Title
Urban Village Special Lighting Design Area (B)
This is a request for the City Commission to authorize the City Manager to establish a special lighting design area for the Urban Village.
Explanation
Policy 4.3.7 of the City's Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Element established the Urban Village. The long-term vision for the area includes "promoting infill development and redevelopment that supports a safe, comfortable, and attractive pedestrian environment" and "promoting an attractive streetscape with appropriate street trees to provide shading and landscape interest and street furniture with a unified design appearance for the area."
Public Works staff is currently reviewing roadway plans in conjunction with the proposed "Village Point" development in the Urban Village area. The developer has requested the utilization of non-standard lighting fixtures on roadways throughout the site. In accordance with the City of Gainesville Standard Practice for Public Lighting, to accommodate the installation of non-standard fixtures, the site has to be designated as a Special Lighting Design Area. Staff has determined the area meets the criteria for a Special Lighting Design Area.
Section 5.0 of the City of Gainesville Standard Practice for Public Lighting states the City Commission may designate Special Lighting Design Area(s) (Special Area). A Special Area warrants lighting practices that deviate from the standards with respect to design, type of structure, and type of fixture or level of illumination.
- Bicycle and pedestrian friendly lighting should be installed utilizing structures and fixtures of traditional or unique design.
- Fixtures should be of low mounting height and may be used in conjunction with more traditional streetlights.
- Special attention should be given to lighting pedestrian areas attractively.
- Structures and fixtures should be dark colored.
- Lighting conductors should be placed underground as funds permit.
LED lighting is proposed as the predominant fixture type within this Special Lighting Design Area. Since GRU does not offer LED fixtures for installation and maintenance, the fixtures would be metered, owned, and maintained by the City of Gainesville. Staff recommends that a special assessment be implemented to fund on-going maintenance and operating expenses.
Fiscal Note
Village Point is proposing the installation of 82 pedestrian level light fixtures. The estimated annual operating cost is $90,600. A special assessment would be implemented to fund annual operating expenses as well as future capital replacement costs.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) authorize the City Manager to establish a Special Lighting Design Area for the Urban Village; and 2) authorize the City Manager to initiate the process to establish a special assessment to fund the annual operating expenses and future capital replacement costs for lighting in the Urban Village.
Alternate Recommendation: The City Commission not approve the creation of a Special Lighting Design Area.