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PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Big Ideas
Mapping the Big Ideas The Big Ideas outlined above are applicable to the District and community in a broad sense, and establish a overall approach to improving the District. During the preparation of the District Analysis and the public input workshops, opportunities were identified within the District for applying the Big Ideas to a particular place or places within the District. These site specific opportunties for improving the District were illustrated on a series of maps, which were used as a starting point by particpants in the Phase II: Community Workshop for developing more detailed planning and design ideas. The Big Ideas maps include the following:
• Create neighborhood based centers or nodes along each corridor that provide for a mix of uses and services, including small scale retail and services • Expand and diversify the range of housing options, especially for non-family households, young professionals, and aging independent adults • Strengthen downtown as the destination and heart of the community • Preserve single-family neighborhoods from being overwhelmed by student housing • Encourage a broader diversity in retail and food offerings • Open Space and Green Infrastructure: The community values open space and green infrastructure that supports leisure time activities, contributes to the positive small town character of the community, and reflects the community’s desire to promote sustainability and stewardship of the natural environment. The Big Ideas for improving the Open Space and Green Infrastructure of the District include: • Create more and improve existing open space • Provide open space amenities (e.g. pedestrian lighting) and access in each part in the District • Provide space and program support for a broader range of positive outdoor activities • Actively pursue greenway and non-motorized connections (e.g. bike trails and lanes) • Promote the use of best management practices for stormwater and encourage habitat restoration throughout the District • Improve wayfinding for community visitors and downtown users • Continue to enhance community/university gateways along Oakland Avenue and Wayne Avenue • Community Image: A number of ideas expressed by the community did not have a specific physical component to them, but spoke to the higher goals for the community’s image and values. Some of these ideas recorded during the planning process, include the following: • Create more of a “college town” physical character through streetscape design, building placement, and architectural quality • Strengthen university and community physical/social/cultural ties
• Figure 11. Mobility and Transportation • Figure 12. Housing and Development • Figure 13. Open Space and Green Infrastructure
• Insure that the community remains a family friendly place • Build a stronger sense of being a creative, artistic place • Become a more open, welcoming, relaxed, and accepting community
Example of comments/input as to which of the “Big Ideas” were most important.
Indiana Community University District
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