Agenda 08/26/2004 SPOKANE VALLEY PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
Council Chambers - City Hall 11707 E. Sprague Avenue
6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
* * * August 26, 2004 * * .k
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. ROLL CALL
IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
• August 12, 2004
VI. PUBLIC COMMENT
VII. COMMISSION REPORTS
VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
IX. COMMISSION BUSINESS
New Business:
• Public Hearing: Consider an Ordinance amending provisions in Spokane Valley
Ordinance Nos.03-053 and 03-083 relating to"Clear View Triangles"
• Public Hearing: Street Vacation Request STV-03-04
• Public Hearing: Street Vacation Request STV-04.04
• Briefing on Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2—Land Use Element
X. FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
XI. ADJOURNMENT
COMMISSIONERS CITY STAFF
Fred Beaulac Marina Sukup, AICP
Robert Blum Greg McCormick, AICP
John G. Carroll Scott Kuhta, AICP
David Crosby Debi Alley
William Gothmann, Chair
Gail Kogle
Ian Robertson, Vice-Chair www.spokanevalley.orq
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Commission Action
Meeting Date: August 26, 2004 City Manager Sign-off:
Item: Check all that apply: ❑ consent 0 old business ® new business ® public hearing
El information 0 admin. report ® pending legislation
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Public Hearing: Consider an Ordinance amending provisions
relating to"Clear View Triangles"
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: Spokane Valley Ordinance 03-53 and 03-83.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: None.
BACKGROUND: Ordinance No. 03-83 (the "Nuisance Ordinance) provides that the Public
Works Director will promulgate policies relative to "clear view triangles". The Interim Zoning
Regulations Section 14.810.020 of the Interim Zoning Regulations provides measuring
standards for "clear view" triangles and regulates the placement of fences and vegetative
screens, including hedges and shrubbery, although the provisions have never been enforced
and may be more appropriate to rural systems than urban areas. This section also regulates
the fencing around swimming pools which will be superseded by the International Codes on July
1, 2004.
The Public Works Department proposes to establish the requirements for"Clear View Triangles"
by ordinance, within the Spokane Valley Uniform Development Code, to be enforced by the
Community Development Department. The proposed ordinance will also relax the fencing
requirements along flanking streets to permit six foot fences, provided they do not encroach on
the "clear view triangle".
The proposed standards measure the triangle from the curb or edge of pavement, rather than
from the centerline of the street, as is presently the case. The proposed provisions eliminate
the bias created by different right-of-way widths and is more clearly understood by property
owners. In the event that the City wishes to avoid future visibility issues associated with fences,
permits for new fences should be required.
A determination of Non-Significance was issued on May 26, 2004 and a draft proposal was
submitted to CTED and other agencies for their review.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Following the Public Hearing, recommend approval.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: Not applicable.
STAFF CONTACT: Marina Sukup, AICP, Community Development Director
ATTACHMENTS:
Draft Ordinance
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON
ORDINANCE NO. 04-0
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY, WASHINGTON,
ESTABLISHING SECTION 7.06 OF THE SPOKANE VALLEY UNIFORM
DEVELOPMENT CODE; AMENDING ORDINANCE No. 03-053 BY
AMENDING SECTION 14.810.020 FENCES OF THE INTERIM ZONING
CODE; AMENDING ORDINANCE No. 03-83 RELATING TO THE
PROHIBITION OF NUISANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Interim Zoning Code adopted by the City of Spokane Valley pursuant to
Ordinance 03-53 regulates the placement of fences and vegetative screens, including hedges
and shrubbery; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 03-83 Prohibition of Nuisances effective on October 23,
2003 provides that vegetation, buildings, structures and fences that obstruct or hinder the use of
any public walkway, sidewalk or street, or that obstruct or obscure the view of traffic or traffic
control devices are prohibited nuisances; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 03-83 further provides that the Public Works Director will
promulgate policies relative to"clear view triangles"; and
WHEREAS, the Community Development Director is responsible for the enforcement of
nuisance ordinances;
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley, Washington,
ordains as follows:
Section 1. Section 7.06 of the Spokane Valley Uniform Development Code is hereby
established to read as follows:
"Section 7.06. Clear View Triangle
A clear view triangle is a
measurement applied at
the intersection of two Vegetation within clear-view triangle
streets or the
intersection of an alley or
commercial driveway ���'�►,..
and a street, to ensure 1►z`r 4.*
unobstructed vision of �• ,�/.
motorists and
pedestrians. Within the •---- --•- 91 -•--•-•
clear view triangle, the TWFrrimirn
3'Mwomum
space between three .:,.
and seven feet above
grade must be Ground
unobstructed (See
Figure 7.06)and calculated as follows:
a) Uncontrolled Intersection: the right isosceles triangle having sides of fifty feet(50'-0")
measure along the curb line of each intersecting local access street(or five feet from
edge of pavement for a street with no curbs), alley or commercial driveway (See Figure
7.06.a) ; or
50 FT.
LOCAL ACCESS STREET / PICHT-NRB
0(-WET
d -P PROPER1OPERIT UNE
F- N
� W
� U
O , I
CITY IN.L-0E-WAT
Figure 7.06.a. Uncontrolled Intersection
b) Stop Controlled Intersection: the right triangle having a sixteen foot (16'-0") side
measured along the curb line of a local access street (or five feet from edge of
pavement for a street with no curbs), alley or commercial driveway, and the distance
shown on Table 7.06.1 based on posted speed along the side along the curb line of the
intersecting street (or five feet from edge of pavement for a street with no curbs)(See
Figure 7.06.b) ; or
Figure 7.06.b Stop Controlled Intersection
Table 7.06.1
SEE TABLE 7.06.1
THROUGH STREET y--CUPB Posted Speed Distance
,c_tlT�cNT_oF-WAY (in MPH) (in feet)
PROPERTY LINE 25 70
o w I c30 95
35 110
ti L
CITY RIONT-OF-WAY
c) In cases including, but not limited to, arterials with posted speeds in excess of 35
m.p.h., one-way streets, steep grades and sharp curves the City Traffic Engineer will
determine the appropriate measurement.
Section 2. Section 14.810.020 Fences of the Spokane Valley Interim Zoning Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
"14.810.020 Fences
1. No sight-obstructing fence more than thirty-six(36) inches in height nor any non-sight-
obstructing fence (cyclone) more than forty-eight(48) inches in height may be erected and/or
maintained within the required front yard or required flanking street yard of any lot used for
residential purposes. Within a P.U.D. a fence may exceed the height limit specified herein if
designated on a preliminary site plan when approved by the Hearing Body as part of the
development concept. Such fence shall not exceed six(6)feet in height, although entranceway
gates, arches, covered entrances, support structures, etc., may exceed this height when a
specific design is presented and approved by the Hearing Body. When perimeter fencing is
used with a P.U.D. design, a minimum of five (5)feet of landscaping is required between such
fences and public/private pedestrian or roadway rights-of-way. Hedges, shrubbery, or other
materials used in lieu of a fence and not a part of a landscaping requirement per Section
14.806.040, yet serving the same function as a fence, shall be considered a fence. A residential
fence exceeding a height of six(6) feet requires a variance from the Hearing Body;
2. Neither residential, commercial or industrial fencing, nor any sight obstruction which
constitutes a hazard to the traveling public as dctermincd by the County Engineer, shall be
permitted on any corner lot in any zone within the area designated as the"clear view triangle"
pursuant to the standards established in Section 7.06 of the Spokane Valley Uniform
Development Code. This area can be determined by measuring one hundred ten (110)feet from
the center of two intersecting local access strcets along the centcrlincs of ach local access
with an arterial street, the area can be determined by measuring four hundred 000)feet along
the centerline of the arterial street and thirty two (32)feet along the centerline of the local
have their branches removed at the trunk from ground level to a minimum of seven (7)feet
required area needed to reduce hazards to the traveling public.
pool shall not be considered to qualify as a--substitute for the required fence as a means of
4. 3. In the Exclusive Agricultural, General Agricultural, RR-10, SRR-5 and SRR-2 Residential,
and Mining zones, electric fences shall be permitted in accordance with the following standards:
a. Electric fences shall be for the confinement of animals and control of predators.
b. Electric fences shall conform in all respects to the Washington State Rules and
Regulations for electrical wiring, RCW 19.28, as to voltage, amperage, safety factors,
and shall be energized only with Underwriters Laboratories approved exciting
equipment.
c. Electric fences shall be marked with warning signs at least twenty-four(24) square
inches in area located every one hundred and fifty (150)feet. In the EA and GA zones
when the area of the property concerned is twenty (20) acres or more and, providing
further, where the fences are not adjacent to a public highway or platted area, the use of
conspicuous insulators shall be considered sufficient warning when approved by the
State Electrical Inspector.
d. Electric fences shall be prohibited in all Industrial, Business, RS and SR-1 thru UR-22
Residential zones.
6. 4. Barbed wire fences shall be prohibited in RS and SR-1/2 thru UR-22 Residential zones. In
the B-2, B-3 and Industrial zones, barbed wire may be used for security purposes only on the
upper one-quarter(1/4) of the fence.
6. 5. Nonresidential fences in the Industrial, Business and Mining Zones are allowed up to eight
(8)feet in height.
• . . . - - -- -•- _-e- _ e--
Section
-Section 3. Ordinance 03-083 is amended to read as follows:
Section 4. Nuisances Prohibited. No person, firm or entity shall erect, contrive, cause,
continue, maintain or permit to exist any public nuisances within the City. Prohibited public
nuisances include, but are not limited to:
A. Vegetation.
1. Overhanging limbs or branches that are less than eight (8) feet above a public
walkway or sidewalk, or less than fourteen (14) feet above a public street.
2. Vegetation that obstructs or hinders the use of any public walkway, sidewalk or
street, or that obstructs or obscures the view of traffic or traffic control devices,
kAlefks Director as provided in Section 7.06 of the Spokane Valley Uniform
Development Code.
3. Any growth of noxious weeds or any toxic vegetation shall be subject to WAC
17.750 as currently adopted and hereafter amended.
B. Building, Structures, Fences.
1. Buildings or portions thereof which a are deemed dangerous by the Spokane
Valley Building Code -- ---- -- - - •• --- - A -- --
provided that such conditions or defects exist to the extent
that life, health, property or safety of the public or the structures occupants are
endangered.
2. Any fence that obstructs or hinders the use of any public walkway, sidewalk or
street, or that obstructs or obscures the view of traffic or traffic control devices,
Works Director as provided in Section 7.06 of the Spokane Valley Uniform
Development Code.
Section 5. Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance
shall be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity
or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section,
sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect following its
passage and subsequent publication in the official newspaper of the City as provided by law.
PASSED by the City Council this day of June, 2004.
Mayor, Michael DeVleming
ATTEST:
City Clerk, Chris Bainbridge
Approved as to Form:
Deputy City Attorney, Cary Driskell
Date of Publication:
Effective Date:
Spokane
Iley
Clear'V/iiewi Ti"dian j 1 a
Community Development Department
Public Works Department
Purpose
Brief the planning Commission on issues associated
with"Clear View Triangles"
Background
o The Nuisance Ordinance Na 03-83 on October 23,
2003 provides that the Public Works Director will
promulgate policies on"Clear View Triangles"
The Zoning regulations(Ordinance 03-53)regulates
the placement of fences and shrubbery which is
prohibited within the"Clear View Triangle"
As written,the standards are difficult to enforce
The zoning regulations also regulate fences around
swimming pools,rules which conflict with the
requirements of the International Code which becomes
effective on July 1,2004
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Control Total require investigation/remediation
0 300-600 properties
None 1362 o 85-95%of property owners will
Stop 1180 comply with a notice
The estimated annual cost of the
Signal 69
6-8 cases requiring adjudication
Yield 19 is$16,584
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INTERSECTION
''r o CURRENT
'Center line of the road
110'x 110'
PROPOSED
6. Curb/Edge Pavement
50'x 50'
50 FT.
LOCAL ACCESS STREET
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CONTROLLED
INTERSECTION
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Center line of the road -. --
32'x 400'
PROPOSED -4111b=1"
Curb/Edge Pavement
16'x varies w/speed -
(up to 110') `+
Stop Controlled Intersection
Proposed
SEE TABLE 7.06.1
THROUGH STREET
Special Cases
May be established by the Traffic
Engineer in special cases, including but
not limited to:
arterials with posted speeds in excess of 35
m.p.h.
one-way streets
steep grades and
sharp curves
4
Blind Corners
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b,_..
�• �,.: After June 16,2004
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New owner needed a reminder ''IT i _ '.
____,__________ .
Front Yard setback Clear View
36'Opaque Tria •le
48'Cyclone
Street
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36-Opaque Tria .le
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DOUBLE FRONTAGE LOTS PROPOSED
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Fences
Fences represent a considerable investment by the
property owner
Side and rear privacy fences,especially for property
along arterials and residential collectors,may afford
the owner a better use of his/her property
BUT,it is much easier to inform the property owners
BEFORE they build the fence,rather than having them
remove/relocate the fence because it intrudes on the
clear view triangle
This can only be accomplished if a permit is required
Proposed Amendments
Establish Section 7.06 of the Spokane Valley Uniform
Development Code
Amend Ordinance 03-83 to reference Section 7.06
SVUDC
Delete provisions in the Interim Zoning Regulation
Section 14.810.020 Fences to delete provisions in
conflict with SVUDC and International Codes
Approval
6
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Planning Commission Action
Meeting Date: August 26, 2004 City Manager Sign-off:
Item: Check all that apply: ❑consent ❑ old business ® new business ® public hearing
0 information El admin. report ® pending legislation
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Public Hearing - Street Vacation Request STV-03-04 for a remainder
of David Road located between Sprague Avenue and Appleway, west of Thierman Road.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: City Council adoption of Ordinance No. 04-001
(Street Vacations) in January 2004. On July 27th, 2004 by Resolution 04-023 City Council set
August 26th, 2004 as the date for a public hearing on the proposal.
BACKGROUND:
Chris Linc Properties L.L.C., 2320 North Atlantic Street, Spokane WA 99205 the owner of
abutting Parcel No. 35242.0102 requests the vacation of a remainder of David Road, originally
acquired by Spokane County for the Appleway Extension. Spokane Utilities has noted that the
parcel is located over an existing sewer line which will require establishment of an easement.
Spokane County Engineering has also indicated that the parcel for which vacation has been
requested may remain within the jurisdiction of WSDOT, precluding any vacation at this time.
WSDOT has been contacted concerning their interests in this property.
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RECOMMENDATION: Following the public hearing, defer any decision concerning the
proposed vacation pending the reservation of a sewer easement and confirmation of the City's
authority, if any, to vacate the right-of-way.
STAFF CONTACT: Marina Sukup, AICP, Community Development Director
jMi1ey
Public Hearing
STREET VACATION STV-03-04
Chris Linc Properties LLC.,2320 North Atlantic Street,
Spokane WA 99205
Background
Chris Linc Properties L.L.C., 2320 North
Atlantic Street,Spokane WA 99205
Remainder of David Road
1111
i1t
Background
Spokane County Utilities has advised that a sewer
easement will be required
Spokane County has cautioned that jurisdiction of
the right-of-way may remain with WSDOT—this
has not yet been verified
1
RECOMMENDATION
Defer a recommendation pending resolution of the
requirement for a sewer easement and verification of
jurisdiction
2
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Planning Commission Action
Meeting Date: August 26, 2004 City Manager Sign-off:
Item: Check all that apply: ❑consent 0 old business ® new business A. public hearing
0 information 0 admin. report ® pending legislation
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Public Hearing—Street Vacation Request STV-04-04 for a 20 foot alley
on Lewis Road located east of 1st Avenue between Assessor's Parcel Nos. 45192.0101 and
45192.0102.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: City Council adoption of Ordinance No. 04-001
(Street Vacations) in January 2004. On July 27th, 2004 by Resolution 04-023 City Council set
August 26th, 2004 as the date for a public hearing on the proposal.
BACKGROUND:
McCollum Ford Sales, Inc., P.O. Box 13309, 8200 E. Sprague Avenue, Spokane Valley, WA
99213, the owner of Parcels No. 45192.0101 and 45192.0102 requests the abandonment of a
twenty foot alley located between the two parcels. Property to the east is fully developed. (See
attached). The alley is unimproved but appears to have power lines in place Modern Electric
has been contacted. The City has no objection to vacation of the alley, but power easements
may need to be reserved.
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RECOMMENDATION: Following the public hearing, approval of the vacation subject to
reserving necessary private utility easements.
STAFF CONTACT: Marina Sukup, AICP, Community Development Director
Spokane
.Malley°
Public Hearing
STREET VACATION STV-04-04
Background
o McCollum Ford Sales, Inc., dba Gus Johnson Ford, P.O. Box
13309,8200 E.Sprague Avenue,Spokane Valley,WA 99213
Proposed right-of-way vacation: 20 foot alley located between
Parcels No.45192.0101 and 45192.0102
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Background
The alley is not required for transportation or public
utilities
Modern Electric has been contacted concerning
the need for reservation of an easement in the
event the City approved the vacation
1
RECOMMENDATION
Approval subject to reservation of any easement
required by the private utility
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2
Message Page 1 of 2
Marina Sukup
From: Birr, Richard [BirrDJ@wsdot.wa.gov]
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2004 2:01 PM
To: Marina Sukup
Subject: RE: David Street Vacation
Marina,
Thanks for sending the attachment showing the area in question. According to our RW plan sheets, it appears
that WSDOT did own some of the property in question, but I am not sure how much, or even if we still own it. I
have asked folks in our Region and in the Olympia office to take a look and confirm one way or another. I may
also have to get a copy of the County's RW plan sheet for the Appleway crossover in this location and try to tie it
to our plan sheets.
If we own all or a portion of the property, we will require a written request to purchase before we can begin the
disposal process. Any disposal will require a complete review by the various departments in both our Region and
at HQ in Olympia, and this is generally a 3 -6 month process. If it is determined that the property can be
disposed, it will be appraised and the appraised value will be the basis of further negotiations.
If there is more than one party interested in the property, the disposal will generally be tie to an auction.
As I get further information, I will keep in touch. Please feel free to contact me if there are further questions or
concerns.
Thanks,
R.J. Birr 509-324-6276(fax: 509-324-6291)
Washington State Dept of Transportation
Property Mgmt, Local Programs, Developer Services Supervisor
2714 N Mayfair St
Spokane, WA 99027
birrdj@wsdot.wa.gov
Original Message
From: Marina Sukup [mailto:msukup@spokanevalley.org]
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2004 10:02 AM
To: birrdj@wsdot.wa.gov
Subject: David Street Vacation
Mr. Birr: Thanks for your help on this!
Marina M. Sukup, AICP, CFM
Director of Community Development/Planning
City of Spokane Valley
11707 Sprague Avenue, Ste. 106
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
8/20/2004
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Commission Action
Meeting Date: August 20, 2004
Item: Check all that apply: ❑ consent ❑ old business ❑ new business ❑ public hearing
® information ❑ admin. report ❑ pending legislation
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Draft Land Use Chapter—Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: 36.70A- RCW
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: None.
BACKGROUND: The City of Spokane Valley is preparing a Comprehensive Plan consistent
with the requirements of the Growth Management Act (GMA). GMA requires seven elements
including land use, transportation, housing, utilities, capital facilities, economic development and
parks and recreation be included in the Plan. The Land Use chapter serves as a cornerstone of
the city's comprehensive plan.
The attached draft provides the framework and the beginnings of a policy discussion related to
the community's land use. The draft includes three land use alternatives for the purposes of
discussion and to evaluate as part of the environmental impact statement. The land use
alternatives include Modified Existing Conditions (no action), Urban Activity Centers, and City
Center Emphasis. These alternatives are described generally in the text. However, a map
graphically depicting the alternative is not included at this time.
OPTIONS: N/A
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Review and comment.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: N/A
STAFF CONTACTS: Greg McCormick, AICP— Planning Division Manager
Scott Kuhta, AICP—Senior Planner
ATTACHMENTS Draft Land Use Chapter
Spokane
= tallez
Sane 2025
2.9) rr!PORI fair Spstkirre2
Community Development Department
Land Use Chapter
• Element required by the GMA
• GMA states:
"...a lack of common goals expressing the
public's interest in conservation and the
wise use of our lands pose a threat to the
environment, sustainable economic
development, and the health, safety and
high quality of life enjoyed by residents of
this state."
GMA Statewide Planning Goals
o Planning goal#1 —Urban growth.
Encourage development in urban areas
where adequate public facilities and
services exist or can be provided in an
efficient manner.
o Planning goal#2. —Reduce Sprawl.
Reduce the inappropriate conversion of
undeveloped land into sprawling, low
density development.
1
GMA Land Use Element
Requirements
• Designate the proposed general distribution and
location and extent of the uses of land...;
o Population densities,building intensities,and
estimates of future population growth;
Provide for protection of the quality and quantity
of ground water use for public water supplies;
Review drainage,flooding,and stormwater
runoff in the area and nearby jurisdictions and
provide guidance for corrective actions to
mitigate or cleanse those discharges that pollute
water of the state.
Land Use — CWPP's
• Policy Topic 1 —Urban Growth Areas
• Policy Topic 2—Joint Planning within UGA's
• Policy Topic 3—Promotion of Contiguous and
Orderly Development and Provision or Urban
Services
o Policy Topic 4—Parks and Open Space
• Policy Topic 5—Transportation
° Policy Topic 6—Siting of Capital Facilities of a
Countywide or Statewide Nature
• Policy Topic 7—Affordable Housing
Land Use Alternatives
• Modified Existing Conditions(no action)
10- Based on existing zoning
• Urban Activity Centers
10- Based on existing Interim Plan
• City Center Emphasis
10- Community alternative
2
Modified Existing Conditions
Alternative - Characteristics
• Based on existing zoning
• Preserves existing single family areas
o Higher Density residential transition
between commercial/single family
o Commercial strips remain along major
arterials
• "Auto Row" Overlay
• Create"Professional/Medical Office"
designation
Modified Existing Conditions
-
Urban Activity Centers
Alternative -Characteristics
• Based on Interim Comp Plan
o Mixed use centers at U-City, Fairgrounds and
Mirabeau Point
• Commercial areas concentrated at major
intersections(i.e. Sprague&Pines)
Medical offices/services area
o "Auto Row"Overlay
• Community/Neighborhood Centers
Professional Office Designation
• Higher density residential located near services
and transportation facilities
3
Urban Activity Centers
„
City Center Emphasis
Alternative - Characteristics
• Based on community input from survey&community
meetings
• Focused City Center:University City area
• Create grid street system within city center
• Commercial areas concentrated at major intersections
(i.e.Sprague&Pines)
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Spokane Valley - 2025
A 20 Year Plan for Spokane Valley
6
CHAPTER 2 - LAND USE
2.0 Introduction
The Spokane Valley City Council and Planning Commission held a series of joint
workshops in the Spring of 2004. The objective of these joint workshops was to draft a
Vision Statement for Spokane Valley to form the basis of the Comprehensive Plan. The
resulting draft Vision Statement is as follows:
Spokane Valley: "A community of opportunity where individuals and
families can grow and play and businesses will flourish and prosper."
The Land Use chapter serves as the foundation of the Spokane Valley Comprehensive
Plan (SVCP) by providing a framework for Spokane Valley's future physical development
and by setting forth policy direction for Spokane Valley's current and future land uses.
Development of land, according to adopted policies and land use designations
discussed in this chapter, should result in an appropriate balance of services,
employment, and housing. The land use policies are supplemented by a
Comprehensive Plan Map that provides a visual illustration of the proposed physical
distribution and location of various land uses. This map allocates a supply of land for
such uses as retail, office, services, employment, parks, open space, and housing to
meet future demand.
2.1 Planning Context
State and county land use policies provide a statutory framework for the development of
City land use policies. It is important to briefly review state and county level policies to
better understand historical conditions that have shaped the goals and policies in this
chapter.
2.1.1 Growth Management Act
The Growth Management Act (GMA) acknowledges that, "...a lack of common goals
expressing the public's interest in conservation and the wise use of our lands pose a
threat to the environment, sustainable economic development, and the health, safety
and high quality of life enjoyed by residents of this state". The GMA provides a
framework for content and adoption of local comprehensive plans. The GMA provides
14 goals to be, "...used exclusively for the purpose of guiding development of
comprehensive plans and development regulations." The GMA goals pertaining to land
use includes:
• Urban Growth—Encourage development in urban areas where adequate public
facilities and services exist or can be provided in an efficient manner.
• Reduce Sprawl— Reduce the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land into
sprawling, low density development.
RCW 36.70A.01 0
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
• Housing— Encourage the availability of affordable housing to all economic
segments of the population of the state, promote a variety of residential densities
and housing types, and encourage preservation of existing housing stock.
• Open Space and Recreation— Encourage the retention of open space and
development of recreational opportunities, conserve fish and wildlife habitat,
increase access to natural resource lands and water, and develop parks.
• Environment— Protect the environment and enhance the state's high quality of
life, including air and water quality and the availability of water.
• Public Facilities and Services—Ensure that those public facilities and services
necessary to support development shall be adequate to serve the development
at the time the development is available for occupancy and use without
decreasing current service levels below locally established minimum standards.
• Historic Preservation— Identify and encourage the preservation of lands, sites,
and structures that have historical or archaeological significance.
• Property Rights—Private property shall not be taken for public use without just
compensation having been made. The property rights of landowners shall be
protected from arbitrary and discriminatory actions pursuant to state and federal
law.
The GMA requires land use elements include the following:
• Designate the proposed general distribution and location and extent of the uses
of land for housing, commerce, industry, recreation, open spaces, public utilities,
public facilities, and other appropriate land uses;
• Population densities, building intensities, and estimates of future population
growth;
• Provide for protection of the quality and quantity of ground water use for public
water supplies;
• Review drainage, flooding, and stormwater runoff in the area and nearby
jurisdictions and provide guidance for corrective actions to mitigate or cleanse
those discharges that pollute water of the state.
2.1.2 County Wide Planning Policies
The County Wide Planning Policies (CWPP's) required by GMA 2 provide a regional
framework to achieve the goals of the GMA. The CWPP's are a refinement of policy
direction contained in the GMA and are a result of a collaborative process between
Spokane County and the cities and towns within the County.
The CWPP's provide a policy framework for both the county and its respective cities.
Adherence to these policies ensures that plans within the county are consistent with one
another. These policies address such issues as the designation of urban growth areas,
land use, affordable housing, provision of urban services for future development,
transportation, and contiguous and orderly development. The following are specific
CWPP's that relate to the Land Use Element:
Policy Topic 1 -Urban Growth Areas
2 RCW 36.70A.210
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Policies
1. Urban Growth Areas (UGA's) are areas within which urban growth shall be
encouraged and outside of which growth can occur only if it is not urban in nature. Urban
Growth Areas (UGA's) shall include areas and densities sufficient to permit the urban
growth that is projected to occur in the county for the succeeding 20-year period3.
"Urban growth" refers to growth that makes intensive use of land for the location of
buildings, structures and impermeable surfaces to such a degree as to be incompatible
with the primary use of such land for the production of food, other agricultural products
or fiber, or the extraction of mineral resources4.
Urban growth should be located first in areas already characterized by urban growth that
have existing public facility and service capacities to serve such development and
second in areas already characterized by urban growth that will be served by a
combination of both existing public facilities and services and any additional needed
public facilities and services that are provided by either public or private sources.
Further, it is appropriate that urban government services be provided by cities, and
urban government services should not be provided in rural areas5.
Urban Growth Areas (UGA's) include all lands within existing cities, including cities in
rural areas.
Urban Growth Areas may be established independent of incorporated areas. Within
these independent Urban Growth Areas (UGA's), urban governmental services may be
provided by other than cities.
9. Within Urban Growth Areas (UGA's), lands that fall within planned high-capacity
transportation corridors should be designated for sufficient intensity of land use to
support the economic provision of multimodal transportation.
11. Where applicable, comprehensive plans should contain land use policies which
provide protection for the continued viability of Fairchild Air Force Base, Spokane
International Airport, Felts Field, Deer Park Airport and other publicly owned airports
within Spokane County.
12. Jurisdictions should work together to develop and implement regionally
consistent incentive based programs such as Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) to
protect natural resource lands outside of Urban Growth Areas (UGA's) and to protect
critical areas and open space within Urban Growth Areas (UGA's).
Policy Topic 2 -Joint Planning within UGA's
Policies
1. The joint planning process should:
3 RCW 36.70A.110
4 RCW 36.70A.030(17)
5 RCW 36.70A.110(3)
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 3 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
a. Include all jurisdictions adjacent to the Urban Growth Area and Special
Purpose Districts that will be affected by the eventual transference of
governmental services;
b. Recognize that Urban Growth Areas are potential annexation areas for
cities;
c. Ensure a smooth transition of services amongst existing municipalities
and emerging communities;
d. Ensure the ability to expand urban governmental services and avoid land
use barriers to expansion; and
e. Resolve issues regarding how zoning, subdivision and other land use
approvals in designated joint planning areas will be coordinated.
2. Joint planning may be accomplished pursuant to an interlocal agreement entered
into between and/or among jurisdictions and/or special purpose districts.
Policy Topic 3—Promotion of Contiguous and Orderly Development and Provision
of Urban Services
Policies
5. All jurisdictions shall coordinate plans that classify, designate and protect natural
resource lands and critical areas.
7. Each jurisdiction's comprehensive plan shall include, at a minimum, the following
policies to address adequate fire protection.
a. Limit growth to areas served by a fire protection district or within the
corporate limits of a city providing its own fire department.
b. Commercial and residential subdivisions and developments and
residential planned unit developments shall include the provision for road access
adequate for residents, fire department or district ingress/egress and water
supply for fire protection.
c. Development in forested areas must provide defensible space between
structure and adjacent fuels and require that fire-rated roofing materials be used.
10. Each jurisdiction shall include provisions in its comprehensive plan for equitable
distribution of essential public facilities.
13. Each jurisdiction shall plan for growth within UGA's which uses land efficiently,
adds certainty to capital facilities planning and allows timely and coordinated extension
of urban governmental services, public facilities and utilities for new development. Each
jurisdiction shall identify intermediate growth areas (6-to 10-year increments)within its
UGA or establish policies which direct growth consistent with land use and capital facility
plans.
Policy Topic 4—Parks and Open Space
Policies
2. All jurisdictions should cooperate to identify and protect regional open space
lands, natural areas and corridors of environmental, recreational and aesthetic
significance to form a functionally and physically connected system which balances
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 4 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
passive and active recreational uses. Each jurisdiction shall identify open space
corridors within and between urban growth areas.
All jurisdictions shall identify implementation, management, preservation and
conservation strategies, through both regulatory and non-regulatory techniques, to
protect identified lands and corridors, to sustain their open space benefits and functions.
Implementation and management strategies should include collaboration and
coordination with land trusts and other land preservation organizations.
3. Each jurisdiction shall require the development of parks and open space as a
means to balance the impacts associated with higher-density development.
5. Each jurisdiction shall make appropriate provisions for parks and recreation
areas.
Policy Topic 5 -Transportation
Policies
5. Local jurisdictions shall develop and adopt land use plans that have been
coordinated through the Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC)to ensure
that they preserve and enhance the regional transportation system. These plans may
include high-capacity transportation corridors and shall fulfill air quality conformity and
financial requirements of Federal Transportation Laws and Regulations, the Clean Air
Act Amendments of 1990 and the GMA.
6. Local jurisdictions shall designate within land use plans areas that can support
public transportation services. These areas shall include existing as well as new
development. Each jurisdiction's land use plan, the regional transportation plan and the
Spokane Transit Authority's (STA) Long Range Transit Plan shall support, complement
and be consistent with each other.
11. Each jurisdiction shall address land use designations and site design
requirements that are supportive of and compatible with public transportation, for
example:
a. pedestrian-scale neighborhoods and activity centers;
b. mixed-use development; and
c. pedestrian-friendly and nonmotorized design.
Policy Topic 6—Siting of Capital Facilities of a Countywide or Statewide Nature
Policies
3. Each jurisdiction should identify in its comprehensive plan protective measures to
prevent incompatible land uses from encroaching upon essential public facilities.
4. Each jurisdiction's comprehensive plan shall identify those specific local facilities
that are essential public facilities consistent with the Spokane County Regional Siting
Process for Essential Public Facilities. The comprehensive plan shall also identify public
funding priorities for these facilities to better recognize the significance of each facility's
service(s) and its relationship to the local area's growth and development.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 5 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Policy Topic 7—Affordable Housing
Policies
2. Each jurisdiction's development policies, regulations and standards should
provide for the opportunity to create affordable housing in its community, such policies
may include regulatory tools, such as inclusionary zoning, performance/impact zoning,
mixed-use development and incentives for increasing density to promote greater choice
and affordable housing in its community.
6. In conjunction with other policy topics, coordinate housing, transportation and
economic development strategies to ensure that sufficient land and densities for
affordable housing are provided in locations readily accessible to employment centers.
2.2 Land Use Alternatives
Spokane Valley's existing land use pattern (the physical location of uses) exists as a
result of development administered by Spokane County until incorporation of Spokane
Valley on March 31, 2003 and to a far lesser extent the subsequent development under
Spokane Valley's jurisdiction.
As shown in Map).Cl(Generalized Existing Land Use) and Figure LU-1 (Existing Land
Use by General Category), as of July 1, 2004, percent of Spokane Valley's gross land
area was developed as single-family development, XX percent as multiple-family
development, and XX percent for office, retail, and manufacturing uses. Adoption of the
SVCP is not anticipated to substantially modify the residential/non-residential land use
patterns.
Land Use
Industrial 23.7%—
i—Mining 1.7%
i
Commercial 7.9%—\\4
11� Lav Density
,ItResidential 60.9%
FBgh Density
Residential 5.4% /
Medium Density
Residential 0.3%
Figure LU-1: Land Use by General Category
For the purposes of evaluation, three land use alternatives or scenarios were developed
for evaluation in the comprehensive planning process. These alternatives are described
in detail in the following sections.
2.2.1 Land Use Scenario 1 -City Center Emphasis
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 6 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
This scenario presents concepts and strategies for creating a definable and vibrant"City
Center"for the City of Spokane Valley. The purposes of creating a Spokane Valley City
Center are:
1. Create an identifiable downtown that is the social and economic focus of the City;
2. Strengthen the City overall by providing for long-term growth in employment and
housing;
3. Promote housing opportunities close to employment and services;
4. Develop land use patterns that support the development of a more extensive
regional transportation system, whatever the ultimate configuration may be;
5. Reduce dependency on automobiles;
6. Consume less land with urban development;
7. Maximize the public investment in infrastructure and services;
8. Provide a central gathering place for the community; and
9. Improve the quality of design for development throughout the City.
There are several reasons why a definable, vital City Center is an important part of
Spokane Valley's future. These include:
1. The development of a more intensive, multi-use city center is a natural step in
Spokane Valley's evolution. Most new urban areas start out as bedroom communities.
Retail and commercial uses then develop to serve the new residential population. Office
and industrial activities next begin to locate a key transportation crossroads; adding jobs
and strengthening the employment base. Spokane Valley has experienced all of these
evolutionary phases, with the exception of one. The final step in this process is
achieving a sufficient critical mass in the defined City Center area to produce lively street
activity; support specialty business, cultural/entertainment facilities;justify the public
investment for parks and open space, amenities and improvements in the transportation
system.
2. Economic Development—Spokane Valley has an opportunity to transform itself
from an essentially residential and retail based economy to a sub-regional economic
center with an expanded, more diverse employment base.
3. Community Support—A survey of Spokane Valley area citizens prior to
incorporation overwhelmingly indicated that the lack of identifiable "downtown" and a
community gathering place was of concern to a majority of respondents. Community
support was tested again when the city conducted a statistically valid survey in the
Spring of 2004. A discussion of the results of the city's survey is included in Section
2.11.
The following would be components of the City Center:
1. Location: generally located in the area adjacent to the intersection of University
Road and Sprague Avenue.
2. The city center would be between 200 and 300 acres in size including both
the city center core and city center frame.
3. Streets: New streets would be added at every 200—400 feet to create an
internal grid street system to provide an urban atmosphere.
4. On-street parking would be provided on internal grid streets.
5. Ground floor retail on both sides of streets.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 7 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
6. Building out to the edge of right-of-way and include wide sidewalks to encourage
a lively street scene.
7. Office/Employment uses provided in high visibility locations with adequate
parking and adjacent to pleasant surroundings such as open space, retail shops
and services.
8. Multi family housing that is safe and secure. Located so that it is buffered from
traffic noise and provides a pedestrian friendly streetscape with connections to
parks, schools, shopping, services and transit.
9. Civic/public uses such as city hall, community library, performing arts center or
other public uses that would attract people to downtown over an extended portion
of the day.
Other characteristics of this land use scenario include the following:
1. Neighborhood/community retail centers-current land use patterns dictate that
residents travel to the Sprague Avenue to access some of the most basic goods and
services. This scenario would provide for smaller scale, less intensive retail/commercial
centers in the south end and northeast portions of the city. Potential locations for these
centers would be focused at intersections of arterials at the periphery of the city, such as
Pines Road/32nd Avenue, Dishman MicaRoad/Bowdish Road and Barker Road/Boone
Avenue.
2. Office zoning districts-currently, there is no specific zoning district or
comprehensive plan designation for professional office uses. The county has used the
UR-22, Multi-family zoning district as its office district, which has resulted in a number of
issues related to rezones and appropriate development standards. Areas that are
currently developed in predominately office uses would be redesignated to an "Office"
comprehensive plan designation and zoning district with development standards to
implement the policies of the comprehensive plan. Specific areas in the city include the
Evergreen corridor north of Sprague Avenue; Mission east of Pines Road in the medical
office area; near the intersection of Pines Road and Broadway; and other areas
identified through the land use inventory process.
3. "Auto-Row" district-The city has several new auto dealerships located along
Sprague Avenue. The majority of these dealerships are located between Argonne Road
and Thierman Road. Two dealerships are located just west of Dartmouth Road, near
the U-City Mall. New car dealerships provide the city with substantial sales tax revenue
on one hand, on the other hand auto dealerships can have a significant visual impact on
a community and have somewhat unique needs related to development standards such
as signage and street frontage landscaping. This scenario recognizes these
circumstances and designates the areas identified above appropriately and provides
policy direction for the implementing development regulations.
4. Mixed Use-this scenario suggests reducing the commercial "strip", also known
as Sprague Avenue by maintaining Regional Commercial zoning only at major
intersections such as University, Pines, and Evergreen. Areas in between these
commercial "nodes"would be designated as mixed use, which would encourage
conversion of these dilapidated commercial areas into areas of office/employment,
residential and specialty retail.
5. Industrial areas would not be significantly changed or altered under this or any
other scenario. Permitted uses and development standards would be reviewed for
appropriateness and changes proposed based on policy direction of the comprehensive
plan.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 8 CHAPTER 2-LAND USE
6. The majority of land in the City of Spokane Valley is dedicated to single family
residential zoning and land use. The majority of the single family residential areas are
zoned UR-3.5 under the interim comprehensive plan. This zoning requires a minimum
lot size of 10,000 square feet. Under this scenario, the existing single family residential
zoning districts would be evaluated and a series of single family districts with minimum
lot sizes ranging from 5,000 to 9,600 square feet would be considered. Reducing overall
lot sizes would enable the city to maintain its existing single family character and
minimize land needed for multi-family zoning to accommodate the city's 20 year
population growth projection.
7. Areas previously platted in 1+/- acre lots—There are areas, such as Rotchford
Acres and parts of the Ponderosa area, which were platted as approximately one acre
lots. These areas under the current interim comprehensive plan are zoned UR-7. Areas
such as these would be rezoned to an R-1 zoning designation with the intent to preserve
the original intent of the zoning for these areas. Moreover, these areas would be
allowed to maintain a small number of livestock such as horses in keeping with the rural
character of these neighborhoods.
2.2.2 Land Use Scenario 2—Urban Activity Centers
This scenario is generally based on the Focused Growth Land Use alternative that was
developed as part of the Spokane County Comprehensive Plan process. This scenario
would focus mixed use and higher-density developed in selected "centers" and
"corridors". The centers are delineated according to size and function. The largest of
these are called urban activity centers. They are dependent on community investment in
a public transit system. The proposed urban activity centers include the University City
and Mirabeau Point and are dependent on a strong public transit and pedestrian design
element. This scenario however, does not include a focused "city center"component as
did Scenario 1.
On a smaller scale, community centers provide a general mix of land uses and
increased transportation choices. These centers can provide a mix of employment,
commercial uses and higher-density residential uses. Community centers are designed
to serve several residential neighborhoods. Neighborhood centers are the smallest
proposed centers. Their mixed use potential would be limited to individual neighborhood
needs and design preferences. The intent of the neighborhood centers would be to
provide basic goods and services closer to the large residential neighborhoods.
In addition to mixed use centers, another land use category that could provide housing
and employment densities to support frequent transit service is a mixed use corridor.
These corridors would be located along major transportation routes, such as Sprague
Avenue, Argonne/Mullan Roads and Sullivan Road, which are currently largely devoted
to major commercial uses. The focus in these areas would change from auto-dependent
regional commercial to community, neighborhood and higher-density residential.
Mixed use centers and corridors are the central land use concepts in the focused "Urban
Activity Centers" scenario, however, would apply only to specific, identified areas. The
areas where these concepts would apply are limited when looking at the City of Spokane
Valley as a whole. The centers-and-corridors option relies on performance and criteria-
based policies to ensure compatibility between uses, whereas a more traditional land
use option relies on separation of land uses based on the type and intensity of the use.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 9 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
To be successful, mixed use centers and corridors would rely on detailed design
standards that provide for a suitable built environment for this land use concept.
As in Scenario 1, this scenario would designate an "Auto-Row" area specifically
designed to address the needs and issues of new auto dealerships. Moreover, this
scenario would examine the single family residential zoning in the city and develop
alternative single family zoning districts based on minimum lot sizes ranging from 1 acre
in an R-1 district to as small as 5,000 square feet in an R-3 or R-4 district. The R-1
designation would be limited to areas that were platted as 1 acre neighborhoods.
Additionally, this scenario would include areas be redesignated to an Office designation
under the plan and zoned appropriately. The Office designation would recognize areas
developed in office uses that were zoned as UR-22 under the County's plan and
development regulations due to a lack of an Office plan designation or zoning district.
2.2.3 Land Use Scenario 3—Modified Existing Conditions
This scenario utilizes the existing conditions in terms of zoning its basis and proposes
modifications to address specific issues that have been previously identified. The main
feature of this scenario is that the existing commercial strip along Sprague Avenue is left
intact. Other commercial areas such as the strips along Pines Road, Argonne and
Mullan, and Sullivan Road would also be maintained much as they exist today.
Minimum changes would be made to policies in order to comply with the requirements of
the Growth Management Act and County-wide Planning Policies.
This scenario would include provisions for urban services and facilities, to be provided
"concurrently"with approvals for new urban development. Land use categories for
residential, commercial and industrial land use would be divided into specific density
ranges and usage categories. Also, commercial land uses would be separated out
based on size and scale. The largest commercial category is Regional Commercial,
followed by the Community Commercial category, then the Neighborhood Commercial
category. Industrial land uses would be split by intensity of use into Heavy Industrial and
Light Industrial. The locations of these new land use categories would be based on
existing land use, zoning patterns, service and facilities capacities and plans and
environmental factors.
This scenario would have some elements contained in Scenarios 1 and 2 including the
following:
1. Create a comprehensive plan designation and policies for an "Auto Row" area of
the city. Areas previously identified would be the focus of this designation. This would
not include"used"automobile lots.
2. Create an Office plan designation and policies for areas of the city developed as
professional office but zoned UR-22 under Spokane Valley's interim zoning regulations.
Rezone areas consistent with this comprehensive plan action.
3. Evaluate the single family residential zoning districts. Create an R-1 zoning
district for areas of the city that were platted previously under Spokane County into 1
acre +1- lots. R-1 would only be used for existing 1 acre neighborhoods and not to
create new 1 acre subdivisions. Modified single family districts based on minimum lot
sizes from 9,600 to 5,000 square feet would be developed to accommodate a wider
range of single family densities in the city.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 0 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
2.3 Relationship to Other Comprehensive Plan Chapters
The land use concept set forth in this chapter is consistent with all SVCP chapters.
Internal consistency among the chapters of the SVCP translates into coordinated growth
and an efficient use of limited resources. Below is a brief discussion of how the Land
Use chapter relates to the other chapters of the SVCP.
2.3.1 Economic Development
Spokane Valley's economy is disproportionately divided. A report prepared by Dr. Grant
Forsyth based on the 2000 Census information for the Spokane Valley area, there were
nearly 3,000 employer firms employing approximately 43,305 people with an average
annual payroll per employee of approximately $29,000 in 2000 dollars.
Dependence on retail trade and service occupations stems primarily from the City's
evolution into a regional shopping destination for eastern and southern Spokane County
and counties in northern Idaho. Increased regional competition from other retail areas,
such as Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene and the City of Spokane, may impact the City's
ability to capture future retail dollars. To improve Spokane Valley's economic outlook,
the economic development strategy is to promote a more diverse economy. A diversified
economy would achieve a better balance between jobs and housing and support the
City's desired quality of life.
In conjunction with the Economic Development chapter, this Land Use chapter promotes
the following:
1. A City Center composed of mid-rise office buildings, mixed-use retail, and
housing.
2. Redevelopment and development of the Sprague Avenue/Appleway Boulevard
corridor into an area of quality commercial and mixed use development.
3. Establishment of design standards for non-single family areas.
4. Preservation of existing single family neighborhoods.
The land use map designations support development necessary to achieve the above
(see the Comprehensive Plan Designations Map XX). A complete discussion of
economic development is set forth in the Economic Development chapter.
2.3.2 Capital Facilities
Capital facilities provided by the City include: transportation and streets, parks and open
space, and surface water management. The amount and availability of urban services
and infrastructure influences the location and pace of future growth. The City is
responsible for the construction and maintenance of parks and recreation facilities,
streets and transportation improvements, and surface water facilities. Providing for
future growth while maintaining existing improvements depends upon the community's
willingness to pay for the construction and financing of new facilities and the
maintenance of existing facilities.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 11 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
As outlined in the Capital Facilities Plan, new infrastructure and services may be
financed by voter-approved bonds, impact fees, grants, designated capital taxes (real
estate excise tax, fuel tax, utility tax), and money from the City's general fund.
To capitalize on the City's available resources for urban services and infrastructure,this
Land Use chapter recognizes that concentrating growth is far more cost effective than
allowing continued urban sprawl. Concentrating growth also supports the enhancement
of future transit improvements.
Water Availability- Potable water is provided to residents of Spokane Valley by thirteen
water and irrigation districts. All drinking water used by residents in Spokane Valley is
drawn from the Spokane Valley/Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer.
Water Quality- Maintaining a clean source of water is vital to the health and livability of
the City. Preserving water quality ensures a clean source of drinking water; and,
continued health of the City's streams and lakes. Maintaining water quality is also
important for maintaining the health of the aquifer that relies on surface water for
recharge.
Contamination of an aquifer by contaminated surface water can lead to serious health
concerns and/or expensive treatment requirements. To address this concern and
impacts of new development, the City has adopted a Stormwater Management Plan.
The plan specifies actions to ensure water quality including the development of
detention/retention facilities to control rate and quality of water runoff. Furthermore,
development of a wellhead protection program with the various water providers should
provide guidelines to avoid possible contamination.
Policies contained in the Natural Environment chapter provide direction for development
near wellheads and in aquifer recharge areas. For a complete discussion of water
resources and water purveyors in the City of Spokane Valley, refer to the Capital
Facilities chapter.
2.3.3 Parks and Open Space
One of the most important and valued elements of a high quality living and working
environment is a parks and open space system. Providing parks and open spaces
contributes to a reduction in environmental impacts such as noise and air pollution;
increases the value of adjacent properties; provides areas for passive and active
recreation; and helps preserve the natural beauty of the City.
2.3.4 Natural Environment
Spokane Valley's natural beauty is apparent. Streams, wetlands, surrounding
mountains and the Spokane River provide a scenic backdrop as well as a source for
active and passive recreation for the citizens of Spokane Valley. The Land Use chapter
seeks to protect Spokane Valley's unique natural resources through policies that support
the preservation of these areas for future generations. The Natural Environment chapter
also includes a discussion of critical areas as defined by GMA. For a complete
discussion, please refer to the Natural Environment chapter.
2.3.5 Housing
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 12 CHAPTER 2-LAND USE
Housing is a basic human need and a major factor in the quality of life for individuals and
families. An adequate supply of affordable, attractive, and functional housing is
fundamental to achieving a sense of community. The central issue related to land use is
supplying enough land to accommodate projected growth for a range of incomes and
households. Presently, housing is provided primarily in single-family subdivisions.
This plan sets forth strategies to increase housing options and choices. The Land Use
chapter advocates changes to current development codes to increase flexibility in
platting land and encourage housing as part of mixed-use developments in commercial
areas. The latter provides an opportunity to locate housing closer to employment and
shopping, and to create affordable housing. A complete discussion of housing can be
found in the Housing chapter.
2.4 Projected Growth & Development Capacity
2.4.1 Projected Growth
In October 2003, the City of Spokane Valley received a 2000 population certification
from the U.S. Census Bureau that indicated 80,927 people called Spokane Valley home
on April 1, 2000. As of April 1, 2003 the population had grown to 82,005 (based on the
Washington State Office of Financial Management[OFM] population estimates). Upon
incorporation on March 31, 2003, the City of Spokane Valley became the state's ninth
largest city and second largest in Spokane County.
Spokane Valley received an OFM population estimate for April 1, 2004 of 83,950. This
new population estimate moved Spokane Valley from the state's ninth largest city to the
state's eighth largest city. The 2004 population estimate reflects an annual increase of
3.6 percent over the city's 2003 population estimate.
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
POPULATION ESTIMATES
150,000 — —
140,000
130,000
120,000 -
110,000
100,000
90,000
80,000 '-
.C.Dq9��2��Des7leb Q07 0'2�°A�°'C)07 QG02�o
Population:Actual/Estimate
—Population Estinnte:1.5%Growth Rate
—Population Estimate:2.5%Growth Rate
Figure LU-2: 20 Year Population Estimates
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 13 CHAPTER 2–LAND USE
Future population growth has been forecasted by OFM. This future population growth
was distributed between jurisdictions and unincorporated Spokane County through a
methodology prepared by the Spokane County Steering Committee of Elected Officials.
The City of Spokane Valley was not allocated population growth originally because the
City had not been incorporated when this action took place. However, the County did
allocate population to the"Spokane Valley IUGA", which includes the new cities of
Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake.
This process resulted in a population allocation of 39,431 to the Spokane Valley IUGA.
The Spokane Valley IUGA includes both the City of Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake.
This IUGA also includes areas within the UGA that are still in unincorporated Spokane
County. The graph in Figure 2-1 estimates Spokane Valley's 20 year population using a
1.5% and 2.5% annual growth rate.
Using the 1.5% annual growth rate, which is consistent with past estimated growth rates
in the Spokane Valley area, the estimated 2025 population of Spokane Valley is 114,765
or an increase of 30,815 persons. The 2.5% annual growth rate results in a 2025
population of 141,011, an increase of 57,061.
Spokane Valley proposed a population allocation of 30,389 to the Steering Committee
based on the regional land capacity methodology to the Steering Committee. This
population request is consistent with anticipated growth rates based on the limited
historical data available.
2.4.2 Land Capacity Analysis
The GMA does not require a Population and Land Capacity Element to the
Comprehensive Plan. However, GMA does require that Land Use, Housing and Capital
Facilities Elements include population densities, building intensities and estimates of
future population growth. The GMA also requires a Land Capacity Analysis, or the
theoretical holding capacity of the designated Urban Growth Areas, which by definition
include cities. By assigning the expected population growth to the results of the Land
Capacity Analysis, the area required to accommodate the population growth is shaped.
Countywide population forecasts are identified by the CWPPs, as one criterion for
consideration in developing a regional methodology or countywide population allocation.
The countywide growth target is based on the OFM growth management population
forecast for Spokane County.
The Land Quantity Analysis Methodology for Spokane County was developed through
the efforts of the Land Quantity Technical Committee between March 1995 and October
1995. The Growth Management Steering Committee of Elected Officials adopted that
methodology on November 3, 1995.
The adopted methodology is patterned after the Washington State Department of
Community, Trade and Economic Development's (CTED) land quantity inventory
guidebook entitled Issues in Designating Urban Growth Areas Part I-Providing
Adequate Urban Area Land Supply. Use of that document was specified by the adopted
Countywide Planning Policies(Policy Topic 1 (Urban Growth Areas Policy#3).
However, the step-by-step CTED process was modified somewhat by the Land Quantity
Technical Committee to reflect unique circumstances in Spokane County.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 14 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
The following steps of the regional methodology were followed by Spokane Valley in
conducting the land capacity analysis.
1. Identify lands that are potential candidates to accommodate future growth
- vacant, partially-used and under-utilized land(in other words, subtract all
parcels committed to other uses).
2. Subtract all parcels that the community defines as not developable
because of physical limitation.
3. Subtract lands that will be needed for other public purposes.
4. Subtract all parcels that the community determines are not suitable for
development for social and economic reasons.
5. Subtract that percentage of land that the community assumes will not be
available for development within the community plan's 20-year time frame.
6. Build in a safety factor.
7. Determine total capacity.
Spokane Valley prepared a land capacity analysis of the city and surrounding UGA's
based on the above regional methodology. The original analysis included the Alcott
Joint Planning Area, which has been deleted from the information below. The Alcott JPA
was eliminated because it has been identified as a JPA for the City of Spokane. The
results of this analysis were presented to the Steering Committee of Elected Officials on
June 24 and July 29, 2004 for purposes of requesting a population allocation for
planning purposes. Map XX indicates vacant or partially used lands. The results of the
land capacity analysis are contained in the table below:
Table LU-1
Spokane Valley Land Capacity Analysis (July 2004)
Vacant and Net Potential New Population
Area Partially Developable Dwelling Units Capacity
Used Land Acres
Spokane Valley 3,710 1,478 8,408 20,666
(Incorporated Area)
Northeast 43 8 32 80
Northwood 862 356 1,496 3,739
East 584 151 1,554 3,269
Southeast 310 146 585 1,463
South 757 18 73 184
Ponderosa 40 0 0 0
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 15 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Edgecliff/Dishman 161 9 35 88
TOTAL 6,467 2,166 12,183 29,489
While the City of Spokane Valley requested a total population allocation of 30,389 from
the Steering Committee, Spokane Valley recommended that both Spokane Valley and
the City of Liberty Lake receive an interim population allocation that could be
accommodated within the existing city limits of each city. The rationale for this
recommendation was based on the situation regarding sanitary sewer throughout the
entire Spokane region.
It is estimated the Spokane County treatment plant will run out of capacity in 2009 and
the Liberty Lake Water& Sewer District treatment capability is currently at or near
capacity. Necessary permits to expand capacity at either facility are not forth coming
from the Washington State Department of Ecology or the federal Environmental
Protection Agency. Given the potential constraint for both jurisdictions to provide this
vital urban service, the Steering Committee forwarded a recommendation to the
Spokane County Board of County Commissioners to allocate only the population that
could be accommodated within existing city limits until such time the sanitary sewer
issues are resolved.
2.5 Land Use Designations
The land use designations in the SVCP recognize the relationships between broad
patterns of land uses. The designations set forth locational criteria for each specific
class of uses consistent with the long-term objectives of the SVCP. These designations
provide the purpose and intent for specific zoning districts. The location of
comprehensive plan land use designations are shown on the Comprehensive Plan
Designations Map (Map XX).
2.5.1 Single Family Residential
The demand for and development of single-family housing is expected to continue for
the foreseeable future. Single-family development will occur as in-fill development of
vacant lots scattered throughout existing neighborhoods and as subdivisions on vacant
tracts of land. To address future housing needs, the Land Use chapter encourages new
techniques for developing single-family subdivisions. Such techniques include clustering,
planned unit developments, lot size averaging, zero lot line development, accessory
dwelling units and special needs housing.
Single Family Residential—Low Density
The Single Family Low Density designation retains larger urban lots for two reasons.
First, preserve single family neighborhoods that were specifically platted into 1 +/-acre
lots in the past; and two, avoid development pressure on or near environmentally
sensitive areas and to retain areas that have unique area-wide circumstance. There are
two notable locations of areas that were platted into approximately 1 acre lots:
Ponderosa, located in the southwest portion of the City; and Rotchford Acres located in
the eastern portion of the City.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 16 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Single Family Residential—Medium Density
The Single Family Medium Density designation creates urban lots with a density range
of three to six dwelling units per acre and is the predominant residential designation in
the City. Lot sizes of between 10,000 and 7,200 square feet provide for a transition in
density between land designated as Single Family High Density Residential and Single
Family Low Density Residential. Some areas designated as Single Family Medium
Density Residential still lack urban services and infrastructure, mainly sanitary sewer
facilities. Upon provision of urban services, such as water and sewer, an increase in
density may be warranted.
Single Family Residential— High Density
Lot sizes of approximately 5,000, and 6,500 square feet and when combined with the
previous single family designations will provide a range of housing density opportunities.
Single Family- High Density residential designations are located within close and
convenient proximity to neighborhood business centers, areas of existing or future
employment, transit, and existing urban infrastructure and services. These areas may
also provide a transition from non-residential areas to the medium and low density
residential areas. Future Single Family- High Density development should have
convenient access to collector/arterial streets and regional transportation facilities.
2.5.2 Multi-Family Residential
The multiple-family residential land use designation represents an opportunity to provide
a range of housing types to accommodate anticipated residential growth. The increase
in population, decline in average family size, and increased cost of single-family homes
have created heavy demand for new housing types. The Land Use chapter encourages
the development of housing types, such as duplexes, townhouses, and condominiums in
existing multi-family areas and within mixed-use development in commercial areas.
Multi-family uses in large part are in areas currently zoned for multiple-family
development. Designations of MF-12 and MF-22, corresponding to densities of 12 and
22 dwelling units per acre respectively, will continue to be used. Opportunities for new
development will occur through redevelopment and build-out of remaining parcels.
Multi-family residential zones should be used as a transitional zoning between higher
intensity land uses such as commercial and office to lower density single family
neighborhoods. Additionally, MF-12 and MF-22 designated areas should be located
near services and high capacity transit facilities or transit routes.
Residential design guidelines that address design and appearance of multiple-family
developments should be considered. The primary goal of residential design guidelines is
to develop multiple-family housing that is reflective of the community's character and
appearance.
2.5.3 Commercial Designations
Existing commercial areas are auto-oriented and characterized by one-story low
intensity development. In the future, these areas will become more intensively
developed and pedestrian oriented, and in some designations, accommodate housing.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 17 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Transforming existing areas into places where people want to live, shop, and work
requires changes. Commercial areas should contain street furniture, trees, pedestrian
shelters, well marked crosswalks, and buildings oriented to and along the street to
provide interest and allow easy pedestrian access.
City Center
The intent of establishing the City Center is to create a higher density, mixed-use
designation where office, retail, government uses, and residential uses are concentrated.
The City Center will also be located at one of the major hubs of the region's high
capacity transit(HCT) system.
Regional Commercial
The Regional Commercial designation encompasses two major retail areas of the City.
It covers the"strip" retail areas along Sprague Avenue and the large "big box" retail area
found in the Sullivan Road area from Sprague Avenue north to the Interstate 90
interchange and includes the Valley Mall, Fred Meyer, Wal-Mart and others. Regional
Commercial allows a large range of uses and is the City's largest commercial zoning
designation in terms of land area. A wide range of development types, appearance,
ages, function, and scale can be found along Sprague Avenue. Older, single-story
developments provide excellent opportunities for redevelopment.
To create retail areas that are aesthetically and functionally attractive, revised
development standards, applied through Regional Commercial zoning and adoption of
Community Design Guidelines, which address design quality, mixed-use, and the
integration of auto, pedestrian, and transit circulation. Site design, modulation, and
setback requirements are also addressed.
Community Commercial
The community commercial classification designates areas for retail, service and office
establishments intended to serve several neighborhoods. Community Commercial
areas should not be larger than 15-17 acres in size and should be located as business
clusters rather than arterial strip commercial development. Community Commercial
centers may be designated through the adoption of the comprehensive plan,
comprehensive plan amendments or through sub-area planning. Residences in
conjunction with business and/or multifamily developments may be allowed with
performance standards that ensure compatibility.
Neighborhood Commercial
The neighborhood commercial classification designates areas for small-scale
neighborhood serving retail and office uses. Neighborhood business areas should not be
larger than 2 acres in size and should be located as business clusters rather than arterial
strip commercial development. Neighborhood business centers may be designated
through the adoption of the comprehensive plan, comprehensive plan amendments or
through neighborhood plans.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 18 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
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SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHAPTER 2-LAND USE 19
Auto Mall Overlay
The City of Spokane Valley is home to several major new automobile dealerships.
While these land uses provide a positive economic impact on the community, they can
also have less positive impacts on the aesthetics of the community. Auto dealerships
typically have vast areas of pavement to store new and used vehicles for sale. These
land uses also have unique requirements for landscaping and signage. Unlike many
commercial uses whose stock in trade is contained within a building, it is necessary for
auto dealerships to have their vehicles clearly visible from the street. This makes
traditional street side landscaping (consisting of low growing shrubs and bushes and
trees) not viable for these uses.
An overlay designation is being used rather than a zoning district due to the location of
these uses and the mix of other uses within those areas. By using an overlay and
leaving the underlying zoning in place, the negative affect on the non-auto dealer uses in
the area will be minimized or eliminated.
2.5.4 Office Designations
Spokane Valley has areas of quality office development. Several developments within
the Argonne/Mullan Couplet, Pines Road, and Evergreen Road corridors embody good
design and are representative of desired future office development. Together, office and
garden office development will provide new job opportunities within the community.
Garden Office
The Garden Office designation is intended to allow for well designed, small-scale office
development that is compatible with adjacent residential neighborhoods.
Professional Office
The Professional Office designation emphasizes high quality office development that
allows for a mix of office and compatible manufacturing type activities. This classification
also permits a limited amount of retail support services. These types of developments
are characterized by large contiguous sites containing landscaping, open space, and
buildings of superior quality.
Office Technology
The Office Technology designation emphasizes high quality office development that
allows for a mix of office and compatible manufacturing type activities. This
classification also permits retail support services, along with the mix of office and light
manufacturing uses. This category may serve as a transitional designation between
major commercial nodes in areas such as the Sprague Avenue corridor.
2.5.5 Mixed Use Corridors
Mixed-use corridors are intended to enhance travel options, encourage development of
locally serving commercial uses, medium-density apartments and offices along
transportation corridors identified on the Land Use Plan Map. Mixed-use corridors
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 20 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
discourage low-intensity, auto-dependent uses and focus on a pedestrian orientation
with an emphasis on aesthetics and design.
2.5.6 Industrial Designations
Providing for industrial land is important for the economic health of Spokane Valley.
Industrial businesses help drive the local economy and create an economic multiplier
effect throughout the region. Providing an adequate supply of usable land with minimal
environmental constraints and infrastructure in place helps ensure that Spokane Valley
will be an attractive place for industrial businesses to locate and prosper. (See Chapter
7, Economic Development, for additional policies that encourage recruitment and
retention of industrial business.)
Industrial—Heavy Industry
Heavy industry is characterized by intense industrial activities which include, but are not
limited to, manufacturing, processing, fabrication, assembly/disassembly, freight-
handling and similar operations. Heavy industry may have significant noise, odor or
aesthetic impacts to surrounding areas.
Commercial, residential and most recreational uses should not be allowed in areas
designated for heavy industry, except for small-scale ancillary uses serving the industrial
area. The conversion of designated industrial lands to other uses should be strictly
limited. Limiting incompatible uses ensures a competitive advantage in business
recruitment by providing adequate industrial land supply, reducing land use conflicts and
preventing inflation of land prices.
Industrial—Light Industry
The Light Industry designation is a planned industrial area with special emphasis and
attention given to aesthetics, landscaping and internal and community compatibility.
Uses may include high technology and other low-impact industries. Light Industry areas
may incorporate office and commercial uses as ancillary uses within an overall plan for
the industrial area. Non-industrial uses should be limited and in the majority of cases be
associated with permitted industrial uses.
The Light Industry category may serve as a transitional category between heavy
industrial areas and other less intensive land use categories. The category may also
serve as a visual buffer for heavy industrial areas adjacent to aesthetic corridors.
2.5.7 Community Facilities
The Community Facilities designation is intended to protect and preserve areas of the
City devoted to civic, cultural, educational, and similar facilities. These facilities provide
for the social needs of the community as those needs relate to public services, open
space and institutions whether they are publicly or privately sponsored or operated.
Moreover,this designation provides for and protects parks, open space, and other
natural physical assets of the community. Uses in these areas may include those
identified as "Essential Public Facilities". For an in depth discussion of Essential Public
Facilities, please refer to Chapter 4, Capital Facilities.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 21 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
2.6 Development Review Process
The Land Use chapter provides the policy foundation for implementing zoning and
development regulations. In developing policy concerning future land use regulations, or
revisions to existing regulations, every effort has been made to instill certainty and
efficiency in the development process. State legislation has focused on developing
streamlined and timely permit processing. Through the following implementation
strategies,the City continues to strive to provide an efficient and timely review system.
2.7 Urban Design and Form
In addition to guiding development, the Land Use chapter also guides the quality and
character of the City's future development pattern through goals and policies related to
the form, function, and appearance of the built environment. These priorities and
implementation strategies, related to quality development, serve and will continue to
serve as a basis from which to develop appropriate implementation measures.
The design of our urban environment has a significant effect on community identity.
Well designed communities contribute to a healthful, safe and sustainable environment
that offers a variety of opportunities for housing and employment. An attractive and well
planned community is invaluable when recruiting new business and industry to an area.
Some of the concepts considered include:
• Community appearance, including signs and placement of utilities;
• Neighborhood considerations in the review of development projects;
• Integration of neighborhoods including bicycle and pedestrian facilities;
• The effect of traffic patterns and parking on neighborhood character;
• Encouragement of high quality development through the appropriate use of
planned unit developments; and
• Consideration for public art.
2.7.1 Aesthetic Corridors
Aesthetic corridors are intended to protect the visual appeal of Spokane Valley along
Major transportation routes entering and exiting the city. Aesthetic corridors provide
special design standards for aesthetics along major transportation routes to help create
a quality image of Spokane Valley.
Another component of aesthetic corridors is the"gateways" into the city. There are
several entrances into the City of Spokane Valley along major transportation corridors
including Sprague Avenue, Trent Avenue, State Route 27 and a number of interchanges
on Interstate 90.
2.7.2 Planned Unit Developments
Building flexibility into the subdivision process is important to allow for new concepts and
creative site design. Planned unit developments provide the city a tool for allowing
flexibility while ensuring a design meets overall health and safety standards and is
consistent with neighborhood character. Planned unit developments allow for deviations
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 22 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
from the typical zoning standards in exchange for designs that protect the environment,
provide usable open space and exhibit exceptional quality and design.
2.8 Historical and Cultural Resources
2.8.1 Background
In many ways, Spokane Valley's historic and cultural resources are similar to our rich
natural resources. Like wetlands, rivers, lakes, streams and other natural resources,
historic properties are a finite and endangered resource. Also like our natural resources,
once an historic or archaeological property is destroyed, it is lost forever. Cultural
resources such as historic buildings, monuments of historic events and archaeological
sites are statements of Spokane Valley's identity. People especially value our authentic,
homegrown cultural resources that set us apart from other areas of the state.
The area which is now Spokane County shows evidence of habitation reaching back at
least 13,000 years. If there was evidence of prior habitation, it is likely that the great
floods of Lake Missoula erased it. Within the Spokane County area there were as many
as six groups, which now compose three main tribes, including the Spokane tribe, the
Couer d'Alenes and the Kalispels. Each of these groups harvested the abundant
vegetation, hunted game stock and traded with each other.
Salmon and other anadromous fish were very important to those that fished in the
Spokane Falls area. The past 100 years have brought drastic changes to the tribes of
the Spokane area. However, the tribes continue to be an integral part of the land into
which their ancestors were born. Many of the place names that are now the names of
cities and towns in the area were important places and names to the tribes.
The territorial legislature created Spokane County in 1858. The county included all of
Washington east of the Cascade Mountains, as well as northern Idaho and western
Montana: about 75,000 square miles in total. In 1867 the county name was changed to
Stevens, Washington Territory. The new settlers to the area wanted to build farms and
homes. Steven Liberty brought his family to live by the lake that is now named after him.
William Newman settled in 1865 near the lake now called Newman Lake. William
Spangle ran a post office and stage station in the town of Spangle and Joseph Moran
settled south of Spokane Valley and farmed on what is now called Moran Prairie.
In 1879 Spokane County was organized out of part of Stevens County, with a temporary
county seat at Spokane Falls. An election for county seat was held in November 1880.
Cheney won by only a few votes. The settlers in Spokane Falls protested and asked for
a recount, refusing to give the county records to Cheney. About five months after the
county seat election, men from Cheney stole the county records from the courthouse
through a door left unlocked by the county auditor. Cheney kept the county seat until the
election of 1886, when it was moved back to Spokane.
By the early Twentieth Century, Spokane County was the rapidly growing center of the
Inland Northwest, an area that encompassed the mining district of northern Idaho and
southern British Columbia as well as the rich timber and farmlands of eastern
Washington. By 1903, the region was served by several transcontinental rail lines and
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 23 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
was the hub of a growing system of electric interurban lines managed by the Spokane
and Inland Empire Railroad System Company.
Spokane Valley is the location of several "Firsts"to occur in the Spokane Region. The
first permanent settler in the Spokane area was Antoine Plante, a retired French-
Canadian trapper. Plante built a cabin near the Spokane River in 1849, from which he
operated a small Hudson's Bay Company trading post. Plante also constructed and
operated the first ferry on the Spokane River. Other settlers began arriving in this area
between 1865 and 1882. "Firsts"to occur in Spokane Valley include the first settler in
1849, first business and ferry in 1850, the first store and bridge in 1862,the first house in
1866 and the first post office in 1867. All of these "firsts" occurred before the arrival in
1873 of James Glover who was considered the"Father of Spokane".
A large part of Spokane Valley's identity is derived from its heritage. From the Native
Americans who first established trading centers to the continuing waves of newcomers
from around the world, all have left their mark. Cultural Resources are those buildings,
structures, sites or associations left behind by a group of people and are generally over
50 years old. Cultural Resources consist of three types of properties.
Cultural Resources include historic structures and landscapes engineered and built by
man.
a) Historic buildings- houses, barns, commercial buildings, churches, schools. b)
Historic structures-bridges, dams, stone fences.
c) Historic districts-a grouping of buildings with related historic character. d) Historic
objects-statues, monuments, sculpture.
e) Landscapes—gardens, parks, urban and rural.
Cultural Resources include properties that were held in spiritual or ceremonial honor or
by a cultural group or tribe. Cultural Resources include properties which may no longer
show evidence of man-made structures, but retain an historical association with an event
or period. Archaeology sites includes such areas as battlefields, campsites, cemeteries,
burial sites, rock carvings, pictographs, trails, village sites, fishing sites, trading sites,
religious and ceremonial sites.
2.8.2 Cultural and Historical Resource Issues ..j
Documenting Cultural Resources
•
Many historic homes, farms and sites exemplify the
history and culture of the Spokane Valley area, but
proportionally few have been written up in historic •
register nominations. Designation requires ownerr.
s
consent, does not pose undue restrictions to the Y a, ..:k'.. ' • •
owner and can be a planningtool for '' r"�
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property '��'�:=
Nem
government by identifying significant properties.
Archaeological Sites and Security
.
State laws require the protection of archaeological
sites on both public and private land by directing that
the locations of sites be kept confidential within the -
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 24 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
assigned office because archaeological sites are highly susceptible to"treasure hunters
and grave robbers". Existing lists need to be checked to confirm that evidence of the
site/building remains and a better means to identify and preserve evidence of significant
archaeological sites is needed.
Cultural Resources are deemed important when they are over 50 years old, so
identification and evaluation of them is a constant, ongoing process. Moreover, cultural
resources are perceived as less important than other immediate, short-term City
programs; therefore, funding and support for the preservation program is provided on an
annual rather than an ongoing basis.
2.8.3 Spokane Valley Historic and Cultural Resources
The Spokane Valley developed as irrigated agricultural tracts in five and ten acre lots.
The apple orchards of Otis Orchards were supported by warehouses, packing plants,
and box manufacturers. The apple industry which thrived in the early century was
destroyed by killing frost of the 1950s. Newman Lake supplied the water that irrigated
these orchards via the Spokane Canal Company. The flow control gate at Newman Lake
(a great fishing spot) remains as a ruin with its story only in fading memory.
Open canal ditches, concrete =JI
flues, cultivated fields and apple
orchards were part of growing
up in the valley until the late
1950s. A canal ran behind Otis o ,R. `' M
Orchards High School, neither
of which now exists. The
picture on the right shows an _ ' _.
I
Otis Orchards irrigation canal. 3 + ,-
The Opportunity Township Hall .r
(shown below)was designed by
Opportunity resident and noted
Spokane architect C. Harvey Smith and constructed in 1912 by Opportunity builder and
businessman C. E. Johnson. Built as Opportunity's government seat, the Opportunity
Township Hall also served as the area's community hall and a meeting place for various
philanthropic and other organizations including the Opportunity Moose Lodge, Boy
Scouts, Girl Scouts, church groups, dance studios, and wedding parties. The
Opportunity Township Hall is significant as a rare local example of Spanish-
Mediterranean style architecture and for its association with the early settlement and
development of the Spokane Valley and the town of Opportunity.
2.9 Essential Public Facilities
The City of Spokane Valley is required to plan for essential public facilities (EPFs)
pursuant to GMA. Spokane County adopted through the CWPP's the "Growth
Management Essential Public Facilities Technical Committee Report" in 1996, which set
forth a model project review process for the siting of EPFs. All jurisdictions within the
county are required to provide a mechanism in the Comprehensive Plan to utilize the
model project review process either verbatim or as a model.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 25 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
More recently, the Washington State Legislature passed two laws addressing siting of
EPFs. In June 2001 the state enacted ESSB 6151, and in March 2002 the state enacted
ESSB 6594. These laws require counties and cities fully planning under GMA to include
a process in their Comprehensive Plans to provide for the siting of Secure Community
Transition Facilities (SCTFs).
In response to these new state laws, planning staff from all jurisdictions in Spokane
County formed a task force to cooperatively develop a regional siting process for all
essential public facilities, including SCTFs. The Essential Public Facilities Task Force,
with assistance from the Washington State Office of Community Development (OCD),
the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), and technical staff from the
jurisdictions developed a regional siting process for essential public facilities titled
Spokane County Regional Siting Process for Essential Public Facilities. Table 2-X
below indicates EPFs that are either wholly or some portion of located within the City.
Table LU-2
Inventory of Essential Public Facilities
Significance Category Name Address
Statewide Regional Transportation Interstate 90 N/A
Facilities
Statewide Regional Transportation Centennial Trail N/A
Facilities
Regional Regional Transportation Pence-Cole Valley 414 University Road
Facilities Park & Ride and
Transit/Transfer Center
Regional Regional Transportation Pines Road/I 90 Park& E. Montgomery,
Facilities Ride Pines Road & 190
Regional Regional Transportation STA Maintenance— 123 S. Bowdish
Facilities Bowdish (Fleck Service
Center)
Regional Regional Transportation SR-27 (Pines Road) N/A
Facilities
Regional Regional Transportation SR-290 (Trent Avenue) N/A
Facilities
Regional Solid Waste, Valley Recycling- 3941 N. Sullivan
Wastewater&Water Transfer Road
Facilities
Regional Social Service Facilities Valley Hospital & 12606 E. Mission
Medical Center
The regional process provides for a review process with a location analysis. Public
involvement takes place throughout the process with public comment periods as well as
public hearings. The review process requires the applicant for an EPF to assume
responsibility for the bulk of the analysis and processing of the proposal. The analysis
includes two parts. First, an analysis of functional criteria of all potential sites is
conducted to select the highest-ranking ten (10) semi-finalist sites. Second, these ten
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 26 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
semi-finalist sites are analyzed using more qualitative criteria and resulting in selection
of at least three (3) preferred sites.
Both analyses include public comment periods. Next, the Board of County
Commissioners (BoCC) conducts a public hearing on the Preferred Site List to allow for
further public comment, identify strategies to address any issues associated with
particular sites, and rank the finalist sites. The BoCC ranking is advisory to but not
binding on the applicant. Last, the applicant, after selecting a specific site, will work
directly with a local jurisdiction and its regulatory requirements to permit construction and
operation of the EPF.
The regional siting process is based on a coordinated interjurisdictional approach, which
in combination with consistent development regulations among the jurisdictions will
implement the requirement of equitable distribution of EPS of a statewide or
regional/countywide nature.
2.10 The Land Use/Transportation Connection
2.10.1 Street Connectivity •_
Street design can have a Com c 1
9 Ccle s P` °Ece
significant impact on Cc=raeacial
�, , Co,-.-Ci31 f ``"P
community character. Closed . =�.=i` l 0e,2 Cr Ian` 7 v
development patterns, which obe4I Il] Di 1- 1
often include dead-end and 1��oY���D �'
cul-de-sac streets, tend to
isolate neighborhoods and
make travel difficult. Integrated
neighborhoods provide Phis `ot Mrs
connected streets and paths Clear.formaLed and interccnnec:ed street-s s:ens sale destina:ona tsfole,
pre::de the stones:and most three:pati:c desnnanons and result n security llrotTli
and often include a central
contn:l ,-rather than b_•,tsolaticn.
focal point, such as a park or
neighborhood business.
Integrated development patterns promote a sense of community and allow for ease of
pedestrian/bicycle movement.
The illustration on the previous page contrasts an integrated, as compared to a closed,
development pattern. Integration does not necessarily mean development in grids.
Rather, roads should connect and provide for ease of circulation regardless of the
layout.
2.10.2 Traffic Calming
Traffic calming can be defined as measures that physically alter the operational
characteristics of the roadway in an attempt to slow down traffic and reduce the negative
effects of the automobile. The theory behind traffic calming is that roads should be
multiuse spaces encouraging social links within a community and the harmonious
interaction of various modes of travel (i.e., walking, cycling, auto, transit).
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 27 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
The following priorities and implementation strategies make the land use/transportation
connection:
2.11 Citizen Participation
The City of Spokane Valley adopted a Public Participation Program for the preparation of
the comprehensive plan. This program identified actions the city would take to meet the
GMA requirements of"early and continuous" public participation in the development of
the city's plan. Two of the public participation techniques identified in Public
Participation Program is a citizen survey and a series of public meetings hosted by the
city's planning commission.
In the Spring of 2004, the city hired Clearwater Research to conduct a statistically valid
survey of Spokane Valley residents on a number of issues. Clearwater Research
conducted a telephone survey with a random sample of 400 Spokane Valley adults.
Survey data was collected from March 18 to April 7, 2004. The majority of respondents
(83%) indicated they thought Spokane Valley was headed in the right direction.
However, respondents did identify a number of important issues facing Spokane Valley.
Concerns about the economy and planning related matters were among the top issues
respondents identified as facing the City.
Figure LU-3: Importance of Having a City Center
2.11.1 City
Center/Community Identity
100%
City Center. Sixty-one percent El n=395
of respondents indicated that 80%
having a recognizable
downtown or city center was 60%
important to the future of 35%
Spokane Valley. Female 40% 26%
respondents, respondents at17%
2000 13% 9%
lower income levels, and
respondents residing in one or 0%
two person households were I
most likely to report that having Very Somewhat Neutral Somewhat Very
a recognizable downtown was unimportant unimportant important important
important to the future of
Spokane Valley. There was strong support among respondents for spending public
money to create a city center. Seventy-four percent of respondents either somewhat or
strongly supported Spokane Valley officials using public money to develop a city center.
Only 2% strongly opposed the use of public money to create a city center. Over half of
respondents (52%) felt the University City area would be the most ideal Spokane Valley
location for a city center. Figures 1, 2, and 3 below indicate the results of these survey
questions.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 28 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Figure LU-4: Support/Opposition to Spending
Public Money to Create a City Center
100%
■n=241
80%
60°/o 44%
40% 31%
20%
0
2/
0%
Strongly Somewhat Neutral Somewhat Strongly
oppose oppose support support
Figure LU-5: Most Ideal Location for Spokane Valley
City Center
I
Other 5%
■n=233
Everygreen and Sprague 12%
Pines and Sprague 15%
Mirabeau Point 18%
University City area 52%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Community Identity. Only 26% of respondents thought Spokane Valley had a distinct
identity or something that made it unique. Interestingly, almost the same percentage of
respondents who said Spokane Valley does not have a community identity(74%)
indicated that having a community identity was important to the future of Spokane Valley
(76%). While many respondents (47%)felt community identity could be developed
through social changes, other believed physical changes (28%) or a combination of both
physical and social changes(25%)were the best means for accomplishing the
development of community identity.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 29 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Figure LU-6: Importance of Spokane Valley Having Community Identity
100%
0 n=396
80%
60%
41% 35%
40%
111
20% 7% 10% % —
0% I --
Very Somewhat Neutral Somewhat Very
unimportant unimportant important important
Figure LU-7: Development of Community Identity Best Accomplished Through
Physical or Social Changes
100%
❑n=289
80%
60% 47%
40% o 25%
20% —
0%
Physical changes Social changes Both important
2.11.2 Community Aesthetics
The typical pattern of development along the major streets of Spokane Valley did not
appear to be of great concern to respondents. Just 22% expressed dissatisfaction with
the current type of development along major streets. Further underscoring the general
lack of concern about the typical pattern of development along major streets, only 23%
of respondents indicated adding street trees and landscaping to major streets should be
a high priority for City officials. Interestingly, lower income respondents were much more
apt than higher income respondents to report that making streets pedestrian-friendly
should be a high priority for City officials.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 30 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Figure LU-8: Priority Level: Adding Street Trees and Landscaping to Major
Streets
100%
n=400
80%
60%
41% 36%
40% 23%
20% Asa
-:
0%
Low priority Medium priority High priority
Opinions regarding the priority City officials should place on stronger sign and billboard
controls were very mixed. However, 67% of respondents indicated that Spokane Valley
officials should place a medium or high priority on stronger sign and billboard control and
as such, it is probable that the majority of residents would be supportive of stronger
billboard control regulations. Respondents' opinions regarding the development of small
commercials centers close to residential neighborhoods were also sharply divided. Just
under half of respondents (46%)were supportive of developing small commercial
centers close to residential neighborhoods.
Figure LU-9: Priority Level: Making Major Streets Friendly for Pedestrians and
Bicyclists
100%
0 n=399
80%
60%
34°/° 44%
40% —
22%
20% - - -
0%
Low priority Medium priority High priority
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 31 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Figure LU-10: Priority Level: Stronger Controls on Signs and Billboards in
Spokane Valley
100%
D n=398
80%
60%
33% 34% 33%
40%
20%
0%
Low priority Medium priority High priority
2.11.3 Results of"Unscientific" Survey
During the community meeting held on the comprehensive plan, city staff made available
the survey questions contained in the city's community survey. Meeting attendees were
asked to complete the survey and either return it before the end of the meeting or to
complete the survey at home and mail it to the city. In many cases the responses to the
questions were similar to the responses of the formal survey conducted by Clearwater
Research. The following are the results of the"unscientific" survey:
Question 14:
How important to the future of Spokane Valley is having an area of the City that is
recognized as the "downtown"? Would you say....
Very unimportant 33
Somew hat unimportant _7
Neither important nor unimportant 35
Somew hat important 57
Very important 45
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
The responses to this question are very similar to those received during the formal
community survey. The results above reflect that out of the total responses of 177 on
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 32 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
this issue, 102 or nearly 58 percent felt that Spokane Valley having an identifiable
downtown or city center was either somewhat important or very important. This is
compared to 40 responses or 22% indicating that an identifiable city center was either
somewhat or very unimportant.
Question 15:
If you feel a developing a "downtown" is important,which of the following areas
of Spokane Valley would be the most ideal location for a downtown?
4%
10%
4%
73%
University City area o Mrabeau Point area a Fines&Sprague
o Evergreen&Sprague e Other(see list below)
Those respondents that indicated that having an identifiable city center overwhelming
(73%) felt that the University City area was the most appropriate location for establishing
a city center for Spokane Valley.
Question 17:
In your opinion, does Spokane Valley have an identity or something that makes it
unique?
81 -
80 80
79 -
78
77
76 75
75
74
73
72
No Yes
The result of this survey question is somewhat different from the results of the formal
community survey. In the formal survey only 26% of the respondents felt that the City of
Spokane Valley has an identity or something that makes it unique. The results in the
graph above indicate that a majority of those surveyed at the community meetings(52%)
felt there was something unique about Spokane Valley.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 33 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Question 18:
How important to the future of Spokane Valley is having a "community identity?
Would you say...
Very unimportant -16
Somew hat unimportant -8
Neither important nor unimportant -22
Somew hat important 57
Very important 67
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
When asked how important to the future of Spokane Valley is having a distinct
community identity an overwhelming majority of the respondents (73%)felt it is either
somewhat important or very important that Spokane Valley have a distinct identity. This
is consistent with the results of the formal community survey where 76% of respondents
felt it is important for the city to have a community identity.
Question 19:
Would development of a "community identity" best be accomplished through
physical changes, such as the development of a city center or the building of
gateways at the major points of entry into the city, or through social changes,
such as more community events like Valleyfest?
100
90 - 86
80 -
70 -
60 -
50 - 42
40 -
30 - 22
20 -
10 -
0
Physical Changes Social Changes Both Changes Equally
Important
When asked what types of changes would be needed to develop a community identity a
majority (57%) felt that both social and physical changes would be necessary to
accomplish developing an identity for the city. This is somewhat different than the formal
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 34 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
survey where only 26% of the respondents felt that both physical and social changes
were equally important to develop the city's identity.
Question 25:
Do you consider adding street trees and landscaping to major streets in Spokane
Valley a high, medium, or low priority for city officials.
80
70 68 68
60
50 -
40 -
30
30
20
10
0 .
Low Priority Medium Priority Figh Priority
In terms of community aesthetics a majority of the respondents (59%) felt that adding
street trees and landscaping to the major streets in the city should be either a medium or
high priority for city officials. This result was identical to the result of the city's formal
community survey where 59% of respondents felt this should be either a medium or high
priority for the city.
2.12 Priorities and Strategies
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
Priorities
LUP-1 Preserve and protect Spokane Valley's residential neighborhoods
while providing a wide range of housing densities and types in the
residentially designated areas.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-1 Maintain and protect the character of existing and future single-family
neighborhoods through strict enforcement of the City's land use regulations.
LUI-2 Protect residential areas from impacts of adjacent non-residential uses.
LUI-3 Revise existing land use regulations to provide for innovation and
flexibility in the design of new single-family developments and in-fill.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 35 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
LUI-4 Encourage the development of transportation routes and facilities to serve
single family neighborhoods. Special attention should be given to pedestrian
circulation.
LUI-5 Encourage the development of parks and the dedication of open space in
and adjacent to residential areas to preserve the natural setting of Spokane
Valley.
LUI-6 Consider special development techniques (e.g., zero lot lines, lot size
averaging, and planned unit developments) in single-family areas, provided they
result in residential development consistent with the quality and character of
existing neighborhoods.
LUI-7 Preserve site characteristics that enhance residential development(trees,
watercourses, vistas, and similar features) using site planning techniques such
as clustering, planned unit developments, and lot size averaging.
MULTI FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
Priorities
LUP-2 Provide a wide range of housing types and densities commensurate
with the community's needs and preferences.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-8 Allow and encourage a variety of multiple-family housing types in
designated commercial areas, especially in the City Center area.
LUI-9 Use design and performance standards for multiple-family developments
to achieve integration in commercial developments. Performance standards
should focus on scale, appearance, and compatibility.
LUI-10 The City should support multiple-family development with appropriate
transportation and capital facilities improvements.
LUI-11 Multiple-family residential development should be designed to provide
privacy and common open space. Variations in facades and rooflines should be
used to add character and interest to multiple-family developments.
LUI-12 Encourage the establishment of street patterns and amenities that
encourage walking, bicycling, and transit use.
COMMERCIAL
Priorities
LUP-3 Transform Community Business areas into vital, attractive, mixed-
use areas that appeal to pedestrians and motorists and enhance the
community's image.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 36 CHAPTER 2-LAND USE
Implementation Strategies
LUI-13 Encourage transformation of Sprague Avenue Regional/Community
Commercial corridor into a quality mixed-use retail area. Retail development
along the corridor, exclusive of the City Center, should be concentrated at major
intersections and designed to integrate auto, pedestrian, and transit circulation.
Integration of public amenities and open space into retail and office development
should also be encouraged.
LUI-14 Encourage auto-oriented large bulk retailers to locate in the designated
Regional Commercial nodes around major intersections.
Priority
LUP-4 Provide neighborhood and community scale retail centers for the
City's neighborhoods.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-15 Integrate retail developments into surrounding neighborhoods through
attention to quality design and function.
LUI-16 Encourage pedestrian and bicycle access to neighborhood shopping and
services.
LUI-17 Encourage neighborhood retail and personal services to locate at
appropriate locations where local economic demand and design solutions
demonstrate compatibility with the neighborhood.
LUI-18 Retail and personal services should be encouraged to group together
within planned centers to allow for ease of pedestrian movement.
LUI-19 Neighborhood Commercial centers should consist of neighborhood scale
retail and personal services.
LUI-20 Encourage mixed residential and commercial development in
Neighborhood Commercial designations where compatibility with nearby uses
can be demonstrated.
LUI-21 Neighborhood Business areas should be served by transit.
LUI-22 Provide for a mix of commercial and residential uses in commercial areas.
LUI-23 Use Community Design Guidelines to promote common open space,
public art, and plazas in commercial and office developments.
LUI-24 Ensure compatibility between mixed-use developments and residential
areas by regulating height, scale, setbacks, and buffers.
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 37 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
LUI-25 Develop Community Design Guidelines that encourage quality design and
pedestrian and vehicle circulation in commercial, office and mixed use
developments.
LUI-26 Use Community Design Guidelines to encourage commercial
development to locate along the street edge(where deemed appropriate)to
provide pedestrian street access. Provide pedestrian access between
developments and to transit stations.
LUI-27 Identify and designate streets where on-street parking can be safely
provided without unduly slowing traffic flow or jeopardizing traffic safety.
LUI-28 Provide incentives to encourage developers to include housing in
commercial and mixed-use projects.
Priorities
LUP-5 Identify appropriate locations for the Auto Mall Overlay designation.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-29 Identify other appropriate automobile related uses within the Auto Mall
Overlay designation that are complementary to new automobile dealerships.
LUI-30 Implement appropriate development standards for permitted uses within
the Auto Mall Overlay designated area.
LUI-31 Develop appropriate signage standards for uses permitted within the Auto
Mall Overlay designated area.
OFFICE
Priorities
LUP-6 Implement appropriate development standards for Office designated
areas.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-32 Commercial, residential and recreational uses shall be allowed to
encourage mixed-use development in Office areas.
LUI-33 Office areas may be appropriate in mixed use developments of
residential, commercial and light industrial, provided there is adequate mitigation
of land use conflicts and community character and property values are
preserved.
LUI-34 Office areas shall include sidewalks, bike lanes and landscaping to
provide a safe and attractive working environment.
INDUSTRIAL
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 38 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Priorities
LUP-7 Provide for the development of well-planned industrial areas and
ensure the long-term holding of appropriate land in parcel sizes adequate
to allow for future development as industrial uses.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-35 Program capital facility expenditures to facilitate the development of lands
designated for industrial uses.
LUI-36 Encourage low-polluting industries to locate in Spokane Valley.
LUI-37 Encourage shared-use parking, pedestrian access and transit incentive
programs in industrial development projects.
Priorities
LUP-8 A variety of strategically located heavy industrial areas should be
designated and protected from conflicting land uses.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-38 Commercial, residential and recreational uses shall limited or not allowed
in areas designated for heavy industry, except for small-scale ancillary
commercial and recreational uses intended to primarily serve the industrial area.
LUI-39 Conversion of designated industrial lands to other uses shall be strictly
limited in order to ensure adequate land supply and prevent inflation of land
prices.
LUI-40 Provide appropriate buffering, landscaping and other development
standards for industrial areas.
Priorities
LUP-9 A variety of strategically located light industry areas should be
designated and protected.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-41 Commercial, residential and recreational uses shall be limited or not
allowed in areas designated for light industry except for small-scale ancillary
commercial and recreational uses primarily to serve the industrial area.
LUI-42 Light industry areas shall include sidewalks, bike lanes and landscaping
to provide a safe and attractive working environment.
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCESS
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 39 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
Priorities
LUP-10 Develop an efficient and timely development review process based
on a public/private partnership.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-43 Maximize efficiency of the development review process by continuously
evaluating the permitting process and modifying as appropriate.
LUI-44 Assist developers with proposals by continuing to offer pre-application
meetings in order to produce projects that will be reviewed efficiently.
LUI-45 Conduct regular reviews of development regulations to determine how to
improve upon the permit review process.
LUI-46 Integrate and coordinate construction of public infrastructure with private
development to minimize costs wherever possible.
LUI-47 Increase efficiency in the permit process by responding to future state
legislation concerning development review processes in a timely manner.
URBAN DESIGN AND FORM
Priorities
LUP-11 Improve the appearance and function of the built environment.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-48 Use residential design performance standards to maintain neighborhood
character and ensure compatibility with surrounding uses.
LUI-49 Use design and performance standards to achieve a greater range of
housing options in multiple-family designations.
LUI-50 Use design and performance standards to create attractive and desirable
commercial and office developments.
LUI-51 Designate aesthetic corridors along major transportation routes to provide
a positive image of Spokane Valley. Aesthetic corridors shall be located along
the following routes:
• State Route 27 (Pines Road)
• Appleway Boulevard
• Evergreen Road between Sprague Avenue and Indiana Avenue
• Mirabeau Parkway
LUI-52 Adopt specific regulations for designated aesthetic corridors that:
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 40 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
• Provide incentives for aesthetic design;
• Require landscaping buffers adjacent to roadways;
• Limit sign height and size;
• Provide performance standards to adequately screen intensive land uses
that have exterior clutter such as outdoor storage, exterior heavy
equipment and/or exterior fabrication/assembly.
LUI-53 Establish standards for the scale and intensity of commercial, retail and
industrial signage that protect views and minimize signage clutter while allowing
adequate business identification.
LUI-54 Establish a "cap and replace" system for video boards/billboards and
eliminate existing billboards wherever possible.
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
Priorities
LUP-12 Identify and protect archeological and historic sites and structures
to guide decision-making in resource planning, environmental review and
resource management.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-55 Identify and evaluate archaeological and historic sites to determine which
should be preserved. Identification and evaluation is a constant, ongoing
process.
LUI-56 Develop methods to link cultural resource preservation with local
economic development strategies, such as rehabilitation of commercial buildings,
neighborhood revitalization and tourism.
LUI-57 Establish and maintain government-to-government relations with Native
American tribes for the preservation of archaeological sites and traditional
cultural properties.
ESSENTIAL PUBLIC FACILITIES
Priorities
LUP-13 Facilitate the siting of public and private essential public facilities
when Spokane Valley is the appropriate location.
Implementation Strategies
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 41 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
LUI-58 Consider the process for Siting Essential Public Facilities of a Countywide
or Statewide nature in the Growth Management Essential Public Facilities
Technical Committee Report.
THE LAND USE/TRANSPORTATION CONNECTION
Priorities
LUP-14 Provide for a well connected street system that minimizes dead-
end and cul-de-sac streets.
Implementation Strategies
LUI-59 Encourage new developments, including multifamily projects, to be
arranged in a pattern of connecting streets and blocks to allow people to get
around easily by foot, bicycle, bus or car. Cul-de-sacs or other closed street
systems may be appropriate under certain circumstances including, but not
limited to, topography and other physical limitations which make connecting
systems impractical.
LUI-60 Develop street, pedestrian path and bike path standards that contribute to
a system of fully connected routes.
2.13 Environmental Analysis
2.13.1 Impacts of the Scenarios
In many respects, the land use changes contemplated by the land use scenarios would
be similar on a citywide basis. All are intended to express a long-range vision of
Spokane Valley that is consistent with the Growth Management Act and Countywide
Planning Policies and that has the ability to accommodate anticipated future growth.
Differences in impacts would be incremental and would primarily relate to different
development densities and the relative concentration of future growth within the city.
The Modified Existing Conditions Scenario assumes an average density of new
residential development of approximately 4.5 dwelling units per acre. The Urban Activity
Centers Scenario would accommodate planned growth more efficiently at a higher
average density-6 dwelling units per acre (excluding existing platted lots) and a higher
proportion of multifamily housing due to areas that allow mixed uses in centers. The City
Center Emphasis Scenario would allow similar densities of housing as the Urban Activity
Centers Scenario, by focusing higher density residential development in and around
identified centers.
Under any land use scenario, future development and most land use change would be
concentrated in areas near urban services and major transportation facilities. The Draft
Comprehensive Plan would not be significantly different from what is there now.
Impacts would include consumption of vacant land for intensive urban activities and
increased urbanization. Existing neighborhoods will be subject to pressure for
redevelopment or infill development of vacant parcels. The mix of land uses and the
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 42 CHAPTER 2—LAND USE
character of some neighborhoods will likely change over time. Conflicts could occur
between individual land uses or land use districts of different types or intensity.
Concentrating growth at higher densities in a defined area would create potential direct
and indirect impacts to environmentally sensitive lands and natural resources located in
or adjacent to this area. However, proposed Comprehensive Plan policies and adopted
development regulations would tend to mitigate such potential impacts. Moreover,
concentrating higher density growth in already established urban areas will take growth
pressure off of rural areas that would likely be more sensitive to growth impacts.
Growth within the city will generally be phased with the provision of sewer service. Much
of Spokane Valley is still utilizing on-site sewage disposal systems. Spokane County's
6-year sewer plan addresses several of these areas with in the city(please refer to the
Capital Facilities Element for additional information). Land within the 6-year sewer
priority area is intended to develop first, followed by lands in lower sewer priority areas.
Capital improvement programming and budgeting should be used to coordinate land use
with utility decisions. Public sewer is required concurrent with development with private
sewer extensions permitted.
Based on the conclusions of the Land Capacity Analysis conducted for the
Comprehensive Plan, it appears that zoning and land capacity will be sufficient to
accommodate projected population for all three land use scenarios. Limiting the region's
supply of developable urban land, which is implicit in the drawing of an urban boundary
as required by the Growth Management Act, could result in increases in the cost of land
and/or housing; any such result would depend on regional market and economic
conditions.
2.13.2 City Center Emphasis Scenario
Land use patterns would be characterized by higher-density residential, commercial and
industrial activities located throughout the city. Land would be intensively developed for
urban uses and the overall area would become more urban in character. The creation of
an identifiable city center would begin taking place during the planning horizon with
higher intensity mixed uses occurring within the city center. Appropriate transportation
facilities and other urban services would be provided within the designated city center
and surrounding area to encourage development consistent with the city center concept.
The average density of new residential development would be 4.5 dwelling units per
acre (excluding existing platted lots).
Within the city, there would be some focusing of higher-density uses (residential and
employment) along or adjacent to existing major transportation corridors. Planned
neighborhood and community centers would be part of the land use pattern providing
basic goods and services closer to residential neighborhoods, particularly south of
Sprague Avenue. This arrangement would continue the historical location pattern of
higher-density uses along linear corridors. Land use conflicts could occur where land
uses of different types, scale or design are located proximately to one another. Such
impacts would be evaluated at a more detailed level in future subarea plans or at the
time of development proposal.
Specific impacts of development would be mitigated through the application of
development regulations, provisions of the State Environmental Policy Act(SEPA), or
SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 43 CHAPTER 2-LAND USE
other appropriate development controls. Proposed policies encouraging design review
procedures and/or subarea planning would help address such impacts. On a localized
basis, neighborhood change could be somewhat less noticeable, because growth would
be somewhat more dispersed and would occur at lower urban densities.
Commercial uses would be consolidated at the intersection of major arterials such as
Sprague Avenue and Pines Road, Argonne Road, Evergreen Road, or Sullivan Road.
Corridors existing between these major commercial nodes would begin to transition to
mixed uses including office, residential, or light industrial.
An "Auto Row" overlay district would be created to recognize the special needs of new
automobile dealerships that exist along Sprague Avenue. New automobile dealerships
provide the city with substantial sales tax revenue; however, these same businesses can
have a significant visual impact on the community. These uses have somewhat unique
needs related to development standards such as signage and street frontage
landscaping.
2.13.3 Urban Activity Centers Scenario
Growth would occur in a more compact pattern and at higher average densities: 6
dwelling units per acre for new development, compared to an average of 4 dwelling units
per acre for the Modified Existing Conditions Scenario. A density target would be
established in the Comprehensive Plan. Minimum lot size requirements would be
reduced in low-density areas and maximum densities allowed would be increased in
medium-and high-density areas to meet the Plan's targets.
Changes to existing neighborhoods through infill and redevelopment at higher densities
would likely be greater than for the Modified Existing Conditions Scenario. These
neighborhoods would become more urban in character, with greater levels of human
activity.
Commercial uses would generally occur in a linear pattern along transportation corridors,
which would reinforce the existing pattern of development in the urban area. Two major
concentrations of industrial activity are identified: Spokane Valley Industrial Park/Kaiser
and the Yardley area.
Future growth under this scenario would also be focused in designated mixed-use,
pedestrian-oriented activity centers, located on or adjacent to major transportation
corridors and a proposed high-capacity transit system. These would build on the existing
locations and pattern of higher-density development. Activity centers would be of
different sizes (urban, community and neighborhood) and contain different mixes of
uses. Specific size and uses would reflect their function and surrounding market area.
Urban activity centers would, in general, contain higher-density residential uses and a
range of employment uses. These centers would be compact(approximately 1/4-mile
radius)to encourage pedestrian activity and transit. Compatible activities would be
grouped to avoid or minimize land use conflicts. Design standards and a design-review
process would be developed to ensure a high-quality urban environment.
Two urban activity centers are proposed in the Comprehensive Plan: Spokane County
Fairgrounds and University City. It is anticipated approximately one-quarter of this area
would develop as residential uses at high densities(20 dwelling units/acre). In general,
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these centers would be intensively developed for a mix of uses, would be urban in
character and would be characterized by high levels of human activity. Land use
conflicts could potentially occur where land uses of different types, scale or design are
located proximately to one another. Such impacts would be evaluated at a more
detailed level in future subarea plans. Proposed policies encouraging design review
guidelines/procedures and/or subarea planning would help address such impacts.
Two community centers would also be designated at Sprague Avenue and Sullivan
Road and Argonne, north of 1-90. Additional centers could be designated in the future
through amendment of the Comprehensive Plan map. A subarea planning process
could be used to determine the size, boundaries, mix of uses and design of individual
centers. The centers would be located so as to build on and reinforce existing
concentrations of commercial and industrial development along corridors; they would
provide a focus for diversification, infill and redevelopment to create mixed-use
communities.
Land and housing costs and availability could be influenced to some degree by the
smaller land supply. Compared to the Modified Existing Conditions Scenario, relatively
less land would be available, which could place upward pressure on land costs. The
higher planned development density may help mediate increased costs on a per unit
basis (i.e., because spread out over more units).
2.13.4 Modified Existing Conditions Scenario
Land use patterns would be characterized by higher-density residential, commercial and
industrial activities located throughout the city. Land would be more intensively
developed for urban uses and overall, the city would become more urban in character.
The average density of new residential development would be approximately 4 dwelling
units per acre (excluding existing platted lots). Housing would be approximately 70
percent single-family (includes manufactured homes) and 30 percent multifamily
(includes duplex units), which is consistent with the existing housing mix.
Within the city there would be some focusing of higher-density uses (residential and
employment) along or adjacent to existing major transportation corridors. Planned
centers would not be part of the land use pattern, however. This arrangement would
continue the historical location pattern of higher-density uses along major arterial
corridors. Land use conflicts could occur where land uses of different types, scale or
design are located proximately to one another. Such impacts would be evaluated at a
more detailed level in future subarea plans. Proposed policies encouraging design
review procedures and/or subarea planning would help address such impacts. On a
localized basis, neighborhood change could be somewhat less noticeable, because
growth would be somewhat more dispersed and would occur at lower urban densities.
Commercial uses would generally occur in a linear pattern along transportation corridors,
which would reinforce the existing pattern of development in the urban area.
Concentrations of industrial activity are identified in the northwest(Yardley area)and
northeast(Spokane Industrial Park area) portions of Spokane Valley.
2.13.5 Effects on Adjacent areas and Jurisdictions
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If Spokane Valley were unable to accommodate its urban growth targets due to limited
infrastructure capacity, land capacity constraints, market limitations, inability to develop
at target densities or inability to fund needed improvements in phase with growth, growth
pressure would likely be shifted to the rural area, to other jurisdictions in the region,
elsewhere within the state or to Idaho. At the same time, inability of the cities and towns
to accommodate their respective growth targets could place greater pressure on
unincorporated Spokane County to accommodate a greater proportion of growth,which
could place stress on its planning and infrastructure programs. Any such effects could be
short-term or long-term and could reflect economic changes and consumer or lifestyle
choices (such as future residents choosing a rural lifestyle and location).
2.13.6 Mitigation Measures and Implementation Strategies
Designation of a UGA and concentration of future growth within this defined area is
intended to mitigate potential impacts of sprawl and to conserve rural areas, natural
resource lands and open space. In general, the Comprehensive Plan is intended to
accomplish the planning policies of the Growth Management Act and the Countywide
Planning Policies. Minimum-density provisions, although not proposed in this draft plan,
would help ensure that new development meets growth targets.
Similarly, the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan are intended to
mitigate potential adverse land use impacts associated with future growth in Spokane
Valley. The Plan identifies a number of processes and adoption of new or revised
development regulations (e.g., zoning and subdivision codes) that would address the
impacts identified in this Draft SEIS. Siting to group-compatible uses and buffering
between adjacent areas would also help to avoid potential conflicts.
A number of policies or implementation strategies would address potential land use
conflicts or incompatibilities between different types or intensities of uses. Performance
standards, for example, would be developed to address noise, vibration and other
externalities while also providing flexibility for development. Design and aesthetic issues
would be addressed through Comprehensive Plan policies (e.g., designation of
"aesthetic corridors"along major transportation routes, limitation of billboards), design
guidelines and a handbook, and subarea planning.
Incentives would also be an important part of the city's implementation program.
Strategies called for in the comprehensive plan include density bonuses, transfer of
development rights, reduced fees and other techniques to help achieve development of
urban activity centers and other objectives.
2.13.7 Unavoidable Adverse Impacts
Under any urban growth scenario, future growth in Spokane Valley will result in
increased development and urbanization within the defined UGA. The character of these
areas will change over time and some residents may perceive these changes as
adverse. Vacant land will be consumed to accommodate growth and some alternative
uses may be foreclosed. Underutilized or underdeveloped lands will be converted to
more intense urban uses through infill development.
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