BROWARD BOULEVARD GATEWAY IMPLEMENTATION PROJECT

A Summary of Projects and Recommendations to Transform Broward Boulevard

CAM 13-0483 1 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

FORT LAUDERDALE CITY COMMISSION CORE PARTNERS COMMITTEE

JACK SEILER MAYOR DIANA ALARCON, CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE ALFRED BATTLE, CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE BRUCE ROBERTS VICE MAYOR/COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 1 MICHAEL BUSHA, TREASURE COAST REGIONAL PLANNING COUNCIL DEAN TRANTALIS COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2 BOB CAMBRIC, SOUTH REGIONAL PLANNING COUNCIL BOBBY DUBOSE COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3 SHARON CINO, FDOT DISTRICT 4 ROMNEY ROBERTS COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 4 JAMES CROMAR, BROWARD METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION RENEE CROSS, CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE CHARLOTTE RODSTROM COMMISSIONER DANA LITTLE, TREASURE COAST REGIONAL PLANNING COUNCIL BARNEY MCCOY, CITY MANAGER JENNI MOREJON, CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE LEE R. FELDMAN GREG STUART, BROWARD METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZA- TION ANDREW RIDDLE, FDOT DISTRICT 4 JONATHAN ROBERSON, BROWARD COUNTY TRANSIT ELIZABETH VAN ZANDT, FORT LAUDERDALE DOWNTOWN DEVELOP- MENT AUTHORITY KEVIN WALFORD, CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE JEFF WEIDNER, FDOT DISTRICT 4 LYNDA WESTIN, SOUTH FLORIDA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION AU- THORITY

THIS MASTER PLAN DOCUMENT REPRESENTS THE CITIZENS’ IDEAS AND VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF BROWARD BOULEVARD IN DOWNTOWN FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA. THE DESIGNS, ILLUSTRATIONS, AND GRAPHICS INCLUDED WITHIN THIS REPORT ARE MEANT TO CONVEY THAT VISION AND ARE CONCEPTUAL IN NATURE. 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Broward Boulevard Gateway TABLE OF CONTENTS Implementation Plan

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 4 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT THE PUBLIC PROCESS...... 6 EXISTING CONDITIONS...... 42 RECOMMENDATIONS...... 43 THE VISION...... 8 PROJECT 7: 5TH AVENUE ROUNDABOUT...... 44

NEIGHBORHOODS & DISTRICTS DOWNTOWN DISTRICT A CORRIDOR OF NEIGHBORHOOD & DISTRICTS...... 10 EXISTING CONDITIONS...... 48 DISTRICTS OF BROWARD BOULEVARD...... 11 RECOMMENDATIONS...... 49 TOD DISTRICTS...... 12 PROJECT 8: BROWARD BOULEVARD LANE REDUCTION....50 PROJECT 9: LAS OLAS PLAZA...... 58 THE CORRIDOR PROJECTS ON BROWARD BOULEVARD...... 13 BROWARD BOULEVARD EAST DISTRICT EXISTING CONDITIONS...... 62 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT EXISTING CONDITIONS...... 16 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS RECOMMENDATIONS...... 17 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE RECOMMENDATIONS...... 68 PROJECT 1: LARGE FORMAT RETAIL CENTER...... 18 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS...... 69 PROJECT 2: THE RIVERBEND NORTH PARCEL...... 20 TOD DISTRICT STANDARDS...... 70 PROJECT 3: TRI-RAIL & BROWARD BOULEVARD...... 22 RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS...... 71 PARKING RECOMMENDATIONS...... 77 NORTH FORK DISTRICT STREAMLINED APPROVAL PROCESS...... 80 EXISTING CONDITIONS...... 26 RECOMMENDATIONS...... 27 IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX...... 81 PROJECT 4A: THE SALVATION ARMY SITE...... 28 PROJECT 4B: THE NORTH FORK BRIDGE...... 30 APPENDICES A. BACKGROUND, DATA, AND ANALYSIS BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT B. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PLAN EXISTING CONDITIONS...... 34 C. MARKET AND ECONOMIC STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS...... 35 D. WALKABILITY ANALYSIS PROJECT 5: THE POLICE STATION SITE...... 36 E. TRAFFIC ANALYSIS PROJECT 6: STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES.....38 F. SUMMARY OF PREVIOUS STUDIES

3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan Public involvement was critical during this process. envisions Broward Boulevard evolving into a signa- Over 23 public presentations, nearly 50 individual ture entry to the City, characterized by wide, shaded interviews, and a day-long public design workshop sidewalks; urban redevelopment that creates a sense were part of the public involvement campaign. These of place through the careful positioning of buildings, efforts facilitated the incorporation of information and parking, and landscaping; a rich mix of uses that serve ideas from a wide range of community stakeholders. the daily needs of residents, visitors, and businesses; safe and attractive facilities for bicycles and transit; After gathering public input, the following steps were and many convenient transportation choices. taken: Broward County Transit (BCT) is • existing conditions (property ownership patterns, heavily used on Broward Boule- vard despite limited transit shel- The Plan has been developed in a climate of renewed future land use, and zoning) along the Broward ters and facilities. This issue is interest, both locally and nationally, in the benefits of Boulevard corridor were analyzed; currently being addressed, as sustainable urban environments and the links among • major parcels and their redevelopment potential 168 new bus shelters are being provided throughout the city. livability, mobility, and quality of life. A Core Part- was studied; ners Committee, comprised of nine different public • key projects and potential design scenarios were agencies and local governments, was formed to work identifi ed throughout the study area; with the City to improve long-term mobility and quality • incremental, implementable improvements to bring of life. The Core Partners Committee helped guide multi-modal balance to the corridor were identi- the process of creating the Plan as well as review its fi ed. findings and recommendations. The result is a series of analyses and recommendations This Plan is the result of a multi-step, public process. for implementing a range of projects, including infra- The fi rst step included collecting and analyzing the structure improvements, regulation updates, and po- This view looking west shows Broward Boulevard bridging over planning, transportation, and visioning studies that had tential redevelopment opportunities that will advance I-95 and the CSX corridor. This been conducted over the course of previous years. Not the corridor towards achieving the overall vision. crossing is a challenging environ- surprisingly, improved quality of life, protecting exist- ment for pedestrians and bicy- clists, who are accessing Tri-Rail ing neighborhoods, and providing a healthy climate and BCT transit. for business opportunities were identifi ed as common themes that are reinforced by this Plan.

4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Broward Boulevard Gateway BROWARD BOULEVARD KEY RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan 1. Maintain the Core Partners Committee for project 5. Update the Land Development Code to enhance oversight and implementation. streetscapes and livability. 2. Coordinate with Riverbend retail developers to 6. Implement an Infi ll Shade Tree Planting Program. provide excellent pedestrian environments on Bro- 7. Build a roundabout at 5th Avenue and Broward ward Boulevard and W 27th Avenue. Boulevard. 3. Build vertical circulation, transit shelters, and new 8. Reduce the number of travel lanes on Broward access ramps at Broward Boulevard and I-95. Boulevard east of 7th Avenue to emphasize Bro- 4. Coordinate Salvation Army redevelopment, ward Boulevard as the gateway to Downtown. No shade makes for a hot wait for the bus and will not attract improvements to the North Fork River Park, 9. Minimize neighborhood traffi c intrusion east of SE “choice” riders. the proposed riverfront multi-purpose path, and 15th Avenue. the Broward Boulevard Bridge to create a major 10. Build the Las Olas Plaza to establish a critical pe- gateway element on Broward Boulevard. destrian link between east and west Las Olas Bou- levard.

The existing shelters provide some shade, however, the great- est shade on the corridor, as seen above, could be provided by the addition of shade trees. Broward Boulevard existing conditions looking west. Proposed view of Broward Boulevard with shade trees, en- hanced sidewalk width, and a disciplined urban form. 5 PUBLIC PROCESS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan PUBLIC PROCESS Purpose Public involvement and input has been a fundamen- tal element of the development of the Broward Bou- To ensure participation in the levard Gateway Implementation Project. Over 23 Broward Boulevard Imple- public presentations, nearly 50 individual interviews, mentation Project by actively and a day-long public design workshop were part encouraging and facilitating of the public involvement campaign that has been the involvement of citizens, instrumental in crafting priorities and recommenda- business owners, special in- tions for the project. In addition, the Core Partners terest groups, partner agen- Committee has provided continual oversight from a cies as well as elected and multi-agency, multi-discipline perspective. appointed offi cials. PARTICIPATE IN A PUBLIC The Core Partners Committee was formed by the City DESIGN WORKSHOP of Fort Lauderdale in conjunction with South Florida Broward Boulevard is the Gateway to Downtown and the Front Door to Downtown’s Neighborhoods Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), Broward * Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Florida Plans Are Underway For Future Mobility Improvements in Downtown and Along the Broward Boulevard Cooridor Department of Transportation District 4 (FDOT), Bro- * ward County Transit (BCT), Fort Lauderdale Commu- Provide Your Ideas on How to Improve Broward Boulevard nity Redevelopment Agency (CRA), and the Fort Lau- BROWARD BOULEVARD PUBLIC DESIGN WORKSHOP derdale Downtown Development Authority (DDA). SATURDAY, AUGUST 4TH, 2012 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM ABDO NEW RIVER ROOM In February 2012, the Core Partners Committee en- BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 201 SW 5TH AVENUE, FORT LAUDERDALE gaged Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council to REFRESHMENTS AND LUNCH WILL BE SERVED develop the Broward Boulevard Gateway Imple- FREE PARKING AVAILABLE AT BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS GARAGE mentation Project. With substantial public input, the PLEASE RSVP at: [email protected] result is a series of analyses and recommendations for implementing projects that will advance the cor- Flyer created to advertise the August 4, 2012 Public ridor towards achieving the overall corridor vision. Design Workshop.

6 PUBLIC PROCESS Broward Boulevard Gateway PUBLIC PROCESS Implementation Plan On August 4, 2012, the planning team hosted a Key Ideas Public Design Workshop from 9:30 am until 3:00 pm • Humanize Broward Boule- at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The vard to the greatest extent workshop was advertised with fl yers and a press possible; release that were distributed digitally and in hard • The North Fork Bridge is copy. Over 60 people attended the workshop and an opportunity to create a their ideas and concerns were documented in the proper entry; drawings and presentations they made. This input • Raise the North Fork was critical in establishing key projects and priority Bridge to accommodate issues for the corridor. pedestrian underpass and larger vessels; The efforts of many community and business leaders • Provide mixed-uses on Citizens draw their ideas at the public design workshop. have made this effort possible A huge thanks goes Broward Boulevard; to: • Extend The Wave to Tri- Rail; Beverly Heights Homeowners Association; City • Retail development site View Townhomes Association; Colee Hammock at SW 27th Street should Homeowners Association; CRA Advisory Board; provide “Mainstreet” look Dorsey-Riverbend Homeowners Association; on Broward Boulevard; Downtown Civic Association; Durrs Homeowners • 7th Avenue is the effective Association; Flagler Village Civic Association; Fort entry to downtown – the Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority; Fort place to create aesthetic Lauderdale Alliance; Riverland Civic Association; change; Riverside Park Residents Association; Sailboat Bend • Protect the neighborhoods; Civic Association; Sweeting Estates Homeowners • Brand the City logo and Association; Tarpon River Civic Association; Victoria provide consistent monu- Park Civic Association. ments at key points along the corridor. Table representatives present their groups’ ideas and answered questions. 7 THE VISION Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan THE VISION Broward Boulevard Overall Corridor Vision

Broward Boulevard is envisioned to evolve into a high-qual- ity pedestrian realm, characterized by wide, shaded side- walks; an urban redevelopment that creates a sense of place through the careful positioning of buildings, parking, and landscaping; a rich mix of uses; safe and attractive facilities for bicycles and transit; and many, convenient transportation choices. The Wave Streetcar project is poised to forever improve the mobility of downtown Fort Lauder- dale.

Proposed roundabout at SW 5th Avenue and Broward Boulevard. The roundabout would have a dramatic effect on the entry to the A view of Broward Boulevard looking westward from This rendering illustrates how proposed out parcels and retail frontag- Arts District and downtown Fort downtown provided by Kittelson and Associates. es could address Broward Boulevard creating a more interesting, tran- Lauderdale. sit-supportive environment. 8 THE VISION Broward Boulevard Gateway THE VISION Implementation Plan Implementation Plan

To support the positive progress and urban redevelopment ongoing in Fort Lauderdale, Broward Boulevard must transition from an auto-dominant, pedestrian-hostile, placeless arterial into a multi-modal, mixed-use, and aesthetically pleasing Gateway to Downtown. This transformation will occur over time, and must respect and protect the adjacent neighborhoods. Change will be delivered in large and small projects, through public and private investments, policies, and commitments. A single, transformative intervention will not achieve the goals laid out in this Vision; rather, the implementation of a series of strategic steps, coordinating the efforts of many stakeholders will begin to shift the corridor towards this Vision and balance its function and purpose for all users. Strategies to begin achieving this Vision are illustrated in this Report. The 200 block of Himmarshee (2nd) Street is an excellent exam- ple of all the elements that make a great urban street.

An overall “Master Plan” drawing was developed, shown above, to illustrate how distinct projects might be implemented into the cor- Proposed view for Broward Bou- ridor. The following pages illustrate those projects in greater detail. levard showing enhanced side- walks and pedestrian realm.

9 NEIGHBORHOODS & DISTRICTS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan A CORRIDOR OF NEIGHBORHOODS & DISTRICTS

BB

The fi rst segment of the Flagler Greenway multi-purpose trail was recently installed along the FEC rail corridor. In addition to the east-west gateway to downtown Fort Lauderdale, Broward Boulevard is the front door to many in- town neighborhoods. The map above identifi es the primary neighborhoods adjacent to the corridor.

F.A.T. (Flagler Arts and Tech- BB nology) Village is an emerg- ing arts district blocks from the Downtown Mobility Hub at Bro- ward Boulevard and the FEC, linked by the Flagler Greenway, and is an example of an area’s Input provided by the public, in conjunction with the existing physical characteristics of the corridor, suggest that Bro- positive transformation. ward Boulevard is actually comprised of segments or districts, each with their own opportunities and constraints. 10 NEIGHBORHOODS & DISTRICTS Broward Boulevard Gateway DISTRICTS OF BROWARD BOULEVARD Implementation Plan

27TH 7TH ANDREWS FEDERAL I-95 AVENUE AVENUE AVENUE HIGHWAY

BROWARD BOULEVARD

Arts & The Riverbend North Fork Broward Boulevard Downtown Broward Boulevard Entertainment District District Core District District East District District

THE DISTRICTS OF BROWARD BOULEVARD

By identifying distinct districts that comprise Broward Boulevard, attention was focused on what unique and defi ning characteristics of each should be improved upon. While the Overall Corridor Vision applies to all districts, each of these segments has specifi c opportunities and challenges. These recommendations and projects are organized by district, providing a vision for each district and recommended projects to implement that vision.

11 NEIGHBORHOODS & DISTRICTS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

27TH 7TH ANDREWS FEDERAL I-95 AVENUE AVENUE AVENUE HIGHWAY

NEIGHBO EIGHBO SIT RHO IT N RH N O NS OO RA D A D T TR

IT C NS OR A E R T BROWARD BOULEVARD

T R RE ANSIT CO

Arts & The Riverbend North Fork Broward Boulevard Downtown Broward Boulevard Entertainment District District Core District District East District District

TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TOD) DISTRICTS

Two signifi cant mobility hubs are located in the study area: the existing Tri-Rail Station and the future Wave/FEC passenger rail station, planned north of Broward Boulevard. These hubs provide opportunities for viable, successful TOD, which utilizes transit infrastructure to maximize development potential. The area within a quarter-mile of each hub (Transit Core) should develop as a high-density, mixed-use, walkable environment with strong pedestrian and bicycle links extending through the second quarter-mile area (Transit Neighborhood) to facilitate access and capture ridership. 12 THE CORRIDOR Broward Boulevard Gateway PROJECTS ON BROWARD BOULEVARD Implementation Plan

Large Format The Riverbend Tri-Rail and Broward Salvation Army/North Fork 1 2 3 Retail Center North Parcel Boulevard 4 Bridge/ North Fork Park

Police Station/ Streetscape 5th Avenue Broward Boulevard Las Olas 6 5 Parks Department Improvement Strategies 7 Roundabout 8 Lane Reduction 9 Plaza

2 4 6 7 8 BB

5 1 3 9

In order to implement the Overall Corridor Vision, a series of distinct and implementable projects and policies have been identifi ed. The “Master Plan” drawing above identifi es the primary projects and recommendations. Organized by district, the following pages describe these projects in greater detail. 13 This page intentionally left blank.

14 The Riverbend District

West 27th Avenue to I-95; NW 2nd Street to SW 1st Street and SW 2nd Court

Broward Blvd. I-95

15 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXISTING CONDITIONS Neighborhood in the The Riverbend District is typifi ed by large undevel- District: oped parcels, transit infrastructure, and a bleak pe- Tri-Rail Station Riverland destrian environment. Despite having destinations such as the Broward County Sheriff’s Offi ce, Strayer Issues in the Area: University, and the Fort Lauderdale Tri-Rail/Amtrak Residents were supportive of Station, this district is challenging for transit riders project elements that were and pedestrians, and needs to be unifi ed through presented in a conceptual redevelopment of the vacant parcels. plan for a large format retail store redevelopment at SW

27th and Broward Boulevard Boulevard Broward to reduce potential impacts to the neighborhood.

27th Ave.

Southeast corner of SW 27th Avenue and Broward Boulevard. Broward Boulevard in the Riverbend District offers signifi cant redevel- opment opportunities.

Looking east on Broward Boulevard from NW 27th Avenue toward the site of a potential large format retail The Strayer University building on Broward Boulevard, looking across project. the Riverbend North Parcel. 16 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan 1. High design standards should be applied to District Strategy redevelopment along SW 27th Avenue and Implementation Projects Broward Boulevard to enhance the entry to The Riverbend District has downtown Fort Lauderdale (public rights- the opportunity to realize of-way should not be dominated by backs the overall corridor vision of buildings, parking lots, or loading areas). and to foster signifi cant TOD 2. Successful multi-modal transportation and around the Tri-Rail/Amtrak Station. The intercity com-

I-95 a superior pedestrian realm should be en- sured by a high percentage of building muter service will transfer AVE. to planned express bus ser-

TH frontage along streets with wide, shaded 2 sidewalks. vice on Broward Boulevard, 27 which provides direct ac- 3. Development in the district should take ad- cess to the downtown core vantage of the sites’ unique features, includ- BB and the forthcoming Wave 3 ing Develoe Park Lake and access to premi- streetcar system. Two large um transit. sites, one on each side of the 4. The area within a quarter-mile of the Tri- corridor, have signifi cant po- Rail Station should be developed as TOD, tential for private redevel- transitioning from high-intensity buildings to opment that could transform 1 medium-scale, mixed-use buildings to pri- the area. In order to maxi- marily residential neighborhoods. mize both transit investments and redevelopment poten- 5. The uncomfortable and potentially danger- tial, critical public infrastruc- ous experience of walking across the Bro- ture is necessary for these ward Boulevard Bridge over I-95 to Tri-Rail premium transit services to Riverbend Tri-Rail should be improved. fully engage the corridor Market Station 6. Two vertical circulation towers with shelters and the city. Key projects identifi ed for the Riverbend District are illustrated above should be built along the existing outside and described in greater detail in the following pages. lanes of Broward Boulevard to provide di- rect access to the Tri-Rail Station (Project 3). 17 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan LARGE FORMAT RETAIL CENTER Opportunities • 32-acre parcel under consideration for redevelopment as a large format retail store. %LJ%R[5HWDLO • With nearly 2,200 linear feet of frontage 2SSRUWXQLW\ along SW 27th Avenue and Broward 1 Boulevard, the site has great potential to enhance the corridors and intersection.

Recommendations • Large format stores and parking should be located to the rear of the property and smaller out parcels with retail frontages should address Large Format the corridors. • Replace the typical deep landscape buffers This model illustrates the large format retail with surface parking at the Retail Center and setbacks with one of the following rear of the property and smaller out parcels fronting Broward Boule- NW 27th Ave. and treatments: vard and SW 27th Avenue. Broward Boulevard

Enhanced Sidewalk Condition: generous sidewalks, proper building placement, and landscape treatments create a transit- supportive and attractive environment.

This view is of the recently completed project at Sistrunk and NW 7th Avenue. The outparcels line Sistrunk and create a viable pedestrian and transit-supportive environment by screening the large parking lot behind. This design is consistent with the Enhanced Sidewalk Con- dition. 18 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway LARGE FORMAT RETAIL CENTER Implementation Plan

Enhanced Sidewalk

Deep sidewalk with shade trees. 1

Large Format Retail Center NW 27th Ave. and Broward Boulevard

Street section showing the Enhanced Sidewalk Condition, which uses hardscaping in the front setback to augment the sidewalk to create a broad promenade.

19 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan THE RIVERBEND NORTH PARCEL Opportunities • 17.34 acre development site. • Adjacent to Strayer University. • Located just south of Develoe Park and along the southern shore of the Park’s lake. 2 • Unique lakeside location and proximity to I-95 and transit.

Recommendations • Integrate intense commercial uses (retail, offi ce, institutional etc.) along Broward Boulevard and ensure at least 70% building frontage to create The Riverbend the desired street-wall. • Take full advantage of the tall building heights Model view of potential future development at the Riverbend North North Parcel allowed and establish a required, minimum height Parcel - looking south across the lake at Develoe Park. Note the large Riverbend Corporate of two stories along Broward Boulevard. lakefront promenade. Park • Accommodate parallel parking on all streets and within parking structures to achieve the greatest development potential. • Use existing infrastructure as the framework for a street and block structure for the site. • Ensure a mix of uses and building scales are pro- vided, transitioning from high-intensity commer- cially-oriented buildings to high-density mixed- use buildings, to a medium-density, primarily residential neighborhood in the north along the Develoe Park Lake. • Create a lakefront promenade along Develoe Park Lake to establish a desirable residential ad- Potential future development could transition from large 8-10 sto- ry buildings facing Broward Boulevard to smaller-scaled residential dress. buildings facing the lake at Develoe Park. 20 • Achieve a minimum density of 40 du/ac to create a more active and transit supportive corridor. THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway THE RIVERBEND NORTH PARCEL Implementation Plan

2

The Riverbend North Parcel Riverbend Corporate Park

Model view of the future proposed development at the Riverbend North Parcel clearly shows the transition in building height and mass from Broward Boulevard; the medium-scaled residential fabric facing the lake; and the publicly accessible lakefront prome- nade and plaza.

21 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan TRI-RAIL AND BROWARD BOULEVARD Opportunities • Create a direct connection between Tri-Rail and Broward Boulevard, reducing the travel time for the planned express bus service, pro- viding pedestrians and riders with a safe en- 3 vironment, and improving the regional link to downtown Fort Lauderdale.

Upper Floor Plan Recommendations • Create two vertical circulation towers and shel- ters serving the planned express bus service as Tri-Rail and independent structures adjacent to the existing outside travel lanes. Broward • Provide two new ramps to eliminate the poten- Boulevard tial confl ict of buses stopping on the I-95 access Station Location at lanes. Broward Boulevard/I-95 • Convert the existing I-95 access lanes to land- Interchange scape islands, alleviating the current practice of motorists jumping the light queue.

Cross Section

Lower Floor Plan

Rendering of the proposed bus shelter, built adjacent to the The drawing shows the upper and lower fl oor plans and building sec- Broward Boulevard Bridge, which provides a separate lane tion of the recommended circulation towers and shelters serving the for loading and unloading passengers. planned express bus service on the Broward Boulevard Bridge. 22 THE RIVERBEND DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway TRI-RAIL AND BROWARD BOULEVARD Implementation Plan

Proposed Westbound Ramp to Broward Blvd. I-95

Proposed Circulation Reclaimed Lane Tower and Bus Shelter Converted to Landscape Island 3

Broward Boulevard Tri-Rail and Broward Boulevard Reclaimed Lane Station Location at Proposed Circulation Converted to Broward Boulevard/I-95 Tower and Bus Shelter Landscape Island Interchange Proposed Southbound Ramp to I-95

A plan of the preferred I-95/Broward Boulevard Interchange Condition, providing Tri-Rail/Amtrak access to express bus shelters on Broward Boulevard, improved vehicular circulation, and potential future stops for the Wave Streetcar. Broward Boulevard/I-95 Interchange Free Flow Ramps and Shelters Cost Estimate

$ 8,150,000* *Includes 35% allocation for unknowns, landscape and irrigation costs; Costs estimated as 2013 year of expenditure.

Clarifi cation: The cost estimates provided in this document are for those projects that are quantifi able in their scope and provide a signifi cant public benefi t. 23 This page intentionally left blank.

24 North Fork District

I-95 to NW 15th Avenue; NW 2nd Street to SW 2nd Street

Broward Blvd. I-95

25 NORTH FORK DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXISTING CONDITIONS Neighborhoods in the Just east of the I-95/Broward Boulevard Interchange District: lies the North Fork Bridge. The North Fork Bridge is Dorsey-Riverbend, Sailboat actually comprised of two bridges adjacent to one Bend, Riverside Park another as a result of the expansion and widening of Broward Boulevard over time. The desires of the Issues in the Area: neighborhoods north of the River are to provide 1. General safety for pe- safe pedestrian passage across Broward Boulevard destrians and transit rid- and to raise the height of the existing bridge in or- ers on Broward Boule- der to accommodate larger vessels. Many children vard, especially children are forced to cross Broward Boulevard in route to who must cross to get to school. Immediately south of Broward Boulevard, the school. North Fork of the New River is navigable to many 2. Navigability of the North vessels, including sailboats. As part of this plan, sev- Fork of the New River – eral concepts were developed to illustrate how these raise bridge elevation. two opportunities might be accommodated. 3. Broward Boulevard needs The north fork of the New River, as seen from the Broward Boulevard shade. Bridge looking North, is quite beautiful and provides relief from the corridor.

The city’s North Fork Riverfront Park sits on the southern The Broward Boulevard Bridge of the north fork of the banks of the north fork and is hidden from view of Broward The Salvation Army campus on Broward Boulevard im- New River has very low clearance. Boulevard. mediately east of I-95. 26 NORTH FORK DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway NORTH FORK DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan 1. Raise the bridge to a) create a safe pedes- District Strategy trian passage underneath the bridge and b) increase navigability north of the bridge. The North Fork District has Implementation Projects 2. Create iconic elements to demarcate the the opportunity to realize bridge as the gateway into downtown as the overall corridor vision through two main redevel- well as to emphasize the presence of the opment opportunities. The bridge. I-95 design concepts illustrated 4a 3. Improve visibility and access to the existing in this plan call for iconic North Fork Park by promoting the connec- elements to demarcate the tion of Broward Boulevard to the Park via a bridge as the gateway into promenade along the River. downtown, as well as to em- BB 4. Integrate the new bridge design with the phasize the presence of the potential Salvation Army future redevelop- bridge itself rather than the ment concept. current condition as an un- 4b distinguishable segment of 5. Work with Salvation Army to create a more roadway. The new bridge compact and livable campus that takes full design should also be incor- advantage of the North Fork River and porated with the potential North Fork River Park. Salvation Army future rede- velopment concept as well as improving visibility and access to the existing city park. Key projects identifi ed for the North Fork District are illustrated above and described in greater detail in the following pages.

27 NORTH FORK DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan THE SALVATION ARMY SITE

Opportunities • Create a connection between the existing North Fork Riverfront Park and the new Broward Boulevard Bridge and pedestrian underpass. • Provide residential uses facing the promenade 4a that would be a focal point of passive and active uses and help provide access and energy to the existing park.

Recommendations • The connection between the existing Park and new bridge and underpass will require The Salvation cooperation from the Salvation Army who owns This plan illustrates the existing North Fork Riverfront Park and a po- the parcel south of the Park. tential future connection to the new Broward Boulevard Bridge and pe- Army Site • The connection should be a passive trailhead destrian underpass along the south bank of the river. NE Corner of Broward that could offer portage to the North Fork for Boulevard and I-95 kayak and canoes. • Synergies with North Fork Elementary School (a Marine Science magnet school) should be explored including natural and marine science education opportunities. • Future redevelopment concepts should provide for housing opportunities along the river bank. • Improve access to the Salvation Army Campus from Broward Boulevard and I-95.

This rendering illustrates the view along the proposed river-front prom- enade as part of the Salvation Army redevelopment scheme. 28 NORTH FORK DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway THE SALVATION ARMY SITE Implementation Plan

4a

New residential uses

North Fork Park The Salvation Army Site NE Corner of Broward Boulevard and I-95

Salvation Army Distribution Services

Broward Boulevard

This plan illustrates a long-term redevelopment concept for the Salvation Army site to consolidate their uses and provide housing opportunities along the river banks.

29 NORTH FORK DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan THE NORTH FORK BRIDGE

Opportunities • Improve the pedestrian experience, travelling north-south, while crossing Broward Boulevard. • Create an iconic element as a true entry 4b feature along Broward Boulevard. Recommendations • Raise the height of the bridge to create a safe pedestrian passageway across Broward Boulevard and increase navigability. • It is very important that the future underpass provide lots of natural light during the day and The North Fork be well-lit at night. Bridge • Incorporate decorative and civic features into Located Immediately the bridge design to demarcate the bridge as West of North Fork Ele- the gateway into downtown. mentary

TOP RIGHT: The West Palm Beach Middle Bridge pedestrian un- derpass is shown in this image. A similar, but much smaller, con- cept is envisioned for the future North Fork Bridge reconstruction. BOTTOM RIGHT: This sectional drawing shows the proposed un- derpass connection to be incorporated into the new bridge.

30 NORTH FORK DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway THE NORTH FORK BRIDGE Implementation Plan

4b

The North Fork Bridge Located Immediately West of North Fork Ele- mentary

Walkway under bridge

This plan illustrates opportunities to provide a pedestrian underpass as part of the reconstruction of the Broward Boulevard Bridge. The underpass is important to provide safe passage for pedestrians, transit riders, and children who must cross the corridor to get to school. 31 This page intentionally left blank.

32 Broward Boulevard Core District

NW 15th Avenue to Avenue of the Arts; NW 2nd Street to SW 2nd Court

Broward Blvd. I-95

33 BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXISTING CONDITIONS Neighborhoods in the The core area of Broward Boulevard, between NW District: 15th Street and Avenue of the Arts, is comprised of Sailboat Bend, Dorsey- primary small commercial uses, social services, Dr. Riverbend. Kennedy Homes, and the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Station, Parks and Recreation facility, and Issues in the Area: public works and city fl eet. 1. General pedestrian safe- ty and comfort are of The Police Station campus is approximately 18- great concern. The provi- acres, with nearly 10-acres devoted to Public Works sion of shade trees would and the city fl eet. The police station is approximate- help greatly. ly 80,000 s.f. and was built in 1967. Despite the 2. The uses along the corri- condition of the building, the current location of the dor should transition from facility is considered good, providing close proxim- public service, automotive ity to downtown, I-95, and many downtown neigh- The image above is of the new Dr. Kennedy Homes housing and auto-oriented uses borhoods. development on Broward Boulevard. This redevelopment project to mixed-uses and neigh- replaced an aging Housing Authority development and is widely considered a great benefi t to Broward Boulevard. borhood services. 3. The police station is well-positioned to serve the community, but the facility should be rebuilt and the public works fa- cility relocated over time. 4. Kennedy Homes is a great improvement to the corridor. 5. There is a lot of “visual noise” on Broward Bou- levard due to the abun- dance of signage and The existing City of Fort Lauderdale Police Station on The City’s Public Works Department and city vehicle fl eet are ex- lack of cohesive streets- Broward Boulevard. posed to the Sailboat Bend Neighborhood. cape. 34 BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan 1. Build a new police headquarters and Parks District Strategy and Recreation facility on the current site in a campus design that: The Broward Boulevard Core Implementation Projects • Replaces most of the existing surface District has the opportunity parking with two parking garages. to realize the overall corri- dor vision through building • Is consistent with the Mid-century Mod- a new municipal facility and ern architecture of the existing police undertaking streetscape im- station and headquarters. provements. Opportunities • In the long-term, relocates the Public to improve both the corridor Works facility and restores the neigh- and the adjoining historic SW 7th Ave. borhood fabric to establish a compat- neighborhoods are depict- BB ible transition to the surrounding areas. ed in a design for a new 2. Establish an Infi ll Tree Planting Program to police headquarters and partner with property owners to plant shade Parks and Recreation facil- 6 ity. Strategies to enhance trees along Broward Boulevard to improve landscaping and pedestrian the aesthetics and pedestrian experience. areas are critical to reduce 5 3. Narrow travel lanes on Broward Boulevard the auto-dominant environ- to provide space for a bike lane in each ment in this district, and also direction. have broad application to 4. Revise the Code to establish new require- entire corridor. A three-part ments that enhance the pedestrian realm approach recommends an Infi ll Tree Planting Program, Key projects identifi ed for the Broward Boulevard Core District are il- and creates an urban gateway to Down- lustrated above and described in greater detail in the following pages. town. improvements to the pub- lic rights-of-way, and new frontage requirements.

35 BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan THE POLICE STATION SITE

Opportunities • Upgrade the current condition of the Police Headquarters campus. • Incorporate residential uses in order to restore 5 the neighborhood fabric. Recommendations Phase I • Build a new Police Headquarters and Parks and Recreation facility in two buildings, total- This rendering shows how the new police headquarters could be de- ing approximately 120,000 s.f. signed in a manner consistent with the Mid-Century Modern architec- • Replace the majority of existing surface park- tural style of the existing headquarters. The Police ing with two on-site garages. • Convert the existing police station headquar- Station Site ters to other city or public use, if desired. 1300 W Broward • In this phase the Public Works facility would Boulevard remain until a suitable site and funds for relo- cation were identifi ed. Phase II • Relocate the public works facility, once a site and funds are secured - estimated cost $30 million (FY 2013 Dollars). • After cleaning the site, the existing grid of neighborhood streets should be continued through the site, parcels should be platted and sold, and the area restored to neighborhood fabric of single and multi-family residential This rendering is of one of the proposed parking garages. Due to units. space limitations on the site, the garages are facing adjacent streets with requirements that their design and scale be appropriate for the neighborhood. This garage maintains maximum street interest by pro- viding offi ce space on the ground level. 36 BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway THE POLICE STATION SITE Implementation Plan

Broward Boulevard 5

The Police Station Site SW 12th Ave. SW 14th Ave. 1300 W Broward Boulevard

SW 2nd Ct. This is the overall plan after all improvements and relocations are completed for the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department. • Close attention is paid to building orientation so that the fronts of buildings face fronts of other buildings and the parking garages are to the side or rear of buildings. • Restored neighborhood fabric becomes an extension of the Sailboat Bend Neighborhood District in a future phase after the Public Works facility has been relocated.

37 BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES

Opportunities • Create a more pleasant experience on Broward Boulevard by providing bicycle lanes, wider sidewalks, and more shade trees. • Though presented in this district, the strategies 6 are applicable to the entire corridor. Recommendations • In the near-term, establish an Infi ll Tree Planting Program. This city-run program would provide and install shade trees on the private property of those owners willing to participate in the program. The city would incur the cost of the Streetscape Many buildings are located closer to the street than currently permitted tree and planting, and the owner would agree by the Code, likely a result of road widening over time. This is Broward Improvement to water and maintain the trees. Boulevard looking east. Strategies • The city should re-stripe Broward Boulevard, narrowing travel lanes in order to achieve adequate bike lanes. • Revise the Code so that new development will increase sidewalk widths and landscaping over time: • 15-20 ft. build-to zone. • 50% building frontage on the corridor and 70-80% building frontage in TOD areas. • Hardscaped front setback to create a multi- use path. • Planting street trees in the public ROW. • 35% facade transparency and main pedestrian access from the sidewalk. Urban design landscape solution for buildings on wide commercial cor- • Parking areas located to the side or rear of ridors is shown on Federal Highway and NE 6th Street. 38 buildings. BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES Implementation Plan

6

Detail of Broward Boulevard Core District Streetscape Improvement Strategies

Locations for planting shade trees were identifi ed for the Corridor. The map above shows the locations identifi ed in the Broward Bou- levard Core District. The potential candidate sites for the Program are designated with a green “x”. This strategy, applied throughout the boulevard, could result in approximately 56 new shade trees.

39 BROWARD BOULEVARD CORE DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES Sidewalk Improvements 6

Photograph taken from the north side of Broward Boulevard at This single tree creates a rare respit of shade on Broward Bou- Streetscape NW 10th Avenue looking west. This image illustrates a typical levard. condition along the corridor, where the eight-foot sidewalk is com- Improvement pletely devoid of any shade. Strategies

This rendering shows the provision of shade trees on private prop- This rendering shows the longer-term scenario where through re- erty as part of the Infi ll Tree Planting Program. In this scenario the development the sidewalk and street frontage is reconfi gured to travel lanes have been re-striped to two 10 1/2’ and one 11’ lanes provide wide sidewalks, shade trees, and a bike lane. and the extra room is used to create a 4’ designated bike lane. 40 Arts & Entertainment District

Avenue of the Arts to FEC Corridor; NW 2nd Street to the New River

Broward Blvd. I-95

41 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXISTING CONDITIONS Neighborhoods in the Many refer to 7th Avenue, Avenue of the Arts, as the District: defacto entry to downtown Fort Lauderdale. 7th City-View Townhomes, Avenue is the western edge of the Downtown Re- Sailboat Bend. gional Activity Center (RAC) and the offi cial edge of the city’s Arts District. The Arts District includes the Issues in the Area: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Muse- 1. The corridor needs wid- um of Science and Discovery, the Himmershee Enter- er sidewalks and more tainment Corridor, and a number of restaurants and shade. night clubs. 2. There is no visual pres- ence on Broward Bou- There is also an interesting geographic condition levard of the arts and that occurs in the Arts District. The New River, includ- cultural amenities in the ing Sailboat Bend, Esplanade Park, and the city’s district. world famous Riverwalk, reach to within 900 feet Sailboat Bend, as viewed from the Broward Center for the Perform- 3. There is a signifi cant of Broward Boulevard; however, one would never ing Arts, is only 900 feet from Broward Boulevard yet there are no visual connections. Exposing this amenity to the corridor is a goal. amount of juror traf- know it from traveling the corridor. In many instanc- fi c going downtown that es along Broward Boulevard amazing neighbor- could be shuttled in from hoods, cultural amenities, and nightlife are located off-site. just off the roadway, yet their presence is masked by 4. Need to emphasize and the chaos of visual noise and sameness that typifi es build upon the synergies the corridor. There is agreement among many that of the Center for the Per- have participated in this Gateway planning process; forming Arts, Museum of something dramatic should occur either in, or along, Discovery and Science, Broward Boulevard to mark points of interest and Esplanade Park, and entrances to different districts. Himmarshee Street.

The 200 Block of Himmarshee (2nd) Street is an excellent example of all the elements that make a great urban street. 42 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan 1. Create a roundabout as an entry feature to District Strategy downtown and the Arts District. This round- Implementation Projects about is not intended to fi x any particular • Provide visual icons and traffi c circulation problem, but is conceived civic moments to celebrate as a civic monument, a place-making device the arts and cultural aspects of the district and link adja- that adds interest and uniqueness to the cor- cent amenities to Broward ridor. It also has the potential to increase Boulevard. pedestrian and motorist safety. • Use the remaining infi ll re- 2. The location of the roundabout is recom- development parcels to pro- mended to be at 5th Avenue and Broward vide the greatest amount of Boulevard. street life and activity pos- SW 7th Ave. 3. Reduce Broward Boulevard, east of 7th Av- sible. Screen existing and enue, from six through lanes to four through future parking areas and lanes. structures with new buildings. BB • Extend the energy and 4. Consistent, pedestrian-scaled street light- aesthetic of Himmarshee ing that is unique to the district, will not only 7 8 from SW 3rd Street to Es- enhance the experience of visitors but also planade Park. distinguish the area. • Museum of Discovery and Science should provide an urban “face” to Broward Boulevard.

Key projects identifi ed for the Arts & Entertainment District are illus- trated above and described in greater detail in the following pages.

43 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan 5TH AVENUE ROUNDABOUT

Opportunities • Distinguish the individual district visually by providing an iconic element on Broward Boulevard.

7 Recommendations • Create an entry feature to downtown and the Arts District. • The design of the roundabout at 5th Avenue also includes the reduction of Broward Bou- levard, east of 7th Avenue, from six through lanes to four through lanes. This reduction in 5th Avenue travel lanes is justifi ed in part by the reduc- This view of SW 5th Avenue and Broward Boulevard is looking from tion of eastbound vehicular trips east of 7th the parking garage of The Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Roundabout Avenue that will be discussed in greater detail 5th Avenue & Broward later. If executed correctly, the roundabout is Boulevard one sure way to create a “postcard” moment at Broward Boulevard.

Rendering for the proposed roundabout at SW 5th Avenue and Bro- ward Boulevard. The roundabout could have a dramatic effect on the entry to the Arts District and downtown Fort Lauderdale.

44 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway 5TH AVENUE ROUNDABOUT Implementation Plan

ABOVE: This drawing shows the proposed roundabout ge- ometries layed over the aerial of Broward Boulevard and SW 5th Avenue. BELOW: The proposed con- ditions drawing highlights the outside lane in the east and 7 west-bound directions that are considered for modifi cations, including the 5th Avenue round- about proposal.

5th Avenue Roundabout 5th Avenue & Broward Boulevard

Broward Boulevard at 5th Avenue Roundabout Cost Estimate

$ 543,925.00* *Includes 35% allocation for unknowns, landscape and irrigation costs. Costs estimated as 2013 year of expenditure.

Clarifi cation: The cost estimates provided in this document are for those projects that are quantifi able in their scope and provide a signifi cant public benefi t. 45 This page intentionally left blank.

46 Downtown District

FEC Corridor to E 9th Avenue; NW 4th Street to New River

Broward Blvd. I-95

47 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXISTING CONDITIONS Neighborhoods in the is one of the most recognized District: and desirable destinations in the southeastern Unit- Flagler Village, Downtown ed States. Las Olas Boulevard (east of Federal Fort Lauderdale Civic Highway) in particular is world renowned for its fi ne Association, Beverly Heights, dining, shopping, and historical ambience. Recent Victoria Park. downtown development and improvements have only added to the excitement and energy of the Issues in the Area: area. While technically still “East” Las Olas, the 1. Pedestrian safety is par- stretch of the boulevard west of Federal Highway amount on Broward Bou- in downtown Fort Lauderdale has a decidedly more levard. corporate and institutional character. The link be- 2. Shade trees and general tween downtown Las Olas and historical Las Olas aesthetic improvements Boulevard occurs at Federal Highway where the are needed. Henry E. Kinney Tunnel depresses the roadway un- Las Olas Boulevard, looking east, is a world-renowned destination 3. Broward Boulevard derneath the New River. for shopping and dining. should be narrowed if possible to provide more room for pedestrians and bicyclists – especially with new transit services coming. 4. The intersection of Las Olas Boulevard and the Henry E. Kinney Tunnel is very challenging to pe- destrians and motorists due to limited visibility

and narrow sidewalks. This view looking eastbound at the intersection of Las Olas and the southbound Federal Highway access road shows the challeng- ing pedestrian crossing at the tunnel. Note that the barrier wall of the tunnel is taller than the windshield of the approaching vehicle, making it nearly impossible to see crossing pedestrians. 48 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway DOWNTOWN DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan 1. Reduce Broward Boulevard, east of 7th Av- District Strategy enue, from six through lanes to four through Implementation Projects lanes. The Downtown District has 2. Create Las Olas Plaza on the north side of the opportunity to realize Las Olas Boulevard to improve pedestrian the overall corridor vision connectivity, provide a respite for visitors to through two main projects. get information and get oriented, and vast- The Broward Boulevard ly improve the visibility of motorists negoti- Lane Reduction Project will ating the Las Olas intersection. improve the pedestrian ex- perience slowing down traf- fi c and providing wider side-

8 N Federal Hwy. walks and connectivity. The BB Las Olas Plaza will improve the pedestrian connectivity between Historic Las Olas Boulevard and Downtown 9 Las Olas.

Key projects identifi ed for the Downtown District are illustrated above and described in greater detail in the following pages.

49 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan BROWARD BOULEVARD LANE REDUCTION

Opportunities • To enhance the “walkability” and “bikability” of Broward Boulevard by increasing sidewalk widths and connectivity, the provision of bicycle 8 facilities, and the narrowing of roadways. Recommendations • Remove a lane in each direction east of 7th Avenue as traffi c volumes drop off signifi cantly where the impacts of removing a lane in each direction into downtown would be manage- able. Broward • Use the reclaimed asphalt to provide for an enhanced pedestrian experience, provide The City of Fort Lauderdale has already begun a campaign to balance Boulevard more shade trees and bicycle facilities, on- mobility options. This dedicated bike lane on NE 3rd Street was paint- Lane Reduction street parking, and BAT (Business Access and ed by city staff and residents during a weekend event to promote a Transit) lanes. healthier and more mobile city.

Increasingly cities across America are committed to including bicycle and transit facilities as part of their transportation programs. 50 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway BROWARD BOULEVARD LANE REDUCTION Implementation Plan

8

Broward Boulevard Lane Reduction

The proposed conditions drawing above highlights the outside lane in the east and west-bound directions that are considered for modifi cations.

51 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan ALTERNATIVE 1: RECONSTRUCT OUTSIDE SIDEWALK

Lane Reduction Scenario This option removes the outside lanes from vehicular movements entirely. 8 Recommendation Widen the sidewalk the partial or full width of the removed travel lane a) This option could enable more robust shade tree planting b) This option could increase the Broward width of the existing bike lane or become a raised multi-pur- Boulevard pose path serving both pe- Lane Reduction destrians and cyclists c) This option would immediate- ly enhance the drainage and roadway elevations d) This option would preclude a continuous dedicated transit lane in that location Broward Boulevard Lane Reduction Alternative 1 Reconstruct Outside Sidewalk

$ 3,794,000.00 *Includes 35% allocation for unknowns, landscape and irrigation costs. Costs estimated as 2013 year of expenditure.

Clarifi cation: The cost estimates provided in this document are for those projects that are quantifi able in their scope and provide a signifi cant public benefi t. 52 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway ALTERNATIVE 2: BULB-OUTS AT INTERSECTIONS Implementation Plan

Bulb-Out Scenario This option creates landscaped bulb-outs at corners and mid- block locations. Recommendation 8 Only widen the sidewalk at in- tersections and incorporate land- scaping and bulb-outs a) This option could include on- street parking between bulb- outs, which is positive for businesses Broward b) This option would not impact the drainage and roadway Boulevard elevations as signifi cantly as Lane Reduction the previous option c) This option would also pre- clude a continuous dedicated transit lane in place of the travel lane, but allows for Broward Boulevard Lane Reduction easier retrofi tting in the fu- Alternative 2 ture compared to installing a Bulb-Outs at Intersection wide sidewalk along the full length. $ 643,000.00 *Includes 35% allocation for unknowns, landscape and irrigation costs. Costs estimated as 2013 year of expenditure.

Clarifi cation: The cost estimates provided in this document are for those projects that are quantifi able in their scope and provide a signifi cant public benefi t. 53 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan ALTERNATIVE 4*: MILL & RESURFACE OUTSIDE LANE

BAT/Parking Scenario This option converts the outside lanes to Business Access Transit (BAT) lanes and on-street parking 8 during off-peak transit times. Recommendation Incorporate only on-street park- ing in place of the travel lane: a) This option only requires strip- ing and would not enhance the sidewalk or landscaping Broward b) This option would have little to no impact on the drainage or Boulevard roadway elevations Lane Reduction c) This option could accommo- date peak-hour transit move- ments by restricting parking hours d) This option might include ex- pansion of the existing bike lanes but would preclude a Broward Boulevard Lane Reduction multi-purpose path Alternative 4 Mill & Resurface Outside Lane * Alternative three is illustrated in the Background document, $ 159,000.00 *Includes 35% allocation for unknowns, landscape and irrigation costs. but was not included in this re- Costs estimated as 2013 year of expenditure.

port as it is not a preferred Clarifi cation: option. The cost estimates provided in this document are for those projects that are quantifi able in their scope and provide a signifi cant public benefi t. 54 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway MULTI-PURPOSE PATH Implementation Plan

Multi-Purpose Path Scenario This option converts the outside lanes to primarily a multi-pur- pose pathway with the option for transit during peak ridership hours. 8 Recommendation Convert the travel lane to a ded- icated bike/multi-purpose lane a) This option only requires striping and would not en- hance the sidewalk or land- Broward scaping b) This option has little to no Boulevard impact on the drainage and Lane Reduction roadway elevations c) This option would preclude on- street parking but might ac- commodate peak-hour transit movements.

55 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan DEDICATED TRANSIT LANE

Dedicated Transit Lane Scenario This option converts the outside lanes to a dedicated transit lane with the option of off-peak park- 8 ing or multi-purpose pathway. Recommendation Convert the travel lane to a dedi- cated transit lane a. This option has little to no im- pact on drainage and road- way elevations. Broward b. This option precludes any sidewalk or landscaping en- Boulevard hancements. Lane Reduction c. This option could include off- peak hour parking or off-peak hour multi-purpose path but not both.

56 This page intentionally left blank.

57 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan LAS OLAS PLAZA Opportunities • Improve the pedestrian experience crossing Federal Highway, which is presently characterized by poor vehicular visibility, high guard walls surrounding the tunnel opening, 9 and a narrow northern sidewalk. • Strengthen the link between the two sides of the tunnel - Historic Las Olas Boulevard and Downtown Las Olas.

Recommendations • Expand the “roof” of the tunnel northwards to create a pedestrian plaza where the narrow sidewalk is today The Henry E. Kinney Tunnel, which depresses Federal Highway un- Las Olas Plaza der the New River, opened in 1960. Federal Highway and • Create Las Olas Plaza on the north side of Las Las Olas Boulevard Olas Boulevard to improve the pedestrian con- nectivity, provide a respite for visitors to get information and get oriented, and vastly im- prove the visibility of motorists negotiating the Las Olas intersection.

Las Olas Plaza Cost Estimate

$ 840,170.00* *Includes 35% allocation for unknowns, landscape and irrigation costs. Costs estimated as 2013 year of expenditure.

Clarifi cation: Proposed shade canopy integrated into the new barrier wall which The cost estimates provided in this document are for those projects maintains clear view through for pedestrians and motorists. The de- that are quantifi able in their scope and provide a signifi cant sign of the canopy and structure are intended to be consistent with public benefi t. the subtle Art Deco details expressed in the original tunnel walls. 58 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway LAS OLAS PLAZA Implementation Plan

9

Aerial view, looking north, of the existing conditions at the Las Olas crossing of the Kinney Tunnel. Las Olas Plaza Federal Highway and Las Olas Boulevard

This computer rendering of the same view shows the extent of the proposed plaza and the signifi cant area of refuge and open space created for pedes- trians. The expansion of the “roof” of the tunnel is only about 26’ yet makes a great difference to the overall environment. 59 DOWNTOWN DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan LAS OLAS PLAZA

9

Street view, looking east, of the existing conditions Las Olas Plaza at the Las Olas crossing Federal Highway and of the Kinney Tunnel. Las Olas Boulevard

This computer rendering of the same view shows the proposed plaza, which provides an improved pe- destrian experience at the Federal Highway cross- ing. 60 Broward Boulevard East District

E 9th Avenue to Victoria Park Road; NE 2nd Street to E Las Olas Boulevard

Broward Blvd. I-95

61 BROWARD BOULEVARD EAST DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan EXISTINGE X I S T I N G CCONDITIONSO N D I T I O N S Neighborhoods in the While the offi cial boundary of the Broward Boule- District: vard Gateway Implementation Master Plan extends Victoria Park, Colee to NE/SE 8th Avenue, the public outreach efforts Hammock, Beverly Heights. extended into the eastern neighborhoods including Victoria Park, Beverly Heights, and Colee Hammock. Issues in the Area: Between NE/SE 8th and NE/SE 15th Avenue, the • Fort Lauderdale beach character of Broward Boulevard begins changing access, between Broward to a more residential, mixed-use street and is pri- Boulevard and Las Olas marily a four-lane section (with turning lanes at most Boulevard, needs to be intersections). East of NE/SE 15th Avenue, Broward clarifi ed to reduce neigh- Boulevard changes dramatically to a two-lane ex- borhood intrusion. clusively residential street. This section of Broward • E 15th Street and the Boulevard continues east for three blocks until the Federal Highway service boulevard turns northward and becomes N Victoria This view of East Broward Boulevard, in the Victoria Park neighbor- roads should carry east- Park Road. hood, illustrates the dramatic change in scale and character as this bound traffi c. major east-west corridor enters the neighborhood. • Stacking traffi c west- The primary concerns of the eastern neighborhoods bound on Las Olas at is the “cut-through” traffi c created by many motorists E 15th Street leads to en route to the beach or Las Olas Boulevard. Some neighborhood cut-through motorists are simply lost in Victoria Park trying to traffi c in Colee Hammock. fi nd their destination when the corridor narrows to a residential street. The misalignments of Broward Boulevard (the downtown gateway from I-95) and Las Olas Boulevard (the shopping/dining destination and beach access) creates signifi cant north-south trips between the two roads, which impacts the east- ern neighborhoods. This non-intuitive network along with the New River tributary, which runs north along SE 12th Avenue in Beverly Heights, create pinch- This is the view of the waterfront Victoria Park, namesake of this points for traffi c fl ow to Las Olas Boulevard. cherished east Fort Lauderdale neighborhood. 62 BROWARD BOULEVARD EAST DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway EXISTINGE X I S T I N G CCONDITIONSO N D I T I O N S Implementation Plan District Strategy

The city of Fort Lauderdale Transportation and Mobil- ity Department is currently conducting a mobility study east of SE 11th Avenue for the purpose of assessing and developing strategies to mitigate neighborhood cut-through traffi c. The Las Olas Traffi c/Mobility Study will take a close look at the mobility issues affecting this area.

SE 15th Avenue is the primary connection between Broward Boulevard and Las Olas Boulevard for beach goers and those heading east of downtown.

SE 15th Avenue, which contains both commercial and residential uses, is a primary connector between Las Olas and Broward Boulevards. Overtime, however, the inclusion of on-street parking on SE 15th Avenue between SE 2nd Court and SE 1st Avenue has prompted the installation of stop signs at SE 2nd Street. While the stops signs and the on-street parking are good elements for slowing down traffi c and improving the pedestrian environment on SE 15th Avenue, there are concerns these constraints are prompting some motorists to use other strictly residential streets to make the connection between Bro- ward Boulevard and Las Olas Boulevard.

63 BROWARD BOULEVARD EAST DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan BROWARDB R O W A R D BBOULEVARDO U L E VA R D EEASTA S T DDISTRICTI S T R I C T To The Beach!

What are Some Ways to Resolve This Issue?

A Planning Conundrum

The image above illustrates one of the confl icts created by the road alignments in Fort Lauderdale. Broward Boulevard (in red) has an I-95 interchange and is a major east-west connector; however, it terminates into the Victoria Park neighborhood and is not a beach connector. Las Olas Boulevard (shown in yellow) is the beach connector but does not link to I-95. The area highlighted in green is where incidents of cut-through traffi c is most pronounced. 64 BROWARD BOULEVARD EAST DISTRICT Broward Boulevard Gateway BROWARDB R O W A R D BBOULEVARDO U L E VA R D EEASTA S T DDISTRICTI S T R I C T Implementation Plan

High traffi c volumes, mixture of business access and thru traffi c trip-making, and off-peak period travel speeds adversely impact the safety of pe- destrians, cyclists, and motorists attempting to navigate Las Olas Boulevard. To promote safety and enhance the overall quality of the corridor, the Las Olas Traffi c/Mobility Study will:

o Identify strategies to manage travel speeds along the corridor; o Identify strategies to provide for bicycle and pedestrian mobility along and across Las Olas Boulevard, including the location and design of mid-block crosswalks; o Assess general safety issues by analyzing the corridor’s crash history and evaluate the extent to which design and operational safety best-practices may be implemented along the corridor;

Traffi c traversing the Colee Hammock neighborhood between Broward Boulevard and Las Olas Boulevard utilizes local neighborhood streets in order to avoid signal delay encountered along 15th Avenue—the designated collector roadway. To address this issue, the Las Olas Traffi c/Mobility Study will also:

o Recommend operational and design strategies to reduce delay for drivers making the “Z” movement between Broward Boulevard and Las Olas Avenue along 15th Avenue while promoting the safety of all roadway users. o Identify traffi c calming/diversion strategies to discourage cut-thru traffi c along 12th, 13th, 16th, and 17th Avenues while minimizing the im- pact of these strategies on the convenience and mobility of Colee Hammock neighborhood residents.

The Las Olas Traffi c/Mobility Study is currently underway and should be substantially complete by the Fall of 2013.

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66 Land Development Code Analysis

Broward Blvd. I-95

67 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE RECOMMENDATIONS

Strategy 1. Encourage mixed-use developments outside of the RACs to foster the Vision of the Bro- Establish new land devel- ward Boulevard Gateway. opment criteria for prop- erties located in the blocks 2. Designate TOD areas in the Comprehensive Implementing the Vision adjoining Broward Bou- Plan and Downtown Master Plan. levard and those located within the potential TOD 3. Utilize a zoning overlay with development areas to achieve the Vision. standards to achieve the Vision over time. 4. Within TOD areas, require high intensi- I-95 ty and density, active uses, and maximum Within the Comprehensive parking quantities. AVE. Plan, implement a mixed TH use land use designation 5. Adopt frontage requirements to establish a 27 for properties outside of cohesive, attractive physical condition along the Downtown or Northwest Broward Boulevard as redevelopment oc- BB RACs. Identify intended curs. TOD areas. 6. Reduce the required number of parking spaces for new development and require Within the ULDR, utilize an parking areas be located to the side or overlay with standards, such rear of buildings. Provide on-street parking as building and parking where feasible. placement, landscaping, etc. to improve the physical en- 7. Improve cross-access between parcels to re- vironment, as well as allow duce the number of driveways on Broward for mixed-use development Boulevard. to foster transit-supportive 8. Streamline the approval process for devel- conditions. opment proposals consistent with the Vision for the corridor.

68 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway COMPREHENSIVE PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan

Opportunities • Foster transit-supportive land uses along the corridor and within potential TOD areas.

Recommendations • Emphasize the value and desire for mixed-use development along the Broward Boulevard corridor. • Allow residential uses without the need for fl ex units. • Identify intended TOD areas in the Comprehensive Plan and adopt targets for intensity and density as well as number of residential units and jobs for each Station Area.

Future Land Use Designations 27TH 7TH ANDREWS FEDERAL I-95 AVENUE AVENUE AVENUE HIGHWAY

BROWARD BOULEVARD

69 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan TOD DISTRICT STANDARDS

Opportunities • Foster TOD in areas with or planned for premium transit service access.

Recommendations • Identify intended TOD areas in the Comprehensive Plan, Land Development Code, Downtown Master Plan, South RAC-South Andrews Master Plan and/or other ap- propriate areas. • Adopt TOD standards: • Minimum intensity (FAR and buildings at least two stories tall). • Required density range 15-55 du/acre (preferred min. 40 du/ac). • Reduce parking requirements by an appropriate percentage and adopt a cap to limit the maximum number of spaces permitted. • Prohibit or limit auto-oriented uses such as drive throughs, car sales, etc. • Minimum building frontage of 70-80%.

Minimum Parking Requirements per Location in TOD Zoning Districts Location in TOD Station Area Factor Applied

Within 500 feet of Transit System 0 (no parking required)

Transit-Core .50

Transit Neighborhood .75

The minimum off-street parking requirements will be multiplied by these fac- tors to produce modified off-street parking requirements for the TOD dis- tricts. Development and redevelopment shall not provide more parking than required without the reduction offered by the factor. Source: Florida TOD Guidebook. TOP: Perspective view of the Riverbend District TOD area. BOTTOM: Plan view shows high-quality, multi-modal environment. 70 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS Implementation Plan

Opportunities • Create a more attractive and functional environment by coordinating public improve- ments and the design of private redevelopment along the corridor.

Recommendations • Revise the land development code to include frontage standards: • Provide a build-to zone of 15-20 feet along the corridor. • Ensure a minimum building frontage of 50% along the corridor in general and of 70-80% in TOD areas. • Require the front setback area be hardscaped to augment the public ROW and incorporate a multi-use path and street trees. • Defi ne main building entry design and access standards. • Limit parking and loading areas to the side or rear of buildings. In this view of Broward Boulevard looking east, sidewalk and • Require the installation of uniformly spaced street trees (30 feet O.C.) landscaping areas are too narrow (likely as a result of roadway widening over time) to establish a comfortable or attractive en- vironment.

This is the longer-term redevel- opment scenario where through redevelopment the sidewalk and front setback areas are coordi- nated and confi gured to provide a Publix faces S. Andrews Avenue, which is designated as an Im- multi-use path, shade trees, and age Street under the D-RAC. (Image Source: Fisher Architects) bike lane. 71 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS Frontage Road Enhanced Sidewalk

C D C D E F B B A A

Dimensional Recommendations for Enhanced Sidewalk on Dimensional Recommendations for Frontage Roads on Broward Boulevard Broward Boulevard Slip Street Dimensions Minimum Enhanced Sidewalk Dimensions Minimum

A Building Setback 60 feet A Building Setback 15 feet

B Existing ROW varies B Existing ROW for new street trees and lights 8 feet (varies)

C New Multi-Use Path 10 feet C New Multi-Use Path 15 feet

D New Landscape Area 5 feet

E New One Way Aisle with Parallel Parking 20 feet

F New Sidewalk Adjacent to Building 20 feet

72 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS Implementation Plan

Storefront Frontage Type Storefront Character Example Storefront

The storefront is typically associated with F retail and mixed-use buildings. Storefronts must be designed to promote an attractive, convenient shopping experience and, as such, are usually shaded by awnings or arcades. G In order to achieve these objectives, certain E D criteria is recommended: 1. Storefronts extend across at least 70% of the commercial/retail space. C 2. Storefronts are directly accessible from sidewalks; storefront doors may A B be recessed up to six-feet. 3. Storefronts have transparent glazing of at least 70% of the sidewalk level facade area, comprised of storefront Dimensional Recommendations for Storefronts windows and doors. Dimension Minimum Maximum 4. Storefront windows have a base one foot six inches to three feet high with A Building Setback varies transparent glazed areas extending B Storefront Width 70% 100% from the base to at least eight feet C Storefront Base 1.5 feet 3 feet in height as measured from sidewalk grade. Transparent glazing transmits D Glazing Height 8 feet No Max. at least 50% of visible daylight. E Glazing Area 70% 100%

Maximum Allowable Encroachment of Elements

F Awning Projection 4 feet 2 feet from curb

G Pedestrian Blade Sign Projection N/A 4 feet 73 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS Forecourt Forecourt Frontage Type Forecourt Character Example

A forecourt is an open area in front of the main building entrance(s) designed as a small garden or hardscaped plaza. The forecourt may afford access to lobbies, fi rst fl oor units, and may incorporate storefronts for retail uses or stoops for residential uses. The fore- court is suitable for outdoor seating for resi- dents or restaurants. Forecourts are typically associated with multifamily, mixed-use, and commercial buildings. The area comprised B of a forecourt should be counted toward fulfi lling building frontage and setback re- C quirements. A D

Dimensional Recommendations for Forecourt

Dimension Minimum Maximum

A Building Setback varies

B Forecourt Depth 10 feet 20 feet

C Forecourt Width 20 feet 50% of facade

D Forecourt Floor Elevation 0 3 feet

Maximum Allowable Encroachment

Not Applicable

74 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS Implementation Plan Bracketed Balcony Frontage Type Bracketed Balcony Character Example Bracketed Balcony

A bracketed balcony is a second-story plat- form projecting from the building wall, en- closed by a railing or balustrade, supported by brackets. The bracketed balcony is locat- ed over the main building entry, which pro- B C vides cover for a person entering or exiting E the building, emphasizes the entryway, and creates a semi-public space overlooking the street. Bracketed balconies are typically as- sociated with buildings with commercial uses in the ground story and are particularly use- A ful on live-work buildings; however, bracketed D balconies can be used on residential building types when combined with a stoop.

Dimensional Recommendations for Bracketed Balcony

Dimension Minimum Maximum

A Building Setback varies

B Depth - 5 feet

C Width 4 feet No max.

D Floor Elevation 0 -

E Encroachment into Front Setback 0 5 feet

75 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan RECOMMENDED FRONTAGE STANDARDS Stoop Stoop Frontage Type Stoop Character Example

A stoop is a small staircase leading to the entrance of a building that may be covered. Stoops should provide suffi cient space for a person to pause comfortably before entering or after exiting the building. Stoops are front- age types typically associated with townhous- es and other residential building types, which require the elevation of the fi rst fl oor to ensure privacy for the occupants from passers-by. C B

D

E A

Dimensional Recommendations for Stoops

Dimension Minimum Maximum

A Building Setback varies by zoning district

B Stoop Depth 4 feet 8 feet

C Stoop Width 4 feet No Max.

D Stoop Floor Elevation 1.5 feet 4 feet

E Encroachment into Front Setback 0 4 feet

76 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway PARKING RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan

Opportunities • Increase development potential of properties along the corridor and within TOD districts by reducing the amount of parking required refl ective of the premium transit op- tions. • Improve aesthetics and safety by shielding parking from view and limiting access on main pedestrian routes.

Recommendations • Apply a factor to the parking code based on proximity to transit to appropriately reduce the required number of spaces. See page 70 for TOD districts parking recom- mendations. Along the corridor consider a factor of .75 or redefi ne certain uses to 3 spaces/1000 sf. Publix’s main facade defi nes S. Andrews Avenue (a designated Image Street in the D-RAC), with • Require a minimum of 70-80% building frontage in TOD parking and service uses organized on the side and rear streets. (Image Source: Google earth) areas to shield parking from view. • Require a minimum of 50% building frontage along Bro- ward Boulevard to balance auto and pedestrian needs. • Limit parking and loading areas to the side or rear of buildings. • Determine which side streets are the preferred pedes- trian routes between the neighborhoods and Broward Boulevard and apply high frontage standards, directing parking and service uses to less active streets. • Include on-street parking wherever feasible and count those spaces toward parking requirements. • Coordinate parking access to maximize spaces and de- velopment potential. Publix parking accessed from SW 6th Street and A streetwall shields a side parking lot from the loading areas located on SW 1st Avenue. (Image sidewalk in West Palm Beach. Source: Google earth) 77 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan PARKING RECOMMENDATIONS Potential Build-out Tests Criteria: 1. A “build to” line of 15 feet on Broward Boulevard to implement the rec- C ommended streetscape. A 2. Active uses line Broward Boulevard and all side streets to create a supe- rior pedestrian environment. D 3. The street parallel to Broward Boulevard considered “secondary” and B accommodates parking and service functions. S i d e S t r e e t B 4. 3 parking spaces/1,000 square feet provided. 5. An alley would remain public and could be incorporated into parking B r o w a r d B o u l e v a r d lots/structures or relocated. Results: The maximum allowable building height could not be achieved, even with reduced parking, while maintaining active uses on all side streets. TOP: The test above demonstrates development on several individual properties, Without frontage standards, garage levels will likely be exposed to most with parking maximized through coordinated access. BOTTOM LEFT: A structured streets. To ensure strong pedestrian links to the adjacent neighborhoods, a parking solution is tested, yielding six stories facing Broward Boulevard and four sto- ries along the side streets. BOTTOM RIGHT: A large surface parking lot serves priority for the city is to designate the streets that should develop with high buildings along Broward Boulevard and the side streets. frontage standards. D A

E B C B A

P S i d e S t r e e t B P S i d e S t r e e t B B r o w a r d B o u l e v a r d

B r o w a r d B o u l e v a r d

78 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway PARKING RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Plan Strategies to Coordinate Parking Location and Access Parking Location and Access

Existing Development. Retrofi tting existing devel- New Development. Revise the land development opment is very diffi cult. regulations to: 1. Adopt retroactive landscape perimeter re- 1. Require the use of alleys, when present. quirements to shield parking from view with a 2. Determine main pedestrian streets and orga- streetfront hedge and shade trees planted ev- nize vehicular access. ery 30 feet. Allow a three-year time frame for 3. Require interconnections between adjacent compliance. parking lots. The fi rst to build determines link 2. Establish a city program to evaluate and work location. When possible, parking should be accessed from rear alleys. with individual property owners to fi nd mutual- 4. Limit driveway widths to 24 feet. ly benefi cial solutions. 5. Determine main pedestrian streets and orga- 3. Consider fi nancial incentives such as the city nize vehicular access. funding improvements, including landscaping and facade improvements grants in concert with consolidating accessways.

Varying Parking Access and Location Coordinated Parking Access and Location If no alleys exist, parking should be accessed from streets that are not main pedestrian routes.

If neither alleys nor “secondary” streets are available, parking may be accessed from the main pedestrian street. 79 LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan STREAMLINED APPROVAL PROCESS Opportunities • Encourage redevelopment consistent with the Vision for the corridor by expediting development review and approval for projects that meet or exceed defi ned standards.

Recommendations • Work to create and adopt land development criteria that will provide predictable, desirable development. • Work to create and adopt land use targets for TOD areas. • Identify ways to shorten the review and approval process for projects that meet defi ned standards.

Some of the recommendations in this report are geared specifi cally toward streamlining the development review process. For example, the current future land use categories can accomplish mixed-use development through the use of fl ex units. However, changing to a mixed-use category, that allows residential uses at a transit-supportive density “by right” is much easier for property owners and potential investors to understand and nav- igate. Establishing specifi c development standards allows the City and Clarifying development expectations and streamlining the approval process for proj- County to agree on form and intensity prior to receiving development ects that meet or exceed the objectives of the Vision for Broward Boulevard will expe- dite implementation. Existing projects and developments that illustrate the prinicples proposals, presenting an opportunity to expedite projects that contribute of the Vision, like the Paradise Bank above, are important models for the future of to the vision. Broward Boulevard as the Gateway to downtown Fort Lauderdale.

80 IMPLEMENTATION Broward Boulevard Gateway IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX Implementation Plan

PROJECT H IGH PRIORITY M EDIUM PRIORITY L OW PRIORITY

Coordinate with development Large Format Retail Center team Modify existing development

IVERBEND The Riverbend North Parcel ISTRICT agreements and regulations R D HE

T Coordinate with FDOT, SFRTA, Tri-Rail & Broward Boulevard and Broward MPO Coordinate with Salvation

The Salvation Army Site Army future redevelopment ORK

F plans ISTRICT D ORTH Monitor project development N The North Fork Bridge and identify enhancements

Begin to assess remaining The Police Station Site lifespan of existing buildings and reconstruction feasibility OULEVARD ISTRICT B D Modify Land Development

ORE Implement the Infill Shade C Streetscape Improvement Strategies Regulations to implement the

ROWARD Tree Planting Program

B Corridor Vision

& Assess feasibility and traffic

RTS 5th Avenue Roundabout ISTRICT impacts A D NTERTAINMENT E

Test lane reductions and/

Identify preferred street sec- or BAT lanes with temporary Broward Boulevard Lane Reduction tion alternatives and locations measures

ISTRICT Prioritize the project and OWNTOWN D

D Las Olas Plaza secure public and/or private funding

81