Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan March 10, 2005

Village of Montgomery 1300 S. Broadway Montgomery, IL 60538 Job# 25364722

Prepared By: URS•TPAP 122 S. Michigan Avenue Suite 1920 Chicago, IL 60603 Tel. 312.939.1000 Fax. 312.939.4198

Acknowledgements Village Board Members of the Planning Advisory Thank you to Village President and the Board of Committee (PAC) A special thanks goes to everyone who partici- Trustees: Thank you to the members of the ad hoc commit- pated in the planning process for the Orchard tee created for this planning process and to the Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan. This Plan • President Marilyn Michelini agencies and districts who participated: was made possible by the contribution of resi- • Roger Burrell dents, business persons, property owners, and • Amy Furfori, Director of Community Develop- representation from various groups and organi- • Peter Heinz ment zations. • Jeanne Felten • Anne Marie Gaura, Village Manager

• William Keck • Kane County Division of Transportation • Denny Lee • Tom Hammond, West Aurora School District • Robert Watermann #129 • Paul Holcomb, Kane County Department of Transportation Plan Commission • Janice Hill, Kane County Department of Plan- Thank you to the members of the Plan Commis- ning sion • Ken Jernburg, Inland Real Estate & Develop- • Jesse Vasquez ment

• Clarence Bark • Fran Klaas, Kendall County Highway De- Table of Contents partment • Jason Bragg Page • Jeff Palmquist, Fox Valley Park District • Robert Glenn Introduction 1 • Ksenia Rudensiuk, The Conservation Founda- • Lloyd Mattingly Corridor Vision 3 tion • Mildred McNeal- James Goals and Objectives 6 • Tom Runty, Kaneland School District #302 • Kathleen Papke Physical Plans 15 • Pete Wallers, Engineering Enterprises, Inc.

Design and Development Guidelines 20 Consultant Implementation 33 John Houseal, AICP, URS•TPAP Devin Lavigne, AICP, URS•TPAP

Introduction Overview of the Project The Planning Process This report builds upon the preliminary findings of The Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor The Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor the previous submittal and presents Steps 4, 5, (the Corridor) encompasses an area approxi- Plan (the Plan) will entail a seven-step planning and 6 of the Planning Process for the Orchard mately 4 square miles. Although much of the process designed to assist the Village of Mont- Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan. The area is within incorporated Village of Montgom- gomery in formulating long-range improvement document has been prepared by URS•TPAP (the ery, some areas are unincorporated Kane and redevelopment recommendations for the Consultant), with significant advice, support and County and unincorporated Kendall County. The Corridor. The steps of the planning process are assistance from the Planning Advisory Committee, Corridor can generally be defined as a ½ mile highlighted below. area on the east and west sides of Orchard Road property and business owners, and others famil- Step 1: Project Initiation included a project from Jericho Road on the north to the Village iar and concerned with growth and development initiation meeting to set the foundation for the limits on the south. within the Corridor. planning process. The meeting included a pro- The Corridor occupies a strategic location within ject initiation workshop, designed to solicit the the quickly growing western suburbs of Chicago. Planning Advisory Committee’s (PAC) concerns Situated on the boundary of two of the fastest and aspirations for the Corridor. growing counties in the region, the Corridor will Step 2: Community Outreach included a work- likely experience significant pressure for growth shop that was held to solicit general public input. and development. The 2002 Comprehensive Key person interviews were also conducted to Plan of the Village of Montgomery identifies sev- obtain additional information from key stake- eral land uses for the Corridor, including residen- holders within the corridor. tial, manufacturing/production, warehouse/ distribution, retail, and retail/residential mixed use. Step 3: Data Collection and Analysis included a collection, review and analysis of all existing This area is recognized as a unique opportunity conditions, including past plans and studies, re- along the rapidly developing western suburbs gional strengths and weaknesses, demographics, and Orchard Road Corridor. Tremendous market and development potentials, existing growth is being experienced throughout Kane lands use, current zoning, transportation and and Kendall County, and recent growth has oc- circulation, environmental conditions. Findings curred along Orchard Road to the north and were presented in the Phase I Synthesis Report. south of the Village of Montgomery. Step 4: Establishing a Vision utilized visioning The uniqueness of the Corridor with Blackberry workshops and allowed residents, business per- Creek offers an opportunity for creative planning sons, and stakeholders to help shape a vision for concepts and techniques. Such an opportunity is the Corridor. The vision was also based on find- unique in the history and future of the Village and ings and feedback from earlier phases of the requires extraordinary efforts to guarantee a high assignment. quality development in harmony with its surrounding area.

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Step 5: Goals and Objectives were established for the different land uses and areas of concern. In addition, this section included the creation of draft plans for land uses, conservation, transportation and community facilities. Step 6: Design and Development included preliminary design and development guidelines, a marketing strategy, and a preliminary implementation plan. Step 7: Corridor Plan was the preparation and review of the draft and final versions of the Or- chard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan. The planning process that was used throughout the development of the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan entailed significant public and private cooperation and participation. A number of opportunities existed throughout the entire planning process for property owners; merchants and business owners; property managers; community leaders; builders and developers; and Village staff and public officials to provide input and voice their opinions and concerns. In addition, a Planning Advisory Committee comprised of public organizations and private property owners, has been created to work with the Consultant on a regular basis throughout the course of the study. The planning process was structured to establish trust and cooperation among the various parties, and build support and consensus for the Plan one-step-at-a-time.

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Corridor Vision Since Montgomery’s Orchard Road and erized traffic signals manage the efficient flow of Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan was com- traffic while at the same time provide for safe A Vision for the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek pleted 10 years ago, the corridor has experi- Corridor has been established based on commu- enced significant economic and environmental access to major roads and entrances within the nity input received throughout the planning proc- investment. The Village’s tax base has been corridor. The improvement in traffic manage- ess. Supported by a detailed conditions analysis strengthened and diversified using the environment, the proximity of major transportation arter- and guided by the Planning Advisory Committee, mental setting and public improvements as a ies such as Route 30, I-88, and the new Prairie the Vision provides the foundation for future catalyst for economic growth and development planning and improvement efforts. within the corridor. Parkway, and the presence of major industrial companies such as Dial, Caterpillar and United The Vision Statement is intended to be a retro- In the year 2014 . . . spective that chronicles the accomplishments and Facilities have attracted additional businesses to achievements that have been undertaken in the The improvements of Orchard Road, including the area. As a result, once undeveloped industrial Corridor since the Orchard Road/Blackberry widening, streetscape improvements, sidewalks, sites along Cornell Avenue and Rochester Drive Creek Corridor Plan was completed in 2004. turn lanes and signalizations were successful, are now fully developed and contributing posi- The Vision Statement provides important focus largely due to the cooperative partnerships be- tively to the activity and sustainability of the corri- and direction for the preparation of goals, objec- tween the Village of Montgomery, Kane County dor. tives, policies, and recommendations of this Plan. and Kendall County. Financed through the road A wide range of retail opportunities have been The Vision Statement is intended to provide a improvement impact fees of both Counties, the brief, overall “snapshot” of the Orchard developed within the corridor to serve the flour- Orchard Road improvements have addressed Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor in the Year ishing residential markets and the increasing vehicular and pedestrian traffic, safety and access 2014. While it incorporates the main ideas and number of people that call Montgomery “home.” recurring themes expressed by residents and concerns. The intersection of U.S. Route 30 and Several restaurants and convenience retail cen- Village staff, it does not include all of the specific Orchard Road, which is now safer and more effi- issues and areas of concerns suggested by par- ters have been constructed on the west side of cient in terms of traffic flow, serves as a constant ticipants. Orchard Road near the Aucutt Road, United reminder of the successful cooperative effort be- Drive and Rochester Drive intersections. The tween the three organizations. commercial areas are anchored by grocery and Orchard Road has improved access to properties larger national retail tenants. The businesses pro- along the corridor and spurred industrial and vide much needed shopping opportunities to commercial development. The 5-lane road has Montgomery residents and local employees, been completed for a number of years and still strengthen the Village’s tax-base, and capture effectively and efficiently moves traffic throughout retail sales tax dollars. and within the corridor. Properly located access points coordinated and synched through comput-

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Strengthening the non-residential tax-base has not fying visitors they are entering the proud commu- come at the expense of the corridor’s appear- nity of Montgomery. ance or density. The Plan’s design guidelines and Building on the Blackberry Creek Watershed development recommendations for the commer- Alternative Future’s Analysis, the Orchard Road cial and industrial areas within the corridor have and Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan’s implemen- reinforced the small-town character of the Village tation has adhered to the principals of conserva- of Montgomery and have ensured that new de- tion design. Conservation techniques were suc- velopment is attractive and appropriately scaled. cessfully employed to minimize negative impacts The appearance of existing development has also to hydrology and water quality, and the sites improved through the implementation of façade within the corridor have set the standard for envi- improvement programs and an increased pride ronmentally sensitive design and development. by property owners. A number of property own- The effects of this sensitive development are most ers have dramatically improved their properties, noticeably seen in Blackberry Creek, its banks, in a similar fashion to the Orchard Road Animal and the adjacent wetlands. The conservation Hospital’s improvements when it expanded over design techniques utilized have protected these ten years ago. In fact the guidelines have di- natural resources from runoff, thereby reducing rected the appearance so effectively that they the amount of sediments entering the creek. Wa- have set the standard for development through- ter quality has noticeably improved and wildlife out the Village. residing in and along Blackberry Creek is thriv- Other signage improvements and pedestrian ing. The development regulations and recom- amenities including park benches, street lights mendations within the Plan have restored and and banners, and right-of-way trees distinguish enhanced Blackberry Creek and through a co- the corridor, and its development, from adjacent operative agreement between the Village of communities. The street lights provide both for Montgomery, the Fox Valley Park District, and the the automobile and the pedestrian, and consist of Kane and Kendall County Forest Preserves, this soft, low-level lighting that creates a warm and natural resource serves as an educational class- welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, gateway room and recreational amenity for the community. signs and entry features have been installed; noti-

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Sidewalks and paths along both sides of Orchard ods of intense uses such as tournaments. This win- Road link to trails flanking Blackberry Creek and win scenario for the Village and the Park District provide pedestrian and bicycle connections to highlights the cooperative intergovernmental envi- Jericho Lake. The Aucutt Road bridge over ronment created by the Village and the Park Dis- Blackberry Creek has also been designed to ac- trict for the betterment of the community as a commodate pedestrians, providing an important whole. east-west linkage. New trails have been constructed allowing safe passage from the corridor to the Stuart Sport Complex as well as to regional trails, such as the Virgil Gilman and the Fox River Trails. In addition, the trails link the residential areas to the new retail establishments affording residents an alternative to driving. Restaurants have taken advantage of the thriving natural setting by providing outdoor seating and patios overlooking the creek. Additionally, signage, benches, and gathering spaces provide an invit- ing and user-friendly experience.

Through the collaborative effort between the Fox Valley Park District and the Village of Montgom- ery, the extension of Aucutt Road was realized in a timely and cost-efficient manner without com- promising the Fox Valley Park District’s park site. This major collector has been instrumental in completing the “grid-like” street pattern within the community to efficiently move traffic throughout the entire Village. The Aucutt Road extension has also provided the transportation network necessary to adequately serve all areas of the Park District’s sports complex, particularly during peri-

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Goals and Objectives The Orchard Road Blackberry/Creek Corridor Plan is an expression of what a community wants the corridor to become in the future. The plan, if carefully crafted, can become a reliable policy guide for decision-making and Village action. The Orchard Road Blackberry/Creek Corridor Plan includes statements of goals and objectives, which provide the framework for planning recommendations, policies and future projects and actions: Goals describe desired end situations toward which planning efforts should be directed. They are broad and long-range. They rep- resent an end to be sought, although they may never actually be fully attained. Objectives describe more specific actions that should be undertaken in order to advance toward the overall goals. They provide more precise and measurable guidelines for planning action. Together, the goals and objectives paint a picture of what a community wants to accomplish with its Orchard Road Blackberry/Creek Corridor Plan, and with other development tools and ordinances. They provide direction, and serve as a guide for evaluating specific projects and land use alternatives. The goals and objectives presented are based on: a) input from Village staff and the Project Advisory Committee; b) the community workshop; and, c) the key person interviews. The goals and objectives are presented on the following pages.

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Residential Neighborhoods Goal: Objectives: 1. Preserve the open space character and natu- 8. Require developers to provide paved pedes- Maintain and enhance the existing single-family ral features of Blackberry Creek and its trian linkages and sidewalks to daily activity residential areas within the Corridor, and con- floodplain, by encouraging conservation de- areas such as the proposed trail along tinue to expand the housing inventory to support sign and clustered single-family residential Blackberry Creek, all existing and future the current population; accommodate projected development on areas identified as Cluster parks, the Municipal Civic Complex and growth; and create a high-quality residential envi- Residential in the Land Use Plan. other civic uses within the Village of Mont- ronment. gomery. 2. Extend desirable characteristics of Lake- wood Creek, including density, into Single 9. Require developers to provide for the con- Family Residential areas as presented in the nection or extension of planned streets to ad- Land Use Plan. jacent, undeveloped properties, to create transportation linkages between residential 3. Provide a variety of housing types within the neighborhoods and to provide street system Corridor, including varying lot sizes and continuity. prices, to meet the needs of all existing and future residents of the Village of Montgom- ery. 4. Discourage monotonous appearance of new residential development by requiring architectural review. An anti-monotony code should be considered by the Village. 5. Protect residential areas from incompatible uses and collector streets by requiring buffering, berming, increased setbacks, and restricted access. 6. Preserve and enhance the existing housing through effective code enforcement and pre- ventive maintenance. 7. Require adequate, usable open spaces in all new residential developments, designed to meet the needs of residents. All open spaces should be accessible by sidewalks, bike- ways, and trails.

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Commercial Development Goal: Objectives: 1. Require conservation design and develop- 5. Encourage the enhancement and improve- Promote Corridor Commercial and Neighbor- ment for commercial development within the ment of existing commercial uses within the hood Commercial development at appropriate Corridor north of Baseline Road where it is Corridor by implementing a façade im- locations within the Corridor that will provide adjacent to Blackberry Creek. Conservation provement program, and encouraging im- local residents and the surrounding region with a design should also be promoted and en- proved site design, landscaping, architecture diversity of goods and services, enhance the Vil- couraged in other commercial areas. Con- and signage. lage’s tax base, improve the appearance and servation design differs from conventional character of the corridor, and provide opportuni- 6. Require all commercial development to con- design in that it utilizes site planning and de- ties for employment. form to the Design Guidelines presented in sign to preserve existing and natural areas this Plan. and utilizes naturalized drainage and detention measures to minimize negative impacts 7. Require developers to provide sidewalks to hydrology and water quality. within all commercial development. Side- walks should be located along both sides of 2. Encourage the development of a variety of all streets, and internally within each site to new commercial uses that will increase the provide for pedestrian access to shopping range of shopping and employment oppor- areas, and promote internal pedestrian link- tunities, and strengthen and expand the Vil- ages in commercial developments. lage’s tax base. 8. Minimize and mitigate any negative impacts 3. Market the Corridor Commercial areas as of commercial and business uses activities on presented in the Land Use Plan, as major neighboring land-use areas. commercial centers within the Village of Montgomery and surrounding area that 9. Encourage the corrective maintenance and could include both local and regional-scale rehabilitation of older commercial and busi- shopping centers, restaurants and depart- ness properties that are in poor condition or ment or discount stores. do not conform to community standards. 4. Promote the development of Neighborhood Commercial, to provide for the convenient shopping needs of Montgomery, as indicated in the Land Use Plan.

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Business Park and Industrial Development Objectives: Goal: 1. Market the Business Park areas, as pre- 8. Access to individual building sites within sented in the Land Use Plan, for distribution, business parks and industrial area should be Continue to develop business park and light in- logistics, high-tech, office, and research de- from local streets within the Corridor. Access dustrial uses to ensure a diversified economy for velopment. from Orchard Road, or collector streets the Village; strengthen the Village’s tax base; and should be limited to major entrances serving 2. Market the Industrial areas, as presented in provide employment opportunities for Village multiple businesses. the Land Use Plan, for light and heavy manu- residents. facturing uses, similar and compatible to the existing Caterpillar site. 3. Direct non-polluting light industrial, warehouse and distribution and heavy commercial land uses to areas designated as Busi- ness Park. 4. Promote the development of vacant sites, and underutilized sites within existing business areas, specifically the vacant sites along Rochester Drive and Cornell Avenue. 5. Business park uses should include and accommodate large-scale office developments. 6. Require all business park and industrial development to conform to the Design Guide- lines presented in this Plan. 7. A limited amount of convenience commercial development, designed to serve the day-to- day needs of business park and industrial employees and patrons, should be considered within business park and industrial developments at strategic locations. Earth Mover Credit Union is an example of an appropriate convenience commercial use in an industrial area.

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Transportation, Circulation and Access Objectives: Goal: 1. Maximize safety and maintain the opera- 8. Realign the intersection of Baseline Road tional efficiency of Orchard Road by requir- and U.S. Route 30, Kevin Road, and other Provide a transportation system consisting of ing the consolidation of curb cuts. problematic intersections, to eliminate dan- streets, sidewalks, trails, and public transportation gerous vehicular conflicts caused by poorly 2. Maximize safety and maintain the opera- services, to provide for the safe and efficient placed and designed intersections. tional efficiency of Orchard Road by mini- movement of vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. mizing the number of curb cuts allowed for 9. Expand the pedestrian circulation system by The transportation network should enhance new development. requiring all developers to provide side- Blackberry Creek where possible, and reinforce walks along both sides of all streets. the proposed Land Use Plan and adjacent devel- 3. Require cross-access between adjacent opment patterns. commercial properties, and consolidate ac- 10. Develop a comprehensive network of multi- cess drives to improve safety and maintain use trails, utilizing a recreational trail along the operational efficiency of traffic flow on Blackberry Creek as a backbone, linking Orchard Road. residential areas, shopping areas, and parks and open spaces. 4. Prohibit access from Brentwood Avenue onto Orchard Road to improve the safety of residents entering and exiting the residential area northeast of the intersection of Baseline Road and Orchard Road. 5. Support the implementation of the Village’s Transportation Plan for the identification of where new roads and access points are needed to serve projected growth, so that adequate rights-of-way can be reserved as development occurs. 6. Provide signalized access at intersections identified in the Transportation Plan when warranted by necessary traffic counts. 7. Ensure that future roadway infrastructure, throughout the Corridor and adjacent areas, provides for multiple east-west and north- south roads to mitigate the potential of con- gestion and over use of select roads.

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The Natural Environment Goal: Objectives: 1. Require all developers to preserve, enhance, 7. Preserve existing, mature trees, within the Preserve, protect and enhance Blackberry Creek, and protect the natural environment, includ- Corridor by maintaining and enforcing the and other natural resources and environmentally ing Blackberry Creek, floodplains, wetlands, Village’s tree preservation ordinance and sensitive areas that may be compromised by wildlife habitat, waterways, topography, through working with developers to identify development within the Orchard and forested areas. desirable tree species, and alter develop- Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor. ment proposals to avoid impacts to these 2. Protect and preserve Blackberry Creek and trees. its floodplain, by maintaining them as per- manent open spaces. 8. Protect aquifers, wetlands and streams from pollutants by promoting reduction in the 3. Prioritize the acquisition of, or the establish- amount of eroded soil, fertilizers, herbicides, ments of easements on, lands determined to insecticides, and other physical, chemical or be necessary to protect Blackberry Creek biological substance carried into waterways from development. by stormwater runoff. 4. Promote best management practices for stormwater, including green roofs, bioswales, naturalized detention areas, porous pavement, rain barrels and cisterns, rainwater garters, filter strips and level spreaders, and vegetated swales to ensure that new developments do not contribute runoff that increases off-site flooding or de- grades water quality in surface or ground water systems. 5. Develop and adopt best management practices for landscaping, requiring installation of native plant species to serve a variety of purposes including habitation, infiltration, fil- tering and evaportanspiration. 6. Discourage development in areas where unfavorable soil conditions exist, such as hy- dric soils that are saturated, flooded or ponded for at least part of the year.

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Community Facilities and Infrastructure Objectives: Goal: 1. Support the development of the Montgom- ery Civic Center Campus to provide a high Provide necessary public facilities and infrastruc- level of police and other civic services to the ture, including police and fire protection, tele- Corridor and the Village as a whole. communications, water mains, and sewer mains, 2. Support the development of a fire station at for all anticipated development within the Or- the proposed location along Galena Road chard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor. to provide quick response time to development within the Corridor. 3. Encourage efficient site design and land planning to minimize inefficiencies and reduce costs of providing public services, such as: snow plowing and road repair; postal service; emergency services (fire, police and ambulance); and school bus travel. 4. Continue to provide adequate water distribution, sanitary sewer and storm sewer systems within the Corridor. 5. Ensure that all public sites and buildings are attractive and well-maintained, and that they complement the areas in which they are located. 6. Accommodate the development of telecom- munications within the Corridor, including telephone, cable and high-speed internet.

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Parks, Recreation and Open Space Objectives: Goal: 1. Cooperate with the Fox Valley Park District, 7. Ensure that all parks and open spaces are Kane County Forest Preserve District, and adequately and attractively maintained and Promote adequate, well-designed parks, open Kendall County Forest Preserve District to that reforestation is undertaken as required. spaces and recreational facilities designed to ensure Blackberry Creek and its sensitive 8. Ensure safe and convenient pedestrian and serve the needs of all segments of Montgomery’s floodplains are protected from development bicycle access to all park sites and recrea- population. and enhanced as community amenities. tional areas. 2. Require developers to provide usable, centrally located parks and recreational facilities within residential areas. 3. Cooperate with the Fox Valley Park District to accept conveyance of, develop, program, and maintain new neighborhood parks within the residential areas of the Corridor. 4. Continue to support the development of Stu- art Sports Complex and provide necessary access points and roadways to accommodate the park’s peak periods. 5. Develop a multipurpose trail system, utilizing a recreational trail along Blackberry Creek as a backbone, linking residential areas, shopping areas, and parks and open spaces. Existing rights-of-way, protected greenbelts, open space corridors, and easements should be utilized to provide connections between subdivisions, parks, shopping areas, pubic facilities, open spaces, and other multi-use trails in the area. 6. Require developers to equip parks in the first phase of their residential subdivisions, to ensure that commitments for open space and recreation are maintained, and provided in a timely fashion.

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Corridor Appearance & Identity Objectives: Goal: 1. Establish the image and identity of the Vil- lage throughout the Corridor by creating Establish the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek well defined entrances to the Corridor and Corridor as an attractive and appealing corridor the Village of Montgomery. that is distinguishable from other business corri- 2. As Montgomery continues to grow and de- dors within the region through gateway signage, velop, strive to maintain the Village’s small- landscaping, maintenance code enforcement, town character and traditional heritage, and Village-sponsored beautification programs. while still accommodating new development. 3. Create well-defined entrances into the Vil- lage through special treatments of signage, landscaping, and other design techniques, including landscaped parkways and building setbacks, and ornamental lighting. 4. Ensure architectural compatibility between commercial developments, and provide consistency in landscaping, setbacks, lighting and signage. 5. Encourage local groups and organizations to participate in the beautification of local parks and other public spaces through plantings of flowers, trees and shrubs. 6. Preserve, replace and plant trees and other vegetation in public spaces, including the public rights-of-way.

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Physical Plans • This section presents plans for the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor. Included with the plans is a figure illustrating existing land-use. The plans illustrated in this section include: • Land Use Plan. Provides land use designations for each parcel within the Corridor. Land use designations include Cluster Resi- dential, Single-Family Residential, Commer- cial, Industrial, Business Park, Public, and Parks and Open Space. • Open Space, Recreation and Community Facilities Plan. This plan illustrates all areas within the Corridor to be preserved as open space and for public use. Recreation amenities such as trail locations, including trail heads are included in this figure. • Transportation and Access Plan. Presents proposed improvements and recommendations to improve access to all sites within the Corridor, while maintaining the safe and efficient flow of traffic.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 15 Village of Montgomery Orchard Road/Blackberry CreekCorridor Plan OrchardRoad/Blackberry Village ofMontgomery

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2,000 North 30

Scheuring Pl. other areas of the community. areas ofthe other newer residential development takingplacein existing development to contrast isasharp anad-hocbasis.This onseemingly structed ofmixhousingtypesandsizes,con- consists ofRoute 30.ThedevelopmentRoad, north west sideofOrchardment islocatedonthe Galena Road. Theolderresidential develop- of locatedwest ofOrchardCreek, Road, north isLakewooddevelopments Corridor the within newer homes.Oneofthe single-lot residential newer residential developments, andscattered ofamixolderresidentialsist developments, con- corridor residentialfamily the areas within dor. and developmentCorri- the potentialswithin consideration inassessingfuture improvement isanimportant The existing land-usepattern taken Fall by of2003. Consultantinthe the surveys under- land-use,basedonfield isting andopenspace.Figure ex- 1illustrates park, residential, commercial, industrial/business includes adiverse mixofland-usesincluding Creek Corridor The Orchard Road/Blackberry hood north ofRoute 30. hood north neighbor- single-family Road ofthe andeast buildingslocatednearJericho er apartment side ofOrchard Road. of old- Theusesconsist east are locatedonthe corridor the uses within Drive. Hodgman and Superior BeveragesDrive. Hodgman andSuperior are intersectionofOrchard Roadthe atUnited of a 1millionsquare locatedeast footfacility with largest, panies. UnitedFacilities Inc. isthe com- andlogistic are distribution corridor the intensity. Thelarger andintense usersalong insizeand uses.Theusesvary business park Road hasbeendeveloped and asindustrial sideofOrchard east corridor. ofthe the Most existing development ofthe sent most within usesrepre- andbusiness park time, industrial Corridor. the ing commercial useswithin Union are examples few ofsomethe exist- MoverRoad Credit AnimalHospitalandEarth Corridor. the commercial Orchard useswithin Multi-Family Residential.Multi-Family Residential.Single-Family Commercial. Industrial/Business Park. Industrial/Business There few are existing very At the present the At Multi-family Multi-family Thesingle- and circulation within the area. the and circulation within chard Road, useshave the impacton traffic dor. donotfront Or- properties Whiletheir Corri- sideof the east uses are onthe located al andCaterpillar. Theselarge manufacturing includeDi- Corridor the useswithin ness park ical insizeandintensity. industrial/busi- Other are more companiesthat typ- distribution other cho Road.cho Road Barnes is accessiblefrom andJeri- both Complex Sports andtrails.soccer fields Stuart recreation containslightball fields, area that Complex isanactive Sports Road.icho Stuart Lakedents. Jericho Park isaccessiblefrom Jer- area, ashelter, atrail andwater accesstoresi- providessive that communitypark apicnic Lake Complex. Jericho ParkSports isapas- Lake Jericho Park; and,Stuart corridor: the There areDistrict. 2Parksiteswithin District Fox ofthe taxingboundaries Valleythe Park are within corridor porated the areas within velopment. a"cleanslate"forplanningandde-ment with ture. landprovides Agricultural new develop- nearfu- usesinthe forother property of the development result inthe certainly will almost region, operations inthe offarming ing costs development pressure, increas- combinedwith growth and land iscurrently farmed, While this Corridor.land predominatesofthe most cutt Road. between approximately United Drive andAu- under Orchard Roadroute southeast alsoruns An overflow Creek. west, alongBlackberry area study tothe ofthe compasses amajority publicuse. other is the and GalenaRoad. Keck Cemetery Memorial intersectionof Orchard Road ofthe southeast isunderconstruction chard, andafire station sideofBaselineRoad, west ofOr- north the iscurrently beingdevelopedpolice station on A as publicare currently underconstruction. Parks andOpenSpace. Vacant/Agricultural Land. Public. Floodplain. Two sitesillustrated three ofthe The 100-year en- floodplain All of the incor- Allofthe Active farm Existing LandUse Figure 1 JJerichoericho RRoadoad Residential. A market study indicated a Multiple-Family Residential. The multi- Figure 2 strong market for large-scale residential devel- ple-family residential illustrated on the Land- Cor opment within the Corridor. The land use plan Use Plan includes only existing multti-family de- nell Ave Land Use Plan illustrates 3 different types of residential devel- velopments. No additional multif-amily dwell-

oad opment. Each of the residential uses is descri- ings are proposed as part of this Plan. Only o R in the Village's identity and in the diversifica- rich RRochesterochester DDr.r. JJerichoe Road bed in more detail below. the apartment complex east of the existing tion of its tax base. A market study indicated a county subdivision remains. Multi-family limited demand for industrial uses, and that a Clustered Single-Family Residential. and/or townhomes may be incorporated into 100-acre industrial park could be absorbed Clustered single-family residential consists of larger single-family developments where ap- within a 10-year time period. Industrial prop- single family homes developed at the same propriate. UUnitednited DDr.r. erties within the Corridor will benefit from the gross density as typical residential develop- restricted, signalized, and coordinated access ments within the Village of Montgomery, how- Commercial. The commercial designa- for United Drive, Rochester Drive and Aucutt ever the homes are clustered or grouped to- tion on the Land Use Plan is reflective of the Road proposed as part of the Transportation gether to provide more open space. market study, which indicated a strong market and Access Plan. Industrial development Clustering homes is the preferred development for commercial uses within the corridor. Com- should be attractive and should conform to de- technique when protecting or providing open mercial uses along Orchard Road should con- AAucuttucutt RRd.d. sign guidelines of the Plan. Residential areas space is a community priority. Preservation of sist of a mixture of Convenience Commercial should be appropriately and sufficiently Blackberry Creek was identified as a priority uses and Corridor Commercial uses. Conven- screened and buffered from any negative im- by residents and stakeholders during the com- ience Commercial uses, intented to provide pacts from any adjacent industrial uses includ- munity outreach component of this assignment, shopping for a localized population should be ing noise, light, glare, dust, vibration, odor and and as a result, 102-acres of land west of developed on the narrow areas along Or- traffic. Blackberry Creek are recommended for low chard Road, and on all commercial property 3300 density clustered single family residential de- on Jericho Road as well as the parcel at the in- Public. There are 2 sites designated for

3300 . velopment. tersction of Griffin Drive and U.S. Route 30. d. for public use on the Land Use Plan, both of

d R

Griffin Dr. G Griffin R

r The remainder will be Corridor Commercial, i

f which are currently under construction. A mu- i

d n

n li

r se

D Ba Single-Family Detached Residential. attracting shoppers from a larger area and r a

. nicipal campus is planned for a 29.2 acre site

h The single family detached residential areas consist primarily of destination retail, generat- c north of U.S. 30 west of Orchard Road, and a r

OOrchard Rd. should expand on the recent residential devel- ing single-purpose automobile trips, although CCaterpillaraterpillar DDr.r. fire station has been constructed on Galena opment that has occurred between Galena some service uses, such as the Orchard Road Road, east of Orchard Road. These facilities Road and U.S. Route 30, west of Orchard Animal Hospital, should be considered appro- are covered in more detail in the Open Space, Road. New single-family detached residential priate in some locations. While most of the Recreation & Community Facilities Plan. should emulate the density, street patterns, properties will cater primarily to the automo- sidewalks, landscaping and other appropriate bile, the pedestrian should not be totally ne- Parks and Open Space. Parks, open design elements of the Lakewood Creek devel- glected. The Open Space, Recreation and space, and greenways add significantly to an CConcordo Dr. nco rd opment. New single-residential development Community Facilities Plan illustrates a trail and Dr. areas desirability and value. A greenway net- GGalenaalena RRd.d. should be protected and buffered from incom- pathway network that will connect pedestrians work, along with centrally located neighbor- patible uses and heavily trafficked roads in- to all properties within the corridor. Blackber- . hood parks are proposed in residential areas Rd a cluding Orchard Road and U.S. 30. Homes ry Creek, and its associated wetlands and en to complement a large greenway protecting al GGalena Rd. should not front these road and the rear of the floodplains should be incorporated into the and enhancing Blackberry Creek. Parks and homes should be bermed and screened from overall design of commercial sites, and should open space are covered in more detail in the the noise, light, dust, glare and other impacts be enhanced through substantial setbacks and Open Space, Recreation & Community Facili- from the adjacent nonresidential uses. buffering from environmental features, and the ties Plan. establishment of outdoor plazas and seating While the existing county subdivision at the areas where appropriate. VVillageil of Montgomery lage of M northeast corner of U.S. 30 and Orchard ontgom BBoundaryound ery Road is less than an ideal land use for the lo- Industrial and Business Park. Light in- . ary d

R cation, the subdivision is well established. Al- dustrial, business park, logistic and manufac-

r though a commercial development could take turing uses predominate the east side of the a

h better advantage of the traffic and visibility, Orchard Road Blackberry Creek Corridor. c r

OOrchard Rd. thus better exbanding the Village's tax base, The Land Use Plan identifies 651 acres of land the Plan assumes this area will remain as resi- for industrial and business park use. Business 0 500 2,000 dential use for the foreseeable future. park and industrial uses play a significant role North

Village of Montgomery Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan JJerichoericho RRoadoad Fire Protection. A fire station has been con- Figure 3 structed along Galena Road, east of Orchard Cor Road. The land has been donated and the Oswe- nell Ave Open Space, Recreation go Fire Protection District will soon open the fire d Roa station. Although the fire station will provide nec- ho and Community Facilities Plan c RRochesterochester DDr.r. JJerichoeri Road essary protection, particularly to the rapidly growing residential areas and the planned industrial areas, the location is in the midst of an area planned for single-family residential uses. Homes should be protected from the emergency vehicles, UUnitednited DDr.r. which should be encouraged to use Galena Road or the proposed collector street located east of the facility.

Civic Center. The Village of Montgomery's Civic Center is currently under construction. The AAuucuuccuttuttttRR Rdd. Civic Center will be home for the Village's police department, and the concept plan calls for 3 public buildings, 2 plazas, and a lake.

Active Recreation. Active recreational areas are parks dedicated to providing for popu- 3300 lar recreational activities, including ball fields and Montgomery Civic Center Campus

3300 . soccer fields. Stuart Sports Complex is the largest d.

d R Master Site Plan

Griffin Dr. G Griffin R

r active recreation area, and once fully developed i

f i

d n

n li Future Parks. As the Corridor grows to in-

r se

D Ba will contain 8 softball/baseball fields and 12 soc- r a . Trailhead. Trailheads mark possible start- h cer/football fields. The facility will accommodate clude almost 1,000 acres of residential land, the c r Village should use the parkland dedication ordi- ing and ending points for users of the recreation-

OOrchard Rd. athletic leagues and tournaments and could be CCaterpillaraterpillar DDr.r. al trails. Trailheads could be developed to pro- tapped as a economic development asset by com- nance to secure centrally located, high-and-dry vide parking, signage, mile posts and trail mercial business that would chose to cater to the neighborhood park sites in each residential unit, information for trail users of the facilities. park's users. Access to the facility should be pro- as formed by the collector and arterial street sys- vided at 3 locations, to ensure the park is not con- tem on the Open Space, Recreation and Com- Sidewalks. Sidewalks should be con- gested at peak times. Access should be provided munity Facilities Plan. Centrally located neighbor- structed on both sides of all streets within to the north at Jericho Road, the south at Baseline hood parks ensure equitable access by all the Corridor. IDOT's current plans for the CConcordo Dr. nco residents to park sites and will add significantly to rd Road, and to the east by the proposed Aucutt Dr. widening of Orchard Road do not contain GGalenaalena RRd.d. Road extension. the residential areas appeal, identify and desirability. Neighborhood parks should be connected plans for sidewalks or a pathway on the east . side. Regardless of IDOT's proposal, this Rd to one another through an off-street greenway net- a Passive Recreation. Passive recreational en plan recommends a sidewalk along the east al GGalena Rd. areas consist of open spaces designed to provide work (on-street may be necessary to cross Galena side of Orchard Road. for unstructured recreational experiences, and en- Road), and ultimately connect the parks and the vironmental protection and education. A signifi- neighborhoods to the greenway and trail network Overflow Route. A stormwater overflow cant amount of land area is planned for passive adjacent to Blackberry Creek. route exists over Orchard Road. During sig- recreation, and should be used to protect and en- Trails. nificant rainfalls, when the culverts cannot hance Blackberry Creek and its associated flood- A crushed limestone or asphalt handle the amount of stormwater, water VVillageil of Montgomery trail should be constructed on both sides of lage of M plains and wetlands. Installation of trails and in- ontgom travels along the overflow route and satu- BBoundaryound ery terpretative signage will allow Montgomery Blackberry Creek with a bridge connecting . ary rates the properties. d the two sides, and through new residential

R residents of Montgomery to experience and inter-

d areas, connecting new neighborhoods to the

r act with the natural areas and learn about their lo- a natural amenity. The trail should be construct- h cal natural resource and learn about its local and c r ed to IDOT or Fox Valley Park District stand-

OOrchard Rd. regional significance. The trail network should connect to all adjacent uses, including residential ards for the bike path designated along the 0 500 2,000 neighborhoods and commercial sites. west side of Orchard Road. PPaceace BBusus North PParkark aandnd RRideide Village of Montgomery Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan JJerichoericho RRoadoad Arterials. Orchard Road and U.S. Route Figure 4 30 are the two major arterial streets within the Cor Corridor. Arterial streets are wider, faster, and nell Ave Transportation & Access Plan have limited access points along their length. ad They also primarily carry thru-traffic whose ori- Ro cho RRochesterochester DDr.r. Proposed Bridge. A bridge over Black- JJerichoeri Road gin and destination are outside of the Village JJerichoericho RRoadoad berry Creek will be required for the Aucutt of Montgomery. Commercial and non-local d a Road extension. The bridge should take into o traffic should be directed to, and remain on, R consideration the proposed trail and trail o major arterial roads. Orchard Road averages ch ri heads traveling along both sides of Blackberry e Co 19,400 vehicles per day. U.S Route 30 JJericho Road rnelllAAve UUnitednited DDr.r. 15,200 vehicles per day. Creek.

Collector Streets. Collector streets are Cul-de-sac. Restricting access onto Or- chard Road from Brentwood Avenue will im- streets that collect traffic from local streets, and RRochesterochester DDrr. move the traffic toward arterial streets for effi- prove safety and efficiency of traffic flow. Full cient flow. Collector streets are intended to access to this residential area would still be AAucuttucutt RRd.d. serve the local population, providing local provided at Countryside Avenue, and at a streets with efficient access to arterial streets. "jogged" signalized intersection at Kevin Road. Collector streets in the Corridor include Jericho Road and Aucutt Road. Restricted Access. A common concern by stakeholders and the public was the flow of Proposed Collector Streets. The Village traffic along Orchard Road and the safety of motorists. Restricting access along Orchard UUnitednited DDr.r. 3300 of Montgomery's Transportation and Access Road will achieve the desired community ob-

3300 . Plan identifies several new collector streets d.

d R jective, by limiting left-hand turns to only a few

Griffin Dr. G Griffin R

r within the Corridor. The most significant im- i

e .

f i d

d n

n li key locations within the Corridor. Restricted

r se

D Ba provements are the extension of Aucutt Road R

a .

access areas could still accommodate "right- d h west through the Stuart Sports Complex, a r c a r in/right-out" turning movements, but should be h OOrchard Rd.

north-south collector between the Aucutte ex- c CCaterpillaraterpillar DDr.r. determined by the Village and Kane County r tension and the Police Station, and the realign- OOrchard Rd. ment of Baseline Road. on a case-by-case basis.

Signalized Intersections. There are 4 Unified Access. Not every parcel and signalized intersections in the Corridor. These commercial business should be granted an ex- AAucuttucutt RRd.d. traffic control systems allow for the safe and ef- clusive access point or curb cut onto Orchard CConcordo Dr. Road. Adjacent business and properties nco rd ficient movement of vehicles traveling within, Dr. GGalenaalena RRd.d. along or through the Corridor. should connect parking areas and eliminate unnecessary access onto Orchard, creating a . Rd safer and more efficient auto corridor. Unified CCountrysideountryside AAve.ve. a Proposed Traffic Signals. A number of en al access should be restricted to the location of GGalena Rd. traffic signals have been proposed as part of . . . d d d

the existing and proposed traffic signals, in- R

R . R

the Village of Montgomery's Transportation y d n r y r e R e

cluding Rochester Drive, Untied Drive, and Au- e l h n b Plan. The future signals are located at all col- d i p l a v e u r t

cutt Road, and at Countryside Avenue. Along e BBradley Rd. SStephen Rd. MMulberry Rd. lector/collector intersections, arterial/collector KKevin Rd. Aucutt Road and U.S. 30, where the streets intersections, and arterial/arterial intersec- d Ave. entwoo tions. Specific details regarding the intersec- abut proposed commercial areas, access from BBrentwoodr Ave. VVillageil of Montgomery these roads should be provided if it can be 3300 lage of M tions, include turn lane designations are not ontgom done safely. BoundaryBound ery specified in the plan. . ary d R

r . d

a R Baseline h

c 0 500 1000 r OOrchard Rd. Orchard Road Access Detail

0 500 2,000 PPaceace BBusus North PParkark aandnd RRideide Village of Montgomery Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan

Design and Development Guidelines In general, the design guidelines strive to: 1. Promote public and private improvements This section provides a more complete listing of and developments that will help create and design and development guidelines for the Or- reinforce the desired character and identity chard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor. The for the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek guidelines address both the public and the pri- Corridor. vate improvements within the Study Area, and are intended to support and strengthen land-use 2. Promote new development that complements and development and public improvement rec- the existing and desired scale and character ommendations found in this Plan. Design and of the Corridor. development guidelines are divided into four 3. Improve the appearance and quality of ex- categories: isting sites and buildings within the Corridor. General guidelines for all sites and buildings 4. Ensure high-quality and compatible building within the Corridor; and site design throughout the Corridor. Guidelines applicable to commercial, industrial 5. Establish a development pattern that en- and business park buildings, sites, and develop- hances Blackberry Creek as a community ment within the Corridor; amenity, and is sensitive to, and protective Guidelines applicable to residential buildings of, the natural environment. and sites within the Corridor; and 6. Foster development that encourages more Guidelines applicable to proposed public im- significant pedestrian and bicycle activity, provements within the Corridor. while still accommodating automobile and truck traffic. These guidelines do not attempt to dictate architectural styles or make all the buildings look the same. Rather, they strive to promote a level of quality, compatibility, and consistency that will help make the Corridor attractive and distinguishable from other surrounding areas. The guidelines will help the corridor become a unique and distinctive area for employees, shoppers, residents, and visitors alike.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 20

General Guidelines Building Scale and Proportion distinctive facade treatments should be provided along public road frontage. • The guidelines for all sites and buildings, includ- Buildings may have either a pitched roof pro- • Long, blank facades along Orchard Road ing both existing and anticipated development, file or a flat roof with a parapet wall. Para- should be avoided. More consideration are focused on promoting high-quality and com- pets should be encouraged to create an in- should be given to industrial and business patible developments that will help create an teresting building profile and to hide HVAC park uses along Orchard Road to help main- attractive, distinguishable, and unified image and equipment and other rooftop equipment. tain a pedestrian oriented appearance. identity for the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Mansard roofs should not be permitted along Corridor. While the guidelines are specific Orchard Road or within the Corridor. Building Materials and Colors enough to ensure design compatibility, they are • Exterior building design features that can help • Building materials should be of high quality also flexible enough to allow for individual crea- distinguish Orchard Road as it passes through and durability. tivity on the part of property owners, architects, Montgomery from other communities should and builders. be encouraged. • New commercial and industrial buildings should be constructed primarily of traditional The guidelines presented below will be used by • Vertical architectural elements, such as a masonry building materials such as brick or Village staff and the Planning and Zoning Com- clock towers, spires or bell tower, should be stone. These materials should be used on all mission in reviewing plans and proposals for all considered as design “highlights” at key loca- sides of the building. Recommended accent new developments within the Corridor. They tions, such as the intersection of Orchard materials include stone, simulated stone, terra should be considered “supplements” to the Vil- Road and Jericho Road and Orchard Road cotta, and wood and metal trim. lage’s Zoning Ordinance and other applicable and U.S. Route 30. codes and ordinances. • While “exterior insulation finish systems” Building Placement and Orientation (EIFS) might be used in limited quantities as Architects, property owners and developers an accent material, they should not be em- should also use the guidelines as a reference as • Buildings should have a strong visual and ployed as a primary building material. Rough they prepare plans for new development pro- physical relationship to Orchard Road to en- sawed wood, aluminum siding, rustic shingles jects. hance the identity and pedestrian orientation of the Corridor. Buildings should be attractive and shakes, and plastic or metal panels To ensure the successful completion of these at both a pedestrian and vehicular scale. should be discouraged within the Corridor. guidelines, letters of credit or security bonds • Color should be used to unite the elements of should be required from developers. These funds • The Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corri- a façade and to highlight architectural fea- would cover the cost of monitoring native grasses dor will be characterized by building set- tures. However, the colors on individual build- and plants until they establish. backs, side yards and surface parking lots. Consequently, the street frontage should be ings should complement and be compatible maintained through the use of low-profile with the colors of nearby buildings. landscaping and decorative walls or fencing. • All buildings should "front" Orchard Road, (or Collector Streets if there is no Orchard Road frontage) wherever possible. When front doors face north or south, display windows or

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 21

• The predominant colors for new buildings avoided. Extensive lighting should also be should be relatively muted and subtle. While avoided to reduce light pollution. the natural brick and stone colors of red, buff, • Most exterior lighting should be concealed to cream, and gray should predominate, con- provide indirect illumination. Where con- trasting and complementary colors should cealment is not practical, light fixtures should also be used to accent building components, be compatible with building architecture. highlight architectural elements and to help distinguish the Orchard Road/Blackberry • Lighting within industrial sites for security and Creek Corridor. night-time operation should be constructed as necessary. Overspill lighting into adjacent Lighting properties should be avoided. • Lighting should be used to illuminate entries, • Parking lots within the commercial and busi- signage, displays, and pedestrian and park- ness park areas should consider the pedes- ing areas, as well as to highlight significant trian scale of the Corridor. This can be ac- architectural elements. complished by using shorter lighting stan- • Front and rear building entries should be dards (12’-18’) to help establish pedestrian adequately lit for overall security and visibil- environments. ity. Parking Lots • Building lighting should be subtle and under- • The number of curb cuts along Orchard Road stated; light fixtures should be designed and should be minimized. On the east side of Or- oriented to produce minimal glare and spill- chard Road, within the Industrial and Business over onto nearby properties. Park Uses, cross access between service • Down-lighting should be encouraged on all roads should be encouraged. Along the west commercial buildings; spot-lighting should be side, within the Commercial areas, parking limited to major features and key landmarks lots should be connected and access points within the Corridor, including gateway entry should be unified. All parking areas should features. be accessible from cross streets whenever possible. • Incandescent lighting creates a warm atmosphere and should be encouraged; if neon • All parking areas should be paved or lighting is used, colors should be compatible bricked, striped and have surfaces in good with and complement the façade of the build- condition. The use of pervious brick paver ing. High pressure sodium (orange lighting), systems should be encouraged. or a diffused, soft white light should be encouraged; metal halide lighting should be

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 22

• Parking lots should be screened from view • Planters and landscaped areas should buffer along sidewalks and roadways through the parking and service areas. Plantings should combined use of free forming berms, low ma- consist of low evergreen and/or deciduous sonry walls, hedge plantings, and shrubs. shrubs planted in conjunction with low- growing annual or perennial plants and • Parking lots should have curbed perimeters groundcover. Large expanses of exposed and curbed landscaped islands. Clearly mulch should be avoided. marked pedestrian pathways should be provided within the interior of parking areas to • A landscaped buffer at least five to eight feet avoid large expanses of asphalt and to en- in width should be provided around the pe- hance pedestrian safety. rimeter of surface parking lots. Perimeter landscape plantings should include a con- • Parking lot landscaping should include “land- tinuous hedge (3’–4’ in height) accented by scape islands” at a ratio of approximately trees and ground cover. one per fifteen to twenty parking spaces. Landscape islands should consist of canopy • In conjunction with landscaping, decorative trees (3 to 4 inches in caliper), attractive fencing should be encouraged to delineate groundcover, and/or decorative bushes (2 to and screen parking and service facilities, out- 3 feet in height). door storage areas, etc. Low-profile, decorative wrought iron fencing or masonry walls • All parking lots should be designed for proper are recommended; chain link fencing should drainage. not be permitted within the Corridor. • Parking lots that are used during evening • All landscaping must be maintained in a hours should be adequately illuminated. healthy and attractive condition. Maintenance • Whenever possible, parking lots should be programs should be established as part of shared between multiple stores and busi- new development approvals to ensure that nesses to allow for a more efficient lot layout private landscaping is adequately cared for and to minimize curb cuts. Cross access be- and that its value is retained over time. Regu- tween adjacent parking lots should also be lar maintenance should include turf mowing, encouraged. periodic fertilization, pruning, and the clean- Landscaping and Site Improvements up of litter and debris. Internal irrigation systems are preferred and should be encour- • Native plants to the Fox River Valley and aged. Northeastern Illinois Region should be en- • Where site size or configuration does not couraged for all landscaped areas within the allow for the minimum five-foot perimeter Corridor. Although initially these plants and landscaping, vertical landscaping elements grasses may be difficult to establish, long term should be employed to provide an effective maintenance costs will be reduced.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 23

screen between parking lots and the public signage and banners; coordinated street furni- right-of-way. ture including benches, bike racks and trash receptacles; accent landscaping at key loca- • Chain link and stockade fencing should be tions; and gateway signage. prohibited along Orchard Road. If industrial sites within the Industrial or Business Park ar- • Regularly spaced street trees should be eas desire fencing for security purposes, planted in rows along both sides of all streets decorative metal fencing should be installed. within the Corridor. Species and spacing If chain link fence is absolutely necessary, should conform to the landscape requirements black-coated vinyl fencing is most appropri- in the Village of Montgomery’s Landscaping ate. requirements. • Areas adjacent to entrances, monument signs • Parkway landscaping should consist of salt- and other site features should be considered tolerant street trees, shrubs, groundcover and for seasonal flowers or colorful groundcover. perennials. Plantings in raised beds, planters, urns, or other containers should be consid- • Evergreens, berming, and other “vertical” ered along the curb line in selected locations landscaping elements should be used to and to highlight key entrances and activity screen industrial and intense commercial ac- areas. Plantings need to be attractively main- tivity from adjacent residential properties. tained throughout all seasons. Consideration Masonry walls may be considered as a should also be given to an appropriate mix of screening device where landscaping alone is plant materials to ensure screening and incapable of providing an effective screen. A greening still occurs during winter months. non-contiguous berm could screen industrial uses and at the same time provide attractive • All landscaping within and adjacent to the views into the industrial development. Ber- public right-of-way should be compatible with ming may be most appropriate between resi- existing plant materials in the area and be dential development and Orchard Road. composed of native and salt tolerant species. • A Streetscape Improvement Program should • Street trees and other landscaping along the be implemented to "visually unify" the corri- public rights-of-way should be protected from dor. The Village of Montgomery should de- motorized and pedestrian traffic by curbs, velop and implement a detailed Streetscape tree grates, and other devices. Improvement Plan for the entire corridor to establish a visual identity for the street, and to link together the diverse land uses. Street- scape improvements to the corridor should include coordinated landscaping on both sides of the street; pedestrian lighting; distinctive

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 24

Commercial, Industrial, and Business • Although the corridor is primarily oriented to • Any outdoor seating areas, such as those Park the automobile, commercial buildings should provided by restaurants or cafés, should be have a strong pedestrian orientation with dis- well landscaped and incorporated into the In addition to the general guidelines applicable play windows, attractive detailing, and con- overall site design. Outdoor seating areas to all sites and buildings within the Orchard venient and “hospitable” entrances. should be set back and screened from park- Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor, there are sev- ing areas and driving aisles. eral additional guidelines specifically related to • Covered walkways, such as arcades, should commercial, industrial and business park proper- be encouraged along the fronts of multi-tenant • Awnings and canopies could be used to pro- ties. commercial buildings to create a “pedestrian- vide weather protection and to add visual in- friendly” orientation. The columns of the ar- terest at the street level. They should be inte- These guidelines for commercial, industrial, and cade should be aligned with the façade of the grated into the façade and should be in char- business park developments should be used to building. acter with the architectural style of the build- evaluate and guide new proposals within the ing. Arched or rounded awnings should be • When commercial buildings are adjacent to, Corridor. discouraged, unless they are compatible with or within close proximity of, Blackberry Creek, and appropriate to the architectural style of a or a recreational trail or walkway, the build- building. Internally illuminated or back lit ings should have attractive rear façades that awnings and canopies, shingle and mansard are comparable to front façades. In essence, canopies, and plastic awnings should not be the buildings should have two "fronts," treat- permitted. ing the Blackberry Creek Corridor entrances the same as a street entrance. Business Signage • All service entrances, dumpsters, loading fa- • Exterior building signs should be limited to cilities, and outdoor storage should be lo- business identification and description; exte- cated at the rear of buildings; they should be rior advertising signs should not be permitted. screened from view along sidewalks and The size, material, color, and shape of build- roadways through the use of decorative ing signs should complement the architectural screening, masonry walls, and/or evergreen style and scale of the building. plantings. • Wall-mounted signs should be encouraged, • Any business permitted to have a “drive-thru” although signage should not project above facility should be sited so that drive-through the cornice line or be mounted on the roof of lanes and pickup windows are not promi- a building. nently featured. • Window glazing should be clear or slightly tinted; dark, mirrored, or reflective glass should not be permitted.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 25

• Raised, individual letters mounted directly on • The size of signs should complement façade the building, as well as signs that use light proportions, and should be constructed from colors for lettering and darker colors for the appropriate scale of the building. backgrounds, should be encouraged. • The design and color of the sign should com- • When a building contains multiple ground- pliment the architectural style of the building, floor tenants, signage for all businesses and integrated as a component of the build- should be compatible in design and consistent ing’s facade. in placement. • Internal illumination is preferred for building • Street numbers should be prominently dis- mounted signs. Externally lighted signs may played at the main entrance to every home or also be acceptable if they are compatible business and be clearly visible from the street. with other architectural components. • Free-standing signage within the Corridor • Pole signs, pylon signs, and billboards should should be limited to low-profile monument not be permitted within the Orchard signs for multi-tenant commercial properties. Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor. Monument signs should be attractively landscaped and constructed of traditional building materials similar to the primary building on the site. • The letters of a monument sign should be internally illuminated with a white light source. External illumination may be appropriate for a natural metal or engraved stone monument sign. • Provide “gateway” signage and design features at key intersections along Orchard Road, such as the intersection of Jericho Road, Aucutt Road, US. Route 30, and Ga- lena Road. "Gateway" treatments may include special landscaping, public art, and/or lighting, which would distinguish the Orchard Road Corridor as a unique and identifiable business area.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 26

Residential Areas • New housing construction should complement the existing homes and neighborhoods, in In addition to the general guidelines applicable terms of building materials, colors, and mass to all sites and buildings within the Orchard and proportion. Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor, there are several additional guidelines specifically related to • Residential development should align streets residential properties. so that homes do not “front” Orchard Road or other collectors. A landscaping buffer, including berms should be used to screen the rear of the residential properties from the roadways. • Clustered residential development should be used to preserve the natural environment. Clustering of housing allows for more open space than traditional development. The additional open space should be use to protect significant natural resources within the corridor. • When residential development is adjacent to commercial or other incompatible land uses, larger setbacks should be used to provide adequate protection from any adverse impacts. • Conservation design and development concepts should be encouraged for all residential development. Porous brick driveways, naturalized drainage swales bioswales, and nar- rower roadways are examples of some techniques that could be promoted within the Cor- ridor.

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Public Improvements Streets Road, Aucutt Road, and Galena, and U.S. Route 30 and Griffin Drive. Improved cross- • Even though safe and convenient vehicular In addition to site and building improvements on ings would make the Corridor safer and more access and circulation will be essential, the industrial/business park, commercial and residen- comfortable for pedestrians to access all ar- Corridor should be improved and redevel- tial sites, a range of projects should be under- eas within the Corridor, including shopping oped in a manner that encourages alternative taken within the public rights-of-way and on pub- areas, employment areas and parks and modes of transportation, including walking, licly owned property to enhance the image and open space. Improving the street crossings and bicycling, in order to reduce the reliance appearance of the Orchard Road/Blackberry may entail widening sidewalks, constructing on automobile travel, and to create a corridor Creek Corridor to create a safe, attractive, and curb extensions, improved pavement mark- that is more livable and pedestrian friendly. “hospitable” working, shopping, living, and lei- ings, pedestrian-compatible traffic signals, sure-time environment. These public sector im- • Streets should be designed to support vehi- and other measures. provements can also help promote new private cles, bicyclists and pedestrians on a relatively • To improve visibility and safety, crosswalks investment and development, and attract addi- equal basis. While accommodating vehicular should be made prominent and noticeable by tional visitors and business patrons to the area. traffic, streets should also promote walking, employing a change in paving materials, tex- cycling, and an overall sense of place. In general, it is recommended that the Village ture and color. Small pylons and special bol- establish a comprehensive, area-wide design • The use of a landscaped median, to create a lard lighting fixtures might also be used to system for public improvements to be applied in boulevard along the entire length of Orchard highlight crosswalks. various parts of the corridor. While the design Road should be considered. The landscape Sidewalks system should be based on the architecture, his- median will enhance the appearance of the tory, and traditional character of Montgomery roadway, calm traffic, and distinguish the • Sidewalks should be designed for pedestri- and the Fox River Valley region, this system Corridor from adjacent communities. ans. All public sidewalks should be a mini- should also help establish a unique new image mum of six feet in width, with eight feet being • Streets within the Corridor should be de- and identity for the Orchard Road/Blackberry considered ideal. signed and controlled to reduce the speed of Creek Corridor. traffic as it passes through Montgomery, in • Along Orchard Road, a “buffer” zone be- The guidelines presented in this section provide a order to protect pedestrians and enhance tween the walkway and the street should be preliminary framework for the design treatment of commercial activity. constructed. This buffer zone should consist of streets, sidewalks, streetscape facilities, and other a grass parkway with street trees and light fix- • Street configuration should protect the quiet pedestrian and open space amenities. tures, or a paved area with trees in grates, neighborhoods of the Corridor. Traffic from lights, and other street furniture. industrial and commercial uses should be prohibited from entering residential areas. • Sidewalks should be provided along both Cut-through traffic should be discouraged sides of all streets within the Corridor. through the layout and design of the residential development. • Street crossings should be improved at the intersection of Orchard Road and Jericho

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 28

• An area-wide system of secondary walkways gomery. In addition to signage, gateway fea- should also be developed within commercial tures might include special landscaping, light- development areas, to provide convenient ing and paving. linkages between public sidewalks and • Banners attached to street light standards will nearby parking areas, open spaces and distinguish the Corridor and could also be building entries. used to commemorate special events within • All public and private sidewalks within the the Village of Montgomery and the surround- Corridor should be accessible to the handi- ing area. Banners might be changed periodi- capped and should comply with appropriate cally during the year. ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) stan- • A new “icon” should be considered to spe- dards. cifically brand the Orchard Road/Blackberry Lighting Creek Corridor. This new icon could appear on the full range of Corridor signs and direc- • Lighting along public streets within the Corri- tories, and also be used in conjunction with dor should consist of both roadway lighting the Village’s current logo in a variety of mar- and decorative pedestrian lighting. keting and promotional efforts. • Pedestrian light fixtures should be approxi- Park, Open Space, Recreation and mately 12 to 15 feet, and be of a style and character that would complement existing Pedestrian Amenities and proposed development. • A greenway along Blackberry Creek should • Pylons and bollard lighting should be consid- be developed as part of Corridor’s develop- ered as accents and for ornamental purposes. ment. The greenway will serve as a focal These fixtures could be used to highlight point for new development, become an at- crosswalks, open spaces, seating areas, and traction for shoppers, residents, visitors, and major pedestrian ways. employees, and be a recreational and environmental amenity to the community. A 10’ Public Signage wide asphalt trail should be constructed along the greenway. • The Village should establish a comprehensive signage system that can direct motorists to the • Improvement and development of Orchard Corridor, and guide and direct both motorists Road should include a unified system of and pedestrians to key destinations within the “street furnishings,” such as seating areas, area. trash receptacles, drinking fountains, bike • “Gateway” signs should be developed along racks, and other pedestrian amenities. Street furnishings should be consistent with the mate- Orchard Road, as it serves as one of the primary entry ways into the Village of Mont- rials, colors and architectural styles to be promoted within the Corridor.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 29

• Trash receptacles should be placed along Orchard Road, and within commercial areas. Benches and drinking fountains should be located at trailheads along the Blackberry Creek Greenway and high activity areas. Bike parking should be provided in visible areas and near main entrances to buildings. Bollards should be used at curb side, along streets where sidewalks directly abut parking or traffic lanes. Public Utilities • Whenever possible, utility lines within the Corridor should be placed underground.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 30 1. Parking lot landscaping should in- 5. Signs on buildings should consist 9. The recreational trail along Black- Figure 5 clude "depressed landscape is- of individually projected letters berry Creek should provide link- lands" planted with native grasses mounted flat on the building ages to commercial and residen- and wildflowers which collect rain face. tial areas and contain pedestrian Design & water and help reduce run-off. amenities, including seating The landscaping also reduces light areas, drinking fountains, and Development glare, noise, dust, and reduces the trash receptacles. Examples 1 monotony, and softens the visual im- 5 9 pact of parking areas. Design and development guidelines should steer both public and private im- 2. Evergreens, berming and other 6. Planters and landscaped areas 10. "Street furnishings" significantly provements towards the desired charac- vertical landscaping elements should be encouraged adjacent add to an area's pedestrian ap- should be used to screen industri- to commercial and industrial peal. Benches, trash recepta- ter and appearance for the Orchard al and intense commercial activi- buildings within the Corridor. cles, drinking fountains, and Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor. The ty from adjacent residential prop- Foundation landscaping should bike racks help create a pedes- guidelines should not attempt to dictate erties. consist of trees, shrubs, and sea- trian oriented area. architectural style, or try to make all sonal flower beds. buildings look the same. Rather they 2 6 10 strive to promote high quality, compatible, and attractive development. 3. A full range of streetscape improve- 7. Sidewalks should be provided on 11. Lighting serves several purpos- ments, including attractive and coor- both sides of Orchard Road along es, including advertising a busi- dinated landscaping, buffering, its entire length. Sidewalks should ness, discouraging crime, and lighting, distinctive signage and be wide enough to accommodate improving building appearance. BlackberryBlackberry OrchardOrchard banners, street furniture, and gate- bicycle activity. Attractive right-of- Indirect illumination and build- way signs will improve the appear- way landscaping can protect the ing mounted lighting should be CreekCreek RoadRoad ance of the Corridor and distin- pedestrian, screen unsightly uses used to improve the visual im- 3 guish it from adjacent communities. 7 and visually unify the Corridor. 11 pact of buildings within the Cor-

4. Attractive, low profile monument 8. Buildings should "front" Orchard 12. A pedestrian arcade can add signs should be encouraged for Road wherever possible. Long, pedestrian scale to a large com- commercial, industrial and busi- blank facades along Orchard mercial building. Vertical archi- ness park uses. Monument signs Road, or other public streets tectural elements can also pro- The should be attractively landscap- should be avoided. Buildings vide interest and help unify and Village of ed and constructed from tradition- should have either a pitched or distinguish the corridor. Montgomery al building materials similar to flat roof. 4 the primary building. 8 12 An example of how a street banner that promotes shopping and environmental protection and enhancement could look along Orchard Road. ORCHARD ROAD CROSS SECTION - Graphic Representation - Not To Scale

Evergreens, shade trees, and a free form berm Flat roof with Flat roof with varying in height, screen unsightly industrial uses from paparet wall Rooftop mechanical paparet wall Orchard Rod while maintaining visibility to Rooftop mechanical Vehicular-scale buildings and other attractive areas screening Individual mounted screening lighting letter sign Natural color, high quality, Brick building oriented building materials BlackberryBlackberry OrchardOrchard toward Orchard Road Views/vistas to creek CreekCreek RoadRoad Landscaping screens parking Street banners lots from view "unify" and distinguish Concealed indirect the corridor illumination accents A landscaped median The Awnings and covered Low profile Pedestrian-scale Village of Montgomery building details pedestrian arcade monument sign lighting separates northbound and Dumpsters screened southbound traffic Pedestrian from rear view scale lighting Recreational trail Bump-outs & landscaping in parking areas along Blackberry Creek in parking areas Pedestrian RRERETAILEETAETTATAIAILIL amenities

Blackberry Trail Commercial Building Parking Landscaped Sidewalk/ Orchard RoadSidewalk/ Landscaped Parking Industrial/Business Park Building Rear Yard Creek Berm Biketrail Biketrail Berm

Village of Montgomery Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan Figure 6 Illustrative Concept

Bioswale: Depressed planting Rain Garden: Depressed plant- Naturalized Water Detention: Biowattle/Coconut Roll: Tem- strip contains, filters, and ab- ings area that consist of native Native plantings along the porary erosion control meas- sorbs runoff. Also contains grasses and flowers, and con- banks reduce maintenance ures that would stabilize the shade trees that reduce heat tains runoff until it can be absor- costs and erosion. Creek's banks and support the gain. bed. establishment of vegetation.

Green Roof: Native, drought Floodplain Boundary resistance plants on the top of the building cool the building to reduce energy consumption, provide wildlife habitat and reduce runoff.

Environmental Education Sig- Permeable Paving: Pervious Run-Off Mitigation Area: Native Prairie Planting: Na- Multi-Modal Trail: A trail nage: To inform the community paving materials reduce runoff Slows runoff and naturally re- tive grasses and flowers are should meander through the ri- about conservation and native and require less maintenance. duces the need for piping and drought resistant, and provide a parian corridor and accommo- plantings and vegetation. Sig- These surfaces could be used detention. These areas are lo- wildlife habitat. Although ini- date a mix of uses including nage should be located along for trails, pathways, crosswalks, cated between paved areas tially they can be difficult to es- running, hiking, and biking. It the trail and at places where sidewalks, plazas, parking and and the detention pond. tablish, long term they are less should be constructed with as- the trail connects to the devel- drives within the development. expensive to maintain. phalt or permeable pavers. opment.

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Village of Montgomery Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan

Implementation Adopt and Use the Plan on a Day-to- Capital Improvements Program Day Basis The Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Another tool for implementing the Plan is the Plan sets forth an agreed-upon “road map” for The Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Capital Improvements Program (CIP). Capital growth and development within the Village of Plan should become Montgomery’s official policy improvements identified in the Corridor Plan Montgomery, and more specifically the Corri- guide for improvement and development within should be included in the Village of Montgom- dor’s planning boundary, during the next ten to the Corridor. It is essential that the Plan be ery’s Capital Improvements Program. fifteen year period. It is the product of consider- adopted by the Village Board and then be used The CIP establishes schedules and priorities for able effort on the part of the Village Board, the on a regular basis by Village staff, boards and all public improvement projects within a five-year Planning Advisory Committee, Village staff, the commissions to review and evaluate all proposals period. The Village first prepares a list of all pub- Plan Commission, and the Montgomery commu- for improvement and development within the lic improvements that will be required in the next nity. However, in many ways the planning proc- study area in the years ahead. five years. Then all projects are reviewed, priori- ess for the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Cor- Review the Zoning Ordinance and ties assigned, cost estimates prepared, and po- ridor has just begun. Completion of this Corridor Other Development Codes tential funding sources identified. Plan is only the first step, not the last. Zoning is an important tool in implementing plan- The Capital Improvements Program typically This section briefly highlights several next steps ning policy. It establishes the types of uses to be schedules the implementation of a range of spe- that should be undertaken to begin the process of allowed on specific properties, and prescribes cific projects related to the Orchard Road and plan implementation. These include: the overall character and intensity of develop- Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan, particularly the • Adopt and use the Orchard Road/Blackberry ment to be permitted. restoration and upgrading of existing utilities and Creek Corridor Plan on a day-to-day basis; infrastructure facilities, including the water system, Adoption of the new Plan should be followed by sanitary sewers, storm water facilities, and the • Review and update the Zoning Ordinance a review and update of the Village's various de- street system. Development or improvement of and other development controls; velopment controls including zoning, subdivision Civic Center Campus, fire station, telecommunica- regulations, and other related codes and ordi- • Develop and utilize a regular Capital Im- tions infrastructure, and public works facilities nances. It is essential that all development con- provements Program (CIP); would also be included in the Capital Improve- trols be consistent with, and complement, the ments Program. • Promote cooperation and participation Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan. among various agencies, organizations, Montgomery's financial resources will always be The Corridor Plan sets forth policies regarding the community groups and individuals; limited and public dollars must be spent wisely. use of land within the study area and establishes The Capital Improvements Program would allow • Prepare an implementation “action agenda;” guidelines for the quality, character and intensity the Village of Montgomery to provide the most of new development to be promoted in the years • Explore possible funding sources and imple- desirable public improvements, yet stay within ahead. The Plan’s policies and guidelines should mentation techniques; budget constraints. greatly assist the Village in formulating new zon- • Enhance public communication; and ing and development code regulations that can better reflect the unique needs and aspirations of • Update the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek the Montgomery community, particularly within Corridor Plan on a regular basis. the corridor’s boundaries.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 33

Promote Cooperation and properties and facilitating desirable new de- Participation velopment; The Village of Montgomery should assume the • Builders and developers, who should be en- leadership role in implementing the Corridor couraged to undertake improvements and Plan. In addition to carrying out the administrative new construction that conform to the Plan and actions and many of the public improvement pro- enhance the overall quality and character of jects called for in the Plan, the Village may the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek; and choose to administer a variety of programs • The Montgomery community, since all resi- available to local residents, businesses and dents and neighborhood groups should be property owners. encouraged to participate in the on-going In order for the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek planning process, and all should be given the Corridor Plan to be successful it must be based opportunity to voice their opinions on im- on a strong partnership between the Village, provement and development decisions within other public agencies, various neighborhood the community. groups and organizations, the local business Prepare an Implementation Action community, and the private sector. Agenda The Village should be the leader in promoting the The Village should prepare an implementation cooperation and collaboration needed to imple- “action agenda” which highlights the improvement the new Corridor Plan. The Village’s “partment and development projects and activities to ners” should include: be undertaken during the next few years. For • Other governmental and service districts, such example, the “action agenda” might consist of: as the school districts, the fire protection dis- • A detailed description of the projects and tricts, the Fox Valley Park District, the Town- activities to be undertaken; ships, Kane and Kendall Counties, the private utility companies, the Illinois Department of • The priority of each project or activity; Transportation (IDOT), the Conservation • An indication of the public and private sector Foundation, the Kane and Kendall County responsibilities for initiating and participating Forest Preserve Districts, etc; in each activity; and • Local institutions, such as the Greater Mont- • A suggestion of the funding sources and assis- gomery Area Chamber of Commerce and tance programs that might potentially be various churches and religious organizations; available for implementing each project or • Local banks and financial institutions, which activity. can provide assistance in upgrading existing In order to remain current, the “action agenda” should be updated once a year.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 34

Explore Funding Sources and Update the Plan on a Regular Basis Implementation Techniques It is important to emphasize that the Plan is not a While many of the projects and improvements static document. If community attitudes change or called for in the Corridor Plan can be imple- new issues arise which are beyond the scope of mented through administrative and policy deci- the current Plan, the Plan should be revised and sions or can be funded through normal municipal updated accordingly. programs, other projects may require special Although a proposal to amend the Plan can be technical and/or financial assistance. brought forth by petition at any time, the Village The Village should continue to explore and con- should regularly undertake a systematic review of sider the wide range of local, state and federal the Plan. Although an annual review is desirable, resources and programs that may be available to the Village should initiate review of the Plan at assist in the implementation of planning recom- least every two to three years. Ideally, this review mendations. should coincide with the preparation of the annual budget, the capital improvement program, Enhance Public Communication and the Comprehensive Plan review. In this man- The Village should prepare a brief summary ver- ner, recommendations or changes relating to sion of the Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Cor- capital improvements or other programs can be ridor Plan and should make the plan available to considered as part of the upcoming commitments the community, particularly to property owners for the fiscal year. Routine examination of the within the Corridor. It is important that all local Plan will help ensure that the planning program residents, businesses and property owners be remains relevant to community needs and aspira- familiar with the Plan’s major recommendations tions. and its vision for the future. The Village should: The Village should also consider additional tech- • Make available copies of the Plan document niques for responding quickly to public questions for public purchase. and concerns regarding planning and development. For example, the Village might prepare a • Make an electronic version of the Plan avail- new informational brochure on how to apply for able for download from the Village’s website. zoning, building, subdivision and other develop- • Provide assistance to the public in explaining ment-oriented permits and approvals. It might the Plan and its relationship to private and also consider special newsletter or Web page public development projects and other pro- features that focus on frequently raised questions posals, as appropriate. and concerns regarding planning and development. • Assist the Village Board in the day-to-day administration, interpretation and application of the Plan.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 35

• Maintain a list of current possible amend- ments, issues or needs which may be a sub- ject of change, addition or deletion from the Plan. • Coordinate with, and assist the Plan Commis- sion and Village Board in the Plan amend- ment process.

Village of Montgomery: Orchard Road/Blackberry Creek Corridor Plan 36