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Highway 99 and many of the adjacent properties discourage businesses from investing The following Beautification Maste&n...
HIGHWAY 99 BEAUTIFICATION MASTER PLAN JULY, 2000
PREPARED FOR:
PREPARED BY:
RRM DESIGN GROUP
ABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................. 1
The Planning Process
............................................................................... 5
Goals and Objectives
............................................................................... 11
Opportunities and Constraints
................................................................... 17
Proposed Beautification Improvements Aesthetic Treatment Options
..................................................... 27
..................................................................... 56
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
.................................................... 65
......................................................................................... 77
A
Implementation
Table of Contents
Introduction
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
endi
T
Appendix
I.
Existing Conditions Photos
Appendix
II.
Funding Resources
Appendix
III.
Plant Palette
Appendix
IV.
Visitor’s Center Concept
Appendix
V.
Bibliography
.......................................... ii
...................................................... xiv
A endi ................................................................ xvi ............................................. xxii
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Table of Contents
I
NTRODUCTION
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
resno County is in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley of California. The Valley is surrounded by mountains. They are, mainly the majestic Sierra Nevada range in the east and the rolling California Coastal range in the west. It is a flat region that stretches for nearly 300 miles from the Tehachapi Mountains in the south to the San Joaquin Delta in the north. The climate is considered Mediterranean, with long, warm summers and short, cool winters.
Introduction
F
NTRODUCTION
The Valley is very dry, but irrigation projects such as the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project have made it the agricultural heartland of California. The top three agricultural counties in the U.S. (Fresno, Tulare, and Kern) are in the San Joaquin Valley. Producing more than $3 billion worth of goods each year, Fresno County’s agricultural industry is the most lucrative in the entire nation. Highway 99 runs through the center of the
Appendix
I
County, generally in a northwest to southeast direction. Four incorporated cities are located along the 31.59 mile corridor: Fresno, with a population of 415,400; Fowler, with a population of 3,830; Selma, with a population of 18,450; and Kingsburg, with a population of 9,225. Fresno County is also the only county in the Nation located within an hour drive of three national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia).
Fresno County typically has chronic unemployment. Consequently, job creation and economic development are very important to the area. It is
Appendix
Introduction
believed by many in the County that the substandard appearance of Highway 99 and many of the adjacent properties discourage businesses from investing in the area. Businesses tend not to invest in communities
2
that don’t invest in themselves. Creating and maintaining an attractive civic image is one of the basic invest-
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
ments a community can make.
This project originated from a common desire to improve the image of Highway 99 and thus attract economic development. As many as 100,000 cars per day pass through Fresno County on Highway 99 and many of these drivers form their only impression of Fresno County from what they see on the corridor. The present condition
Introduction
of the Highway and many of the adjacent properties reflects very poorly on the cities through which the Highway passes and the Fresno County in general. A lack of landscaping, infrequent maintenance of existing plantings, a proliferation of billboards, and unsightly adjacent land uses make much of Highway 99 unattractive.
Appendix
The unsightly views of Highway 99 contribute to a negative community image among area residents and discourage would-be tourists from entering the adjoining cities.
The Goal of This Plan:
“Create, within ten years, an image for the Highway 99 corridor through Fresno County that communicates to the traveling public the agricultural significance, economic strength, scenic beauty, and community spirit of our region.”
Appendix This is the challenge that the Association for the Beautification of Highway 99 and the Council of Fresno County
Introduction
Governments took on for themselves in the spring of 1999. The following Beautification Master Plan is the first product of that challenge. This plan addresses the visual resource management, landscape development, highway maintenance, public service operations issues, and inter-governmental relations that are inherent in the 3
effort to beautify the Highway 99 Corridor through Fresno County. It also offers a program that will preserve
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
and enhance the natural scenic beauty of the Corridor while recognizing and incorporating the commercial activities adjacent to the Corridor necessary for the social and economic well-being of the related communities. In addition, this plan strives to identify and enhance the unique regional character of the Highway 99 Corridor through Fresno County and how it influences, and is influenced by, elements and activities beyond the immediate
Appendix
Introduction
planning area.
Appendix
Introduction
4
T HE PLANNING PROCESS
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
his planning process was the culmination of efforts begun more than a year before the beginning of this study by a group of concerned citizens, business leaders, and policy makers in Fresno County. From this informal group came the Association for the Beautification of Highway 99 (in future reference “the Association”). Each city along the corridor and the County passed resolutions forming the Association. The Council of Fresno County Governments (in future reference the “Fresno COG”) agreed to provide staff support to the group. The Califor-
The Planning Process
T
HE PLANNING PROCESS
nia Department of Transportation (Caltrans), who owns and operates Highway 99, also agreed to participate in the Association. As a result, a spirit of cooperation has been well established among the various agencies represented along the highway.
Appendix
T
The Association for the Beautification of Highway 99 Membership Juan Arambula, Fresno County Board of Supervisors Deborah Nankivell, Fresno Business Council Councilman Dan Ronquillo, City of Fresno Tom McGowan, Automated OfficeSystems Mayor Joe Monis, City of Fowler John Taylor, resident of Fowler Mayor Michael Derr, City of Selma
Appendix
The Planning Process
Pete Esraelian, Selma Beautification Committee Councilman Leland Bergstrom, City of Kingsburg
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Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Milo Smith, resident of Kinsburg Jose Ruano, Caltrans District 6
Associate Members Mark Keppler, CSUF Sid Craig School of Business
The Planning Process
Vince Correll, HQ Business Centers Tom Krazan, Krazan and Associates Bob Belcher, Belcher Farms Anne Speake, International English Institute
Appendix
Paul McLain-Lugowski, Fresno County EOC Susan Stiltz, Tree Fresno Dan Fitzpatrick, Fresno Redevelopment Agency
The consensus of the members of the Association was that the lack of visual appeal along Highway 99 has discouraged economic development in the region. The various individuals and agencies involved in the Association believe that by showing an effort to invest in their community’s image and aesthetic character, they will encourage existing businesses to invest in the area and attract new economic interests.
Appendix
In an effort to accomplish this, the Association determined that the preparation of a Beautification Master Plan
The Planning Process
for the Highway 99 Corridor was a necessary first step toward accomplishing their goals. In addition, they agreed that the Plan should contain funding and implementation strategies, as well as general policies that could 7
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
be applied to other corridors in the county.
In the spring of 1999 the group sent out a Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified design firms to assist them in the preparation of the Beautification Plan. After a thorough review and selection process, the Association selected RRM Design Group to assist them in the preparation of the Plan. RRM’s team of landscape architects
The Planning Process
and planners worked with the Association and Fresno COG in the preparation of this document through frequent review of the work progress and products. The Plan’s work program was broken down into several phases which are described in the following summary.
Appendix
PHASE I Goals and Objectives
Phase I began with a start-up meeting with the Association in which the RRM design team collected additional information, clarified timelines and milestones, and engaged in a brainstorming session on goals, objectives and project boundary issues for the Master Plan. The second portion of this phase consisted of fieldwork and an inventory of existing conditions. RRM Design Group performed a thorough site review of the existing conditions throughout the Highway 99 Corridor study area. This included field notes, videotape and photographs of the study area as well as compilation of existing Highway 99 Corridor aerial photographs.
Appendix
PHASE II
The Planning Process
Existing Conditions The second phase consisted of an Opportunity and Constraints Analysis. RRM Design Group analyzed the 8
background information from Phase I and collected additional data. After a preliminary set of goals and objectives
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
were defined and integrated with the information gathered in Phase I, RRM prepared an Opportunities and Constraints Map and report. Positive and negative conditions in the Corridor were identified with solutions and alternatives for these conditions. Upon completion of existing condition analysis, RRM Design Group met again with the Association to present the initial findings from the fieldwork. Major issues identified by the RRM design
The Planning Process
team were reviewed and field verified by the Association. RRM then began the preliminary design concepts in Phase III.
PHASE III
Appendix
Preliminary Design Concepts and Development Phase III involved the preparation of preliminary design concepts and the development of an overall concept plan for the Corridor. Utilizing base maps provided by the Fresno COG, and information review and input by the Association, RRM Design Group prepared design vignettes of typical cross sections to illustrate specific plan ideas such as thematic beautification features for the Corridor. Upon completion of this phase, RRM Design Group met with the Association members for a third time to present the concepts and receive comments and direction for the Landscape and Architectural Guidelines in Phase IV.
Appendix PHASE IV Corridor Development Guidelines
The Planning Process
Phase IV saw the development of refined proposed Beautification Improvements and Aesthetic Treatment Options based on the Association’s review and comment. Further review with the Association finalized the 9
recommendations and direction of the Beautification Master Plan. After careful review and consideration Phase
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
V began, which saw the completion of the Beautification Master Plan and Design Guidelines.
PHASE V Beautification Master Plan and Design Guidelines
The Planning Process
Based on the input received from the Association, RRM Design Group prepared the final Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan document. Large-scale plan graphics were also prepared for the Association’s use in presentation of the Master Plan to various public agencies and interested community groups. This final phase entailed incorporating comments on the draft Beautification Master Plan into a final document for the Association and the
Appendix
Fresno COG for use in promoting implementation of the Plan features, concepts and proposals.
Appendix
The Planning Process
10
G OALS AND OBJECTIVES
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
G OALS AND OBJECTIVES hese goals and objectives were formed by the Association, with the assistance of RRM Design Group, to identify a vision for the Highway 99 Corridor and to guide the development of the Beautification Master Plan.
GOAL 1:
Goals and Objectives
Create and sustain an image for the corridor that communicates to Highway 99 travelers the agricultural significance, economic strength, scenic beauty, and community spirit of the study area. Objective 1A: Inform and educate Highway 99 travelers on the economic, recreational, and cultural resources of the area. Policy 1A1: Explore the feasibility of creating a visitor center in conjunction with a Caltrans rest stop and the major gateway at each end of the corridor. (See Appendix IV Visitor’s Center Concept)
Appendix
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Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Policy 1A2: Explore the feasibility of creating a local am radio signal that transmits key information about the corridor. Policy 1A3: Develop a community out reach program using mailers, community service announcements, and volunteers to disseminate key information about the corridor Policy 1A4: If it is not possible to eliminate billboards along the corridor (see Goal 2, Objective 2B), rent some billAppendix boards for educational and corridor promotion purposes. Objective 1B: Define the corridor by creating major and minor gateways.
Goals and Objectives
12
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Policy 1B1: Establish major gateways at the northern and southern boundaries of the corridor. Policy 1B2: Develop an architectural theme for major gateways reflecting the agricultural significance of the area.
Goals and Objectives
Policy 1B3: Explore the possibility of locating architecturally prominent agriculture processing facilities adjacent to major gateway sites. Policy 1B4: Establish minor gateways at the important city and district nodes.
Appendix
Policy 1B5: Develop an architectural theme for minor gateways emphasizing the unique characteristics of the associated city or district while maintaining a unified theme for the overall corridor.
GOAL 2: Improve the visual appeal of the Corridor. Objective 2A: Strive to eliminate or greatly reduce roadside litter within the corridor. Policy 2A1: Promote stronger enforcement of existing litter laws.
Appendix Policy 2A2: Identify major sources of roadside litter and develop a program to reduce the litter problem at the source.
Goals and Objectives
Policy 2A3: Augment existing trash collection efforts with additional sources, such as volunteer service groups, inmates, and court ordered community service personnel. 13
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Policy 2A4: Educate the general public about the need to eliminate roadway litter. Objective 2B: Eliminate sign pollution along the Corridor.
Goals and Objectives
Policy 2B1: Recommend incorporation of billboard elimination language in appropriate city and county ordinances for billboards along the Corridor. Policy 2B2: Develop a strategy and funding for elimination of existing billboards. A phasing plan should be established along with this strategy to maximize the visual impact of billboard removal throughout the Corridor.
Appendix
Objective 2C: Develop a landscape theme that unifies the study area, enhances its visual appeal, and emphasizes the unique elements of the component cities and districts. Policy 2C1: Create landscape elements that fulfill the various physical requirements necessary for corridor enhancement while maintaining a unified appearance for the overall corridor. Landscape elements should include, but are not necessarily limited to, hardscape and planting that screens, frames, complements, and enhances the corridor and adjacent communities. Implementing such elements will make the corridor safer for travelers, more aesthetically appealing, and easier to maintain.
Appendix Policy 2C2: Develop a combination of fencing and ground plane treatments that highlight unique aspects of the various cities and districts within the corridor while maintaining and overall unified theme.
Goals and Objectives
14
Policy 2C3: Analyze existing tree, shrub, and ground cover species within the corridor. Rank species according to their success in the categories of drought tolerance, pest and disease resistance, degree of maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. From this analysis determine which existing plant types should remain and be enhanced, and which should be phased out of use.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Goals and Objectives
Policy 2C4: Draw on drought tolerant and native (local to the area) plant species for additions to the corridor plant palette.
GOAL 3: Encourage community involvement in the promotion, development, and maintenance of the corridor.
Appendix
Objective 3A: Develop volunteer programs that address promotion, physical improvements, and maintenance of the Corridor. Policy 3A1: Establish relationships with community leaders, government officials, and service group representatives. Lobby these contacts to provide volunteers and/or financial assistance for implementation of the programs. Objective 3B: Establish a non-profit organization for the promotion, development and maintenance of the corridor. Apply for grant funding for creation of the non-profit as well as to support the promotion, physical improvements, and Appendix maintenance programs for the Corridor. Policy 3B1: Explore the possibility of incorporating the existing Highway 99 Beautification Committee into a non-profit organization.
Goals and Objectives
15
Goals and Objectives
Appendix
Policy 3B2: Create a permanent full-time paid position for an executive director. The executive director’s mission will be to implement the plan.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Appendix
Goals and Objectives
16
O PPORTUNITIES & CONSTRAINTS
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
he primary purpose of this plan is to improve the visual appearance of Fresno County and its cities from Highway 99. With this in mind, the following opportunities and constraints were identified. Element: Northern Limit of Corridor Opportunity:
Enhancement of the bridge crossings will create the gateway experience. The natural grade is also an advantage in this regard.
Opportunity:
Agricultural land use also sets the background here for a gateway monument. It appears that there is sufficient room for a rest stop and associated structures at the northern limit of the Corridor.
Constraint:
Additional right of way may need to be acquired for proposed facilities. Caltrans is not currently planning roadside rest stops at this location.
Element:
Entry Signs for Cities and Counties
Opportunity:
Unifying signage would enhance the sense of unity in the corridor and increase traveller’s sense of location and comfort. Increasing the ease for traveller’s to identify places and services increases the likelihood of their seeking services adjacent to the Corridor. The economic viability of the corridor would be increased by signage improvements. The aesthetic value would be increased as well.
Constraint:
Opportunities and Constraints
T
PPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS
Appendix
O
Creating unifying signage across the corridor through different cities and towns requires coordinated efforts and design guidelines which can be time consuming and difficult.
Opportunities and Constraints
18
Element:
Agricultural Fields
Opportunity:
There are many possibilities to enhance and improve agricultural field views with foreground planting and tree framing.
Opportunity:
Public interest and knowledge can be enhanced with a crop-signing program. Signs, with consistent lettering, sizes and colors that identify crop types could be used through out the Corridor. A sign program would add visual interest and unity to the Corridor.
Constraint:
The current spheres of influence along the Corridor are such that it is possible in the future there will be no adjacent agricultural land uses. Cooperation between the County and the cities will be necessary to prevent this.
Opportunities and Constraints
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Element: Roadway Interchanges Major roadway interchanges and off ramps can function as important nodes and landmarks for various districts within the Corridor. Unique enhancement themes in these areas, such as special plantings, monument signs etc., can identify a particular interchange or off ramp as part of a certain district. This will assist in creating special qualities for each of the districts while maintaining unity in the overall Corridor design.
Constraint:
As with many other elements within the Corridor, design and improvements of the off ramps and interchanges are centered around safety. Aesthetic improvements to these areas can only be accomplished to the extent they do not impair public safety.
Appendix
Opportunity:
Element: Rail Yard Opportunity:
The overall image of the railroad is consistent with the agricultural production image we want to promote for the Corridor. Views of the rail yard can be enhanced by selectively screening certain areas and augmenting others with landscaping.
Opportunities and Constraints
19
A slew of the unsightly billboards are located within the stretch of Corridor adjacent to the rail yard. A strategy of eliminating billboards and enhancing certain views of the rail yard with landscaping, will greatly improve the rail yard image.
Element:
Fresno is the gateway to 3 national parks: King’s Canyon, Sequoia, and Yosemite
Opportunity:
An improved aesthetic appearance on the corridor would increase the potential to increase transient revenue in the area. The provision of tourist information at rest stops could inform travellers of amenities and services available to them on their trip.
Constraint:
Funding for rest stops is not currently planned by Caltrans and may be difficult and time consuming to develop. Services provided in the corridor would need attention to prevent negative impacts, such as the potential for litter to increase at fast food stops. Weeds
Appendix
Element:
Opportunities and Constraints
Constraint:
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Opportunity:
As with the litter problem, a non-traditional labor maintenance work force could have several benefits to the Community. The Adopt a Highway program is another valuable program.
Constraint:
Like litter, weeds are insidious. They are an ongoing problem that has a major negative impact on the visual image of the Corridor.
Element: Existing Corridor Landscaping Opportunity:
Opportunity:
Many of the trees along the Corridor are aesthetically pleasing and in good health. Enhancement of these existing plantings with additional plantings will reinforce and improve the existing landscape. Oleanders along Highway 99 have become a signature planting for the Central Valley. Preservation of existing plantings is essential to maintain that unique valley image.
Opportunities and Constraints
20
Some of the existing barren interchanges provide an outstanding opportunity for accent plantings. These interchanges could be adopted by individuals and services groups. An annual award competition could be developed for most attractive interchange. This could improve Community spirit and possibly become a signature event for the Corridor.
Constraint:
Safety for drivers as well as highway maintenance workers is the primary issue when considering additional and supplemental plantings. This issue must be addressed and resolved for all proposed landscape improvements within the Corridor.
Constraint:
The combination of significant natural environmental factors, as well as automobile emissions, and glare and heat from adjacent surfaces create a demanding environment for Corridor plantings. Many non-planted areas lack available water & electrical sources.
Opportunities and Constraints
Opportunity:
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Element: Overpasses
Constraint:
Overpass designs naturally focuses views to the immediate foreground. Aesthetic improvement to this immediate foreground can have a significant positive impact to the overall spatial experience when approaching and traveling under the overpass. Overpass structures prevent adjacent planting for framing and screening.
Appendix
Opportunity:
Element: Underpasses Opportunity:
Constraint:
The configuration of an underpass by its very nature focuses views to the immediate foreground. Aesthetic improvement to this immediate foreground can have a significant positive impact to the overall spatial experience when traveling through the underpass. The structural requirements and general configurations of underpasses are very limiting in the areas available for aesthetic improvements.
Opportunities and Constraints
21
Element: Sound Walls Constraint:
Aesthetics are a minor consideration in the location and placement of sound walls. Their primary purpose is to mitigate the traffic noise impacts on adjacent land uses.
Opportunity:
It may be possible to coordinate Caltrans’ sound wall implementation program with high priority areas of the Corridor beautification plan where certain view screening or specific materials are necessary. The proposed soundwall in Selma is an opportunity to set such design standards.
Opportunities and Constraints
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Element: Road Barriers It is possible that certain aesthetic treatments may be applied to the concrete road barriers without affecting the public’s safety. These might include sand blasting the concrete surface, using integral color in the concrete, painting the concrete, or the use of concrete stamp patterns on portions of the barriers.
Constraint:
Road barrier design must consider safety above all other considerations. Each of these suggestions will need to be carefully analyzed to ensure they do not impair safety design qualities of the barriers. Aesthetic improvements to the barriers can only be accomplished if they do not impact public safety.
Appendix
Opportunity:
Element: Adjacent Commercial Enterprises Opportunity:
The corridor image can be enhanced by vehicle display arrangements, tree framing, and foundation and accent landscaping in adjacent commercial enterprises.
Constraint:
Leverage to get adjacent businesses to improve their displays is limited. Private citizens might be able to help in this effort.
Opportunities and Constraints
22
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Element:
Views of unsightly land uses
Opportunity:
Many views of unsightly land uses can be effectively screened with planting within the Corridor. Some unsightly land uses can not be effectively screened. Therefore improvement of the view will require on site improvements such as solid fencing and/or tree screens. Currently there are few implementation tools for this.
Opportunities and Constraints
Constraint:
Element: Business signs Grouping adjacent business signs with one signpost configuration will eliminate the number of signs and improve visual harmony without negatively affecting the merchant’s sign visibility or impact.
Constraint:
Reconfiguration of business signs will require cooperation of adjacent merchants and service establishments.
Constraint:
Additional costs will be incurred by private businesses for a sign reconfiguration.
Constraint:
Reconfiguration of business signs may require new permits and agency reviews.
Appendix
Opportunity:
Element: Billboards Opportunity:
There are opportunities for the County and adjacent cities to develop a unified and consistent set of policies to eliminate additional billboard pollution along the Corridor.
Opportunity:
For billboards that cannot be eliminated renting space to promote the Corridor with interesting facts and features will reduce the negative visual impact. In addition, it will have the benefit of educating the public about the Corridors rich agricultural and industrial history and its’ continued economic and social development.
Opportunities and Constraints
23
Constraint:
Existing billboards flood the visual field with chaotic and unsightly images. The fact that the billboards are for the most part on private land and generate revenue make them difficult to eliminate.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Element: Fencing Replacement of fencing along the Corridor could be a major element in the unification of the Corridor image. A new design could also address the litter and mowing problems associated with the existing fencing. Obtain encroachment permits for adjacent property owners to enter the R.O.W. from their land via a gate with intention of cleaning the R.O.W.
Constraint:
Safety, maintenance, and capital improvement cost are all critical elements to consider when determining the type and extent of fencing to propose for the corridor.
Constraint:
Existing fencing configurations exacerbate weed and litter problems. Their design often catches litter and prevents effective weed mowing for certain areas in the Corridor.
Element: Litter Constraint:
Opportunity:
Appendix
Opportunity:
Opportunities and Constraints
Opportunity:
Highway litter is insidious. It is very hard to control solely from a law enforcement angle. “After the fact” maintenance is also extremely expensive and of limited effectiveness. If litter is to be controlled, it will require both traditional (law enforcement and maintenance) and nontraditional approaches. Non-traditional approaches might include public education, Caltrans’ Adopt a Highway program, cooperation from the litter sources, as well as non-traditional labor forces trained in litter control. Solving the litter problem provides an opportunity to employ non-traditional labor sources through grant funding and donations of money and time from individuals and corporations. This could have the dual benefit of cleaning up and beautifying the Corridor and reducing the
Opportunities and Constraints
24
unemployment within neighboring communities. Additional support may be obtained through the penal system through community service and prison programs. A non-profit foundation would be an excellent vehicle to coordinate and manage this effort. The non-profit could develop a landscape maintenance training program to assist non-traditional maintenance workers in developing career skills that would carry them beyond the foundations employment program. See Appendix Two of the potential Funding Sources & Programs section for information on possible non-profit organizations.
Opportunities and Constraints
Opportunity:
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Element: Districts The corridor area is naturally divided into districts by various agricultural and urban land uses. These districts are further distinguished by certain roadway interchanges and on/off ramps. These existing districts can be enhanced through aesthetic improvements in a fashion that will reinforce their individual character while at the same time creating a unified theme for the Corridor.
Constraint:
The existing spheres of influence for cities within the Corridor, if fully developed, will eliminate agricultural land uses adjacent to Highway 99. Furthermore, urban development from sphere edge to sphere edge will probably blur the unique distinctions between various districts and create continuous megalopolitan façade along the Corridor.
Appendix
Opportunity:
Element: Public Art Sites Opportunity:
Opportunity:
Several locations along the Corridor are suited for public art. Properly controlled from concept to implementation public art could be a major reinforcing element for the overall Corridor theme and the proposed opportunity for districts. Public art sponsored and created by the Community can have a very positive impact on public pride in the Community image.
Opportunities and Constraints
25
Constraint:
Public art, both good and bad, is often the target of vandalism.
Element:
Developer Guidelines for new development adjacent to ROW
Opportunity:
Developer guidelines would reinforce the overall sense of unity and the visual aesthetic of the corridor.
Constraint:
Coordination efforts required for multiple jurisdictions to create uniform developer guidelines may be difficult.
Opportunities and Constraints
Public art poorly conceived and poorly implemented can have a substantial negative effect on the Community image. Extreme care must be taken that the public art created within the Corridor be of the highest quality possible.
Appendix
Constraint:
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Opportunities and Constraints
26
P
ROPOSED BEAUTIFICATION IMPROVEMENTS
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
NTRODUCTION
Proposed Beautification Improvements
The following proposed landscape improvements section is a blueprint for the implementation of the physical elements of the plan, within the right of way as defined in the goals and objectives. The Landscape and Architectural Guidelines sections of this Master Plan as well as the Aesthetic Treatment Options section provides the tools and guidance for designers implementing the plan over the next decade. MAJOR GATEWAY The major gateways are two of the most important elements in the master plan. They signify the northern and southern limits of the corridor. They will be the first and last elements in the master plan that the driving public will experience. In essence, they will set the tone for the remainder of the enhancements. As goes the success of the major gateways, so goes success of the Master Plan. The major gateways need to be architecturally significant in scale, materials, colors and detail. The theme for the gateways should be the agricultural and industrial economic strength of the County. The structures should appear on both sides of the corridor.
endi
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ROPOSED BEAUTIFICATION IMPROVEMENTS
Ideally one of these gateway structures would be incorporated into a regional visitor center facility which would be folded into a Caltrans safety roadside rest area. This would allow the gateways to be constructed in the Caltrans right of way. Placing these gateway structures in the right of way would greatly increase their visual impact. In addition, construction in the right of way will provide easy access from Highway 99 to the visitor facility. Easy access to a Corridor visitor center is critical to the A endi success of such a facility
A
P
A visitor facility gateway should function as a staffed or un-staffed facility. This will ensure that the traveling public will have access to the facility’s information at all
Proposed Beautification Improvements
28
times. Furthermore, it provides the flexibility to staff the visitor’s center on a seasonal basis or on special occasions and holidays as appropriate.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Proposed Beautification Improvements
MINOR GATEWAYS The minor gateways serve as entry monuments for the specific cities and districts within the corridor. Materials and forms for these minor gateways should be directed by the Landscape and Architectural Guidelines. The design theme for each minor gateway however, should have some characteristics unique to the district. These unique characteristics should be repeated in other district elements such as signage. The goal is to provide designs that create a unified theme within the corridor while at the same time providing a sub-theme unique to each district or city.
endi
KEY POINTS OF ENTRY TO THE CITY These key points of entry will function as a visual enhancement to the major nodes within a particular city or district. The sub-theme established with the district’s minor gateway should be repeated at these key points. Care should be taken to ensure that the key point enhancements do not overwhelm the minor gateways in scale or richness.
A
POSITIVE VIEWS TO BE MAINTAINED OR ENHANCED These elements consist of foreground views, background vista, and landmarks within the corridor. Framing (see Landscape and Architectural Guidelines) will be the primary tool for maintaining and enhancing positive views. In some instances where site conditions allow or require, architectural elements such as fences and walls may be used to frame important views, vistas, and landmarks. NEGATIVE VIEWS TO BE SCREENED This element is directed primarily towards foreground views. However, when possible middle ground and e n d i Guidelines) will be the background negative views will be screened. Screening (see Landscape andA Architectural primary tool for mitigating negative views. Furthermore, similar to view maintenance and enhancement, where site conditions allow or require, architectural elements such as fences and walls may be used to screen negative views.
Proposed Beautification Improvements
29
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
LANDSCAPE TREATMENTS
Proposed Beautification Improvements
1) Minimal Treatment (Mulch Only) This treatment is the most commonly proposed along the corridor. The goal behind using a mulch only treatment is to add a unifying element throughout the entire corridor.
2) Wildflower and Native Grass Seeding (non-irrigated) Similar to treatment #1, a wildflower and native grass seeding treatment will help unify the corridor. It will also add a seasonal interest at key corridor locations.
3) Trees Only (rural treatment)
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This treatment is designed to augment the rural character of certain sections of the Corridor. The trees will be planted in groupings to enhance the spatial character of the corridor. These groupings will also be used to enhance and preserve positive views and screen or play down negative views.
A
4) Trees and Shrubs (urban treatment)
Treatment #4 is to be used in the more traditional urban type landscape. This treatment will require irrigation and it will usually be located adjacent to urban uses such as commercial or light industrial. The main functions of this treatment are to screen, filter or enhance.
5) Major Accent Landscape Treatment
A
endi
The major accent landscape treatment is the most intensive landscape treatment of the five. It is meant to draw attention to significant features such as gateways, landmarks, and monuments. As with treatment #4, this treatment will require a permanent irrigation system. The level of maintenance will also be the most intense of the five treatments. A regular program of pruning, mowing and fertilization is necessary to sustain the accent features of this treatment.
Proposed Beautification Improvements
30
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
LEGEND Point of access to Fresno County
1. minimal treatment (mulch only) 2. wildflower and native grass seeding (nonirrigated groundcover) 3. Trees only (rural treatment - trees in naturalized groupings) 4. trees and shrubs (urban treatment) 5. major accent landscape treatment
Minor gateway
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Key points of entry into city Based in historical significance and civic activities
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ANDSCAPE & ARCHITECTURAL GUIDELINES
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Appendix
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Appendix
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
ANDSCAPE DESIGN GUIDELINES GENERAL The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a framework of planting concepts to be used as a tool of implementation for the Beautification Plan’s goals, objectives and policies defined earlier in this report. It is not the intent of these guidelines to provide site specific planting plans for the Corridor. Rather, since implementation of the Beautification Plan will occur over an extended period of time, these guidelines define guiding principles of planting design along with a detailed plant palette. Proper use of these guidelines will provide the site specific solutions sought in the Beautification Plan. Furthermore, these guidelines will create a unified landscape aesthetic, while providing sufficient leeway in the design parameters to allow project designers flexibility in addressing design issues unique to each project. PLANT PALETTE
The selected plant palette for the Corridor improvements is based on the approved Caltrans plant list. The list has been tailored by the planning team in order to better focus the palette towards the Beautification Master Plan goals. Please refer to the Appendix Beautification Plan Plant Palette for a detailed listing. DEFINITIONS
Appendix
Specimen Trees: These trees are usually large and bold in character. They show off during one or more seasons with flowers, leaf color, and/or fruit. They often have very striking silhouettes when seen against a background sky or foil planting. They usually occupy an important and significant amount of space within the planting design.
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ANDSCAPE AND ARCHITECTURAL GUIDELINES
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Foil Planting: These plantings can consist of trees, shrubs, or a combination of both. The main purpose of a foil planting is to provide a background against which an important design element esuch as a monument, sign, or specimen tree, can be displayed effectively. When foil plantings are used in conjunction with a specimen plant, the overall design can be enhanced, by selecting foil plants that will have a showy period when the specimen plant is in a dormant or non-showy mode.
Appendix
Screening Trees: This group of trees creates a permanent visual screen. They can screen views of undesirable visual elements seen from the corridor, or they can be used to frame elements in the landscape. Depending on their height these trees can screen elements located within or beyond the defined boundaries of the corridor. Screening trees can provide either a complete or partial screen. The density of the screen depends primarily on the deciduous or evergreen nature of the species. Screening Shrubs: These shrubs perform a function similar to screening trees. However, because of height limitations they are used primarily to screen or frame elements adjacent to the roadways. Foundation Plantings: These shrubs and/or ground covers are usually planted at the foundations ofAppendix vertical elements in the landscape, such as structures, signs, walls, and fences. Their main purpose is to provide a unifying transition from the ground plane . They vary in height depending on the function of the structural element they are acting as a transition for. Foundation plantings should be low in front of signs and other sight-line sensitive structures. They can be higher against elements such as blank walls or high fences.
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Specimen Shrubs: Similar in importance to specimen trees, these shrubs are usually large and bold in character. They show off during one or more seasons with flowers, leaf color, and/or fruit. They usually occupy an important and significant amount of space within the planting design.
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Ground Covers: Ground Covers consist of two major groups. These groups are plants and non-plants. Ground cover plants, an important group of plants in the landscape, are usually low growing (6” to 18”) and spreading (3’ to 12’). Their most significant function is to cover the ground for weed and erosion control. In addition they can add seasonal interest with flower and foliage color.
Appendix
Non-Plant Ground Covers: This group consists of several inert materials. They provide the same weed and erosion control functions as plant ground covers. However, the inert nature of these materials eliminates the need for irrigation, and usually requires far less maintenance than their living counter-parts. This group of ground covers includes but is not limited to tree bark in a shredded or chipped form, gravels, river run cobbles, chipped fodder from tree pruning operations, and granite fines mixed with cement. Permanent Irrigation: For purposes of these guidelines, any water conveyance system designed and maintained to deliver irrigation water throughout the expected life cycle of the planting shall be considered a permanent irrigation system. Temporary Irrigation: For the purposes of these guidelines, temporary irrigation systems include water trucks, emitter systems, and temporary above ground pvc and spray head irrigation systems. The primary purpose of the temporary system is Appendix to provide an establishment period for the associated planting. After the establishment period is complete (usually two to three years) the temporary system is either removed or abandoned in place.
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Accent Plantings: Accent trees generate the showy flower and/or leaf color that provides seasonal interest in the landscape. Like accent trees, accent shrubs provide showy flower and/or leaf color. They provide a visual accent when used in mass by themselves or in conjunction with important structural elements such as signs, structure entries, gateways, etc.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Tree Grove: A grove consists of a substantial (minimum 10) number of trees spaced at a maximum distance of 50% of the tree’s expected height within ten years. For purposes of this plan the maximum number of species within a tree 68
Native Grasses and Wildflowers: This important plant group will be a major tool in adding unique character to the Corridor. For the most part grasses and wildflowers will be planted using hydroseeding techniques. These plantings will provide a significant seasonal interest. The wildflower seed selection will be tailored for the corridor to create a signature planting. PLANTING TECHNIQUES GENERAL
Appendix
The following planting techniques can be used separately or together to achieve desired visual affects along the corridor. Frames: Planting is used to frame several elements in the landscape. Tree masses can be used to frame a view or vista, tree groupings can be used to frame a structure, and shrub and/or trees can be used to frame signs and monuments. The main function of a frame is to focus attention on a landscape element. Screen plantings, foil plantings, foundation plantings, and even accent plantings can all be used effectively to create a frame. Screens: As with frames screens are often used to enhance the visual character of the landscape. The main function of a screen is to block the view of an undesirable landscape element. These elements can be in the foreground, middle ground or background of the landscape scene. The size and densityAppendix of the screening element and its location in relationship to the viewer are the main factors in determining the effectiveness of planting screens. Spatial Modulation: Creation and augmentation of three dimensional space is a very powerful tool in planting design. With the proper use of plants a sense of place can be created where one did not exist. A weak sense of entry or transition can be transformed into a powerful statement. And a chaotic and unrelated landscape can be transformed into one of
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
grove shall be three. Groves can be used for several landscape purposes such as screening, framing, accents. The main aesthetic value of a grove is the synergistic affect of form, texture, and color that a grove produces.
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Appendix
Accents: Accent planting provides a variety of enhancements to the landscape. They can enhance circulation by accenting important roadway nodes. They can add seasonal emphasis to gateways and monuments, or divert the observer’s attention from a less than enthralling view or vista. Accent plantings within the corridor should be designed to provide at least three seasons of interest. This can be achieved by using a combination of plants or a single plant with multiple seasonal characteristics. Accent concepts can be further enhanced by repetition of significant characteristics at similar locations throughout the Corridor. For instance, a certain combination of plantings could be repeated at all secondary gateway sites. This would add unity to the project and help travelers identify when they are approaching a secondary gateway. This concept can be further refined by using a combination of plants in which the plant palette for a certain elements is consistent except for one significant plant that becomes the signature plant throughout the sub-district of the Corridor.
Appendix
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
unity and order. The primary formula for spatial creation and modulation is a function of the viewer’s physical proximity to spatial delineators. In general a strong sense of enclosure is created when the height of a vertical element is a 1 to 1 ratio to the distance from the observer. The sense of enclosure transitions into a sense of place at the ratio 2 to 1 and any sense of enclosure becomes negligent at the ratio of 3 to 1.
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Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
RCHITECTURAL DESIGN GUIDELINES GENERAL The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a framework for design decisions regarding architectural and signage structures within the Highway 99 Corridor. It is intended as a set of typical recommendations based on the Beautification Plan goals, objectives and policies. The Architectural Design Guidelines will function in the same manner as the previous section of Landscape Design Guidelines. They are not intended as a site specific set of remedies to be applied directly to existing conditions, but rather as the overarching principals that will guide decision making over time through the various implementation phases and related projects. These guidelines will enable designers to create designs that unify the Corridor. The guidelines will also assist agencies in making educated decisions based on overall issues and themes for the corridor as they relate to their specific site areas. There is a clear need for a well articulated signage program throughout the limits of the Corridor. The removal of billboards is a critical factor to establishing an informational language for the corridor, which will direct and inform travelers on Highway 99 to both services and an understanding of the regional identity common to these towns and cities they are travelling through. Architectural guidelines can be tailored more specifically to each city or district as a means of reflecting the different identities of in the Corridor. Three distinct form and material sub-themes are proposed for the Corridor. They are The Rural Agricultural Appendix Theme, The Urban or Cityscape theme, and The Transition theme.
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The following are the proposed materials and forms for each sub-theme.
Ground Planes: Open earth, asphalt, concrete (washed aggregate and broom finish no color), Vertical Planes: Stone, Culture Stone, concrete, Natural Wood, corrugated metal, wire strands, split face block with integral color, galvanized steel. Structures: Agricultural forms
Appendix
Signage: Painted on structures or wood panels, enamel on metal with wood or galvanized steel posts, concrete with stone base, enamel on metal with concrete or stone base and back. Limited external base lighting and prevention of internally illuminated signs or readerboards. TRANSITION THEME Ground Planes: Open earth, asphalt, concrete (washed aggregate and broom finish with or without color), Vertical Planes: Appendix Culture Stone, concrete, painted wood, corrugated metal, wire strands, split face block with integral color, painted metal siding.
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
RURAL AGRICULTURAL THEME
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Structures: Agricultural, industrial commercial and light industrial forms.
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CITYSCAPE THEME Ground Planes: Asphalt, concrete (washed aggregate and broom finish, or stamped with or without color), Vertical Planes: Concrete, split face block with integral color. Brick (multiple colors), stucco,
Appendix
Structures: Urban and sub-urban forms gleaned from surrounding skylines and/or traditional urban and suburban images. Signage: Enamel on metal with metal post, concrete with block or brick face base, concrete with block or brick face base. Significant lighting acceptable DEFINITIONS
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Signage: Painted on structures or wood panels, enamel on metal with wood or galvanized steel posts, enamel on metal with concrete or block base and back. Lighting levels associated with industrial commercial and light industrial.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
GENERAL The following definitions are provided to give a frame work for design of architectural Appendix and sign elements proposed within the Corridor. Structural Articulation : Structural articulation is referred to in this context as a design method by which forms in the landscape are expressed. Poor structural articulation can lead to an “anywhere, USA” image that tends to fail to attract visitor or investor interest through a failure to reflect the historical or cultural values of a community. Common architec-
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Entries: Entries are locations requiring careful attention for both architectural and signage elements in the Corridor landscape. Through careful structural articulation, the points of entry can be showcased in a manner which makes both the services and resources of the area attractive to visitors and potential economic and family investors as well. A community with a well stated entry shows to the traveler of Highway 99 that this community is in control of its visual resources and has agreed upon a community identity which they announce to the rest of the region.
Appendix
Planes and surfaces: Planes and surfaces are the horizontal elements in the landscape which the architectural and signage elements connect to as vertical anchors. Planes and surfaces become the canvas which, if addressed sensitively, can become points of entry, or viewsheds based on the architectural and signage elements which connect them. Architectural Form: Architectural form is a key factor in creating a visual language, or ‘story’ for the greater Corridor landscape that is apparent to the traveler of Highway 99. Architectural form can represent the overall elements of a landscape and the vertical linkages they create, as well as the issues of scale which arise from the placement of these vertical forms and the senses they evoke in the community member and traveler.
Appendix Landscape Transition: Landscape transition can reflect movement in two major areas. One is from physical plantings and built structures such as architectural or signage elements. The other is between locations along the greater Corridor landscape, such as gateways between towns along the Corridor, agricultural uses of the lands adjacent to the Corridor, or Historical or economic themes that run within the Corridor boundaries.
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
tural themes create a sense of place which reflects the evolutionary history of a place. Structural articulation shows that the community has evolved and responded to both the environment and economics of the region over time, and has a shared history as a result. Such places are generally perceived as a beneficial location for both business and family investments. Structural articulation via signage is an opportunity to increase the ability of both the visitor and community member to locate or place themselves in a user friendly environment. Increasing the accessibility of places along the corridor, and the use of signage to articulate the Corridor’s regional identity will improve the visual perception and economic growth viability of the surrounding areas.
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Appendix
Colors: Colors should be chosen using the same parameters which are given for material guidelines. Colors should be chosen for Architectural elements and signage features which relate to the identity of the region, and site well within the greater Corridor landscape context in a manner which doesn’t detract from the landscape aesthetic being developed. Historical color uses and styles of presentation are recommended for investigation prior to creating a signage program throughout the Corridor. Themes: Themes are a critical factor, the ‘front’ via which travelers create their initial impressions of a region. The ability to create a common theme (i.e. Agriculture) throughout the Corridor is critical to forming a regional identity readable to the corridor traveler. Repeated colors, materials, and logos for the region create the boundaries the traveler identifies the region with. Architectural elements, such as buildings, gateways, and rest stops, and well articulated signage programs establish themes. Appendix Public Art: Public art creates the impression that the adjacent towns have a sense of civic pride that proudly expresses itself to the outside world. It also creates an impression of economic stability and even prosperity to the outside world, which can draw economic and family investors to the area.
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Materials: Materials are a critical element in Architectural and signage design guidelines for the Corridor. Materials should be chosen which reflect the traditional materials of the Corridor (maintaining the historical context) and materials should be chosen which reflect a new era of growth and movement within the Corridor communities (i.e. New grain silo designs using steel, metal, etc). Signage should be addressed for a common form or material throughout the extent of the Corridor. It is a critical factor in determining the effectiveness of a signage strategy which unifies the Corridor and creates a feeling of directional security to the traveler, greater increasing their chances of visiting the adjacent regions for temporary or permanent investment. Materials should be sensitive to the greater landscape and in tune in a manner which enhances the surrounding environments of the Corridor, rather than detracts from them by being insensitive or inappropriate materials which do not site well within the greater Corridor landscape or its historical identity as a region, Careful material selection can be a critical factor in establishing a regional identity vs. an “anywhere” one.
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Signage: Signage becomes the critical unifying factor for the entire Corridor. Developing a signage program that not only informs and educates the Highway 99 traveler, but also creates a unified theme for the Corridor is one of the most effective means available within economic constraints for the Corridor.
Appendix
Major Gateways: Major gateways require the most attention from Architectural Design Guidelines. Major gateways are destination locations where repeated or ‘specialty’ structures that emphasize critical nodes along the corridor can be most effective. The architectural elements which are designed into them create additional vertical visual anchors to locate the traveler in the journey of the corridor Minor Gateways: Minor gateways work in the same manner as the major gateways, in a ‘once-removed’ fashion. They are secondary nodes on the Corridor journey, and the repetition of signage and architectural elements are often successful in the placemaking and identification process which produces place and regional identity as it outcome. Community Separators: Community separators create recognizable transitions between cities, towns and districts that accentuate their boundaries. Agricultural preservation strategies on the Corridor and open space or trail systems are the most effective community separators. They also provide the potential for regionalAppendix open space or trail program initiation. Fences and Walls: Fences and walls can act as links, or unify the Corridor image through repetition throughout the Corridor journey. The scale, relief materials, and locations of such elements should be determined on a Corridor wide scale.
Landscape and Architectural Guidelines
Screens: Screens are traditionally seen as being ‘green’ , However, signage and Architectural elements can be used successfully to achieve the same means independently or in conjunction with each other and a planting treatment. Noise barriers can also become an effective screening agent where roadside uses are not aesthetically or visually conducive to the image the Association seeks to promote in the Corridor.
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I
MPLEMENTATION
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Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
he Process of implementation is not easily addressed in situations such as Highway 99 where so many stakeholders affect the visual quality of the Corridor. In cases such as these, it is important to structure implementation strategies in phases, to carefully prioritize projects and to thoroughly investigate all funding sources potentially available. A reference for potential funding sources has been provided in Appendix II. Realistic phasing of implementation projects is a critical factor in the success of this master planning effort. Additional funding does not yet exist, and a large portion of implementation may be dependent on the formation of a non-profit body to obtain grants and administer implementation. Therefore, implementation recommendations have been presented in short term and long term strategies. In the “long range scenario” the non-profit administrative body is formed and outside funding is secured. The “short term scenario” institues immediate improvements under the current organizational structure of the Association.
Implementation
T
MPLEMENTATION
Appendix
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It is important to note that although the implementation effort is divided into short term and long term, immediate action is necessary on some long-term elements in order to achieve them. That is to say, for example, that although creation of a non-profit is listed as a long term element, work to create the non-profit should begin immediately in order to achieve it in the long term. Before any of these actions are undertaken, it will be necessary for all the cities and counties along the Corridor targeted by this plan to adopt it and incorporate it into their own guidelines and policies.
Appendix
SHORT TERM IMPROVEMENTS Better maintenance of the existing landscape improvements is the action that can provide the most immediate results. This effort will consist of two major tasks.
Implementation
The first short term improvement is litter control and the second is traditional landscape maintenance that includes but is not limited to mowing, pruning, fertilization, pest and disease control, and replacement of dead and/or dying
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plant material. The major options that are available for these tasks are as follows:
Due to the timeline required for the state budgeting process, the consideration that options one and two be placed in the long term category, is not unreasonable, although unfortunate. Therefore, developing volunteer programs is the most expedient of the three options and should definitely be addressed immediately.
Appendix
There are, however, several examples throughout the State in which the local communities voiced strong and consistent opinion about the physical structure and maintenance of their highway corridors. Through these efforts, successful outcomes were achieved, and Caltrans was influenced to deviate from the standard district approach. The Association has accomplished every major goal it has set for itself. Due to the Association’s now proven record of accomplishment and its’ organizational abilities, we feel efforts directed to Caltrans to increase maintenance operations is within the realm of possibilities for the Association.
Implementation
1. Improvement of quantity and or efficiency of existing maintenance operations. 2. Hire additional maintenance services. 3. Create a series of volunteer programs that address the needs of these two tasks.
Community service ordered by the judicial and penal system is another avenue for an immediate but temporary work force for maintenance and litter control in the Corridor. Parks and recreation, as well as public works departments throughout the State, have been successfully using this resource for years. Additional short-term actions that will have a short-term effect include: 1. Coordination of architectural guidelines and sign control ordinances between agencies within the Corridor. 2. Incorporation of guidelines into current planning projects, which includeAppendix but are not limited to, The City of Fresno’s gateway design competition, the Selma soundwall, and Caltrans landscape improvements program. 3. Incorporation of guidelines into private projects currently under consideration for approval by the local jurisdictions that lie within the corridor.
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LONG TERM IMPROVEMENTS Long term improvements hinge on obtaining additional grant funding, and the possibility of developing a non-profit organizational structure. Such an organization would create volunteer programs, apply for and administer grant funds, and coordinate agencies with jurisdictional and maintenance responsibilities within the Corridor. Achieving non-profit status has the potential to open doors to funding resources that local governmentalagencies might not qualify for.
Highway 99 Beautification Master Plan
Appendix
Implementation
Policy oriented projects: • Form non-profit • Develop Priority List • Community Outreach • Develop litter program • Develop volunteer program • Develop funding mechanisms – grant applications • Coordinate zoning legislation for signage and non-ROW landscape improvements for adjacent businesses • Develop Districts • Develop signage design strategy • Coordinate zoning legislation for design and arrangement of new buildings on properties adjacent to Highway 99.
Appendix
The following is the list of long term improvements broken down into two major categories. The first category is policy and administrative related projects. The second is physical improvement related projects.
Implementation
Physical improvement projects: • Evaluate existing plant material in the Corridor • Litter Program • Landscape Improvements Program • Signage Program 80
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• Billboard Reduction and or Removal • Gateways and Structures Program • Monuments and Public Art Program
1. Agricultural Fields - Improve Views with planting strategies - Develop a crop signage program
3. Business signs - Funding for grouping signs together - Encouraging agency reviews and permits to require sign groupings - Sign ordinances 4. Litter -
Appendix
2. Billboards - Eliminate through cross county legislation or buy out - Rent space unable to be eliminated – publish with facts on the corridor or public service related issues such as public service announcement
Implementation
The following is a sample of possible long term programs and projects as they relate to elements of the Master Plan
Adoption and clean-up day, programs Employ non-traditional labor to enforce cleanup and prevention through non-profit direction
5. Adjacent commercial enterprices Appendix - Foundation plantings - Accent Landscaping - Display assistance and guidelines - Access to R.O.W for owners willing to participate in litter removal
Implementation
6. Bridge Crossing at entry points to Corridor 81
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7. Gateway Monuments program 8. Rest Stops/Interpretation Facilities program Public Art sites - large works/monuments funding programs - Temporary Installation Projects (NEA funding sources potential)
Appendix
10. Landscape - Adoption, clean-up day, and landscape competition programs
Appendix
Implementation
9.
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A PPENDIX
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The A cia i n f he Bea ifica i n f High a 99
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Appendix I: Existing Conditions
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UNDING RESOURCES
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Appendix II: Funding Resources
United States Environmental Protection Agency-EPA Region 9 Office: 75 Hawthorne Street San Francisco, CA. 94105 http://www.epa.gov/region09/funding/index.html EPA’s Continuing Program Grants Project Grants
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Funding Sources for Communities 1. Brownfields Assessment Demonstration Pilots 2. Clean Water state Revolving Fund 3. Environmental Education (EE) 4. Environmental Justice through Pollution Prevention (EJP2) 5. Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Control 6. Pollution Prevention Incentives for States (PPIS) 7. Small Business Innovation & Research (SBIR) 8. Sustainable Development Challenge Grants (SDCG)
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CALTRANS TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT ACTIVITIES PROGRAM Office of State Landscape Architecture http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/TransEnhAct/index1.htm
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CALTRANS ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY PROGRAM
Appendix II: Funding Resources
California Department of Transportation http://adopt-a-highway.dot.ca.gov/index.htm RESOURCES AGENCY OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, CALIFORNIA Applications available for $10 million in Grants for Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Projects. EEM Program applications are available from the Resources Agency. 1416 Ninth Street, Room 1311 Sacramento, CA. 95814 or at (916) 653-5656 http://ceres.ca.gov/CRA/eemp.htm1
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Great Valley Center 911 13th Street Modesto, CA. 95354 (209) 522-5103
[email protected] Regional Transportation Enhancement Activities (TEA) Agency: Fresno COG Air Pollution Control Monies San Joaquin Air Quality Management District
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LANT PALETTE
Appendix III: Plant Palette
The following plant lists are divided by the various landscape treatments as defined in this document. All species listed are suitable and are found within the region of the project area. The lists are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather a resource or guideline that may be used in the development of thematic planting palettes used throughout the Corridor. Careful investigation and consideration of specific site conditions should be taken when selecting a particular plant species/palette i.e., where hydroseed applications and planting strategies will occur. Plant material should be selected that does not directly impact adjacent farming operations. In addition, all plant material selected will need to be reviewed by Caltrans and adhere to Caltrans Standards in terms of plant character and plant use (see Caltrans Standards Specifications, Section 20). California has numerous sources for assistance in developing native plant lists such as the California Wild program and other Caltrans State Department of Landscape Architecture programs such as Botanical Management Area designations and wildflower signage programs. Non-profit groups such as Native Here Nursery, California Exotic Pest Plant Council and the California Native Plant Society, as well as professional services such as Pacific Coast Seed Company should be thoroughly investigated for additional support in developing appropriate plant palettes.
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Decisions regarding specific plant palettes should be made after a careful process of identifying districts and planting themes through community input which reflect each city and town’s identity. District approaches can then be undertaken to create a uniform identity along the Corridor.
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1) MULCH - Caltrans Standards (Section 20) 2) WILDFLOWER AND GRASS HYDROSEED MIX Botanical Name - Vulpia microstachys - Stipa cernua - Poa scabrella - Melica californica
Common Name Six Weeks Fescue Nodding Stipa Pine Bluegrass California Melic Grass
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3) TREES ONLY (with some vine plantings along fencing) Botanical Name Common Name Trees - Assorted fruit trees - Cercis canadensis Eastern Redbud - Cersis occidentalis Western Redbud - Eucalyptus sp. Eucalyptus - Olea europaea ‘Monher’ Fruitless Olive - Pinus sp. Pine Tree - Platanus racemosa California Sycamore - Populus fremontii Western Cottonwood (male species only) - Quercus sp. Oak - Rhus Lancea African Sumac - Robinia ambigua ‘Idahoenisis’ Idaho Locust Vines - Ficus pumila - Lonicera japonica - Macfadyena unguis-cati - Parthenocissus sp. - Trachelospermum Jasminoides - Wisteria sinensis
Creeping Fig Japanese Honeysuckle Cat’s Claw Boston Ivy Star Jasmine Chinese Wisteria
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Tom Cat Clover Miniture Annual Lupine California Poppy California Goldfields Tidytips Blue Wild Rye Tussock Grass Curly Blue Grass
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Trifolium tridentatum Lupinus bicolor Eschscholzia california Lasthenia californica Layia platygosa Elymus glaucus ‘Anderson” Nassella cernua Poa secunda
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Shrubs - Abelia grandiflora - Acacia redolens
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Maple Strawberry Tree Incense Cedar Cedar Camphor Tree Gingko (male species only) Locust Chinese Flame Tree Goldenrain Tree American Sweet Gum Tulip Tree Southern Magnolia Sour Gum Chinese Pistache London Plane Yew Pine Lombardy Poplar Flowering Plum, Cherry & Nectrine Ornamental Pear Chinese Tallow Tree California Pepper Tree Coast Redwood A Chinese Evergreen Elm Sawleaf Zelkova
Appendix III: Plant Palette
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4) TREES AND SHRUBS (URBAN) Botanical Name Trees - Acer sp. - Arbutus unedo - Calocedrus decurrens - Cedrus sp. - Cinnamommum camphora - Gingko biloba sp. - Gleditsia sp. - Koelreuteria bipinnata - Koelreuteria paniculata - Liquidamber styraciflua - Liriodendron tulipifera - Magnolia grandiflora - Nyssa sylvatica - Pistacia chinensis - Platanus acerfolia - Podocarpus macrophyllus - Populus nigra ‘Italica’ - Prunus sp. - Pyrus sp. - Sapium sebiferum - Schinus molle - Sequoia sempervirens - Ulmus parvifolia - Zelkova serrata
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‘Edward Groucher’ Abelia Prostrate Acacia xviii
Ground Cover - Acacia redolens - Arctostaphylos uva-ursi - Ceanothus sp. - Cotoneaster dammeri - Eschscholzia californica
A Prostrate Acacia Bearberry Manzanita Wild Lilac Bearberry Cotoneaster California Poppy
Appendix III: Plant Palette
Lily of the Nile Strawberry Tree Manzanita Barberry Bottlebrush Wild Lilac Western Redbud Dwarf Mirror Plan Cotoneaster Fortnight Lily Pink Escallonia Pineapple Guava Crape Myrtle English Lavender Spanish Lavender Creeping Mahonia Oleander New Zealand Flax Photinia Tobira India Hawthorn White ‘Lady Banks’ Rose Yellow ‘Lady Banks’ Rose Rosemary
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Agapanthus sp. Arbutus unedo Arctostaphylos sp. Berberis sp. Callistemon sp. Ceanothus sp. Cercis occidentalis Coprosma kirkii Cotoneaster sp. Dietes vegeta Escallonia sp. Feijoa sellowiana Lagerstroemia indica Lavandula angustifolia Lavandula stoechas Mahonia repens Nerium oleander Phormium tenax var. Photinia fraseri Pittosporum tobira Rhaphiolepis indica sp. Rosa banksiae ‘Alba Plena’ Rosa banksiae ‘Lutea’ Rosmarinus officinalis
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Creeping Fig Japanese Honeysuckle Cat’s Claw Boston Ivy Star Jasmine Chinese Wisteria
5) MAJOR ACCENT LANDSCAPE TREATMENT Botanical Name Common Name Trees - Acer palmatum sp. Japanese Maple - Koelreuteria bipinnata Chinese Flame Tree - Koelreuteria paniculata Goldenrain Tree - Gingko biloba sp. Gingko (male species only) - Lagerstroemia sp. Crape Myrtle - Liquidamber styraciflua American Sweet Gum - Magnolia soulangiana Saucer Magnolia - Nyssa sylvatica Sour Gum - Pistacia chinensis Chinese Pistache - Prunus sp. Flowering Plum, Cherry & Nectrine A - Pyrus sp. Ornamental Pear - Sapium sebiferum Chinese Tallow Tree Shrubs - Agapanthus sp. - Berberis sp.
Appendix III: Plant Palette
Vines - Ficus pumila - Lonicera japonica - Macfadyena unguis-cati - Parthenocissus sp. - Trachelospermum Jasminoides - Wisteria sinensis
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- Festuca ovina ‘Glauca’ - Hedera helix ‘Hahns’ - Lupinus sp.
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Lily of the Nile Barberry xx
Ground Cover - Cerastium tomentosum - Festuca ovina ‘Glauca’
Summer-In-Snow Blue Fescue
Vines - Ficus pumila - Lonicera japonica - Macfadyena unguis-cati - Parthenocissus sp. - Trachelospermum Jasminoides - Wisteria sinensis
Creeping Fig Japanese Honeysuckle Cat’s Claw Boston Ivy Star Jasmine Chinese Wisteria
Appendix III: Plant Palette
Coreopsis Fortnight Lily Crape Myrtle New Zealand Flax White ‘Lady Banks’ Rose Yellow ‘Lady Banks’ Rose
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Coreopsis lanceolata Dietes vegeta Lagerstroemia indica Phormium tenax var. Rosa banksiae ‘Alba Plena’ Rosa banksiae ‘Lutea’
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ISITOR’S CENTER CONCEPT
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IBLIOGRAPHY Austin, R. 1982. Designing with Plants. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.
Appendix V: Bibliography
California: Nursery Sources for California Nature Plants, 1995. Dines, N. and Harris, C. 1988. Time Saver Standards for Landscape Architecture. McGraw-Hill, New York. Dirr, M. 1990. Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propogation and Uses. Stipes, Illinois. Harker, D., Harker, K., Evans, M., Evans, S., and Libby, G.. 1999. Landscape Restoration Handbook Second Edition. Lewis Publishers, New York. Hightshoe, G.. 1988. Native Trees, Shrubs and Vines for Urban and Rural America. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.
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Ottesen, C. 1995. Native Plant Primer. Harmony Books, Crown Publishers, New York.
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Perry,B.1992. Landscape Plants for Western Regions An Illustrated Guide to Plants for Water Conservation. Land Design Publishing, California. United States, Federal Highway Administration, Department of Transportation. Bonnie Harper-Lore, editor. A endi Roadside Use of Native Plants. publication # FHWA-EP-99-014.1999. Walker, Theodore D. 1991. Planting Design. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.
Appendix V: Bibliography
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April 2000
