and sprawl. Promote commercial and office development that reflects the Township’s existing character and strengthens the community’s image. Increase marketing efforts to attract new businesses to the Township.

GOAL: Provide appropriate locations for manufacturing and industrial uses to strengthen the Township’s tax base and serve the needs of current and future residents.

Objectives: Attract light manufacturing facilities that are job generators, environmentally sensitive, energy efficient, and developed with a high level of aesthetics. Consider the availability of existing and proposed industrial areas in the surrounding area when allocating land for future development to avoid premature development and industrial sprawl. Develop strategies to maintain and enhance the Township’s industrial uses. Increase marketing efforts to attract desirable new industrial uses to the Township. Promote development that minimizes negative impacts on neighboring properties and the environment. Encourage site design and buffering techniques that minimize land use conflicts.

MASTER PLAN goals and objectives 25 Watertown Charter Township

GOAL: Provide economically and geographically efficient public services to residents consistent with the rural character of the Township.

Objectives: Encourage utilization and use of existing utilities. Provide sanitary sewer and storm water service to the Wacousta area. Provide public utilities to prevent environmental contamination in areas of existing development, especially to existing residences along the Looking Glass River. Plan for long-term public improvements using growth management principles and guidelines for making decisions. Provide police, fire and emergency service that provide reasonable protection to the citizens of Watertown Charter Township. Coordinate land use decisions within community facility and utility planning. Improve modern infrastructure and amenities in the Township, such as cable and high speed internet access.

GOAL: Seek the development of a safe, diverse, and efficient transportation network.

Objectives: Enhance compatibility of non-motorized and motorized uses along public roads. Protect the capacity and function of existing arterial and collector streets by regulating land use and implementing appropriate access management techniques. Promote development of sidewalk and bicycle paths along designated major roads, links to schools and recreational facilities as a safety measure, to expand recreational opportunities and to create a more walkable community. Promote non-motorized and alternative modes of transportation and implement the recommendations of the Non-Motorized Circulation Plan.

26 MASTER PLAN goals and objectives Watertown Charter Township

GOAL: Provide a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities to residents of the Township, with specific attention to age and physical limitations.

Objectives: Provide expanded outdoor recreational opportunities, which focus on and protect the unique natural resources of the Township. Acquire parkland, when available, for long-term use. Plan for parks and recreation improvements. Plan for distribution of parks facilities to best serve population concentrations. Encourage new public access opportunities along the Looking Glass River.

GOAL: Strengthen the Township’s community identity.

Objectives: Promote community-wide events and activities, such as a farmers market, holiday celebrations, community gardens, etc. Enhance key gateways into the community. Pursue destination and informational signage that serves the Township. Establish facilities and programs that strengthen the bond between the Township’s east and west population centers.

GOAL: Strengthen and enhance the viability and identity of the Wacousta village.

Objectives: Provide sanitary sewer and stormwater service to the Wacousta area. Strengthen marketing efforts to attract new businesses to Wacousta that are compatible with the rural character. Enhance gateways into Wacousta. Pursue destination and informational signage that serves the Township. Encourage new development and redevelopment that reflects Wacousta’s unique character.

MASTER PLAN goals and objectives 27 “…environmental stewardship and economic development need not be in conflict if you are smart about how growth is pursued.” -Mike Bergey future land use plan

he Future Land Use Plan component of the Master Plan T document identifies action strategies to pursue in order to achieve the long-range goals and objectives of the Township.

Preferred Growth

The Future Land Use Map is based upon the Township’s desire to Sustainable encourage responsible and sustainable growth that is sensitive to development is the natural environment, creates a sense of place, and meets the needs of future residents. Specifically, the Plan is intended to: “development that Maintain and enhance the Township’s rural character and meets the needs of the historical resources. present without Preserve lands particularly well-suited for agricultural production. compromising the Encourage development of land in an environmentally and ability of future economically sound manner that optimizes development generations to meet possibilities and natural resource protection for future generations. their own needs.” To achieve these goals, it is the Township’s policy to promote low impact development techniques, smart growth principles, energy conservation, and sustainable development.

Future Land Use

The Master Plan and Future Land Use Map are tools to be used by the Planning Commission and Township Board during land use decision-making, capital improvement planning, development review, and ongoing reevaluation and refinement of the Township’s ordinances. Implementation of the general recommendations and specific action strategies will occur over time and will depend upon many factors, including the overall economic climate, changing development trends, availability of utilities, local budget constraints, and political priorities.

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 29 Watertown Charter Township

Action Items Principles of Smart Growth Conduct a “sustainability audit” of the Zoning Create Walkable Neighborhoods Ordinance. Walkable communities are desirable places to live, work, learn, worship and play, and therefore a key component of smart growth. Encourage low impact development stormwater Encourage Community and Stakeholder Collaboration management Growth can create great places to live, work and play -- if it responds techniques, such as to a community’s own sense of how and where it wants to grow. bioretention. Create Range of Housing Opportunities and Choices Address wind energy Providing quality housing for people of all income levels is an integral conversion systems and component in any smart growth strategy. other alternative energy Foster Distinctive, Attractive Communities with a Strong Sense of systems in the Zoning Place Ordinance. Smart growth encourages communities to craft a vision and set Develop incentives to standards for development and construction which respond to encourage developers to community values of architectural beauty and distinctiveness, as well utilize energy efficient as expanded choices in housing and transportation. and environmentally Make Development Decisions Predictable, Fair and Cost Effective sensitive materials and For a community to be successful in implementing smart growth, it practices. must be embraced by the private sector. Create a resource list to Mix Land Uses help residents find Smart growth supports the integration of mixed land uses into information about communities as a critical component of achieving better places to alternative energy live. sources and low impact development techniques, Preserve Open Space, Farmland, Natural Beauty and Critical as well as local suppliers, Environmental Areas installers and Open space preservation supports smart growth goals by bolstering contractors. local economies, preserving critical environmental areas, improving our communities quality of life, and guiding new growth into existing Develop an educational communities. campaign to promote the Township’s Provide a Variety of Transportation Choices environmentally Providing people with more choices in housing, shopping, conscious goals. communities, and transportation is a key aim of smart growth. Amend parking Strengthen and Direct Development Towards Existing Communities standards to reduce Smart growth directs development towards existing communities construction of additional already served by infrastructure, seeking to utilize the resources that impervious surfaces. existing neighborhoods offer, and conserve open space and irreplaceable natural resources on the urban fringe. Encourage the use of native species for Take Advantage of Compact Building Design landscaping and Smart growth provides a means for communities to incorporate more stormwater management compact building design as an alternative to conventional, land purposes. consumptive development. Maintain an inventory of Source: www.smartgrowth.org wetlands in the Township.

30 MASTER PLAN future land use plan Watertown Charter Township

The Future Land Use Map (Figure 10, page 35) is a representation of the Township’s preferred long-range future land use arrangement. The map identifies general locations for various land uses envisioned by the Planning Commission. The Future Land Use Map, along with the entire Master Plan document, is a guide for local decisions regarding land use. The boundaries reflected on the map are not intended to indicate precise size, shape or dimension. In addition, the Future Land Use Map does not necessarily imply that rezoning is imminent; rather, the recommendations set a long-range planning goal. Following are descriptions of the future land use categories illustrated on the map.

Agriculture and Rural Residential. Areas planned for Agriculture and Rural Residential are intended to accommodate primarily agricultural land uses, farm dwellings, and non-farm dwellings that are in keeping with the rural and agricultural character. Residential development in these areas should be limited to single-family homes at an overall density generally in the range of 0.2 to 0.5 dwelling units per acre. Agriculture and Rural Residential areas are not intended to be served by public water or It is the intent of the sanitary sewer services.

Master Plan to retain Recognizing that some lands are particularly well-suited to the existing agricultural agricultural uses, it is the Township’s intent to minimize the encroachment of non-farm uses into these prime agricultural area along Grand River areas. In order to discourage the consumption of prime Avenue west of agricultural land by large-lot residential development, the Township should zone these areas Agricultural Preservation, limit Wacousta Road in density, maintain the maximum lot size of two (2) acres, and order to preserve views require the preservation of open space and/or farmland as a condition of development. Areas best suited for Agricultural of the Township’s Preservation are those enrolled in P.A. 116 and those designated agricultural land and as prime or unique farmland by the United States Department of Agriculture. rural character from this major While Grand River Corridor is primarily planned for more intensive uses, it is the intent of the Master Plan to retain the existing thoroughfare. agricultural area along Grand River Avenue west of Wacousta Road. This area offers travelers on Grand River a view of the Township’s agricultural land and rural character.

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 31 Watertown Charter Township

Low Density Residential. The area planned for Low Density Residential is intended to accommodate single-family and two- Action Items family homes up to a maximum density of 1.0 dwelling units per Evaluate and amend, if acre. Located outside of the Township’s agricultural lands with necessary, the convenient access to the freeways and Grand River, this area is Agricultural, Agricultural an ideal location for residential development. Future Preservation, and Rural development within these areas, however, should be at a low Residential zoning districts to ensure they density that does not require extension of public water and are consistent with the sanitary sewer service. goals and intent of the

Medium Density Residential. Areas planned for Medium Density Master Plan. Residential are intended to accommodate residential uses up to a Promote the enrollment maximum density of 2.0 dwelling units per acre. Planned Medium of lands into the Density Residential areas are primarily concentrated in two key Farmland and open areas: 1) along the Township’s eastern boundary where public Space Preservation Act (P.A. 116 of 1974) in water and sanitary sewer service is already available, and 2) areas planned for long- within the Wacousta Village and Village Gateway areas. range agricultural use. Along Airport Road, this designation provides a transition between Avoid extension of the mix of nonresidential and residential land uses planned to the public water and east in DeWitt Charter Township and the agricultural and rural sanitary sewer services residential land uses to the west in Watertown. into planned agricultural areas. In and around Wacousta, medium density residential Work with the Clinton development serves to support extension of public utilities to the County Road village area and will provide additional rooftops needed to support Commission to retain nonresidential uses in the Village Center. Development of this vegetation and preserve area should be designed in a manner that is sensitive to and a rural appearance provides for an appropriate transition to the outlying agricultural along the township’s and rural residential areas. rural roadways. Promote the use of High Density Residential. The area planned for High Density grass swales, natural Residential is intended to accommodate a variety of attached and on-site detention, and detached residential uses up to a maximum density of 8.0 native vegetation, dwelling units per acre. Development of this area should be rather than typical designed in a manner that provides for an appropriate transition suburban elements, in between the planned Local Business node at the freeway rural residential areas. interchange and the surrounding Medium Density Residential Explore Natural Beauty neighborhoods. Road designation for appropriate roadways. Manufactured Housing Park. The area planned for Manufactured Housing Park is intended to accommodate expansion of the Inventory the existing park and/or development of a new modern manufactured Township’s historic structures and housing park at a density of approximately 5.0 dwelling units per resources. acre. Promote cluster development and open space preservation.

32 MASTER PLAN future land use plan Watertown Charter Township

Local Business. The area planned for Local Business is intended Action Items to accommodate small scale neighborhood-oriented commercial Evaluate and amend, if uses, such as financial institutions, personal service necessary, the establishments, professional offices, and small restaurants and residential zoning coffee shops. Located along Airport Road abutting the I-69 districts to permit a interchange, this area is intended to primarily meet the range of housing convenience service needs of the surrounding residential choices at densities neighborhoods. This area could accommodate limited highway- consistent with the goals and intent of the oriented commercial uses; however, development of such uses Master Plan. should be of a character and scale that is consistent with a neighborhood commercial node. Local Business areas should be Work to recruit new and appropriately buffered from residential areas by landscaping and retain existing screening and/or lower intensity transitional land uses such as commercial, industrial, research, and offices. technology uses in the Township. Principal Business. The areas planned for Principal Business are intended to accommodate larger scale retail and office Evaluate and adopt, developments and auto-oriented uses that meet the needs of the when needed, an Office entire community. Located along Grand River Avenue with zoning district. convenient access to Interstate 69 and Interstate 96, uses within Continue the Capital the Principal Business area will serve Township residents, pass-by Improvements Program. travelers, and surrounding communities. Principal Business areas Plan for the future of the should be appropriately buffered from residential areas by Township’s parks. landscaping and screening and/or lower intensity transitional land uses such as offices.

Village Center. The area planned for Village Center is located at the heart of the unincorporated settlement of Wacousta. The Village Center is intended to accommodate a mix of land uses including small scale retail, office, high density residential, public and quasi-public, and parks and open spaces. Development within the Village Center should be designed to strengthen the sense of place and enhance the existing town or village form while reflecting the area’s rural character.

Industry and Technology. The areas planned for Industry and Technology are intended to accommodate a range of uses including warehousing, storage, light manufacturing, large office complexes and parks, and research and development. These areas are located in the southeastern portion of the Township in appropriate proximity to the railroad, freeways, Grand River Avenue, and Capital Region Airport. Industry and Technology areas should be appropriately buffered from residential areas by landscaping and screening and/or lower intensity transitional land uses such as offices.

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 33 Watertown Charter Township

Landfill. The area designated as Landfill encompasses the Granger Sanitary Landfill site.

Airport. The area designated as Airport encompasses the land owned by the Capital Region International Airport.

Open Space. The areas planned for Open Space are intended to accommodate open space and recreational uses including golf courses, parks, and cemeteries. (Note: Due to its location within the Village Center area, Heritage Park is not specifically designated as Open Space on the Future Land Use Map; however, it is the intent of the Master Plan that Heritage Park be maintained as a public park and open space.)

34 MASTER PLAN future land use plan Watertown Charter Township

Notes: 1. This map is intended to show generalized land use and is not intended to indicate the precise size, shape, or dimension of areas. 2. These recommendations have a long-range planning horizon and do not necessarily imply that short-range rezoning decisions are appropriate. 3. The Watertown Charter Township Master Plan includes the Future Land Use Map and all other text, maps, charts, tables, and graphics in the complete Master Plan document.

Figure 10. Future Land Use Map. October 2009 Watertown Charter Township Clinton County, Michigan

Base Map Source: Clinton County

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 35 Watertown Charter Township

Resources

Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association www.glrea.org

Clinton County Green Government Initiative www.clinton-county.org/GreenInitiative/green_govt.html

Rain Gardens of West Michigan www.raingardens.org

Green Built™ Michigan www.greenbuiltmichigan.org

Green Values® Stormwater Toolbox www.greenvalues.cnt.org

Sustainable Communities Network www.sustainable.org

Smart Growth Online www.smartgrowth.org

Low Impact Development Manual for Michigan Southeast Michigan Council of Governments www.semcog.org/LowImpactDevelopment.aspx

Getting to Smart Growth II: 100 More Policies for Implementation Smart Growth Network www.smartgrowth.org/pdf/gettosg2.pdf

Planning for Green River Corridors: A Resource Guide for Maximizing Community Assets Related to Rivers Oakland County Planning & Economic Development Services www.oakgov.com/peds/program_service/es_prgm/rip_green/ rgc_planguide.html

36 MASTER PLAN future land use plan Watertown Charter Township

Focus Area Overlays Action Items

Develop and adopt a In addition to the underlying land use recommendations, the Riparian Corridor Plan Future Land Use Map designates four focus areas with the for the Looking Glass following overlay classifications: River Corridor. Coordinate riparian Looking Glass River Corridor. The Looking Glass River is a planning with planning significant scenic and riparian resource that runs through the efforts of the Grand Township primarily between Clark and Herbison Roads. The River Heritage River Looking Glass River Overlay classification is intended to identify Trail and Friends of the the River as an important community asset and encourage its Looking Glass River. protection, appropriate use, and ecological management. Map, evaluate and amend, if necessary, the Riparian corridors, such as the Looking Glass River, provide Looking Glass River critical wildlife habitat and movements corridors; serve important Overlay District. ecological functions such as water filtration, stormwater storage, Enforce the minimum and flood control; offer opportunities for active and passive riparian setback recreation; and tie communities together. standards that require native vegetation buffer A number of best practices, tools, and techniques are available to strips and restrict assist in the protection and enhancement of the River corridor. A clearing, construction Riparian Corridor Plan can establish the policy framework for and development along future regulatory measures and detail recommended strategies the River. for leveraging the opportunities the River offers the Township and Develop a public its residents. Such a plan should focus on how best to utilize the education campaign diverse ecological and cultural aspects of the River as it flows and an inventory of through the Township. It should identify the range of functions aggressive and invasive provided by and community values associated with the River, and species in the Township. how those benefits can best be managed and leveraged so the River corridor truly becomes a community asset. The Plan should include both land-based recommendations for protecting the functional values of the River and branding and identity-based recommendations for raising public awareness and engagement.1

1 “Planning for Green River Corridors: A Resource Guide for Maximizing Community Assets Related to Rivers.” Oakland County Planning & Economic Development Services, May 2007.

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 37 Watertown Charter Township

Wacousta Village. Wacousta is situated at the crossroads of Wacousta and Herbison Roads and is the Township’s historic Action Items settlement or hamlet. It is unincorporated but commonly referred Develop and adopt a to as Wacousta Village. It has many key components of a place: Wacousta Village Area government center (Township Hall), public gathering spaces Plan. (Township parks), elementary school, library, place of worship, Amend the Village significant natural feature (Looking Glass River), recreation Service Zoning District opportunities (gymnasium, ball fields, canoe landings), residential to permit and achieve neighborhoods, and businesses (including the Wacousta General the vision of the Store). While the Township is challenged by multiple school Wacousta Village Area district boundaries and zip codes resulting in a lack of common Plan. identity among its residents, Wacousta Village presents a unique Establish design opportunity for creating a true sense of place within Watertown. guidelines or a pattern By developing, adopting, and implementing a Wacousta Village book to ensure Area Plan, the Township can clearly articulate its future vision for development in the Wacousta area and identify specific action strategies to build Wacousta is consistent upon the assets already present within the village area. Such an with the Wacousta area plan can illustrate the preferred physical “town” form and Village Area Plan. neighborhood characteristics, detail streetscape improvements Implement the such as street lights, sidewalks and crosswalks, and establish recommendations of the concepts for gateway identification and enhancement. Township’s Non- Motorized Circulation Village Gateway. Slightly “off the beaten path,” the Wacousta Plan. Village area currently lacks visibility from Grand River Avenue — Create a Village the Township’s most heavily traveled roadway. The Village Gateway overlay zoning Gateway overlay classification is intended to identify this area as district to implement an important gateway to Wacousta and encourage future recommendations of the development in a manner that provides for a noticeable transition Wacousta Village Area — or gateway — into the Village. Future land uses within this Plan. overlay area are primarily planned for Medium Density Enhance Wacousta Residential; however, a more detailed Wacousta Village Area Plan Village and Village should provide recommendations for additional development Center gateways. characteristics such as front setbacks and right-of-way plantings Plan a village branding unique to the Gateway overlay area. and identification program including gateway and wayfinding signage. Plan for the extension of public water and sanitary sewer to the Wacousta Village area. Promote Wacousta by holding community events, such as a farmers market, in the Village Center. Examples of homes clustered around common open space (above).

38 MASTER PLAN future land use plan Watertown Charter Township

Figure 11. Wacousta Village and Gateway Focus Area Recommendations.

Permit a variety of housing near the Village Center at a density that will support nonresidential uses in Wacousta Leverage the River’s scenic, ecological, and recreational assets Develop a Village Area Plan and amend the Village Service District to facilitate development of a viable Examples of gateway features with mixed use Village Center rural character (above and below).

Wacousta Village presents a unique opportunity for creating a true sense of place within Watertown.

Examples of crosswalk and building placement that create a pedestrian-oriented village atmosphere (above and below).

Establish a Village Gateway overlay district to create a transitional gateway from Grand River Avenue into Wacousta

Enhance gateways into the Wacousta Village area

Enhance gateways into the Village Center area

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 39 Watertown Charter Township

Grand River Avenue Corridor. Grand River Avenue is an important thoroughfare through the southern portion of the Township that Action Items connects Watertown to the City of Lansing to the east and Develop and adopt a Portland to the West. The corridor encompasses the majority of Grand River Corridor the Township’s existing nonresidential uses, including industrial Plan to address and highway-oriented commercial uses as well as the Granger landscaping, signage, Sanitary Landfill. The Grand River Avenue Corridor overlay access management, and building placement classification is intended to recognize the significance of this in the corridor. corridor — its access to both freeways, visibility, volume of traffic, and concentration of existing and planned nonresidential land Evaluate and amend, if uses. Development in this area should be well designed to necessary, the Grand portray an attractive image of the Township and ensure a safe and River Avenue Overlay efficient transportation corridor. Development and adoption of a District. detailed Grand River Corridor Plan can establish the policy Create Township framework for refinement of the Grand River Avenue Overlay gateway features along District in the Zoning Ordinance. Future amendments to the Grand River Avenue at Overlay District could specify additional regulations for the Township’s development and redevelopment within the corridor, such as boundaries. access management techniques, building placement and Plan a Township-wide materials, signage, parking, screening, and landscaping wayfinding signage standards. As indicated on the Future Land Use Map, existing program. agriculture and rural residential uses west of Wacousta Road Work with developers, should be retained in order to preserve views of the Township’s the Michigan agricultural land and rural character from this important corridor. Department of Transportation, and the Clinton County Road Commission to achieve safe and efficient access to properties along all roads in the Township.

Examples of attractive right-of-way landscaping and screening of industrial buildings and parking areas (above).

40 MASTER PLAN future land use plan Watertown Charter Township

Figure 12. Rain Gardens and Bioretention.

Bioretention is a low impact development and best management practice that uses soils and vegetation to remove pollutants from stormwater. These specialized landscape areas are used to filter and store runoff and promote groundwater recharge through infiltration. Runoff is conveyed as sheet flow to the treatment area, which can consist of a grass buffer strip, sand bed, ponding area, organic layer or mulch layer, planting soil, and plants. Once runoff reaches the treatment area, water is ponded and gradually infiltrates the bioretention area or is evapotranspired. This reduces the amount of water flowing from the impervious surface and reduces the amount of pollution that ends Image source: Low Impact Development Technical Guidance Manual for Puget up in nearby waterways. Sound

Examples of large bioretention cells incorporated into parking areas to absorb runoff (above and above right). Example of a small rain garden in a residential neighborhood (right). Image source: www.ia.nrcs.usda.gov

MASTER PLAN future land use plan 41 “Good plans shape good decisions.” -Lester Robert Bittel implementation

he Township’s thoughtful preparation and adoption of the T Master Plan would be of diminished value without a program for and long-term commitment to its implementation.

There are a wide variety of tools and techniques available to help implement the Township’s Master Plan. The most effective tool is the Zoning Ordinance. Periodic review and amendment of the Zoning Ordinance is critical to ensure that the Township’s current use and development standards are consistent with its long-range goals. Consistent application of zoning standards through the site plan review process, as well as consistent, impartial code enforcement, are also vital to the success and implementation of the Master Plan.

Action Items

The action items found throughout the Future Land Use Plan are designed to make implementation straightforward. For easy reference, the action items are collected into the Action Item Summary Table. There is no established timetable for implementation of these recommended actions and strategies. Rather, the Township Board, Planning Commission, and Planning Staff should review this table on a regular basis, as well as the Plan’s goals and objectives, to prioritize actions and ensure that decisions and policies are consistent with the vision of the Plan. The Township’s implementation priorities and schedule will likely change over time as conditions change, such as the state of the economy, development trends, demographic shifts, financial ability, etc. It is the responsibility of the Planning Commission and Township Board to implement the long-range policies and recommendations of the Master Plan, as appropriate, to achieve the future vision and goals of the Township.

MASTER PLAN implementation 43 Watertown Charter Township

Action Item Summary Table Short- Long- Priority Action Item term term Conduct a “sustainability audit” of the Zoning Ordinance. Encourage low impact development stormwater management techniques, such as bioretention.

Address wind energy conversion systems and other alternative energy systems in the Zoning Ordinance. Develop incentives to encourage developers to utilize energy efficient and environmentally sensitive materials and practices. Create a resource list to help residents find information about alternative energy sources and low impact development techniques, as well as local suppliers, installers, and contractors.

Develop an educational campaign to promote

the Township’s environmentally conscious goals. Amend parking standards to reduce construction of additional impervious surfaces. Encourage the use of native species for landscaping and stormwater management purposes. Evaluate and amend, if necessary, the Agricultural, Agricultural Preservation, and Rural Residential zoning districts to ensure they are consistent with the goals and intent of the Master Plan. Promote the enrollment of lands into the Farmland and open Space Preservation Act (P.A. 116 of 1974) in areas planned for long-range agricultural use. Avoid extension of public water and sanitary

sewer services into planned agricultural areas. Work with the Clinton County Road Commission to retain vegetation and preserve a rural appearance along rural roadways. Maintain an inventory of wetlands in the Township.

Continued on next page

44 MASTER PLAN implementation Watertown Charter Township

Action Item Summary Table Short- Long- Priority Action Item term term Promote the use of grass swales, natural on- site detention, and native vegetation, rather than typical suburban elements, in rural residential areas. Explore Natural Beauty Road designation for appropriate roadways. Inventory the Township’s historic structures and resources. Promote cluster development and open space preservation. Evaluate and amend, if necessary, the residential zoning districts to permit a range of housing choices at densities consistent with the goals and intent of the Master Plan. Work to recruit new and retain existing commercial, industrial, research, and technology uses in the Township. Adopt, when needed, an Office zoning district. Continue the Capital Improvements Program. Develop and adopt a Riparian Corridor Plan for the Looking Glass River Corridor. Coordinate riparian planning with planning efforts of the Grand River Heritage River Trail and Friends of the Looking Glass River. Map, evaluate and amend, if necessary, the Looking Glass River Overlay District. Enforce the minimum riparian setback standards that require native vegetation buffer strips and restrict clearing, construction and development along the River. Develop a public education campaign and an inventory of aggressive and invasive species in the Township. Plan for the future of the Township’s parks. Develop and adopt a Wacousta Village Plan. Amend the Village Service Zoning District to permit and achieve the vision of the Wacousta Village Area Plan. Continued on next page

MASTER PLAN implementation 45 Watertown Charter Township

Action Item Summary Table Short- Long- Priority Action Item term term Establish design guidelines or a pattern book to ensure development in Wacousta is consistent with the Wacousta Village Area Plan. Implement the recommendations of the Township’s Non-Motorized Circulation Plan. Create a Village Gateway overlay zoning district to implement recommendations of the Wacousta Village Area Plan. Enhance Wacousta Village and Village Center gateways. Plan a village branding and identification program including gateway and wayfinding signage. Plan for the extension of public water and sanitary sewer to the Wacousta Village area. Promote Wacousta by holding community events, such as a farmers market, in the Village Center. Develop and adopt a Grand River Corridor Plan to address landscaping, signage, access

management, and building placement in the corridor. Evaluate and amend, if necessary, the Grand River Avenue Overlay District. Create Township gateway features along Grand River Avenue at the Township’s boundaries. Plan a Township-wide wayfinding signage program. Work with developers, the Michigan Department of Transportation, and the Clinton County Road Commission to achieve safe and efficient access to properties along all roads in the Township.

46 MASTER PLAN implementation Watertown Charter Township

Zoning Plan and Matrix

The Zoning Plan is intended to guide short-term implementation of the long-term recommendations illustrated on the Future Land Use Map. The intent of the Zoning Plan is not to identify all areas that would require rezoning to be consistent with the Plan. Rather, the Zoning Plan highlights specific key or priority areas where existing zoning is significantly lacking appropriate standards or would inhibit development in accordance with the Master Plan.

Figure 13. Zoning Plan.

Evaluate current residential zoning districts and/or create a new Village Residential Zoning District Amend the Village Service Zoning District and/or adopt design standards for a mixed use village center Map the Looking Glass River Overlay Zoning District

Create a new Village Gateway Overlay Zoning District Evaluate and amend the Grand River Avenue Overlay Zoning District

MASTER PLAN implementation 47 Watertown Charter Township

Zoning is one of the Township’s most effective tools for implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan; however, there is not always a direct correlation between the Plan’s future land use designations and the Township’s current zoning districts. The reason for this is that the Future Land Use Map represents the Township’s preferred long-range land use arrangement, while the Zoning Ordinance regulates specific use and development of property today. Many of the Plan’s recommendations are likely not feasible under current zoning; new districts may need to be created and existing districts may need amending. As an implementation tool, the Zoning Matrix illustrates how the future land use designations generally correspond to the existing zoning districts. It is important to remember that in many cases, zoning amendments would be necessary to be consistent with the intent and recommendations of the Master Plan.

Figure 14. Zoning Matrix.

Existing Zoning Districts Agricultural Preservation Agricultural Rural Residential Single-Family Residential Two-Family Residential Multiple FamilyResidential Manufactured Home Park Village Service Center Local Business Business Light Industrial District Floodplain Overlay Looking Glass River River Overlay Grand Future Land Uses

and Focus Area Overlays to/Review of Existing Amendments Recommended District(s) Recommended New Zoning District AP AG RR R-1 R-2 R-3 MHP VSC B-1 B-2 LI F-1 LGR GR Agriculture and Rural Residential Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential High Density Residential Manufactured Housing Park Local Business Village Center Principal Business Industry and Technology Open Space Landfill Airport Village Gateway Looking Glass River Corridor Grand River Avenue Corridor

48 MASTER PLAN implementation Watertown Charter Township

Utility Service Extension Priorities

In order to encourage growth and development consistent with the preferred Future Land Use Map, it is important to coordinate land use decisions with the extension of public water and sanitary sewer services. Currently these utilities serve the Airport Road residential neighborhoods and the Grand River Corridor east of Forest Hill Road. The land use pattern on the Future Land Use Plan is intended to encourage and support the extension of these utilities to the west along Grand River and ultimately north to Wacousta. When planning for extension of these utilities, the

Figure 15. Utility Extension Priority Areas.

It is important to coordinate land use decisions with the extension of public water and sanitary sewer services.

MASTER PLAN implementation 49 Watertown Charter Township unserved portion of the Grand River Corridor and the Wacousta Village area should be given priority over other areas of the Township.

Timing of utility extensions will depend upon the demand for utilities, capacity of the existing systems, and the Township’s ability to expand and extend the existing systems. Land use decisions, such as rezonings, should occur in a logical manner to coordinate with any necessary utility extensions.

For example, the Grand River Avenue Corridor is planned for Principal Business uses between Forest Hill and Wacousta Roads. However, it would be premature to rezone and develop this area for commercial uses prior to the extension of utilities to serve this area. Rather, the Master Plan envisions Principal Business uses gradually extending west from the existing business district near the freeway interchange in a logical manner that is coordinated with demand for such uses and the extension of utilities.

Implementation Tools and Techniques

The Township has a wide variety of tools and techniques at its disposal to help implement its long-range planning. These tools include, but are certainly not limited to, the following:

Zoning Ordinance Standards and Map Code Enforcement Subdivision and Condominium Regulations Special Design Plans and Study Area Plans Capital Improvement Program Public Utility Policy Public—Private Partnerships Site Plan, Special Land Use, and Rezoning Review Special Millages and Assessments Local Land Trusts and Conservancies Access Management Planning and Regulation Federal and State Grant Programs Re-evaluation and Adjustment of the Master Plan

50 MASTER PLAN implementation attachments

Municipal Water Service Map

Sanitary Sewer Service Map

Airport Approach Plan

MASTER PLAN attachments 51 Public Water Supply Mains Watertown Township

8/25/2009 LOWELL

DURHAM HOWE

! AIRPORT !!

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I96 IDYL CREST

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Southern Clinton County Municipal Utilities Authority Watertown Township Sewer Map Date Received: August 19, 2009

“ A hundred years after we are gone and forgotten, those who have never heard of us will be living with the results of our actions.” -Oliver Wendell Holmes