16-1173 Comprehensive Plan Map Text Amendment H-2016-0098CITY OF MERIDIAN RESOLUTION NO. 16-1173
BY THE CITY COUNCIL: BIRD, BORTON, CAVENER,
MILAM, PALMER, LITTLE ROBERTS
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MERIDIAN, AMENDING THE CITY OF MERIDIAN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO
UPDATE THE TEXT OF THE PLAN TO MODIFY THE GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND
ACTION ITEMS CONTAINED IN THE PLAN; AND TO AMEND THE FUTURE LAND
USE MAP OF THE 2002 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO BETTER REFLECT THE
EXISTING AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT, AND TO MORE CONSISTENTLY
REPRESENT EXISTING LAND USES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, on August 6, 2002, the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan was adopted
by Meridian City Council Resolution no. 02-382; and,
WHEREAS, on April 5, 2011 the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan was amended
by Meridian City Council Resolution no. 11-784;
WHEREAS, the Meridian City Planning Department further recommends correlative
text revisions to the Comprehensive Plan; modification to the goals, objectives and action items
contained in the Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have deemed it appropriate to amend the future land
use map of the 2002 Comprehensive Plan to better reflect the existing and built environment, and
to more consistently represent existing land uses; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council have provided all requisite notices and
hearings and have complied, and will hereafter comply, in all respects with the requirements of
the Idaho Local Land Use Planning Act for amendment of the Comprehensive Plan;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. That the Mayor and City Council hereby amend the City of Meridian
Comprehensive Plan by updating the text of the Plan, by modifying the goals, objectives and
action items contained in the Plan as outlined in the attached City of Meridian Comprehensive
Plan and Land Use Map, Adopted October 11, 2016. Pursuant to Idaho Code § 67-6509(c), a
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT — OCTOBER 2016 — H-2016-0098 — Page 1 of 2
copy of the amended Comprehensive plan, with this Resolution, shall be kept on file in the office
of the City Clerk.
SECTION 2. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect immediately upon its
adoption and approval.
ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this _LL day of
fM6e4-, , 2016.
APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this _fl_ day of
bar , 2016.
\�Go�PpRATEpgGCGs�
or tD
O
jDlA W
ATTEST:
By:
C.j6y Cole GVy Cleric
APPROVED:
;I
Mayor Taint d eerd
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT — OCTOBER 2016 — H-2016-0098 — Page 2 of 2
City of Meridian CoMprehensive plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
City of Meridian CoMprehensive plan
Adopted April 19, 2011
resolution no. 11-784
Prepared by:
City of Meridian
Planning Division
33 E Broadway Suite 102
Meridian, Idaho 83642
Phone 208.884.5533
Fax 209.888.6854
Amended
November 19, 2013 – Resolution No. 13-963
September 9, 2014 – Resolution No. 14-1011 and 14-1012
October 11, 2016 - Resolution No. 16-1173
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
iCity of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Acknowledgements
Mayor and City CounCil
Tammy de Weerd, Mayor
Brad Hoaglun
Charlie Rountree
David Zaremba
Keith Bird
planning and Zoning CoMMission
Tom O’Brien
Joe Marshall
Steven Yearsley
Scott Freeman
Michael Rohm
ii City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
iii
Table of Contents
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
table of Contents
Chapter 1 – Introduction ...............................................................................................................................1
Plan Purpose and Scope ..........................................................................................................................................................1
Nature of the Plan......................................................................................................................................................................2
Plan History and Preparation ..................................................................................................................................................3
Plan Vision ....................................................................................................................................................................................4
Plan Structure .............................................................................................................................................................................4
Using this Document .................................................................................................................................................................5
Chapter 2 – Community Character ............................................................................................................7
Community Design ....................................................................................................................................................................7
Quality of Life and Livability ....................................................................................................................................................7
Healthy Initiatives ....................................................................................................................................................................10
Chapter 2 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items ................................................................................................................13
Chapter 3 – Strategic Growth ....................................................................................................................17
Area of City Impact ................................................................................................................................................................18
The Future Land Use Map .....................................................................................................................................................20
Residential .........................................................................................................................................................................................20
Commercial .......................................................................................................................................................................................21
Office .................................................................................................................................................................................................22
Industrial ............................................................................................................................................................................................22
Old Town .............................................................................................................................................................................................22
Mixed Use Designations ................................................................................................................................................................22
Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area ............................................................................................................................................34
Civic .....................................................................................................................................................................................................34
Parks ...................................................................................................................................................................................................34
Schools ................................................................................................................................................................................................35
Fire Stations.......................................................................................................................................................................................35
Entryway Corridors..........................................................................................................................................................................35
Future Planning and Referral Area ..............................................................................................................................................35
Transit Stations and Transit Friendly Development .................................................................................................................35
Symbols ..............................................................................................................................................................................................36
Housing ....................................................................................................................................................................................36
Transportation ........................................................................................................................................................................36
Transportation and Land Use Integration ................................................................................................................................37
Blueprint for Good Growth ............................................................................................................................................................37
Communities in Motion (CIM) .....................................................................................................................................................38
Alternative Transportation ..............................................................................................................................................................38
Downtown Transportation Network ............................................................................................................................................39
State Facilities ...................................................................................................................................................................................41
Supplemental Network Improvements ......................................................................................................................................41
Utilities and Infrastructure ...................................................................................................................................................42
Water Service ...................................................................................................................................................................................42
Sewer Collection ...............................................................................................................................................................................42
Sewage Treatment ...........................................................................................................................................................................43
Garbage and Recycling ..................................................................................................................................................................43
Irrigation .............................................................................................................................................................................................44
Power ..................................................................................................................................................................................................44
Natural Gas .......................................................................................................................................................................................44
Communications ..............................................................................................................................................................................44
Future Acquisitions Map ........................................................................................................................................................44
Chapter 3 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items ................................................................................................................45
Chapter 4 – Economic Excellence .............................................................................................................57
Economic Development .......................................................................................................................................................57
iv
Table of Contents
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Business Enterprise Areas / Specific Area Plans ......................................................................................................................58
Chamber of Commerce .................................................................................................................................................................60
Chapter 4 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items ................................................................................................................61
Chapter 5 – Stewardship .............................................................................................................................65
Natural Resources ..................................................................................................................................................................65
Water ................................................................................................................................................................................................65
Soil and Vegetation...........................................................................................................................................................................65
Air Quality ..........................................................................................................................................................................................66
Energy .................................................................................................................................................................................................66
Sustainability .............................................................................................................................................................................66
Green Building ..................................................................................................................................................................................67
Recycling and Hazardous Waste .................................................................................................................................................67
Hazardous Areas......................................................................................................................................................................67
Special Areas and Historic Resources ................................................................................................................................68
Chapter 5 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items ................................................................................................................69
Chapter 6 – Public Services .......................................................................................................................77
Community, Social and Government Services ..................................................................................................................77
Education ...................................................................................................................................................................................77
Public Schools ...................................................................................................................................................................................77
Continuing Education ......................................................................................................................................................................78
Emergency Services ................................................................................................................................................................78
Police ...................................................................................................................................................................................................78
Fire and Ambulance ........................................................................................................................................................................79
Parks and Recreation..............................................................................................................................................................79
Arts and Entertainment .........................................................................................................................................................80
Libraries .....................................................................................................................................................................................80
Organizational Excellence .....................................................................................................................................................80
City Hall .............................................................................................................................................................................................80
Community Development Block Grant ......................................................................................................................................81
Property Rights ........................................................................................................................................................................82
Chapter 6 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items ................................................................................................................83
Chapter 7 – Implementation ......................................................................................................................87
Making the Plan Reality ..........................................................................................................................................................87
Alignment with Other Plans and Resources .............................................................................................................................87
Next Steps .........................................................................................................................................................................................88
Chapter 7 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items ................................................................................................................89
Glossary Terms ...........................................................................................................................................A-1
Acronyms and Abbreviations ....................................................................................................................B-1
Regulatory Takings Checklist ....................................................................................................................C-1
Future Land Use Map ................................................................................................................................D-1
Legend ..........................................................................................................................................................E-1
v
Table of Contents
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
list of tables
Table 3-1. Community Choices Forecasts ...................................................................................................................................18
Table 3-2. Future Land Uses within the City of Meridian Area of City Impact ..................................................................19
list of figures
Figure 3-1. Mixed Use Neighborhood Concept Diagram ........................................................................................................25
Figure 3-2. Mixed Use Neighborhood Center Concept Diagram .........................................................................................26
Figure 3-3. Mixed Use Community Concept Diagram .............................................................................................................27
Figure 3-4. Mixed Use Neighborhood Center Concept Diagram .........................................................................................29
Figure 3-5. Mixed Use Regional Concept Diagram ...................................................................................................................30
Figure 3-6. Mixed Use Non-Residential Concept Diagram .....................................................................................................32
Figure 3-7. Adopted Pathway Network Map ...............................................................................................................................40
Figure 4-1. Business Enterprise Areas ...........................................................................................................................................59
vi City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
1
1
Chapter
Chapter 1 – Introduction
Meridian, Idaho is located in the southwestern part of the state, just west of the
State’s capitol city, Boise (Figure I-1). Meridian is one of six cities in Ada County,
Idaho. City limits encompass approximately 33 square miles, and the Area of City
Impact contains 60 square miles. There are over 70,000 residents in Meridian,
making it the third largest city in Idaho. To preserve some of the small town
character and charm, while looking to progress as a community, the City enacts
this Comprehensive Plan.
Plan Purpose and Scope
The purpose of the City of Meridian’s Comprehensive Plan is to integrate the
concerns and expressions of the community into a document that guides the
City on how to grow and develop. The plan uses maps, tables and narrative to
Figure 1-1. MeriDiAN ViCiNiTY MAP
Chapter
2
1
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
describe the City, provide a vision of a desired future, and recommend specific
measures to reach that future.
The required components of a comprehensive plan specified in the Idaho
Code include private property rights; population; economic development; land
use; natural resources; hazardous areas; public services, facilities, and utilities;
transportation; recreation; special areas or sites; housing; community design;
implementation; national interest electric transmission corridors, and any other
component which may be necessary.
One of the primary uses of the Comprehensive Plan is to provide direction for
land use regulations, including zoning, as well as other implementation actions.
Idaho Code § 67-6511 requires that:
“The zoning districts shall be in accordance with the adopted plans.”
All legislative requirements, specifically the Idaho Local Land Use Planning Act,
are addressed in the plan. Idaho Code § 67-6508 (the Local Land Use Planning
Act) provides for a planning process as follows:
“Prepare, implement, and review and update a comprehensive plan,
hereafter referred to as the plan. The plan shall include all land within
the jurisdiction of the governing board. The plan shall consider previous
and existing conditions, trends, desirable goals and objectives, or
desirable future situations for each planning component. The plan with
maps, charts, and reports shall be based on the following components
unless the plan specifies reasons why a particular component is
unneeded.”
The plan is intended to work in concert with the City’s ordinances and specific
area plans. It is based not only on the concerns and expressions of the community,
but upon the Existing Conditions Report that is adopted concurrently as an
addendum to this plan. The Existing Conditions Report includes background
information and analysis about the built and natural environment in Meridian
today (2010), trends, and a strategic plan for the future. Together, the Existing
Conditions Report and the Comprehensive Plan address all of the elements
required in the Local Land Use Planning Act of Idaho.
This plan applies to all geographic areas within Meridian’s jurisdiction, including
its surrounding Area of City Impact. Plan goals, objectives, and action items are
designed to address a 10- to 15-year period, although some of the elements and
action items address a longer timeframe.
Nature of the Plan
The Meridian Comprehensive Plan is an official policy guide for decisions
concerning the physical development of the community. The Plan establishes goals,
objectives and action items to implement the City’s policies regarding growth.
The Plan works in concert with City Code and other planning-related documents
like the City’s Strategic Plan, the City’s Sewer and Water Master Plans, the Parks
and Recreation Master Plan, and Capital Improvement Plans. It is also used in
“...integrate the con-
cerns and expressions
of the community
into a document that
guides the City on
how to grow and de-
velop.”
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
1
3
Chapter
conjunction with each City department’s strategic plan and action plan. The Plan
is not a set of standards or a means to enforce City Code. Instead, it indicates,
in a general way, how the community should develop.
Citizens, developers, the Planning and Zoning Commission, as well as the City
Council and other groups, are all involved in shaping community development
and have a primary responsibility to coordinate and direct the overall pattern
of development activities within the community. The City Council, with
recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission, make development
decisions concerning annexation, rezoning, and subdivision developments at
public hearings, as well as conditional use permits, variances, and planned unit
developments. Due to their responsibilities, it is necessary for the City to implement
technical guidelines and adopt policies which will provide the framework for
resolving questions relating to appropriateness of proposed physical development
and whether they add to the quality of life to Meridian citizens and are in the best
interest of the City. The City also needs to establish long-range implementation
items for coordinated, unified development of public improvement projects.
Plan History and Preparation
Meridian’s first Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 1978. That first plan was
developed to meet the requirements of the newly enacted1975 Land Use
Planning Act of the State of Idaho, Title 67, Chapter 65. During the summer
of 1993, citizens representing neighborhood groups, developers, real estate
professionals, and public agencies participated in a Comprehensive Plan update
process; a modernized City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan was adopted on
December 21, 1993. In August 1998, the Meridian City Council adopted the
Meridian Vision Statement. By June 1999, the process of developing Meridian’s
2002 Comprehensive Plan had begun, with eventual adoption by the City Council
on August 6, 2002.
A significant amount of time has elapsed and growth occurred, since the 2002
version of the Comprehensive Plan. To ensure that the document remains relevant
and to make it more useable, today’s City leaders recognize that a significant
overhaul is needed. Many goals, objectives, and actions outlined in the 2002 plan
remain. However, some changes to the plan are in order as some of the items have
already been performed, objectives met, or are no longer desired. Additionally,
new initiatives like sustainability and a City Arts Commission have commenced
since 2002 and need to be addressed in the Comprehensive Plan.
Throughout the comprehensive planning process, citizens affirmed that the
goals, objectives, and action items contained in this plan are based on seven key
community values:
1. Manage growth to achieve high-quality development.
2. Enhance Meridian’s quality of life for all current and future residents.
3. New growth should finance public service expansion.
4. Prevent school overcrowding and enhance education services.
“A man who does
not think and plan
long ahead will find
trouble right at his
door.” -Confucius”
Chapter
4
1
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5. Expand commercial and industrial development.
6. Improve transportation.
7. Protect Meridian’s self-identity.
These important community values were expressed originally in the 1993
Comprehensive Plan and again reaffirmed during the 2002 planning process.
These values continue to drive the policies contained in this 2010 update to the
Meridian Comprehensive Plan.
City staff used survey information, workshops, steering committees, town hall
meetings, and social media sites as public involvement tools to help steer the 2010
update to the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Community input solicited throughout
the planning process helps ensure community support for the updated goals,
objectives and action items that are created or updated as part of that involvement.
For the 2010 version of the Comprehensive Plan, appropriate carry-over goals,
objectives and action items were included from the 1993 and 2002 versions of
the Plan, and new policy statements were composed from various stakeholders,
sub-committees and general public input.
The goal is to make the Comprehensive Plan a better resource that the general
public, developers and decision makers can all help implement making Meridian
a premier place to live, work and raise a family.
Plan Vision
The Plan establishes a future vision and course of action based on the issues and
concerns of the community. The vision adopted by the leaders of our premier city
is to promote a safe and vibrant community by implementing the principles and
policies of the Comprehensive Plan. The Mayor and Council provide effective and
responsible leadership, positive staff development, maximize available resources,
and improve connectivity to our community. As a caring City we are committed
to fiscal responsibility, public involvement, strategic partnerships and economic
vitality. To that end, the City has established five City-wide strategic focus areas
where City departments work together to guide growth, create jobs and a
sustainable economic base, provide services, and be good stewards of the public
trust, with trained staff that are committed to the City’s core values.
Plan Structure
The Comprehensive Plan is structured around the community’s vision as well as
the City’s Focus Areas and Initiatives. A brief explanation about each topic then
follows, explaining the underlying need addressing each element. At the end of
each chapter is a list of the goals, objectives and action items best represented in
the chapter. Included in the table listing the goals, objectives and specific action
items is a column that assigns a responsible lead (e.g. City department) to each
action item (element). Finally, Glossary Terms, Acronyms and Abbreviations,
a Regulatory Takings Checklist, and the Future Land Use Map are included as
appendices to this Plan.
““Don’t judge each
day by the harvest you
reap but by the seeds
that you plant.”
- Robert Louis
Stevenson
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
1
5
Chapter
Using this Document
There are several groups of people that will use this
document in different ways: citizens, applicants for
development, and City staff, Commissioners and elected
officials.
Citizens are encouraged to use this document to better
understand the City’s vision for their neighborhood, their
business, and the City as a whole. The Plan is formatted
so goals, objectives, and action items that may be of
interest are easy to find.
Applicants for development can also use this document
to better understand the City’s vision. The intent
is to provide clear expectations on the obligations
and permissions generally described within the
Comprehensive Plan; our hope is to provide a greater
certainty in creating a successful project that matches
the City’s vision, addresses the concerns of neighboring
properties, and provides the flexibility to accomplish a
developer’s vision as well.
Finally, this document will be frequently used by City staff,
City commissions and task forces, and elected officials.
It will not only be used by the Planning Department in
reviewing development applications, but also by other
departments in crafting their annual strategic plans and in
developing and implementing their capital improvement
and master plans.
Implementation of the Plan will take hard work and
dedication from the entire community. Hopefully,
everyone finds the organization of this document to be
user friendly and the goals, objectives and action items
representative of the community’s vision.
REFERENCE LINKS
City of Meridian
»http://www.meridiancity.org
Existing Conditions Report
»http://www.meridiancity.org/compplan/
Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan
»http://www.meridiancity.org/tmisap/
Unified Development Code (UDC)
»http://www.sterlingcodifiers.com/codebook/index.
php?book_id=306
City of Meridian Architectural Standards Manual
»http://www.meridiancity.org/design/
Meridian Pathways Master Plan
»http://www.meridiancity.org/parks_rec.aspx?id=2667
Meridian Development Corp (MDC)
»http://www.meridiandevelopmentcorp.com/
Destination Downtown
»http://www.meridiandevelopmentcorp.com/vision-plan
Ada County Highway District (ACHD)
»http://www.achdidaho.org/
Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
»http://itd.idaho.gov/
COMPASS
»http://www.compassidaho.org/
Valley Regional Transit (VRT)
»http://www.valleyregionaltransit.org/
Sites listed without a www.meridiancity.org domain are not
maintained or operated by the City. Meridian’s online City code
is maintained by Sterling Codifiers.
6 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2
7
Chapter
Chapter 2 – Community Character
Meridian, has transformed from a sagebrush-filled mail
drop located on the Oregon Trail in the 1880s, into
one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Idaho
and the western United States. Its charming history
tells the story of a small town tied to its agricultural
roots, while its future will depend on growing industry,
spurring small business development and thriving
neighborhoods.
Community Design
The City continues to upgrade community design
standards for landscaping, site design and signs through
the adoption of updated ordinance criteria that ensure
development occurs in a compatible, attractive manner.
The City adopted a Design Manual1 by Resolution
Number 09-647 on January 27th, 2009 as an addendum
to the City’s Comprehensive Plan. On February 16th,
2016, the City replaced the Design Manual with an
Architectural Standards Manual (ASM). The ASM
includes standards that are part of the citywide
design review process that encourages the aesthetic
development of the physical and built environment and
results in an attractive, livable community. For their
parts in the design review process, the ASM focuses
on building design and the Unified Development Code
on site design.
Community design goals and objectives focus on
protecting and improving the unique elements of
the natural and built environment that contribute
value Meridian’s quality of place. The inherent goal
of community design is to improve on the livability
and quality of life for not only current, but also future
generations of Meridian residents. For the purpose
of this document, community design includes analysis
primarily on design review. However, community
design ties back in with sustainability, livability, healthy
initiatives, as well as other elements of this plan.
Quality of Life and Livability
Quality of life can be used to express the overall well-
being of individuals within a community. Elements such
as health, safety, land use, transportation, sewer and
water service, parks and recreation, housing are all
1 Go to http://www.meridiancity.org/planning.aspx?id=230
GUIDE TO COMMUNITY CHARACTER
The following material helps to identify key design
characteristics and benefits of different development
densities. For additional information, see the City of Meridian
Design Manual.
Keys to Rural Character
»Wide-open landscapes with no sense of enclosure, and
views to the horizon mostly unbroken by buildings
»Structures are in the background or invisible entirely as
they blend into the landscape
»Very high open-space ratios and very low building cov-
erage
»Great building separation, providing privacy and detach-
ment from neighboring dwellings
Keys to Sub-Urban Character
»More horizontal development than the rural class with
broader spacing than the urban class
»Space enclosure, if any, is provided by trees and vegeta-
tion rather than buildings
»Large building setbacks from streets with more “green”
and open space versus on-lot driveways and on-lot park-
ing surfaces
»More building setbacks from streets with more “green”
and open space versus on-lot driveways and on-lot park-
ing surfaces
»More building separation, through larger setbacks and, in
some cases, larger lot
»Much lower lot coverage and a correspondingly higher
open spaces ration on lots
»More extensive vegetation and landscaping
Keys to Urban Character
»Streets and other public spaces are framed by buildings
»Housing types range from small, narrower single-family
lots dominated by driveways and front-loaded garages
(auto-urban) to attached residential (e.g., brownstones,
town houses) and multi-family dwellings with alley access
or rear garages (urban). Yard and landscaped areas are
reduced
»Smaller front and side setbacks with a tighter building
spacing
»Most conductive for pedestrian activity and interaction
»Higher densities allow for additional amenities otherwise
not cost effective in lower densities
Schwab, Jim, (2010, Dec). Defining and Measuring Community
Character. ZoningPractice, Vol.27, No.12, 6-7
Chapter
8
2
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
critical to daily life and are typically addressed in a comprehensive plan. Other
elements like education opportunities, arts and entertainment opportunities, a
sound job market, and sustainability are also factors which can help gauge whether
a community is creating a thriving environment for its citizens. This Plan addresses
all of these elements (and more). Some of the elements addressed in this Plan are
more difficult than others to describe and measure. At its heart though, everything
set in this document seeks to improve the health, safety, well-being, and quality
of life for existing and future residents of Meridian.
Quality of life generally represents the social well-being of individuals in a
community. Livability is another term used to express the overall relationship
between community members and the satisfaction residents derive from their
surroundings. These livability and quality of life factors can be both public service
related and derived from the quality of the built
environment, the quality of place. Generally, elements
such as security, environmental beautification, public
cleanliness, social and cultural opportunities, travel,
career opportunities, and natural resources contribute
to the overall livability of an area. Livability is largely
affected by conditions in the public realm, and elements
share interconnected relationships where they hold
more value than their sum total, as an increased or
declining value in one element can have dramatic
impacts on the actual and perceived values of others.
Benchmarks for measuring livability and quality of life
are difficult to describe. Often places that are livable
have the “it” factor. They are neighborhoods where
everyone wants to be at and seen in. One could argue
that Meridian’s popularity indicates that many of the
livability factors are present in most areas of Meridian;
that most Meridian residents perceive their community
as a safe, accessible, and attractive place to live. Other
anecdotal evidence of success could be 2010 awards
from publications such as CNN/Money Magazine,
which placed Meridian at 62 in their “100 Best Places
to Live”, or Family Circle Magazine which included
Meridian in their “Ten Best Towns for Families” list.
That being stated, there is still room to grow towards making Meridian even more
livable. Below are excellent examples of programs intent on improving overall
quality of life in Meridian.
Streets, Pathways and Sidewalks: A healthy community is one that has good
connectivity between residential areas and community gathering places as well as
streets that serve multiple users.
• Safe Routes to School: The Meridian School District is currently working
on a master Safe Routes map that designates pedestrian routes to and
from schools. The City and the School District annually partner to
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2
9
Chapter
compile a list of high priority pedestrian projects for ACHD’s Community
Programs. As part of the development review process, the City regularly
requires developers to install sidewalk, micro-pathways and multi-use
pathways that connect to school sites.
• Complete Streets: The City and transportation agencies in the region
are committed to ensuring that streets, bridges and transit stops are
designed, constructed, operated and maintained so that pedestrians,
bicyclists, transit riders, motorists and people of all ages and abilities can
travel safely and independently. The City strives to balance the needs of
all users while creating attractive corridors.
• Mobility Management: COMPASS has developed a Mobility Management
Implementation Guidebook which highlights design guidelines for creating
communities that promote a multi-modal transportation approach
appropriate for seniors, youth, and other non-drivers. City staff uses
the Mobility Management Implementation Guidebook when reviewing
development.
Child Care: Accessible, affordable and quality before- and after-school child
care is another necessary component of creating a healthy and livable community.
A robust local system of child care and early education programs has social,
economic and environmental benefits for children, families and the community
as a whole. The American Planning Association (APA) advocates including child
care policies within local planning. Creating policies, identifying local resources
and working with developers and community partners, the City hopes to have a
more proactive and positive influence on the child care programs being provided
in the future.
Youth Programs: The City recognizes that our youth are approximately one-
third of our population but 100% of our future.
• Boys & Girls Club: As part of its commitment to its youth, the City
encourages, supports, and partners with groups like the Boys & Girls
Club. The City works with the Boys & Girls Club by providing monetary
assistance to offset the transportation costs associated with getting kids
to and from the club. Funding, provided through the City’s Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) allows the club to provide this service
to primarily children of low- to moderate income families.
• Mayor’s Anti-Drug Coalition: The Meridian Mayor’s Anti-Drug Coalition
(MADC) is a grass-roots volunteer organization initiated by the executive
order of Mayor Tammy de Weerd in January 2004 in response to her
concern about the rising rates of drug use in the Treasure Valley. Educating
adults and youth about the harmful and costly direct and indirect effects
of drug abuse has been a longstanding goal of the coalition. In addition,
the MADC is confronting a complex set of factors that contribute to our
youth abusing substances.
“To accomplish
great things, we must
not only act, but also
dream; not only plan,
but also believe.”
- Anatole France
Chapter
10
2
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
• The Mayor’s Youth Advisory is a group of students dedicated to serving
their community. More than a community service organization MYAC
instills leadership skills that participants will use their entire life. MYAC
members work alongside local and national service organizations on
very diverse projects. Participants are in grades 9 – 12 and attend one of
Meridian’s high schools or are home-schooled.
Senior Programs: Providing accessible and suitable housing options that are
easily accessible to community destinations are key to allowing older adults
to remain independent, active and engaged with the community. Housing for
seniors that is integrated into the fabric of the community is becoming increasing
important as the Baby Boom Generation enters retirement. Keeping our seniors
active with easy access to a variety if groups, clubs, and activities is vital to retaining
the wealth of wisdom, knowledge, and guidance they can provide our community.
Healthy Initiatives
For the purposes of defining health and implementing healthy initiatives, the
City looks to the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, an interagency
agreement between Housing and Urban Development (HUD), U.S. Department
of Transportation (DOT), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
to help define what a healthy community looks like. These initiatives are a
combination of the social services and the physical built aspects of the community.
The six principles for a healthy community include:
• Provide more transportation choices: Develop safe, reliable and
economical transportation choices to decrease household transportation
costs, reduce dependence on foreign oil, improve air quality, reduce
greenhouse gas emissions and promote public health.
• Promote equitable, affordable housing: Expand location- and energy-
efficient housing choices for people of all ages, incomes, races and
ethnicities to increase mobility and lower the combined cost of housing
and transportation.
• Enhance economic competitiveness: Improve economic competitiveness
through reliable and timely access to employment centers, educational
opportunities, services and other basic needs by workers as well as
expanded business access to markets.
• Support existing communities: Target federal funding toward existing
communities through such strategies as transit-oriented, mixed-use
development and land recycling to increase community revitalization,
improve the efficiency of public works investments, and safeguard rural
landscapes.
“Keeping our seniors
active with easy ac-
cess to a variety if
groups, clubs, and
activities is vital to re-
taining the wealth of
wisdom, knowledge,
and guidance they
can provide our com-
munity.”
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2
11
Chapter
• Coordinate policies and leverage investment: Align federal policies and
funding to remove barriers to collaboration, leverage funding and increase
the accountability and effectiveness of all levels of government to plan
for future growth, including making smart energy choices such as locally
generated renewable energy.
• Value communities and neighborhoods: Enhance the unique characteristics
of all communities by investing in healthy, safe and walkable neighborhoods
– rural, urban or suburban.
Many of these principles align with values Meridian residents have expressed as
important, and goals the City seeks to improve to make Meridian more livable,
healthy and improve overall quality of life.
12 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
13City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
2.01.00 Sustain, enhance, promote and protect elements that contribute to the livability and a high
quality of life for all Meridian residents.
2.01.01 Encourage health and well-being of community.
2.01.01A Provide a walkable community through good design.On-going Community
Development
2.01.01B Provide opportunities for physical activities.On-going Parks
2.01.01C Plan for and encourage services like health care, daycare, grocery stores and recreational areas to
be built within walking distance of residential dwellings. On-going Community
Development
2.01.01D Encourage community support and volunteer work.On-going Mayor's Office
2.01.01E Help educate and curtail the rate of obesity, drug, alcohol, tobacco and other substance use.Highest Police
2.01.01F Work with Health and Welfare, Central District Health, and community partners to develop
healthy initiatives. High Parks / Fire
2.01.01G Develop programs, in partnership with allied agency responders, which focus on preventative
emergency medical services risk reduction.High Fire
2.01.02 Support beautiful development.
2.01.02A Implement community design ordinances, and complete streets policies.On-going Community
Development
2.01.02B Implement design criteria to set quality standards City-wide.On-going Community
Development
2.01.02C Coordinate with appropriate agencies on interstate and gateway beautification (landscaping,
signage).On-going Community
Development
2.01.02D
Use the Comprehensive Plan, the Unified Development Code, and the Architectural Standards
Manual to discourage strip development, and encourage clustered, landscaped business or
residential development on entryway corridors.On-going Community
Development
2.01.02E Require landscape street buffers for new development along all entryway corridors. On-going Community
Development
2.01.02F When possible, and financially feasible, underground utility lines.On-going Public Works
2.01.03 Strengthen community pride and identity.
Chapter 2 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
14City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
2.01.03A
Control the spread of noxious weeds by administering an efficient, quick-response weed removal
ordinance with progressive notices and penalties, in conjunction with Ada County Weed Control
and Code Enforcement.On-going Police
2.01.03B Require all commercial and industrial businesses to install and maintain landscaping. On-going Community
Development
2.01.03C Continue supporting community-betterment activities such as "Old Town Community Cleanup"
and "Rake Up Meridian."On-going Police
2.01.03D Support and encourage involvement of community youth in the Mayor's Youth Advisory Council
(MYAC) and other youth activities, groups and volunteer opportunities.On-going Mayor's Office
2.01.03E Work with residents to use homeowners associations to help maintain common areas and
landscaping along public rights of way and other areas visible from public streets. On-going Police
2.01.03F Implement the Welcome to Meridian signage plan. On-going Community
Development
2.01.03G Require new development to construct and maintain monument signs, consistent with the
Welcome to Meridian signage plan. On-going Community
Development
2.01.03H Budget for the construction of Welcome signs throughout the City. Medium Community
Development
2.01.03I Promote the entryway corridors into Meridian from the I-84 interchanges and from the North,
South, East, and West of City limits that will clearly identify the community.On-going Community
Development
2.01.03J Provide landscaping, pedestrian friendly areas, and appropriate signage at gateways, and new
development sites throughout town as appropriate, with upscale attractive construction.On-going Community
Development
2.01.04 Realize strong, viable and recognizable identities for all neighborhoods.
2.01.04A
Ensure long-term maintenance of greenbelts along waterways either directly by the City Parks
and Recreation Department or through partnerships with neighboring associations, homeowners
associations, and other community groups.On-going Parks
2.01.04B
Require all new and reconstructed parking lots to provide landscaping in internal islands and
along streets, and to positively influence the physical and visual environment through screening,
paving materials, and other landscape techniques.On-going Community
Development
2.01.04C Continue to support the Meridian senior citizens' organization as an important social program in
the community.On-going Mayor's Office /
City Council
2.01.04D Support acquisition and development of new park land to meet the growing open space and
recreational needs of the community.On-going Parks
15City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
2.01.04E [Removed]NA NA
2.01.04F Continue property maintenance programs through code enforcement to remove junk vehicles,
weed nuisances, and trash, etc.On-going Police
2.01.04G Promote area beautification and community identity through building and site design, signs, and
landscaping.On-going Community
Development
2.01.04H Enhance and preserve aesthetic resources.On-going Community
Development
2.01.04I Encourage new development to enhance the visual quality of its surroundings.On-going Community
Development
2.02.00 Encourage the development of a continuum of services to meet the health care needs of the
citizens of Meridian.
2.02.01 Ensure that high-quality emergency care, primary, outpatient, home, and long-term care and
other types of health care are provided in the community.
2.02.01A Identify and encourage medical service related industry which are currently lacking.Highest Economic
Development
2.02.01B Promote medical service related industries.Medium Economic
Development
16City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
2Chapter
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
17
Chapter
Chapter 3 – Strategic Growth
Since 1990, Meridian experienced exponential growth that has changed both its
character and appearance. From 1990 to 2007, Meridian’s population grew from
approximately 10,000 to over 65,000. Despite some recent slowdowns in housing
starts and job creation, the population of Meridian continues to increase with an
estimated population of 75,290 in 2009 according to the Community Planning
Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS). A population growth forecast
performed by COMPASS, and analyzed in the Existing Condition Report, forecasts
that the population of Meridian will increase to 138,564 by 2035, an increase of
over 70% from the 2009 estimated population.
Over the last 20 years, property in and around Meridian has changed from primarily
agricultural to a more diverse mix of residential, commercial, and industrial uses.
That trend is likely to continue as land traditionally used for agriculture, continues
to be developed to support the needs of an ever-growing community. Today, the
City of Meridian has over 17,000 acres within its municipal boundaries and—at
full build out—is anticipated to incorporate approximately 39,000 acres within
its Area of City Impact.
Chapter
18
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Area of City Impact
In accord with § 67-6526 of Idaho Code, an Area of City Impact (AOCI) has been
established for Meridian. The City’s AOCI is the future planning area for the City,
where annexation and development within the future municipal boundary of
Meridian is anticipated. Although these areas are not yet incorporated, planning
responsibilities for these lands rest with the City of Meridian while zoning and
land use authority is maintained by Ada County.
There is an agreement between Ada County and Meridian for the Area of City
Impact. This agreement states that the current Meridian Comprehensive Plan
will apply within the City’s established AOCI. Within the AOCI, the county has
generally applied a Rural Urban Transition (RUT) zone which permits five-acre-
lot, single-family residential development, as well as agricultural-related uses and
a range of conditional uses. County development applications within the Area
of City Impact are reviewed by the City of Meridian for compliance with the
comprehensive plan and applicable City policies.
The City of Meridian desires all development within its Area of City Impact
to be served with urban services from the City of Meridian. Such services
primarily include sanitary sewer, water, reclaimed water, fire, police, and parks.
Secondarily, the City will consider the availability and capacity of the school
system, transportation facilities, libraries, and storm water facilities in any review
of development within the Area of City Impact. All requests for annexation into
the City limits will require that the owner extend City-owned services at the
time of development.
However, the City recognizes that some development may precede the ability
of the City, on its own, to extend services for such development. Upon formal
requests to the City for development that is on property not immediately
serviceable with urban services, the City Council may consider said applications
TAble 3-1. COMMuNiTY CHOiCeS FOreCASTS
Jurisdiction/ Demographic Area 2009 Estimate 2035 Forecast % Change, 2008 - 2035
Population HH Population HH Population HH
Meridian 75,290 27,282 138,564 46,697 71.62%71.16%
boise 215,630 99,748 346,704 135,180 35.71%35.52%
eagle 21,370 7,347 29,917 10,066 37.42%37.01%
Kuna 15,900 5,183 43,162 13,590 166.88%162.20%
Nampa 82,830 32,156 132,040 45,484 41.72%41.45%
Ada County 408,190 150,968 685,628 251,138 69.02%66.35%
Canyon County 190,920 66,057 361,021 124,402 87.44%88.33%
regional Total 599,110 217,025 1,046,649 375,540 74.95%73.04%
Source: COMPASS, 2000-2009 Population estimates by City limit boundaries.
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
19
Chapter
at a noticed meeting to determine if the proposed level of development is
appropriate and in the best interests of the City.
The City recognizes that some development may precede our ability to annex
the property. Developments within the AOCI but outside City limits will only
be considered if the following standards and conditions are agreed to by the
developer(s):
• The development is connected to City of Meridian water and sanitary
sewer systems and the extension to and through said developments are
constructed in conformance with the City of Meridian Water and Sewer
System Master Plans in effect at the time of development.
• An irrevocable consent to annexation is a condition of hook-up to City
sanitary sewer or water, is made a deed restriction on all buildable lots,
and is placed as a note on all final plats.
• All City sewer and water inspection and plan review fees (for the main
lines) in effect at the time of development are paid to the City of Meridian.
• Development is consistent with the Future Land Use Map designation
for the property.
The City of Meridian is committed to fulfilling the terms of its Area of City Impact
Agreement with Ada County as well as similar agreements with neighboring cities
including Eagle, Kuna, Star, and Boise. We also note the City’s intent to continue
working with the County and surrounding cities on Area of City Impact boundaries
and development policies.
TAble 3-2. FuTure lAND uSeS WiTHiN THe CiTY OF MeriDiAN AreA OF CiTY iMPACT
Future Land Uses FLUM Total FLUM Undeveloped
Acres %Acres %
residential 23,618.27 60.15 13,044.07 58.75
Commercial 1,495.99 3.81 134.60 0.61
Office 417.34 1.06 68.74 0.31
industrial 597.31 1.52 10.61 0.05
Old Town 336.42 0.86 0.12 0.00
Mixed use 4,165.87 10.61 2,027.91 9.13
Civic 1,395.34 3.55 390.29 1.76
Ten Mile Interchange Specific 2,374.50 6.05 1,676.57 7.55
Future Planning/referral 4,863.85 12.39 4,851.27 21.85
TOTAl 39,264.88 100 22,204.18 100
Source: City of Meridian Planning Department, 2010.
Chapter
20
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
The Future Land Use Map
Land Use is a key component of the Comprehensive Plan, as is mapping future
land uses so that development occurs in the direction and manner most desired
by Meridian’s citizens and elected officials. The Future Land Use Map (FLUM), see
Appendix D, identifies the vision for a mix of land uses to implement the City’s
many diverse goals and objectives, and works in conjunction with the text of the
Comprehensive Plan, City code and the various policies of the City. However, the
FLUM is not a zoning map and differs in that the FLUM describes the character
and type of use that is desired in the future and not necessarily what is currently
in place. The FLUM also depicts schools, parks, fire stations and other existing
civic uses. The FLUM depicts a built-out Meridian that is very diverse in residential
densities, commercial and industrial land uses as well as civic/public opportunities.
Land use recommendations as set forth in this plan emphasize the importance
of thoughtful and responsible land use planning, cooperation and collaboration
among the various jurisdictions and agencies in the area, and preservation and
enhancements of the high quality of life that currently exists in Meridian. The
next several pages that follow include descriptions of the various future land use
designations that appear on the FLUM.
Residential
The purpose of this designation is to provide a variety of housing types. Uses will
include a range of densities varying from large estate lots to multi-family homes.
Residential designations are as follows:
• Rural / Estate: to allow for agricultural uses and the ancillary development
of single-family homes on large parcels where city services (e.g. – sewer
and water) may or may not be provided. Uses may include both small
and larger-scale agricultural related activities and single-family homes at
densities less than or equal to one unit per five acres. New development
should recognize existing agricultural uses and practices, respect view sheds
and open space, and maintain or improve the overall health and production
of agricultural lands and resources in the area.
• Low Density: to allow for the development of single-family homes on large
lots where urban services are provided. Uses may include single-family
homes at gross densities of three dwelling units or less per acre. Density
bonuses may be considered with the provision of public amenities such as
open space, pathways, or land dedicated for public services.
• Medium Density: to allow smaller lots for residential purposes within City
limits. Uses may include single-family homes at gross densities of three to
eight dwelling units per acre. Density bonuses may be considered with
the provision of public amenities such as open space, pathways, or land
dedicated for public services.
• Medium High Density: to allow for the development of a mix of relatively
dense residential housing types including townhouses, condominiums and
“Greatness, it turns
out, is largely a matter
of conscious choice.”
-Jim Collins
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
21
Chapter
apartments. Residential gross densities should range from eight to fifteen
dwelling units per acre, with a target density of twelve units per acre. These
are relatively compact areas within the context of larger neighborhoods
and are typically located around or near mixed use commercial or
employment areas to provide convenient access to services and jobs for
residents. Developments need to incorporate high quality architectural
design and materials and thoughtful site design to ensure quality of place
and should also incorporate connectivity with adjacent uses and area
pathways, attractive landscaping and individual project identity.
• High Density: to allow for the development of multi-family homes in
areas where urban services are provided. Residential gross densities
should exceed fifteen dwelling units per acre. Development might
include duplexes, apartment buildings, townhouses, and other multi-unit
structures. A desirable project would consider the placement of parking
areas, fences, berms, and other landscaping features to serve as buffers
between neighboring uses. Developments need to incorporate high quality
architectural design and materials and thoughtful site design to ensure
quality of place and should also incorporate high quality architectural design
and materials and thoughtful site design that incorporate connectivity with
adjacent uses and area pathways, attractive landscaping and individual
project identity.
Within residential areas the following policies shall apply:
• At the discretion of City Council, areas with a Residential Comprehensive
Plan designation may request an office use if the property only has frontage
on an arterial street or section line road and is three acres or less in size.
In this instance, no ancillary commercial uses shall be permitted.
• In residential areas, other residential densities will be considered without
requiring a Comprehensive Plan Amendment. However, the density can
only be changed one “step” (i.e., from low to medium, not low to high,
etc.). This provision does not apply to 1) the area bounded by Can-
Ada, Chinden, McDermott, and Ustick Roads or 2) within the Ten Mile
Interchange Specific Area Plan.
• Residential uses north of Chinden Boulevard and within ¼ mile or less
from the rim should have lot sizes ranging from one-half to one acre,
ensuring compatibility with SpurWing Country Club to the east. Use of
transitional lot sizes and clustering of smaller lots adjacent to the non-
residential and rim property are encouraged.
Commercial
This designation will provide a full range of commercial and retail to serve area
residents and visitors. Uses may include retail, wholesale, service and office uses,
multi-family residential, as well as appropriate public uses such as government
offices. Within this land use category, specific zones may be created to focus
commercial activities unique to their locations. These zones may include
“What is a city, but
the people; true the
people are the city.”
-Coriolanus III
Chapter
22
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
neighborhood commercial uses focusing on specialized service for residential
areas adjacent to that zone.
Office
This designation will provide opportunities for low-impact business areas. These
would include offices, technology and resource centers; ancillary commercial
uses may be considered (particularly within research and development centers
or technological parks).
Industrial
This designation allows a range of industrial uses to support industrial and
commercial activities and to develop areas with sufficient urban services. Light
industrial uses may include warehouses, storage units, light manufacturing, and
incidental retail and offices uses. Heavy industrial uses may include processing,
manufacturing, warehouses, storage units, and industrial support activities. In all
cases, screening, landscaping, and adequate access should be provided.
Old Town
This designation includes the historic downtown and the true community center.
The boundary of the Old Town district predominantly follows Meridian’s historic
plat boundaries. In several areas, both sides of a street were incorporated into
the boundary to encourage similar uses and complimentary design of the facing
houses and buildings. Sample uses include offices, retail and lodging, theatres,
restaurants, and service retail for surrounding residents and visitors. A variety of
residential uses are also envisioned and could include reuse of existing buildings,
new construction of multi-family residential over ground floor retail or office uses.
The City has developed specific architectural standards for Old Town and other
traditional neighborhood areas. Pedestrian amenities are emphasized in Old Town
via streetscape standards. Public investment that ensures that Old Town becomes
a centralized activity center, with public, cultural, and recreational structures are
encouraged, and the City’s decision to build City Hall in Old Town is testament
to its commitment to the area. Future planning in Old Town will be reviewed in
accordance with Destination Downtown, a visioning document for redevelopment
in downtown Meridian. Please see the Economic Excellence chapter for more
information on Destination Downtown.
Mixed Use Designations
In general, the purpose of this designation is to provide for a combination of
compatible land uses within a close geographic area that allows for easily accessible
services for residents and the workers. The uses can be mixed vertically, such
as a building with retail on the ground floor and offices above, or horizontally,
such as a healthcare center with a mix of doctor offices, pharmacy, beauty salon,
assisted care facilities, and apartments. Mixed use areas tend to have higher
floor area ratios (less area devoted to parking), open space, and interconnected
vehicular and pedestrian networks. A Mixed Use designation is typically used
“It takes as much
energy to wish as it
does to plan.”
-Eleanor Roosevelt
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
23
Chapter
to identify a key area within the City which is either infill in nature or situated
in a highly visible or transitioning area where innovative and flexible designs are
encouraged. The intent of this designation is to promote developments that offer
functional and physical integration of land uses while allowing developers a greater
degree of design and use flexibility. Mixed Use areas are typically developed
under a master or conceptual plan; during an annexation or rezone request, a
development agreement will typically be required for developments with a Mixed
Use designation.
There are five sub-categories of the Mixed Use designation that are used
throughout the City: Neighborhood, Community, Regional, Interchange, and Non-
Residential. This section further describes the purpose, intent and development
standards for these sub-categories. In addition, there are three sub-categories of
the Mixed Use designation that are solely used in the Ten Mile Interchange Specific
Area: Commercial, Residential and Lifestyle Center. The land use designations
within the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area are shown on the city-wide Future
Land Use Map. However, the Mixed Use designations in the Ten Mile Interchange
Specific Area are different than those throughout the rest of the City and as
described in this document. Mixed Use land use designations in the Ten Mile
Interchange Specific Area are not subject to this section. For detailed descriptions
of the land use designations in the Ten Mile area, go directly to the Ten Mile
Interchange Specific Area Plan2.
For the purposes of the Mixed Use section, the City identifies five different land
use types: 1) commercial [includes retail, restaurants, etc.]; 2) office; 3) residential;
4) civic [includes public open space, parks, entertainment venues, etc.]; and,
5) industrial. All development in Mixed Use areas fall within one of these five
categories. Industrial uses are typically discouraged in residential mixed use areas.
However, if the developer can demonstrate that industrial uses are compatible and
appropriate in Mixed Use – Regional (MU-R), Mixed Use Non Residential (MU-
NR) and Mixed Use Interchange (MU-I) areas, the City will consider industrial
uses, when proposed as part of a Mixed Use development.
In reviewing development applications, the following items will be considered in
all Mixed Use areas:
• Residential densities should be a minimum of six dwellings/acre.
• Where feasible, higher density and/or multi-family residential development
will be encouraged, especially for projects with the potential to serve as
employment destination centers and when the project is adjacent to US
20/26, SH-55, SH-16 or SH-69.
• A conceptual site plan for the entire mixed use area should be included
in the application.
• In developments where multiple commercial and/or office buildings are
proposed (not residential), the buildings should be arranged to create
some form of common, usable area, such as a plaza or green space.
2 Go to http://www.meridiancity.org/TMISAP/
“Setting a goal is not
the main thing. It is
deciding how you will
go about achieving it
and staying with that
plan.”
-Tom Landry
Chapter
24
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
• The site plan should depict a transitional use and/or landscaped buffering
between commercial and existing low- or medium-density residential
development.
• A mixed use project should include at least three types of land uses.
Exceptions may be granted for smaller sites on a case-by-case basis.
• Community-serving facilities such as hospitals, churches, schools, parks,
daycares, civic buildings, or public safety facilities are expected in larger
mixed use developments.
• Supportive and proportional public and/or quasi-public spaces and places
including but not limited to parks, plazas, outdoor gathering areas, open
space, libraries, and schools are expected; outdoor seating areas at
restaurants do not count.
• All mixed use projects should be directly accessible to neighborhoods
within the section by both vehicles and pedestrians.
• Street sections consistent with the Ada County Highway District Master
Street Map are required within the Unified Development Code.
• Because of the existing small lots within Old Town, development is not
subject to the Mixed Use standards listed herein.
Mixed Use Neighborhood (MU-N). The purpose of this designation is to assign
areas where neighborhood-serving uses and dwellings are seamlessly integrated
into the urban fabric. The intent is to avoid predominantly single-use developments
by incorporating a variety of uses. Land uses in these areas should be primarily
residential with supporting non-residential services. Non-residential uses in these
areas tend to be smaller scale and provide a good or service that people typically
do not travel far for (approximately one mile) and need regularly. Employment
opportunities for those living in the neighborhood are encouraged. Connectivity
and access between the non-residential and residential land uses is particularly
critical in MU-N areas. Tree-lined, narrow streets are encouraged. Developments
are also encouraged to be designed according to the conceptual MU-N plan
depicted in Figure 3-1.
In reviewing development applications, the following items will be considered in
MU-N areas:
• Development should comply with the items listed for development in all
Mixed Use areas.
• Residential uses should comprise a minimum of 40% of the development
area at densities ranging from six to 12 units/acre.
• Non-residential buildings should be proportional to and blend in with
residential buildings.
“Planning is bringing
the future into the
present so that you
can do something
about it now”
- Alan Lakein
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
25
Chapter
• Unless a structure contains a mix of both residential and office, or
residential and commercial land uses, maximum building size should be
limited to a 20,000 square-foot building footprint. For the development
of public school sites, the maximum building size does not apply.
• Supportive and proportional public and/or quasi-public spaces and places
such as parks, plazas, outdoor gathering areas, open space, libraries,
and schools should comprise a minimum of 10% of the development
area. Outdoor seating areas at restaurants do not count towards this
requirement.
• Where the development proposes public and quasi-public uses to support
the development above the minimum 10%, the developer may be eligible
for additional residential densities and/or an increase to the maximum
building footprint.
Sample uses appropriate in MU-N areas would include: townhouses, multi-family
developments, neighborhood grocer, drug stores, coffee/sandwich/ice-cream
shops, vertically integrated buildings, live-work spaces, dry cleaner/laundromat,
salons/spas, daycares, neighborhood-scale professional offices, medical/dental
clinics, gift shops, schools, parks, churches, clubhouses, public uses, and other
appropriate neighborhood-scale uses. Appropriate zoning districts include: TN-R,
TN-C, L-O, C-N and R-15.
In certain MU-N areas there is a Neighborhood Center (N.C.) overlay designation.
In these areas the City seeks to create a centralized, pedestrian-oriented,
identifiable and day-to-day, service-oriented focal point for neighborhood scale
development. Like other designations, the N.C. areas shown on the Future Land
Use Map are conceptual only and intended to identify a maximum walking distance
from the core of the neighborhood center of 1/4 mile. Neighborhood Centers
Figure 3-1. MiXeD uSe NeigHbOrHOOD CONCePT DiAgrAM
Chapter
26
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
that straddle or are centered on one or more principal or minor arterials should
adhere to a similar design and recognize access control measures as established
by the Ada County Highway District and City Code. Neighborhood Centers
should serve as public transit locations for future park-and-ride lots, bus stops,
shuttle bus stops and/or other alternative modes of transportation. Neighborhood
Center developments are encouraged to be designed according to the conceptual
neighborhood center plan depicted in Figure 3-2. The grid street pattern within
the neighborhood allows traffic to disperse, eases congestion, slows traffic, and
is safer for residents.
In addition to the items listed for the MU-N designation, the following items will
be considered in all MU-N areas with an N.C. overlay:
• Four specific design elements should be incorporated into a Neighborhood
Center development: a) street connectivity, b) open space, c) pathways,
and d) residential density that is eight dwelling units per acre or more.
• Most blocks should be no more than 500’ to 600’, similar to Old Town
or Heritage Commons; larger blocks are allowed along arterial streets.
• Reduced travel lane widths are encouraged.
• The design should provide an interconnected circulation pattern that is
convenient for automobiles, pedestrians, and transit.
• The centers should offer an internal circulation system that connects
with adjacent neighborhoods and regional pathways, connecting to and
integrated with the larger street and pathway system.
• Developments should provide neighborhood accessible commercial
services that do not force residents onto arterial streets.
Figure 3-2. MiXeD uSe NeigHbOrHOOD CeNTer CONCePT DiAgrAM
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
27
Chapter
• Developments should provide a variety of housing choices and types.
• Housing within developments should be arranged in a radiating pattern
of lessening densities from the core.
• Alleys and roadways should be used to transition from dissimilar land
uses, and between residential densities and housing types.
Mixed Use Community (MU-C). The purpose of this designation is to allocate areas
where community-serving uses and dwellings are seamlessly integrated into the
urban fabric. The intent is to integrate a variety of uses, including residential, and
to avoid mainly single-use and strip commercial type buildings. Non-residential
buildings in these areas have a tendency to be larger than in Mixed Use—
Neighborhood areas, but not as large as in Mixed Use – Regional areas. Goods
and services in these areas tend to be of the variety that people will mainly travel
by car to, but also walk or bike to (up to three or four miles). Employment
opportunities for those living in and around the neighborhood are encouraged.
Developments are encouraged to be designed according to the conceptual MU-C
plan depicted in Figure 3-3.
In reviewing development applications, the following items will be considered in
MU-C areas:
• Development should comply with the general guidelines for development
in all Mixed Use areas.
• All developments should have a mix of at least three land use types.
Figure 3-3. MiXeD uSe COMMuNiTY CONCePT DiAgrAM
Chapter
28
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
• Residential uses should comprise a minimum of 20% of the development
area at densities ranging from 6 to 15 units/acre.
• Non-residential buildings should be proportional to and blend in with
adjacent residential buildings.
• Vertically integrated structures are encouraged.
• Unless a structure contains a mix of both residential and office, or
residential and commercial land uses, maximum building size should be
limited to a 30,000 square-foot building footprint. For community grocery
stores, the maximum building size should be limited to a 60,000 square-
foot building footprint. For the development of public school sites, the
maximum building size does not apply.
• Supportive and proportional public and/or quasi-public spaces and places
including but not limited to parks, plazas, outdoor gathering areas, open
space, libraries, and schools that comprise a minimum of 5% of the
development area are required. Outdoor seating areas at restaurants do
not count towards this requirement.
• Where the development proposes public and quasi-public uses to support
the development above the minimum 5%, the developer may be eligible
for additional residential densities and/or an increase to the maximum
building footprint.
Sample uses appropriate in MU-C areas would include: All MU-N categories,
community grocer, clothing stores, garden centers, hardware stores, restaurants,
banks, drive-thru facilities, auto service station, and retail shops, and other
appropriate community-serving uses. Appropriate zoning districts in the MU-C
include: TN-R, TN-C, C-C, L-O, R-15 and R-40.
In certain MU-C areas there is a Neighborhood Center (N.C.) overlay designated.
In these areas the City seeks a centralized, pedestrian-oriented, identifiable and
day-to-day, service-oriented focal point for neighborhood scale development.
Like other designations, the N.C. areas shown on the Future Land Use Map are
conceptual only and intended to identify a maximum walking distance from the
core of the neighborhood center of 1/4 mile. Neighborhood Centers that straddle
or are centered on one or more principal or minor arterials should adhere to a
similar design and recognize access control measures as established by the Ada
County Highway District and City Code. Neighborhood Centers should serve as
public transit locations for future park-and-ride lots, bus stops, shuttle bus stops or
other alternative modes of transportation. Neighborhood Center developments
are encouraged to be designed according to the conceptual neighborhood center
plan depicted in Figure 3-4. The grid street pattern within the neighborhood
allows traffic to disperse, eases congestion, slows traffic, and is safer for residents.
In addition to the items listed for the MU-C designation, the following items will be
used in reviewing development applications in all MU-C areas with an N.C. overlay:
“Without leaps
of imagination, or
dreaming, we lose the
excitement of pos-
sibilities. Dreaming,
after all, is a form of
planning.”
- Gloria Steinem
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
29
Chapter
• Four specific design elements should be incorporated into a Neighborhood
Center development: a) street connectivity, b) open space, c) pathways,
and d) residential density that is eight dwelling units per acre or more.
• Most blocks should be no more than 500’ to 600’, similar to Old Town
and Heritage Commons; larger blocks are allowed along arterial streets.
• Reduced travel lane widths are encouraged.
• The design should provide an interconnected circulation pattern that is
convenient for automobiles, pedestrians, and transit.
• The centers should offer an internal circulation system that connects
with adjacent neighborhoods and regional pathways, connecting to and
integrated with the larger street and pathway system.
• Developments should provide neighborhood accessible commercial
services that do not force residents onto arterial streets.
• Developments should provide a variety of housing choices and types.
• Housing within developments should be arranged in a radiating pattern
of lessening densities from the core.
• Alleys and roadways should be used to transition from dissimilar land
uses, or residential densities.
Figure 3-4. MiXeD uSe NeigHbOrHOOD CeNTer CONCePT DiAgrAM
Chapter
30
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Mixed Use Regional (MU-R). The purpose of this designation is to provide a
mix of employment, retail, and residential dwellings and public uses near major
arterial intersections. The intent is to integrate a variety of uses together, including
residential, and to avoid predominantly single use developments such as a regional
retail center with only restaurants and other commercial uses. Developments
should be anchored by uses that have a regional draw with the appropriate
supporting uses. For example, an employment center should have support retail
uses; a retail center should have supporting residential uses as well as supportive
neighborhood and community services. The standards for the MU-R designation
provide an incentive for larger public and quasi-public uses where they provide
a meaningful and appropriate mix to the development. The developments are
encouraged to be designed according to the conceptual MU-R plan depicted in
Figure 3-5.
In reviewing development applications, the following items will be considered in
MU-R areas:
• Development should generally comply with the general guidelines for
development in all Mixed Use areas.
• Residential uses should comprise a minimum of 10% of the development
area at densities ranging from six to 40 units/acre.
• Retail commercial uses should comprise a maximum of 50% of the
development area.
• There is neither a minimum nor maximum imposed on non-retail
commercial uses such as office, clean industry, or entertainment uses.
Figure 3-5. MiXeD uSe regiONAl CONCePT DiAgrAM
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
31
Chapter
Where the development proposes public and quasi-public uses to support
the development, the developer may be eligible for additional area for retail
development (beyond the allowed 50%), based on the ratios below:
• For land that is designated for a public use, such as a library or school,
the developer is eligible for a 2:1 bonus. That is to say, if there is a five-
acre library site, the project would be eligible for ten additional acres of
retail development.
• For active open space or passive recreation areas, such as a park, tot-lot
or playfield, the developer is eligible for a 2:1 bonus. That is to say, if the
park is 10 acres in area, the site would be eligible for 20 additional acres
of retail development.
For plazas that are integrated into a retail project, the developer should be eligible
for a 6:1 bonus. Such plazas should provide a focal point (such as a fountain,
statue, and water feature), seating areas, and some weather protection. That
would mean that by providing a half-acre plaza, the developer would be eligible
for three additional acres of retail development.
Sample uses, appropriate in MU-R areas would include: All MU-N and MU-C
categories, entertainment uses, major employment centers, clean industry, and
other appropriate regional-serving uses. Appropriate zoning districts include:
TN-C, C-G, R-15 and R-40.
Mixed Use Non-Residential (MU-NR). The purpose of this designation is to set-
aside areas where new residential dwellings will not be permitted, as residential
uses are not compatible with the planned and/or existing uses in these areas. For
example, MU-NR areas are used near the City’s waste water treatment plant and
where there are mining, heavy industrial or other hazardous operations. The City
envisions a wide variety of non-residential land uses may occur in MU-NR areas.
Employment opportunities, professional offices, warehousing, flex buildings, and
storage uses as well as retail uses are envisioned. Developments are encouraged
to be designed similar to the conceptual MU-NR plan depicted in Figure 3-6.
In reviewing development applications, the following items will be considered in
MU-NR areas:
• No new residential uses will be permitted (existing residential will be
allowed to remain and expand accessory structures).
• Development is not required to comply with the items listed for
development in all Mixed Use areas.
• All developments should have a mix of at least two types of land uses.
• Where mixed use developments are phased, a conceptual site plan for
the entire mixed use area is encouraged.
“All the flowers of all
the tomorrows are in
the seeds of today”
- Indian Proverb
Chapter
32
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
• In developments where multiple commercial and/or office buildings are
proposed, the buildings should be arranged to create some form of
common, usable area, such as a plaza or green space.
• A transitional use is encouraged on the perimeter of the MU-NR areas
between any existing or planned residential development.
• Community facilities such as a hospital, school, park, daycare, civic building
or public safety facilities are encouraged in larger developments.
• All retail and service commercial components of projects should be
directly accessible to neighborhoods within the section by both vehicles
and pedestrians.
• Street sections consistent with the Ada County Highway District Master
Street Map are required within the Unified Development Code.
• There is neither a minimum nor maximum imposed on non-retail
commercial uses such as office, food service/restaurants, industry or
warehouse uses.
Sample uses, appropriate in MU-NR areas would include: employment centers,
professional offices, flex buildings, warehousing, industry, storage facilities and
retail, and other appropriate non-residential uses. Appropriate zoning districts
include: C-G, C-C, L-O, I-L and I-H.
Figure 3-6. MiXeD uSe NON-reSiDeNTiAl CONCePT DiAgrAM
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
33
Chapter
Mixed Use Interchange (MU-I). The purpose of this designation is to call-out
areas where construction of future SH-16 interchanges is likely to occur, and to
acknowledge that this land will have a high degree of visibility. These areas will be
served by highway interchange ramps and restricted local access. There are two
interchange areas, one located at US 20-26 and one at Ustick Road, that differ from
the other Mixed Use categories in that a much stronger emphasis will be placed
upon gateway elements and traffic flow/trip generation factors when reviewing
new land use applications. Uses in these areas will need to be compatible with
the impacts of a freeway interchange. However, these areas are not intended
for high volume retail or uses that are better suited in neighborhood centers
or commercial areas. The intention is to protect the immediate vicinity of the
interchange from traffic conflicts and shift the high traffic-generating uses away
from the immediate vicinity of the interchange.
In reviewing development applications, the following items will be considered in
MU-I areas:
• Land uses within the MU-I areas and adjacent to the SH-16 corridor
should be carefully examined for their potential impacts on existing and
designated neighborhood centers and commercial activity areas.
• A traffic impact study may be required for larger developments in these
areas.
• Vehicular access points should be prohibited near interchange ramps.
Future uses should be planned to integrate with a frontage/backage road
type circulation system.
• Any new development at or near MU-I areas should promote a nodal
development pattern where buildings are clustered, off-street parking is
screened in the rear of the parcel and, where practical, development is
inter-connected with adjoining parcels.
• The SH-16/US 20-26 interchange will be one of only two regional gateways
to the City of Meridian for travelers coming from north of the Boise River
(the other being Linder Road). As such, buildings, landscaping, and other
design features at this interchange need to reflect Meridian’s heritage,
quality, and character.
• Design of the SH-16/US 20-26 interchange and the adjoining land uses
must give special consideration to the more scenic and environmentally
sensitive area on the north side of US 20-26. The more intensive land
uses should be sited on the south side of US 20-26.
• Regional ridesharing, park-and-ride and transit transfer facilities are
strongly encouraged within the SH-16/US 20-26 MU-I area.
• The MU-I area at Ustick Road, west of SH-16, should minimize retail
and auto-oriented services and transition rapidly from the interchange
to the more rural, low density character intended along the county line.
“Plans are only good
intentions unless they
immediately degener-
ate into hard work.”
- Peter F. Drucker
Chapter
34
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Examples of uses include middle or high schools, post office or library
branches, office uses, row house/patio home developments, athletic
clubs, etc.
The following types of appropriate uses and themes are envisioned at the two
interchange locations along SH-16:
• US 20-26: Commuter Services, Technology/Research, Business Park
• Ustick Road: Educational, Civic, Light Retail, Residential
Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area
The City developed a specific plan for approximately 2,800 acres bordered
(roughly) by Linder Road to the east; McDermott Road to the west: the Union
Pacific Railroad line to the north and ½ mile south of Overland Road on the south.
The specific area plan is an addendum to this Comprehensive Plan and places an
emphasis on a mix of uses, both residential and commercial; new employment
areas; higher density residential; a planned collector road network and design
guidelines.
It is important to note that the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan uses
different land use designations than the rest of the FLUM. While there is some
similarities in land use designations, for example Low Density Residential, there
are also new designations which do not exist outside of this Ten Mile area. The
TMISAP was adopted as an addendum to the City of Meridian Comprehensive
Plan on June 19th, 2007 by Resolutions Numbers 07-563 (Map) and 07-564 (Text).
Development in the Ten Mile Interchange area will be reviewed using the TMISAP.
See the Economic Development chapter and the Ten Mile Interchange Specific
Area Plan for more details of this area.
Civic
The purpose of this designation is to preserve and protect existing and planned
municipal, state, and federal lands for area residents and visitors. This category
includes public lands, law enforcement facilities, post offices, fire stations,
cemeteries, public utility sites (excluding ACHD), public parks, public schools,
and other government owned sites within the Area of City Impact.
Parks
The purpose of this designation is to preserve and protect existing municipal,
county, state, and federal land for area residents and visitors and to designate
future park locations. These areas include existing and future public neighborhood,
community, and urban parks. The park locations designated on the Future Land
Use Map are the most current and should be used for planning purposes. These
areas are further described in the Services Chapter.
“No matter how
carefully you plan
your goals, they will
never be more than
pipe dreams unless
you pursue them with
gusto.”
- W. Clement Stone
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
35
Chapter
Schools
The purpose of this designation is to provide areas throughout the Area of City
Impact which provide educational opportunities, community gathering places, and
green space. These areas are further described in the Services Chapter.
Fire Stations
The purpose of this designation is to preserve and protect existing and planned
fire station locations throughout the Area of City Impact which provide efficient
emergency response.
Entryway Corridors
The City feels it is important to identify roadways that introduce and welcome
both visitors and residents to the City of Meridian. These roadways are noted as
entryway corridors on the FLUM and are subject to additional standards within
the Unified Development Code.
Future Planning and Referral Area
This designation is used to preserve areas where additional study and planning
needs to occur before future land uses are designated and City services provided.
These areas are within Meridian’s Area of City Impact and are subject to the Area
of City Impact Agreement with Ada County.
Transit Stations and Transit Friendly Development
The Transit Station designation is used for areas where transit supported uses are
envisioned along the railroad corridor. The City seeks projects that incorporate
features which enhance alternative transportation and are transit friendly in
these and other locations in the City. Said developments are envisioned within
designated neighborhood centers and/or within commercial activity centers and
should incorporate the following development and design principles:
• A mix of land uses
• Building orientation that provides the maximum level of services to
pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users
• Alternative transit features such as a bus shelter (where approved by
Valley Regional Transit), bicycle locker facilities, park and ride lots or
similar facilities
• Residential densities that are at least 8 dwelling units per acre and designed
to comply with the Traditional Neighborhood design standards in the
Unified Development Code
“Make no little plans;
they have no magic to
stir men’s blood and
probably will them-
selves not be realized.
Make big plans; aim
high in hope and work,
remembering that a
noble, logical diagram
once recorded will not
die.”
- Daniel H. Burnham
Chapter
36
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
• Park and ride lots and other transit-supportive facilities are encouraged
at interchanges throughout the City. Valley Regional Transit and Ada
County Highway District Commuteride should be partners in determining
appropriate facilities at each interchange
Symbols
All “future” symbols shown on the Future Land Use Map, such as parks, schools,
fire stations, transit stations, etc., represent generalized locations based on the
best information the City has to date. All such symbols are to be considered
conceptual and are allowed to “float” on the map. All “existing” symbols shown
on the Future Land Use Map for parks, schools, fire stations, etc. represent precise
locations based on the facilities in place at the time of printing.
Housing
“Opportunities for housing should be available for all income groups with a mix
of housing including modular, ranchettes, townhouses, apartment housing, low-
income housing, and mansions. A vibrant community needs a good cross-section
of housing and therefore must guard against an abundance of subdivisions in like
density and price range. High-density housing must be strategically located to
public transportation, community services, and not negatively affect property
values.” This statement was first penned by the Mayor’s Transition Team ad hoc
committee on housing in 2002, but it philosophy still holds true.
At just under three units per gross acre, Meridian’s population is distributed
throughout the community primarily in suburban-style developments comprised
of mostly single-family, detached housing units. Going forward, the City does not
envision a drastic change in the housing stock. However, the City realizes that the
baby boomer generation is aging and there is an increased demand in non single-
family detached dwellings from the 55-plus age population group. This coupled
with the fact that more young adults are not having children and do not want large
homes on large lots, necessitates providing more diversity in housing choices.
Transportation
The condition of an area’s transportation system impacts that community’s
way of life and economic vitality. Realizing this, the City works closely with the
transportation and planning agencies in the region to ensure our transportation
network is the best it can be. Because Meridian does not have roadway authority
of its own, however, the City coordinates with other agencies during the planning
and design phases to ensure that projects meet the needs of its citizens.
Meridian’s major challenge is to work with the transportation agencies in the region
to meet the existing needs for adequate transportation service, while planning
for and accommodating future growth as efficiently as possible. With additional
growth, lack of funding options, and poor planning may not only lead to worsening
traffic problems, but may also have negative impacts on the health and well being
of citizens. Increased traffic congestion may deter potential employers from
“Good plans shape
good decisions. That’s
why good planning
helps to make elusive
dreams come true.”
- Lester Robert Bittel
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
37
Chapter
locating in Meridian. Therefore, the City works closely with ITD and the State’s
Transportation Improvement Plan and COMPASS’ long-range transportation plan
Communities in Motion, to make sure our resident’s transportation needs are
being met. In addition to planning for future transportation needs, much of the
roadway infrastructure already developed will require funding for maintenance,
rehabilitation, and expansion.
Beyond supporting traditional vehicle use, the City continues to maintain and
promote alternative methods of transportation in Meridian as well. From pedestrian
sidewalks and regional multi-modal pathways to public transportation efforts, the
City recognizes that supporting diversity helps to not only promote a healthier,
happier community, but reduces over-use of our roadways by single occupancy
vehicles. Examples of public transportation, existing and future potential include;
bus routes, paratransit, vanpool, and bus rapid transit systems, not just within
Meridian, but the region as a whole. Through cooperation with regional partners,
Meridian is planning for the future by supporting and promoting developments
that provide transportation options for everyone.
Transportation and Land Use Integration
To better connect transportation planning and land use decisions, ACHD and the
cities in Ada County have compiled the Transportation and Land Use Integration
Plan3 (TLIP). This plan envisions livable streets for tomorrow and depicts how
streets should look and function in the future. The goal is to create a roadway
network that balances the needs of all roadway users-motorists, pedestrians,
cyclists, transit and people with disabilities, with streets that complement the built
environment. Because a one-size-fits-all program for roadway construction does
not respond to either the land use or transportation needs of the community, the
City and ACHD have agreed to work more closely together to join together the
land use plans of the City with the transportation plans of the ACHD. There are
four tools that ACHD and the City use to implement TLIP: the Complete Streets
Policy, the Livable Streets Design Guide, a Cost Share Policy, and a Master Street
Map. As part of the adoption of this plan, the City hereby incorporates ACHD’s
Complete Streets Policy, the Livable Streets Design Guide and the Master Street
Map. These documents will all be used by the City when reviewing development
applications and plans for new roadway projects.
Blueprint for Good Growth
TLIP was an outgrowth of Blueprint for Good Growth (BGG), which is aimed
at addressing the best methods to manage growth for a sustainable future in
Ada County. Through the Blueprint for Good Growth and Communities in
Motion (CIM) long-range planning efforts, the public has stated a desire for better
design of roadways and increased coordination with adjacent land uses. People
have expressed preferences for roads that fit well and complement the built
environment. In 2005 the Meridian City Council adopted Resolution Number
05-473 which recognizes that it is critical for the agencies in Ada County to work
3 Go to http://achdidaho.org/deparments/PP/TLIP.aspx
“The goal is to create
a roadway network
that balances the
needs of all roadway
users-motorists, pedes-
trians, cyclists, transit
and people with dis-
abilities, with streets
that complement the
built environment”
Chapter
38
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
together to develop and create a sensible land use and transportation plan for
the area.
Communities in Motion (CIM)
Communities in Motion (CIM) is the region’s long-range transportation plan. But
CIM is more than just a transportation plan. The intent of CIM is to integrate
land use and transportation planning. As such, it is intended to provide for an
effective multimodal outcome, with land use patterns that support and encourage
transportation alternatives. The regional long-range transportation plan for
Ada and Canyon Counties, Communities in Motion 2035, was adopted by the
COMPASS Board in September 2010. As part of the adoption of this plan, the
City hereby adopts the vision of Communities in Motion4.
Alternative Transportation
The City works with transportation providers in the area to improve access to
employment opportunities, medical appointments, recreational activities, and
education. But improving transportation is not all about drivers. Local partnerships
provide opportunities to create connections for non-drivers like youth, the
elderly, and the disabled.
Valley Regional Transit (VRT) is the regional public transportation authority for
Ada and Canyon counties. VRT is responsible for coordinating transit service
and implementing a regional public transportation system. VRT operates the bus
service in this area under the name ValleyRide. VRT works in close coordination
with ITD, COMPASS and other regional partners to plan for preservation and
enhancements to the public transportation system in the two-county area.
Pathways that encourage use by bicyclists and pedestrians can decrease road
congestion and add to the community’s quality of life. In 2007, Meridian City
Council adopted the Meridian Pathways Master Plan. The plan proposes the
development of a pathway network that identifies a core system of pathways
based on the existing canal system within the City of Meridian. This core system
of pathways is enhanced by the developer-implemented pathways that will provide
connections to and through many residential areas while creating a larger Citywide
loop. This system gives community members a wide variety of pathway options
throughout the City and to other parts of the metropolitan region. The adopted
network map is included as Figure 3-7. Please refer to the Meridian Pathways
Master Plan5 for specific alignments, pathway types, design specifications, detailed
network descriptions, etc.
The ACHD has adopted a plan that seeks to create and connect bicycle lanes
throughout Ada County. The over-arching goal of the Roadways to Bikeways
Bicycle Master Plan is to create a bicycle network that provides a designated
bicycle facility within a quarter-mile from 95 percent of the residents in the
4 Go to http://www.compassidaho.org/prodserv/cim2035.htm
5 Go to http://www.meridiancity.org/parks_rec.aspx?id=2667
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
39
Chapter
County. The City, as part of development review and ACHD roadway projects,
will look to expand bicycle opportunities throughout the City.
COMPASS has developed a Mobility Management Guidebook6 that includes
best practices for incorporating transit access and mobility enhancements into
subdivision, site, and roadway design. The Guidebook may be useful in identifying
strategies for reducing reliance on the automobile.
On the statewide level, I-way is a service network that connects people in Idaho
to a mix of transportation options. I-way provides people in Idaho the ability to
choose from a variety of connected, convenient and cost-effective transportation
options–including park and rides, car and van pools, bike and walking paths,
shuttles, and improved public transportation options. I-way represents a shift in
the design and management of mobility options in Idaho. To meet changing future
needs, this new vision focuses on the needs of people, rather than transportation
modes and reorganizes the way mobility strategies are developed. The City is an
active participant in I-way7.
Downtown Transportation Network
The City envisions a multi-modal transportation network downtown. Through
the use of roadways, pathways, sidewalks, bike lanes, busses and the rail corridor,
the intent is to make it easier to get to and through downtown.
There are several plans and studies that evaluate where and how various
opportunities for access to downtown can, and should be provided. The
Downtown Meridian Transportation Management Plan was developed by ACHD
with insight provided by the City to propose solutions to circulation-related
challenges in downtown Meridian. The result of the jointly-initiated planning
process was the emergence of a “Split Corridor Design” to facilitate movement
throughout downtown. The “Split Corridor Design” will create a one-way traffic
system between the 1-84/Meridian Road interchange and (roughly) the railroad
tracks. Main Street will allow northbound traffic only, and Meridian Road will
allow southbound traffic only. North of the railroad the system will support
two-way traffic movement. Phase I of the Split Corridor, from I-84 to Franklin
Road, was completed in 2009. Phase II of the Split Corridor is currently planned
for construction in 2013.
To increase connectivity and facilitate additional north-south traffic movement
downtown, the City will work through development and redevelopment to
preserve right-of-way and construct East 3rd from Franklin Road to Fairview
Avenue per the alignment identified in the East 3rd Street Extension Alignment
Study Report, dated May 2009. The May 2009 report identifies the alignment of
the future roadway and presents conceptual cross-sections for use in roadway
design.
Pine Avenue is currently the only east-west connection to downtown between
Fairview Avenue and Franklin Road, west of Locust Grove. Additional east-west
6 Go to http://www.compassidaho.org/prodserv/mobility.htm
7 Go to I-way.org
“Through the use of
roadways, pathways,
sidewalks, bike lanes,
busses and the rail
corridor, the intent
is to make getting to
and through down-
town easier. ”
Chapter
40
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Figure 3-7. ADOPTeD PATHWAY NeTWOrK MAP
Note: For current Pathway Network Map, please see the City of Meridian Parks and Recreation website:
http://www.meridiancity.org/parks_rec.aspx?id=2667
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
41
Chapter
traffic connections within downtown are needed. Extending Broadway Avenue
and/or Idaho Avenue to connect with E Commercial Drive will make it easier to
get to and through downtown.
The City has also adopted the Downtown Meridian Street Cross-section Master
Plan, which is intended to preserve for and work towards long-term connectivity
and streetscape improvements.
State Facilities
The Idaho Transportation Department has very few planned highway expansion
projects in the State. However, there is certainly a need to improve the State
highway system. At the top of the City’s highway improvement priority list is
a rebuilt Meridian Road Interchange. The interchange is not sufficient to safely
handle today’s increased traffic and mobility demands. Reconstruction of the
Meridian Road Interchange will improve mobility by providing pedestrian and
bicycle facilities on the structure so that different modes of transportation can
traverse across the Interstate. Reconstruction will also allow free movement of
commerce through the Treasure Valley and provide the infrastructure which
companies here and those looking to move here desire.
Two other highway improvements high on the City’s priority list are U.S. 20/26
(Chinden Boulevard) and SH-55 (Eagle Road). The Eagle Road Arterial Road Study
(ITD, 2006), and the U.S. 20/26 Corridor Preservation Study, (ITD and COMPASS,
ongoing), identify preferred roadway configurations and recommend safety
improvements to these high-volume and high-speed facilities. The City supports
access management, congestion mitigation improvements and the beautification
of these corridors called for in the studies.
The City of Meridian supports the construction of an overpass at the intersection
of Linder Road and Interstate 84. This overpass will create a continuous, 34-mile
arterial that will connect the Birds of Prey with the foothills and be one of the only
roadways in the county to cross both the interstate and the Boise River. When
constructed, this overpass should include an on-street pathway route along the
west side of the roadway as it allows for continuation of the on-street pathway
north and south of the interstate, consistent with the City’s Master Pathway Plan.
Land within the future SH-16 corridor will be protected from strip commercial
zoning and development. The City does not intent to strip zone land adjacent
to the future highway for non-residential uses. Such uses will be targeted to key
intersections and where vacant or surplus commercial space is already available
and zoned.
Supplemental Network Improvements
To establish a more direct route, and increase connectivity between the Nampa
Airport/Garrity Boulevard and the Overland Road/Ten Mile Road intersection,
the Airport - Overland Corridor Study was completed in 2011. This study was
conducted in partnership with the City of Nampa, ACHD, Nampa Highway
District #1, Ada County, and the City. The Study evaluated feasible alignment
“A day spent without
the sight or sound of
beauty, the contem-
plation of mystery, or
the search of truth or
perfection is a pover-
ty-stricken day; and
a succession of such
days is fatal to human
life.”
-Lewis Mumford
Chapter
42
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
alternatives and associated environmental, transportation, land use and land owner
issues of an extension. Ultimately, Alternative 2B was selected as the preferred
alignment.
As no funding is currently available, this future roadway will be constructed as
adjoining properties develop, and funding partners become available. Although
the centerline location identified in the Study is the preferred location, the exact
location of the roadway may adjust slightly dependent upon the nature and timing
of development; the Study allows for flexibility on the specific route, as long as the
primary objectives of the study are achieved. The City will work with property
owners, developers and ACHD to ensure Overland Road is extended west of
Ten Mile Road into Canyon County as an arterial.
Utilities and Infrastructure
The provision, location and efficiency of public facilities contribute to quality of
life and to the ability to develop in the City. While the City owns and operates
its own domestic water and sewer services, it relies on other entities for some
of the other essential services. Therefore, coordination between the City and
each service provider is vital in planning and prioritizing of expansion areas, and
continued service to existing locations. Public facilities discussed in this section
include domestic water service, sewer collection, sewage treatment, and other
independently operated utilities (such as power, natural gas, and communications).
Water Service
The City owned and operated domestic water system is currently supported
by a series of deep wells, booster pump stations, multiple reservoirs, and over
400 miles of pipe line. In order to keep up with water demand, the City has
constructed, on average, one new well per year, each funded by connection fees
and charged to new development. Water line extensions to new developments
are generally paid for and constructed by developers. Although the City plans
new wells and reservoirs, the specific locations to those facilities are largely
dictated by growth patterns, and will continue to be funded by new development.
There is a portion of north Meridian where United Water, not the City, provides
service. The rest of the City receives water from the City, via the Public Works
Department.
Sewer Collection
The sewer (also known as wastewater) collection system in the City consists of
over 500 miles of pipe and twelve lift (pump) stations. Sewage flows by gravity
to the wastewater treatment plant located northwest of the Ten Mile/Ustick
intersection. Generating a new Sewer Master Plan is in process. The Sewer Master
Plan includes development of a computer model. The model helps Public Works
staff identify priority areas for development in the City as well as segments of the
existing sewage collection system that are approaching capacity. Future capital
improvements will then be prioritized to upgrade the lines that are approaching
capacity. No new City-funded sewer trunks or expansions are planned at this
“...the City has con-
structed, on average,
one new well per
year, each funded by
connection fees and
charged to new devel-
opment.”
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3
43
Chapter
time. After the new Sewer Master Plan and model is up and running, the City will
evaluate the need for additional expansion projects.
Sewage Treatment
With a rated capacity of 10.2 million gallons per day (mgd), the Meridian Waste
Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) services the entire City to primary, secondary,
and tertiary standards, followed by disinfection. Treated effluent is discharged
into Five Mile Creek.
The City of Meridian received a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) discharge permit from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in
September of 1999, which expired in 2004. The discharge permit placed limits
on flow, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids, dissolved
oxygen, pH, toxicity, and bacteria. The permit also mandated numerous sampling
and monitoring requirements for the effluent, Five Mile Creek, and the Boise
River are also mandated. The Public Works Department expects to receive a
new NPDES discharge permit in the next year which will include nutrient limits on
phosphorus as low as 0.07 mg/L. The EPA has proposed up to a 98% reduction in
the amount of total phosphorus discharged to the Lower Boise River by all point
sources. In order to comply with requirements, Meridian may have to construct
expensive phosphorus removal facilities at the WWTP. The additional associated
costs will be apportioned to all ratepayers, although the actual construction of
these additional improvements will depend on City growth rates.
Currently, NPDES permits are not required for stormwater within the City.
However, with increasing population growth, the City will be responsible for
compliance with the Phase 2 stormwater program, thus requiring staff and funding.
To keep costs down and treatment of wastewater efficient, the City is embarking
on a reclaimed water project. Meridian has a Class A Reclaimed Water Permit
which allows the City treat and reuse wastewater, instead of irrigation water or
potable water, on City parks and open spaces near Ten Mile Road. The City would
like to expand this service and it is anticipated that this highly treated water will
also be made available to private property owners in other parts of the City in
the near future.
Garbage and Recycling
Republic Services (Republic) is the solid waste and recycling collection contractor
for the City of Meridian. Republic is dedicated to providing reliable and innovative
recycling and waste reduction programs to the City. Every residential customer in
Meridian has access to curbside recycling services as part of their basic collection
services. In addition to refuse collection, recycling, and hazardous material disposal,
Republic also provides fall leaf collection, spring clean-up collection, used oil
collection and Christmas tree pick-up. These programs are intended to reduce
the amount of organic material that would otherwise make its way to the landfill.
Republic and the City are looking for additional ways to divert the amount of
waste that goes to landfill.
“Republic and the
City are looking for
additional ways to
divert the amount of
waste that goes to
landfill.”
Chapter
44
3
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
In 2000, the City established a Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) to help
set steer a curbside recycling program and to advise the City Council on other
solid waste issues. The SWAC works in conjunction with Republic staff. The
SWAC focuses its attention on growing the solid waste and recycling programs
and making them as user friendly as possible.
Irrigation
Meridian irrigation water is supplied by a series of canals and laterals diverted
from the Boise River. The New York canal is operated and serviced by the Boise
Project Control Board, under the Bureau of Reclamation. The Ridenbaugh and
Settler’s Canal are both operated and maintained by the Nampa and Meridian
Irrigation District (NMID). The NMID administers water rights for all three canals.
Power
Idaho Power Company provides electrical services throughout the City of Meridian
and its Area of City Impact. Idaho Power is a public service company regulated
by the Idaho Public Utility Commission (IPUC), the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission (FERC), and the state regulatory commissions of Idaho and Oregon.
Natural Gas
Intermountain Gas Company is the sole provider of natural gas in southern Idaho,
including Meridian. Meridian is serviced by dual, high pressure natural gas pipelines
that bisect the southwest part of the City’s Area of City Impact.
Communications
CenturyLink, Inc. provides basic telephone service in the area and CableOne
provides traditional T.V. and internet services. There are also a number of other
wireless providers which also offer phone, television, and internet services.
Future Acquisitions Map
Idaho Code §67-6517 allows the City to designate lands on a Future Acquisitions
Map (FAM) that are proposed for public acquisition and/or facilities over the
next 20 years. Facilities and utilities that could be designated on this map include,
but are not limited to: fire stations, parks, open space, and recreation areas,
pathways, well sites, Waste Water Treatment Plant expansion lands, utility facility
corridors, streets, overpasses and highways, and some properties downtown
where infrastructure is planned.
The City does not have or use a FAM. Instead, a future facilities map that
consolidates all City expansion and construction plans is being composed. This
map, once composed, will be used for general coordination and communication,
and will not be included in this Plan. However, it is envisioned that the future
facilities map and the policies in this Plan be consistent and work together to guide
efficient infrastructure improvements.
“Unless commitment
is made, there are
only promises and
hopes; but no plans.”
- Peter F. Drucker
45City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.01.00 Recognize that Meridian's population will continue to grow and positively influence that
growth.
3.01.01 Provide facilities and services that keep up with growth.
3.01.01A Work with COMPASS to analyze and monitor demographic characteristics and trends using the
Development Monitoring Report.On-going Community
Development
3.01.01B Evaluate comprehensive impact of growth in all land use decisions (e.g., traffic impacts, school
enrollment, parks, etc).On-going Community
Development
3.01.01C Regularly calculate ultimate build-out population projections based on City’s current
Comprehensive Plan policies.On-going Community
Development
3.01.01D Update the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code as needed to accommodate
growth trends.On-going Community
Development
3.01.01E Develop incentives that encourage utilization of unimproved or underdeveloped land within City
limits in order to maximize public investments, and curtail urban sprawl.Medium Community
Development
3.01.01F Permit new development only where urban services can be reasonably provided at the time of
final approval and development is contiguous to the City.On-going Community
Development
3.01.01G Evaluate development proposals based on physical, social, economic, environmental, and
aesthetic criteria.On-going Community
Development
3.01.01H Continuously provide essential services and utilities to all residents.On-going Council
3.01.01I Consider City Master Plans and Strategic Plans in all land use decisions. On-going Council
3.01.01J
Work with transportation agencies and private property owners to preserve transportation
corridors, future transit routes and infrastructure, road and highway extensions, and to facilitate
access management planning. On-going Community
Development
3.01.02 Ensure that land use regulations support development opportunities within the Area of City
Impact.
3.01.02A Support applications that apply the neighborhood center concept.On-going Community
Development
3.01.02B Establish incentives for new commercial development within under-utilized existing commercial
areas.Highest Community
Development
3.01.02C Support and improve upon current development review process.On-going Community
Development
Chapter 3 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
46City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.01.02D
Coordinate with Ada County to amend City and County Area of City Impact agreements to
require Meridian land use ordinances be adopted by Ada County for developments within the
Area of City Impact but outside City limits.Medium Community
Development
3.01.02E [Removed]NA NA
3.02.00 Improve long range City and school district planning.
3.02.01 Jointly plan and site school and subdivision developments to ensure mutual benefits and
neighborhood identity.
3.02.01A Coordinate population and household projections keeping school sites in mind.On-going Community
Development
3.02.01B Support the location of school sites within every square mile.On-going Community
Development
3.02.01C Support construction of multi-use facilities that can be used by both schools and the community.On-going Community
Development
3.02.01D Develop programs that are more pro-active by providing more secure, safe, and fun places for
children.Medium Parks
3.02.01E Actively involve West Ada School District in subdivision site selection with developer before
processing applications (pre-application meetings).On-going Community
Development
3.02.01F
Work with West Ada School District so elementary schools are sited in locations that are safe for
the children, easily accessible by automobile, transit, walking and bicycle. Elementary schools
should not be "hidden" within subdivisions or otherwise made inaccessible to the public.On-going Community
Development
3.02.01G Look for ways to streamline the permitting and land use review process for approval of new
school facilities. On-going Community
Development
3.02.01H Work with ACHD, ITD and West Ada School District to establish and map safe bicycle and
pedestrian routes to schools. On-going Community
Development
3.02.01I Assist West Ada School District as needed in identifying future school sites, including by
providing information about potential developments and future land uses. On-going Community
Development
3.02.01J Ensure compatibility of schools with neighborhoods and adjacent land uses.On-going Community
Development
3.03.00 Facilitate the efficient movement of people and products to and from the Area of City Impact.
3.03.01 Support multi-modal and complete street transportation improvements.
3.03.01A Work with UPRR on constructing a multiple-use pathway through downtown.On-going Public Works
3.03.01B Support VRT’s efforts to construct a multi-modal transit center downtown.Medium Community
Development
47City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.03.01C Improve ingress and egress (both pedestrian and vehicle) in Old Town.On-going Community
Development
3.03.01D Pursue the extension of Idaho Ave and/or Broadway Ave to Commercial Drive.Medium Community
Development
3.03.01E Pursue construction of the City’s pathway network to and through downtown.On-going Parks
3.03.01F Pursue bicycle routes/lanes to and through downtown.On-going Community
Development
3.03.01G Work with ACHD to implement projects from the Downtown Meridian Pedestrian and Bicycle
survey.On-going Community
Development
3.03.01H
Work with ACHD to increase awareness that pedestrians are part of the community and utilize
criteria for plan review in determining whether a development proposal is pedestrian safe,
accessible, and comfortable.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02 Enhance existing transportation systems.
3.03.02A Work with COMPASS, ACHD, ITD and other regional partners to develop and manage a well-
planned, sustainable, multi-modal transportation system.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02B Pursue the extension of East 3rd Street from Fairview to Pine and a future signal at East 3rd Street
/ Fairview.Medium Community
Development
3.03.02C Pursue the extension of Overland Road, west of Ten Mile Road into Canyon County, consistent
with the 2011 Airport-Overland Corridor Study. On-going Community
Development
3.03.02D Pursue sidewalk construction for existing substandard streets.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02E Develop continuous pedestrian walkways within the downtown area.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02F Consider ACHD's Complete Streets policy and Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan
(TLIP) in all land-use decisions.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02G Consider the adopted COMPASS regional long-range transportation plan in all land-use
decisions.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02H Encourage and promote the development of an overpass at the intersection of Linder Road and
I-84 by ITD and ACHD. The overpass should accommodate pedestrians.Medium Community
Development
3.03.02I Encourage and promote the development of an interchange at the intersection of McDermott
Road / SH-16 Road extension and I-84 by ITD.Medium Community
Development
3.03.02J Encourage and promote construction of Eagle Road corridor improvements.On-going Community
Development
48City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.03.02K [Removed]NA NA
3.03.02L Encourage and promote the preservation and expansion of Chinden Boulevard (US 20/26) by ITD.Highest Community
Development
3.03.02M [Removed]NA NA
3.03.02N Reduce the number of existing access points onto arterial streets by using methods such as cross-
access agreements, access management, and frontage / backage roads.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02O Review new development for appropriate opportunities to connect local roads and collectors to
adjacent properties (stub streets).On-going Community
Development
3.03.02P Require the improving and maintaining of landscaping along public rights-of-way and
landscaping of dedicated but unimproved rights-of-way strips.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02Q Consider needed sidewalk, pathway, and lighting improvements along with all land-use decisions
along SH-55.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02R Improve coordination with ACHD, ITD, VRT, COMPASS and developers in addressing
transportation issues and needs before public hearings. Highest Community
Development
3.03.02S Work with ACHD, neighborhoods, and the city's Transportation Commission to promote traffic
calming and safety where problems exist.On-going Community
Development
3.03.02T Work with ACHD to establish and implement a system of performance measures to gauge
whether transportation goals and objectives are being realized.Medium Community
Development
3.03.02U Work with ACHD to establish a "feedback loop" to further Meridian's planning objectives and
interests.High Community
Development
3.03.03 Provide the most efficient transportation network possible.
3.03.03A Work with transportation agencies to establish truck routes.Lowest Public Works
3.03.03B Require pedestrian access connectors in all new development to link subdivisions together to
promote neighborhood connectivity as part of a community pathway system. On-going Community
Development
3.03.03C Require street connections between subdivisions at regular intervals to enhance connectivity and
better traffic flow.On-going Community
Development
3.03.03D Develop alternative modes of transportation through pedestrian improvements, bicycle lanes,
off-street pathways, and transit-oriented development as appropriate.On-going Community
Development
49City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.03.03E
Except in North Meridian and the Ten Mile Specific Area, where a specific collector system is
planned, realize continuous collectors at regular intervals around the north-south and east-west
half-mile lines within the undeveloped sections of Meridian's Area of City Impact at the time of
new development. Such collectors should be the primary designated bike lane routes in lieu of
arterial streets, whenever possible.
On-going Community
Development
3.03.03F
Require the public street system to be continuous through each mile section. This does not
preclude the use of traffic calming measures, nor does it imply the roadway have a straight
alignment.On-going Community
Development
3.03.03G Participate in the development of the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). On-going Community
Development
3.03.03H Work with neighborhood groups to identify gaps in the sidewalk system that need to be filled in.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04 Encourage new and alternative transportation systems to accommodate growth.
3.03.04A Support COMPASS efforts to study the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) corridor for multi-use
pathway and mass transit.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04B Explore additional mobility options for people who do not drive; use COMPASS' Mobility
Management Checklist.Medium-
High
Community
Development
3.03.04C Develop and implement agreements with NMID, other irrigation districts, and UPRR to allow use
of easements for recreation, bike/pedestrian pathways by the City.On-going Parks
3.03.04D In cooperation with COMPASS, VRT, and ACHD, continue to investigate the opportunities for
providing Park & Ride lots, shuttle buses, and other forms of alternative transportation.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04E Work with ACHD, VRT and other agencies, community groups, local employers and citizens to
identify and promote strategies for reducing reliance on the automobile.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04F Preserve the existing rail corridor for a future transit system between Boise and Nampa.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04G Work with COMPASS and VRT on bringing public transportation to and through Meridian.Medium Community
Development
3.03.04H Work with ACHD, COMPASS, and VRT to identify specific parcels for future park & ride lots and/or
transit stations.Medium Community
Development
3.03.04I The City, in coordination with VRT and COMPASS, should explore grants and other funding
opportunities to provide incentives for developers to locate within areas planned for transit.Medium Community
Development
3.03.04J Develop design guidelines for transit stations.Lowest Community
Development
50City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.03.04K Consider ACHD's MSM (Master Street Map) in all land use decisions. On-going Community
Development
3.03.04L Assist in meeting the transportation needs of non-drivers.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04M Support alternative public and private sector funding opportunities for transportation
investment.On-going Community
Development
3.03.04N Promote the rail line as a multi-modal corridor. On-going Public Works
3.04.00 Expand, improve, and maintain the City's infrastructure to meet existing and growing
demands in a timely, orderly, and logical manner.
3.04.01 Develop and follow logical master plans for all public facilities, services and safety to guide the
growth of the City.
3.04.01A [Removed]NA NA
3.04.01B Annually review master plans for public facilities and services; update as needed.On-going All
3.04.01C Coordinate with other public utilities and essential service providers at annual master plan
reviews.On-going All
3.04.01D Identify growth priority areas for future City expansion.On-going All
3.04.01E Develop City utilities in priority areas.On-going Public Works
3.04.01F Explore options to annex County parcels that are contiguous with City limits to allow for more
efficient provision of City services.Medium Community
Development
3.04.01G
Protect citizen investments in existing public facilities (water, sewer, streets, fire, police, etc.) by
encouraging controlled growth through development application reviews and development
agreements.On-going Community
Development
3.04.01H Coordinate with public works, police, and fire departments on proposed annexation and
development requests, and the impacts on services.On-going Community
Development
3.04.01I Review and update existing and future service needs.On-going All
3.04.01J Annually assess and compare response times to adopted standards for identification of needed
growth.On-going Police / Fire
3.04.01K Continually improve public participation in matters relating to financing, construction and
location of public facilities. On-going Public Works
3.04.01L Support expansion of City facilities and staff based on growth.On-going Council
51City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.04.01M [Removed]NA NA
3.04.01N Phase in residential developments in accordance with their connection to the municipal sewer
and water system.On-going Community
Development
3.04.02 Build services to areas of opportunity and promote future development of commercial, industrial,
retail/service and residential to best protect objectives and integrity of Meridian.
3.04.02A Locate industrial and commercial uses where adequate water supply and water pressure are
available for fire protection.On-going Community
Development
3.04.02B Encourage infill development.Medium Community
Development
3.05.00 Ensure a variety and balance of land uses to support the Meridian Area of City Impact.
3.05.01 Plan for periodic review, monitoring, and updating of land uses within the Area of City Impact
and the Urban Service Planning Area.
3.05.01A Evaluate the allocation of land uses along the rail corridor, particularly the amount of land
envisioned for industrial use; coordinate with UPRR and other stakeholders. High Community
Development
3.05.01B
Coordinate with COMPASS, UPRR, ACHD, VRT, and private property owners to ensure land uses
that are compatible and will integrate with freight movement and a future rail corridor transit
system.Medium Community
Development
3.05.01C Update the Future Land Use Map to reflect existing facilities.On-going Community
Development
3.05.01D Annually calculate percentage of each major land use category developed during previous year
and compare to existing supply of vacant land in each category.On-going Community
Development
3.05.01E Locate small-scale neighborhood commercial areas within planned residential developments as
part of the development plan.On-going Community
Development
3.05.01F Amend the Unified Development Code and Future Land Use Map to implement this plan.On-going Community
Development
3.05.01G Encourage research and employment opportunities in the northwest quadrant of Area of City
Impact. Highest Community
Development
3.05.01H Designate land for a variety of uses.On-going Community
Development
3.05.01I Consider Specific Area Plan funding for areas of interest on the Future Land Use Map.On-going Community
Development
3.05.01J Plan for a variety of commercial and retail opportunities within the Area of City Impact.On-going Community
Development
52City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.05.01K Monitor and adjust accordingly, the amount of industrial areas needed to meet the employment
needs of the City.On-going Economic
Development
3.05.02 Maintain integrity of neighborhoods to preserve values and ambiance of areas.
3.05.02A Require neighborhood and community commercial areas to create a site design compatible with
surrounding uses (e.g., landscaping, fences, etc.).On-going Community
Development
3.05.02B Develop standards for integrating higher density residential into existing subdivision
development.On-going Community
Development
3.05.02C Require new residential development to meet development standards regarding landscaping,
signage, fences and walls, etc.On-going Community
Development
3.05.02D Enforce City codes.On-going Police
3.05.02E Permit schools, churches, and other public and civic uses in rural areas, that are compatible with
adjacent uses.On-going Community
Development
3.05.02F
Require new urban density subdivisions which abut or are proximal to existing low density
residential land uses to provide landscaped screening or transitional densities with larger, more
comparable lot sizes to buffer the interface between urban level densities and rural residential
densities.
On-going Community
Development
3.05.02G
Evaluate the need for new residential development to provide permanent perimeter fencing,
and fencing to contain construction debris on site and prevent windblown debris from entering
adjacent agricultural and other properties.On-going Community
Development
3.05.03 Plan for appropriate uses within rural areas.
3.05.03A Identify transitional areas to buffer commercial and residential uses, to allow uses such as offices
and other low intensity uses.On-going Community
Development
3.05.03B Permit low-density (one unit per 5-10 acres) residential uses where City services can not be
provided. On-going Community
Development
3.05.03C Require rural area residential development to submit alternative development plan to allow for
the efficient extension of urban services in the future (resubdivision plan).On-going Community
Development
3.05.03D Coordinate with Ada County and establish and maintain an Area of City Impact Agreement, to
ensure that rural areas are developed in accordance with all applicable provisions of this plan.On-going Community
Development
3.05.03E
Allow residential development in rural areas that are outside the City limits but inside the Area of
City Impact, provided it is not feasible to connect development to City sewer and water service,
and when required by the City, development provides dry line sewer and water lines for future
connection; and a concept plan for roads and lots showing that re-subdivision of the property in
the future, to urban densities consistent with the Future Land Use Map is possible.
On-going Community
Development
53City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.05.03F Permit recreational uses that are compatible with agricultural pursuits in the rural areas.On-going Community
Development
3.05.03G Evaluate feasibility of establishing preservation standards and incentives for protecting the long-
term use of land with prime agricultural soils for agricultural purposes. Highest Community
Development
3.06.00 Encourage compatible uses to minimize conflicts and maximize use of land.
3.06.01 Proactively address potential conflicts between incompatible uses.
3.06.01A Require industrial areas to create a site design compatible with surrounding uses (e.g., landscape,
fences, etc.) and community design criteria.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01B Minimize noise, odor, air pollution, and visual pollution in industrial and commercial development
adjacent to residential areas.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01C Encourage industrial development to locate adjacent to existing industrial uses.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01D Require industrial development to conform to Federal and State air, water, and noise pollution
standards, and local landscaping, traffic, noise, and environmental standards.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01E Require screening and buffering of commercial and industrial properties to residential use with
transitional zoning.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01F Protect existing residential properties from incompatible land use development on adjacent
parcels.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01G Require screening and landscape buffers on all development requests that are more intense than
adjacent residential properties.On-going Community
Development
3.06.01H Support land uses that do not harm natural systems and resources. On-going Community
Development
3.06.01I Preserve and protect industrial lands for continued industrial use.On-going Community
Development
3.06.02 Support appropriate land uses along transportation corridors.
3.06.02A Review current regulations for issues that would prohibit or discourage the type of mixed-use,
transit-oriented development desired within areas planned for transit.High Community
Development
3.06.02B Cluster new community commercial areas on arterials or collectors near residential areas in such
a way as to complement adjoining residential areas. On-going Community
Development
3.06.02C Identify locations for low traffic-generating uses on key corridors.Low Community
Development
3.06.02D Restrict private curb cuts and access points on collectors and arterial streets.On-going Community
Development
54City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.06.02E Integrate transportation plans and studies into the Comprehensive Plan and City ordinances. On-going Community
Development
3.06.02F Require appropriate landscaping and buffers along transportation corridor (setback, vegetation,
low walls, berms, etc.).On-going Community
Development
3.06.02G Develop incentives for high-density development along major transportation corridors to
support public transportation system.Low Community
Development
3.06.02H
Coordinate with ACHD, ITD, COMPASS, and other agencies to determine future infrastructure
plans, transportation corridors, highway alignments, etc. and allow only compatible adjacent land
uses, appropriate site designs and traffic patterns.On-going Community
Development
3.06.02I Explore with ACHD the possibility of reduced transportation impact fees for development along
public transportation systems (existing or planned).Medium Community
Development
3.07.00 Offer a diversity of housing types for a greater range of choice.
3.07.01 Encourage quality housing projects for all economic levels throughout the City.
3.07.01A Amend the Unified Development Code and Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map to ensure
a wide variety of housing types can be developed and properly zoned and land is available. On-going Community
Development
3.07.01B Annually monitor building permit activity to ensure a diversity of housing is being maintained.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01C Promote high density residential development in Old Town.High Community
Development
3.07.01D Adopt land use designations that will allow for housing opportunities for all income levels.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01E
Support a variety of residential categories (low-, medium-, medium-high and high-density single-
family, multi-family, townhouses, duplexes, apartments, condominiums, etc.) for the purpose of
providing the City with a range of affordable housing opportunities.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01F Provide incentives (density bonus, reduced open space requirements, less impact fees) for infill
development.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01G Designate areas for high density residential on the Future Land Use Map.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01H Require an open housing market for all persons, regardless of protected class, ie: race, sex, age,
religion, disability, handicap, family status or ethnic background.On-going Legal
3.07.01I Develop incentives for a variety of housing types, suitable for various income groups.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01J Ensure that no discriminatory restrictions are imposed by local codes and ordinances.On-going Legal
55City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.07.01K Look for incentives to encourage the development of accessible, single-family home designs.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01L Coordinate public and private housing implementation efforts to improve consistency with local
housing plans.On-going Community
Development
3.07.01M Review ordinances or other policy statements which affect housing development and consolidate
to avoid confusion and conflicting policies and requirements.Highest Community
Development
3.07.01N Diversify and balance the location of up to 1,200 square foot housing throughout the City (e.g.,
avoid concentration of one housing type in a geographical area).Low Community
Development
3.07.02 Elevate/enhance quality of residential site and subdivision planning.
3.07.02A Require usable open space to be incorporated into new residential subdivision plats.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02B Consistent with the Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan, require all new residential
neighborhoods to provide sidewalks, curb and gutters, and complete streets.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02C Require pedestrian access in all new development to link subdivisions together and promote
neighborhood connectivity.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02D Provide housing options close to employment and shopping centers.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02E Use the Architectural Standards Manual.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02F Require common area in all subdivisions.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02G Re-evaluate residential density categories (i.e., R-8 to R-15 to R-40 is too broad of a range) in
Unified Development Code.Medium Community
Development
3.07.02H Eliminate vague/unclear standards in development ordinances; keep Unified Development Code
current and user-friendly.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02I
Support infill of vacant lots in substantially developed, single-family areas at densities similar to
surrounding development. Increased densities on vacant lots may be considered if structures are
compatible with surrounding development.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02J Explore the option of the City acquiring vacant lots to hold for future consolidation of lots and /
or development.Low Community
Development
3.07.02K Apply design and construction standards to infilling development in order to reduce adverse
impacts upon existing adjacent development.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02L Locate high-density development, where possible, near open space corridors or other permanent
major open space and park facilities, Old Town, and near major access thoroughfares.On-going Community
Development
56City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
3Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
3.07.02M
Evaluate the potential to use density transfers through Planned Unit Developments in exchange
for school sites, open space dedications, or for access easements to linear open space corridors,
which contain bicycle and/or pedestrian pathway systems.Medium Community
Development
3.07.02N Ensure development provides safe routes and access to schools, parks and other community
gathering places.On-going Community
Development
3.07.02O Evaluate the need for design review guidelines for single-family homes, particularly in Old Town.Medium Community
Development
3.07.03 Ensure that a balance exists between supply and demand in rental market.
3.07.03A Identify the current mix of housing types, with COMPASS.On-going Community
Development
3.07.03B
Provide for a wide diversity of housing types (single-family and multi-family arrangements)
and choices between ownership and rental dwelling units for all income groups in a variety of
locations suitable for residential development.On-going Community
Development
3.07.03C Track vacancy rates.On-going Economic
Development
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
4
57
Chapter
Chapter 4 – Economic Excellence
This section of the Comprehensive Plan gives context to the City’s goals,
objectives, and action items regarding economic development and provides the
framework for growing Meridian’s economy. Policy decisions reflect Meridian’s
goal of improving and diversifying the local economy to ensure a sustainable
economic tax base.
Economic Development
Meridian is actively supporting existing and new businesses in order to retain and
create new jobs, develop regional talent, foster innovation and increase tax base
to promote a community that is proactive, responsive and sustainable. Some of
the new businesses that the City is working to develop are:
• Health Science (Medical Device Manufacturing)
• Health Care Services
• Info-technology
• Corporate & Professional Services
• Entrepreneurial Innovation
• Food Processors
• Light Manufacturing
• Outdoor Sports Manufacturing
• Alternative Energy
Meridian’s location, in the center of the Pacific Northwest,
gives the City an advantage in regional recognition.
Meridian offers companies direct access to 66 million
consumers within a 750-mile radius. In addition, Meridian
provides companies with a diverse pool of motivated and
dedicated workers.
The City of Meridian is committed to economic excellence, and is committed to
supporting and growing new and existing businesses. The City seeks to create a
strong and diverse business community that is “Built for Business and Designed
for Living.” As part of its commitment to economic excellence, the City has
developed Business Enterprise Areas and Specific Area Plans to encourage and
promote a robust and sustainable economy.
Chapter
58
4
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Business Enterprise Areas / Specific Area Plans
Meridian is effectively positioned to support existing, emerging, and new businesses
by creating planned and integrated Business Enterprise Areas. These areas are
designed to attract and foster related or complimentary business interests. This
provides an environment where business can thrive in an atmosphere conducive
to attracting and retaining a highly qualified workforce. These Business Enterprise
Areas, located throughout the City, are diverse in approach and geared towards
accommodating the needs of business and employees alike.
The Core. The Core, located on the eastern edge of Meridian along I-84, is focused
on fostering an environment for health sciences, technology and business centers.
The Core is a community of partners and programs, like those between the
City of Meridian and Idaho State University, creating sustainable jobs, developing
products, training, and research to better the lives of those in Meridian, the Valley,
and abroad. With over 43 active enterprises, The Core is business diversity of
the future; jobs in research, development, and manufacturing that cannot be
outsourced. This corridor of complementary businesses and services provides
a one-stop destination for visitors and workforce with all necessary amenities.
In the fall of 2009, Idaho State University opened the doors to ISU-Meridian,
the Treasure Valley campus, within The Core. Students at ISU specialize in Law
and Leadership, Research and Medical Arts, and International Studies. The City
has been working with ISU to not only strengthen educational programs but to
create partnerships with the private sector. The ISU President’s Southwestern
Idaho Advisory Council on Health Science Education and Economic Excellence
focuses on specific business and research opportunities. This Council of business
and educational leaders helps prepare ISU to expand health science education
opportunities and support the efforts of The Core.
Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan. The Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area
Plan (TMISAP), centered along Ten Mile Road and I-84, is a highly visible, easily
accessible part of the City that will offer significant employment, enhance housing
diversity, and support a strong economy. The TMISAP, while sharing the same
heart for economic development as the other business enterprise areas, is built
for living; creating an environment for people to work, live, and play. Unlike other
commercial employment districts, with diversity of mixed, adjacent, and nearby
housing in a broad spectrum of sizes and costs, the Ten Mile Interchange Specific
Area Plan8 seeks to create a highly accessible community that removes the need
to commute to work.
Urban Renewal Area (Downtown) - The Meridian Development Corporation
(MDC) and the City are committed to the economic stimulation and expansion
of downtown Meridian. Focus areas for creating a thriving Downtown Meridian
include: pedestrian friendly, transit support, sustainable job creation, public art and
beautification, affordable workforce housing, public parking, and a balanced retail
environment. As part of its long-term goals, MDC is committed to supporting
Destination Downtown, a Vision Plan for downtown Meridian. Destination
8 Go to http://www.meridiancity.org/planning.aspx?id=242
“This corridor of
complementary busi-
nesses and services
provides a one-stop
destination for visitors
and workforce with
all necessary ameni-
ties.”
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
4
59
Chapter
Downtown9 is a community-driven initiative, spearheaded by the MDC, to
stimulate, vitalize, and establish downtown Meridian as a hub of Treasure Valley
enterprise, culture, and social activities. Destination Downtown has four focus
areas: Livability, Mobility, Prosperity, and Sustainability. Each of these focus areas
represents a vital cornerstone in support of the long-term health and vitality of
downtown Meridian and the City as a whole. The City intends to build on the
Destination Downtown plan by partnering with the MDC to do specific catalyst
projects, consistent with each of the four focus areas identified in the Plan. With
the construction of the City Hall building in 2008, and the COMPASS/VRT building
in 2011, the City and the MDC have made commitments to downtown that will
serve as catalysts for additional revitalization efforts and set the standard for
future development in Meridian’s downtown.
Fields Area. Located in northwest Meridian, the Fields is a six-square mile area
bound by the Ada-Canyon county line, Chinden Boulevard, Ustick Road and
Black Cat Road. This area has been identified by the City for a future specific area
plan. Like the other Business Enterprise Areas, the Fields Area will be conceived
principally to grow business and develop increased economic vitality. Unlike Ten
Mile, The Core, and the Downtown plans however, the Fields Area will support
9 Go to www.destination-downtown.org
Figure 4-1. buSiNeSS eNTerPriSe AreAS
Chapter
60
4
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
future growth and development away from I-84, providing northwest Meridian
with its own Business Enterprise Area, ensuring diverse and equally dispersed
opportunity throughout the City.
Chamber of Commerce
The Meridian Chamber of Commerce principle goal is of supporting and developing
business. The Chamber is a membership organization which provides leadership
opportunities, advocacy, networking, and business promotion, to encourage,
foster, and promote existing and new business opportunities in the City. The
Meridian Chamber of Commerce provides many services to the community,
including: business referrals, City information, community maps, relocation
packets, tourist information, consulting, and more.
61City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
4Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
4.01.00 Make Meridian the premier place to live, work and raise a family.
4.01.01 Diversify economic base of City - make Meridian a self-sustaining community.
4.01.01A Build upon/take advantage of the City’s location between Nampa and Boise and promote the
regional concept.High Economic
Development
4.01.01B Provide unique destination-type activities and centers.High Economic
Development
4.01.01C Provide incentives and standards to attract high-quality businesses.High Economic
Development
4.01.01D Develop and maintain methods to promote the business community (e.g., web site development,
brochures, advertising).Highest Economic
Development
4.01.01E Develop a selection criteria list for business types, and incorporate it into the development review
process.Medium Community
Development
4.01.01F Encourage high-tech, research, pharmaceutical firms, and high-quality retail facilities.On-going Economic
Development
4.01.02 Create a balanced cross section of incomes.
4.01.02A Annually monitor changes in income levels.On-going Economic
Development
4.01.02B Monitor supply of housing stock by tenure and income.On-going Community
Development
4.01.02C Pursue grants for economic development and public-private partnerships.On-going Economic
Development
4.01.02D
Raise awareness through educational outreach activities to major employers and policy makers
about the benefit of workforce housing and explore possibilities for creating / sustaining
workforce housing.On-going Community
Development
4.02.00 Support existing businesses by creating new opportunities; be more focused on the expansion
of existing businesses and create an overall friendly environment in which to do business.
4.02.01 Promote business retention, expansion and improvement programs.
4.02.01A Establish and maintain relationships with existing businesses and industries to determine present
and future needs. On-going Economic
Development
4.02.01B Create and maintain a business registry and database. High Economic
Development
Chapter 4 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
62City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
4Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
4.02.01C Coordinate with the Meridian Chamber of Commerce to form a systematic business visitation
program based on industry clusters. High Economic
Development
4.02.01D Establish an annual business survey. High Economic
Development
4.02.01E Create a program of ‘Ambassadors’ engaging the community businesses in supporting economic
development in order to develop consistent leadership and a sense of community. On-going Economic
Development
4.02.01F Encourage and provide resources for companies to access a global market.On-going Economic
Development
4.02.01G Partner with local, state, regional and federal resources to provide companies with a ‘one stop
shop’ for incentives and opportunities.Highest Economic
Development
4.02.01H Develop a new business website that reaches an international market and creates a business
friendly model of services and delivers comprehensive information about Meridian.Highest Economic
Development
4.02.01I Make Meridian a city that embraces and promotes the entrepreneurial spirit with onsite resources
targeted to meet the needs of innovative, start-up companies.Highest Economic
Development
4.02.02
Proactively streamline government processes, identify and resolve issues and/or concerns before
they reach a critical stage, and create an inviting environment within Meridian City Hall as an
enjoyable place to do business.
4.02.02A Produce a guide for existing and prospective business which includes the permit application
process, zoning overviews and economic incentives.Highest Economic
Development
4.02.02B Review and adapt to the changing needs of the business community through progressive
solutions to government procedures.On-going Economic
Development
4.02.03 Identify needs to fill gaps in needed workforce skills to support existing business and create
innovate training opportunities to fill those gaps.
4.02.03A Coordinate efforts with the Department of Labor to determine education and training needs and
catalogue to identify deficiencies.On-going Economic
Development
4.02.03B Coordinate with all local, regional, and state education institutions to provide job-oriented
education and training programs to match existing and anticipated business and industry needs.On-going Economic
Development
4.02.03C Provide information on available training programs with local colleges and organizations and
provide contact information.On-going Economic
Development
4.02.03D Engage all educational levels (K-12) to develop a highly educated and innovative workforce with
an entrepreneurial mindset.High Economic
Development
4.03.00 Make Meridian the premier location for business in the region by recruiting and attracting
new businesses to the area.
4.03.01 Create branding, tools, and relationships necessary to attract and recruit new businesses to the
Treasure Valley.
63City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
4Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
4.03.01A
Develop a specific brand positioning and marketing plan for the City’s economic development
activities that will identify and differentiate Meridian while clearly defining its opportunities and
advantages.On-going Economic
Development
4.03.01B Create a GIS database of available properties with detailed information on infrastructure and
entitlements.Highest Community
Development
4.03.01C Develop a marketing plan and materials for targeted industries Highest Economic
Development
4.03.01D Develop relationships and maintain contact with sources of new business referrals and
opportunistic prospects.On-going Economic
Development
4.03.02 Develop Meridian as an economic development driving force that creates dynamic, sustainable
and synergistic environments through the development of industrial corridors and target markets.
4.03.02A Explore potential partnering opportunities with like-minded organizations for purposes of
merging, affiliating, aligning or collaborating.On-going Mayor's Office / All
4.03.02B Determine feasibility market for agglomerations based on geographical attributions, workforce
skills and research and development activities.High Economic
Development
4.03.02C
Create a database of industry clusters in the area with details about their capabilities. The
database would create synergies among businesses, as well as attract new companies that would
desire the same local talent and research.High Economic
Development
4.03.02D Identify and allocate locations/inventory for industrial and commercial business parks.Medium Community
Development
4.03.02E Capitalize the City’s location along the Western Heritage Byway (SH-69/Meridian Road); promote
the corridor for tourism, business expansion and its proximity to downtown. Medium Economic
Development
4.04.00 Create a positive environment that supports downtown as the vibrant heart of the community.
4.04.01 Support redevelopment opportunities in downtown.
4.04.01A Research potential sites for parking garages.Medium Economic
Development
4.04.01B Acquire land and develop parking facilities that are available to the public and downtown
employers.High Council
4.04.01C Provide plazas and public areas and integrate them as destinations that provide places for
recreation, social gathering, and civic activities. On-going Community
Development
4.04.01D Maintain existing public areas in downtown (e.g., Generations Plaza area, community center, City
Hall)On-going Parks
4.04.01E Research potential sites with the Meridian Development Corporation for entertainment venues
and a civic center in downtown.Highest Mayor's Office
64City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
4Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
4.04.01F Promote implementation of the action items identified in the Destination Downtown plan.Highest Community
Development
4.04.01G Pursue Community Development Block Grants and other funding sources for improvements in
Old Town.High Community
Development
4.04.01H Develop programs with the Meridian Development Corporation to encourage and support
development of the arts, cultural and educational facilities in Old Town.On-going Finance
4.04.01I Develop incentives to encourage higher density housing throughout Old Town.Medium Community
Development
4.04.01J Develop programs to attract customer-oriented businesses that encourage pedestrian facilities
and uses downtown.High Community
Development
4.04.01K Support compatible uses which will attract a high daytime and nighttime population to the
downtown area.On-going Community
Development
4.04.01L Develop and support downtown cultural activities and events.On-going Mayor's Office
4.04.01M Provide signage with the Meridian Development Corporation to attract people downtown.Highest Mayor's Office
4.04.01N Work with the Meridian Development Corporation to establish thematic or uniform signage
downtown.High Mayor's Office
4.04.01O
Implement the City of Meridian Design Standards and City of Meridian Architectural Standards
Manual that will ensure that downtown remains the historic center for mixed-use tourism,
business, retail, residential, and governmental activities.On-going Community
Development
4.04.01P Create and maintain a distinct identity for downtown through consistent landscaping, street
lighting, street furnishings, and rehabilitation of existing buildings.On-going All
4.04.01Q Support development that aligns with districts identified in the Destination Downtown plan.Highest Community
Development
4.04.01R Complete a public-private demonstration project that maximizes resources.Medium Economic
Development
4.04.01S Develop incentives to attract new and retain the existing institutional, commercial, and
government facilities to remain/locate in Old Town.High Economic
Development
4.04.01T Encourage infill development.High Community
Development
4.04.01U Assist potential businesses with locating in downtown by providing process incentives.Highest Community
Development
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5
65
Chapter
Chapter 5 – Stewardship
This chapter discusses the City’s ongoing commitment and obligation to be good
stewards of the public trust. As part of this chapter, we discuss the natural and
built environment, sustainability, hazardous areas, and historic resources.
Natural Resources
Productive agricultural soils, open space, vegetation, air, water, and energy are
all valuable resources that the residents of Meridian enjoy and want to preserve.
Beyond the environmental and health benefits realized from preserving our
natural resources, they can offer exciting recreational opportunities, provide
for pedestrian travel ways, and offer a simple break from the standard suburban
affair. As growth continues however, increased pressures are placed on natural
resources. Finding a balance that protects and preserves Meridian’s natural
resources, while supporting the need for new development and growth is essential.
Water
One of our most valuable resources is water. Therefore, protecting our aquifers,
drainage basins, creeks, canals, lakes (man made or otherwise) and the Boise
River from dangerous polluted runoffs is of great importance for preserving a
quality water supply.
With a vision for sustainability, Meridian became the first city in Idaho to be
issued a Class A Reclaimed Water Permit. The City is now using highly treated,
or reclaimed water, instead of irrigation water or potable
water on City parks and open spaces. This conserves
a significant amount of ground water and reduces our
discharge flows into the Boise River. With successful
pilot projects completed, plans are in place to increase
programs that look towards water conservation,
protection of surface waters and improved of water
quality.
Soil and Vegetation
Not only is preserving the water supply important
for humans, but also for the plants and wildlife. The
natural tree and shrub corridors along the creeks and
drains throughout Meridian are critical to wildlife and
also present aesthetic values. In addition, the natural
vegetation provides shade and habitat for wildlife and
reduces soil erosion.
Chapter
66
5
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Air Quality
The City is trying to do its part to help the Treasure Valley’s overall air quality so
that the region does not fall below federally mandated standards (non-attainment).
The City of Meridian continues to be proactive in its efforts to improve air
quality in the Treasure Valley. The City has held town hall meetings on business
emissions, established City Hall as a Clean Air Zone, encouraged alternative
transportation and carpooling for employees, and installed conditioning equipment
at the Waste Water Treatment Plant that scrubs, cleans, and then reuses the
methane gas by-product. By working with the Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ), supporting other local and regional initiatives, implementing
City policies, evaluating land use and transportation relationships, and by City
departments and contracted entities using best management practices, the City
intends to raise the bar even higher for improving air quality.
Energy
In an effort to improve the energy efficiency, transparency, accountability, and
innovation of local government, the City of Meridian decided to prepare an
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy (EECS). The EECS outlines the
City of Meridian‘s long-range plans to integrate energy efficiency and energy
independence, sustainability, resource conservation, environmental stewardship,
improvements in air quality, and reductions in greenhouse gasses into the everyday
operations of City government.
As part of the energy strategy, the City’s mission, vision, and ongoing initiatives
were incorporated into the energy planning process. These factors will be integral
in directing policy options and for implementing the City’s current and future
energy projects. Moreover, they will help to guide and centralize the energy
planning process.
The City of Meridian developed the Citywide energy strategy as a guide for
achieving both short-range and long-range objectives for energy efficiency, the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and the creation of sustainable jobs. The
City will achieve short-range energy goals by allocating funding towards projects
that accomplish these goals. A comprehensive list of future energy projects
is included in the EECS that demonstrates the City’s long-range commitment
to energy efficiency. The energy-related projects, programs, policies, and
implementation measures identified in the planning process of the energy strategy
facilitate the City’s long-range energy success.
Sustainability
The City of Meridian has assertively stepped-up to the challenges and dynamics
of incorporating sustainability concepts into a variety of projects. From tackling
energy conservation issues; establishing a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment
and reclamation facility; to establishing and staffing an Environmental Division within
the Public Works Department. “Sustainability and Environmental Awareness” is
a stated priority issue of City leadership and will be a dynamic aspect of how
“The City of Meridian
has assertively stepped-
up to the challenges
and dynamics of incor-
porating sustainability
concepts into a variety
of projects.”
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5
67
Chapter
future service, programs and projects are understood, created and implemented.
Future success bodes well, due to the accomplishments gained in our recent past;
sustainable practices today are applied in Meridian in a wide variety of ways, and
will continue to grow.
Green Building
Where buildings are constructed and how they are designed, built and operated
greatly impacts the environment. In 1998 the U.S. Green Building Council
developed a set of standards for environmentally sustainable design, construction
and operation of buildings. These standards are formalized in certifying a building as
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). LEED is an internationally
recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification
that a building or community was designed and built using strategies aimed at
improving performance across all the metrics that matter most: energy savings,
water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality,
and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts. LEED is a voluntary
certification program that can be applied to any building type and any building
lifecycle phase. Guidelines encouraging buildings to be sited and designed consistent
with LEED concepts are included in the City’s Architectural Standards Manual.
As a prime example of the City’s ongoing efforts to be good stewards of the
environment and to set a positive example for others who build in Meridian, City
Hall was constructed with LEED certification in mind. In 2009, Meridian City
Hall achieved the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), Silver
Certification. Among other benefits, Idaho Power Company has calculated City
Hall’s annual energy savings to be the equivalent of providing power to 56 homes
for an entire year. The City would like to pursue other energy efficient projects,
and promote others to also consider environmental impacts when siting and
constructing projects.
Recycling and Hazardous Waste
The curbside recycling program within the City (operated by Sanitary Services
Company) currently allows for the following items: mixed waste paper (including
telephone books), corrugated cardboard, magazines and catalogs, aluminum and
tin cans, newspaper, and all numbers of plastic bottles, tubs, jugs (including lids)
and clamshells. Increased recycling for paper/wood products, plastics, and organic
material and diversion of hazardous waste from the landfill continue to be programs
that Sanitary Services Company and the City work on expanding.
Hazardous Areas
Fortunately, very few natural or man-made hazards exist within the City of
Meridian and its Area of City Impact. Without large industrial complexes, airports,
petroleum tank farms and other uses which generate safety and pollution concerns,
the City is relatively free of hazardous areas. As more development occurs
however, safety concerns and hazardous areas will likely increase from more
service stations, increased traffic, and storage of hazardous chemicals associated
“Good fortune is
what happens when
opportunity meets
with planning.”
- Thomas Alva
Edison
Chapter
68
5
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
with certain businesses. While federal regulations provide protection to a degree,
as development increases, so will the potential for spills, accidents, and fires. The
City coordinates with Ada County Emergency Management on natural hazard
disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation and is a plan participant in the
Ada County Hazard Mitigation Plan.
There are a few notable hazards which do exist within the City of Meridian’s
AOCI; a natural gas pipeline, an existing liquefied natural gas plant, state highways,
and areas of the City which fall into the 100 year floodplain.
The natural gas line, or Williams Pipeline, runs from the northwest edge of the
City to the southeastern edge of the City. Along this pipeline is a natural gas
plant, located off of N. Can-Ada Road, which temporarily liquefies natural gas
for storage. The City has worked with emergency responders and the pipeline
company to ensure development near these facilities is done safely.
There are four State (ITD) highways that go through Meridian: Interstate-84,
State Highway 55 (Eagle Road), State Highway 69 (Meridian Road) and US 20/26
(Chinden Boulevard). These facilities are high-speed roadways which have led
to many accidents. In City Code, there are specific development standards for
properties along State highways. These standards are in place to mitigate the
potential hazards from living next to and driving on the State highway system.
Portions of Meridian fall within the 100-year floodplain, generally along the Boise
River and some creeks, the City has developed a floodplain overlay district which
helps to guide development. Uses permitted in this district are generally associated
with open space, recreational, and agricultural land uses and do not hinder the
movement of the floodwaters. For additional, information including floodway
maps, see the Existing Conditions Report2.
Special Areas and Historic Resources
Currently there are eight properties within Meridian listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. In addition to these eight properties, there are many
historical architectural resources within the City limits and even more within
the Area of City Impact. Some of the many historic buildings within the Area of
City Impact include: grain elevators, a feed mill, assorted shops, a public library,
and Meridian Rural Public High School. Other historic properties and resources
include: historic farmsteads, irrigation facilities, the Ridenbaugh Canal, associated
check dams, and more. These recorded locations likely represent only a sample of
the actual number of historic buildings within the City of Meridian’s Area of City
Impact. These special sites and historic resources are important to preserving
Meridian’s heritage and in remembering the previous generations that laid the
foundation for Meridian today.
2 Go to www.meridiancity/compplan
“These special sites
and historic resources
are important to pre-
serving Meridian’s
heritage and in remem-
bering the previous
generations that laid the
foundation for Meridian
today.”
69City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.01.00 Preserve, protect, enhance, and wisely use our natural resources within the Area of City
Impact.
5.01.01 Protect and conserve existing waterways, groundwater, wetlands, wildlife habitat, air, soils, and
other natural resources.
5.01.01A Identify waterways, wetlands, and other natural resources for preservation.Medium Public Works
5.01.01B Identify wildlife habitat areas for conservation. Medium Public Works
5.01.01C Develop and implement programs to encourage and promote tree health and preservation
throughout the City, including along waterways and within proposed development.On-going Parks
5.01.01D Limit canal tiling and piping of ditches, creeks, and drains where public safety issues are not of
concern.On-going Public Works
5.01.01E Improve and protect creeks (Five Mile, Eight Mile, Nine Mile, Ten Mile, South Slough, and Jackson
and Evans drainages) throughout commercial, industrial and residential areas.On-going Community
Development
5.01.01F Identify underdeveloped areas for potential development.High Community
Development
5.01.01G Coordinate open space conservation with land trust.Low Parks
5.01.01H Preserve, protect and provide open space for recreation, conservation, aesthetics, etc. On-going Parks
5.01.01I Support a long-term transportation system that conforms to the public health standard for
carbon monoxide attainment. On-going Community
Development
5.01.02 Preserve and protect viable farm ground and agricultural resources.
5.01.02A Encourage efficient use of farm ground and open space at Area of City Impact boundaries to
effectively transition from rural uses to urban uses.On-going Community
Development
5.01.02B Encourage infill development in vacant/underdeveloped areas within the City over fringe area
development to halt the outward progression of urban development.On-going Community
Development
5.02.00 Enhance Meridian's historical, cultural and agricultural heritage.
5.02.01 Support restoration of Old Town to enhance its historical quality.
5.02.01A Develop incentives for the preservation and restoration of historic and architecturally significant
buildings.Medium Community
Development
5.02.01B Implement design/building standards for historically significant buildings and resources in Old
Town.Medium Community
Development
Chapter 5 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
70City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.02.01C
Actively support owners of historic buildings in their efforts to restore and/or preserve their
properties. Pursue grant funding sources to leverage private resources for restoration and
preservation projects.On-going Community
Development
5.02.01D Coordinate with the Historic Preservation Commission to review and comment on all
development applications in Old Town and provide a certificate of acceptability.Highest Community
Development
5.02.02 Preserve and enhance historic and cultural resources.
5.02.02A Coordinate with the Meridian Historic Preservation Commission to recommend restoration of
historical buildings.Highest Community
Development
5.02.02B Investigate tax incentive programs for historic properties.Low Community
Development
5.02.02C
Appoint members to and consistently maintain the minimum required membership on the
Meridian Historic Preservation Commission to fulfill the requirements of City Ordinance No. 471
and the requirements of the Certified Local Government Program.On-going Mayor's Office
5.02.02D Undertake programs that will increase the community's awareness of its heritage and the
economic as well as aesthetic value of historic preservation.On-going Council
5.02.02E Conduct activities directed toward stimulating private and public investment in the restoration
and preservation of historic buildings, outdoor spaces, and natural historic features.On-going Council
5.02.02F Support the efforts of the Historic Preservation Commission to foster preservation and
conservation.On-going Council
5.02.02G
When appropriate, direct all City departments and personnel to seek comments and approval
from the Historic Preservation Commission prior to any changes to City-owned or controlled
property (including buildings, outdoor spaces, and natural features).On-going Council
5.02.02H Place informational plaque on historic structures and special sites.Highest Finance
5.02.02I Seek funding services for grants to promote historic preservation.On-going Finance
5.02.02J Use the State Historic Preservation Office as a resource.On-going All
5.02.02K When appropriate, nominate eligible properties to the National Register of Historic Places.On-going Mayor's Office
5.02.02L Provide funding to the Historic Preservation Commission through the City's annual budget.On-going Council
5.02.02M Establish and maintain a system to survey and identify cultural and historical resources within City
limits and maintain a local inventory of all identified sites, buildings and resources.Medium H.P.C.
5.02.02N Develop City code to preserve and protect historic and culturally significant structures and sites.Lowest Community
Development
71City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.02.02O Encourage the rehabilitation and restoration of existing historic structures. On-going Community
Development
5.02.02P Adopt a process to review proposed development to determine if it will destroy or adversely
impact unique geological, historical or archeological sites. Low Community
Development
5.02.02Q Encourage events and activities that celebrate the cultural heritage of Meridian.On-going Mayor's Office
5.03.00 Improve air quality and reduce air pollution in the Meridian and Treasure Valley airshed.
5.03.01 Protect public health by reducing ozone, fine particulate matter and other green house gases
and toxics in the air.
5.03.01A Implement the City's Pathways Master Plan.On-going Parks
5.03.01B Coordinate with ACHD to improve traffic flow, minimize vehicle time spent idling and
accelerating, and reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles.On-going Community
Development
5.03.01C Promote transportation choices, facilities, and alternatives such as car and van pooling, bicycle
racks/storage and telecommunicating.On-going Community
Development
5.03.01D
Partner with transportation agencies and large employers to promote public awareness of air
quality concerns and the need/benefits of alternative transportation choices, such as car and van
pooling.On-going Community
Development
5.03.01E Enforce City policy discouraging unnecessary idling for city fleet vehicles.On-going Police
5.03.01F Research utilization/installation of Energy Management Systems in municipal buildings to track
and cut energy costs for lighting and heating/cooling.On-going Public Works
5.03.01G Pursue Idaho Power’s “Flex Peak” program in both municipal; and large commercial/industrial
facilities.Low Public Works
5.03.01H Convert appropriate municipal fleet vehicles to low-emission/alternative fuel vehicles when
feasible.Medium Public Works
5.03.01I [Removed]NA NA
5.03.01J Adopt a Dust Abatement Ordinance in conformance with the prototype developed by COMPASS
for governments in the Treasure Valley.Low Community
Development
5.03.01K Participate with Ada County in publicizing burning bans when necessary.On-going Council
5.04.00 Reduce energy consumption in municipal facilities and operations; provide leadership in
promoting energy conservation in the City.
5.04.01 Provide City services in an environmentally sustainable and cost effective manner.
72City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.04.01A Implement the action items in the City’s “Energy Efficiency & Conservation Strategy” (May, 2010)
in order to reduce energy costs at municipal facilities.On-going Public Works
5.04.01B
Review the “Energy Efficiency & Conservation Strategy” at regular intervals to assess status
of projects and programs and to make adjustments in response to changing conditions and
technologies.On-going Public Works
5.04.01C Obtain and utilize monitoring software to analyze energy consumption in City facilities.Lowest Public Works
5.04.01D Establish a dedicated, revolving fund based on energy savings to finance conservation programs
and projects in municipal operations.Low Public Works
5.04.01E Pursue City Energy Analyst position as identified in the “Energy Efficiency & Conservation
Strategy”.Lowest Public Works
5.04.01F Research and compile successfully-implemented, incentive-based energy conservation strategies
for use in both residential and commercial settings, from other municipalities.Low Community
Development
5.04.02 Promote energy conservation.
5.04.02A
Develop an outreach display/informational kiosk to provide public information on energy
conservation. Partner with other entities to provide outreach in other locations such as schools
and other public places.On-going Public Works
5.04.02B
Review and analyze City codes related to lighting standards to insure appropriate levels of
outdoor lighting in both public and private installations; to assure the “the right light for the right
use” is installed.On-going Public Works
5.04.02C Encourage the installation of alternative energy (wind, solar and geothermal) in public and private
facilities.On-going Council
5.04.02D Seek opportunities for public-private partnerships to develop alternative electricity generating
facilities.Lowest Public Works
5.05.00 Maximize diversion of the municipal waste stream from disposal to recycling and reduce the
amount of solid waste generated in the City.
5.05.01 Develop and support markets for recycled materials and products.
5.05.01A Investigate opportunities with other jurisdictions and private refuse contractors for waste
reduction and recycling "messaging".On-going Public Works
5.05.01B Establish solid waste fees that encourage waste reduction and recycling ("pay as you throw").On-going Council
5.05.01C Develop, and implement public education and outreach activities to raise awareness on waste
reduction, reuse, recycling, and toxic reduction.On-going Public Works
5.05.02 Establish recycling/diversion and hazardous waste disposal goals.
73City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.05.02A Assure that opportunities are available for proper disposal of target priority waste streams such
as mercury, used oil, fluorescent lamps, used gas, and waste tires.On-going Public Works
5.05.02B Work with local stakeholders to develop public education campaigns regarding the importance
of and opportunities for the proper disposal of hazardous waste.On-going Public Works
5.05.03 Enhance existing City recycling and procurement policies.
5.05.03A Partner with City's waste contractor on developing and implementing composting program.Medium Public Works
5.05.03B Procure specific recycled content and less toxic materials (internal recycling/sustainability
programs).On-going Public Works
5.06.00 Promote the design, construction and operation of buildings that are environmentally
sustainable and healthy places to live, work and learn.
5.06.01 Optimize green building strategies in municipal buildings, both existing and new construction.
5.06.01A Work with developers, builders, educational institutions and local public utilities to research and
integrate new and emerging green building technologies.On-going All
5.06.01B
Evaluate using LEED Green Building standards and other adopted development and construction
standards with understood and accepted tools and performance criteria (e.g., ANSI/ASHRAE/
IES Standard 90.1-2007, Energy Standard for Buildings) in municipal facility/building construction
projects.
Medium All
5.06.01C Work towards Energy Star rating for municipal buildings and facilities where applicable.On-going All
5.06.01D Incorporate Low Impact Development (LID) technologies on City financed construction projects,
where appropriate and feasible.Medium Council
5.06.01E
Promote projects that demonstrate the effectiveness of managing runoff, reducing construction
and maintenance costs, and enhancing communities via adoption of LID approaches, strategies
and technologies by collaborating with developers.Medium Community
Development
5.06.02 Strive to optimize energy efficiency in both residential and commercial construction (existing
housing stock and new.)
5.06.02A Partner with regional stakeholders to increase public awareness of the benefits of sustainable
design and constructing high-performance built environments.On-going All
5.06.02B Create demonstration projects incorporating water and energy conservation; and energy efficient
construction methods and materials.On-going Public Works
5.06.02C [Removed]NA NA
74City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.06.02D
Take advantage of new technologies and advancements in building science in order to promote
whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of
human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency,
materials selection and indoor environmental quality.
On-going All
5.06.02E Explore funding opportunities to retrofit a Meridian public building to improve energy efficiency.On-going All
5.06.02F
Develop cooperative relationships with Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, Energy Policy
Institute, University of Idaho Design Institute and Idaho Energy Collaborative in order to leverage
resources and opportunities for projects and public education, outreach events and initiatives.On-going Public Works
5.06.02G Capitalize on the opportunity to showcase alternative energy resources at city facilities, parks,
and buildings where applicable (wind turbines, solar panels, etc.)On-going Council
5.06.02H [Removed]NA NA
5.06.02I Identify funding sources and appropriate partners to stimulate energy efficient retrofits in
existing housing stock.Low Community
Development
5.06.02J Review ordinances, code, and conditional use permits to ensure there are no stumbling blocks to
implementing green building, energy efficient strategies and incentives.Medium Community
Development
5.06.02K [Removed]NA NA
5.07.00 Efficiently treat wastewater for current and future users by focusing on financial stewardship
and environmental sustainability.
5.07.01 Protect public health and watersheds through adequate treatment and disposal of wastewater.
5.07.01A Anticipate future needs by adopting and implementing the Public Works Department's revised
Sewer Master Plan and Wastewater Facility Plan.On-going Public Works
5.07.02 Provide cost effective and environmentally sustainable wastewater service to citizens and
business.
5.07.02A Implement the recycled wastewater master plan.On-going Public Works
5.07.02B [Removed]NA NA
5.07.02C Eliminate existing inadequate private treatment systems in the City and discourage their use
within future City limits.On-going Public Works
5.07.03 Expand the use of recycled water throughout the City.
5.07.03A Utilize "closed-loop" systems to reuse or recycle the waste stream.On-going Public Works
5.07.03B Explore alternative, sustainable energy sources including co-generation of power from waste
processing byproducts.On-going Public Works
75City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.08.00 Provide ample and clean water to the citizens of Meridian in perpetuity.
5.08.01 Protect the quality of source water.
5.08.01A Ensure that new development is connected to the City's sanitary sewer system (no septic
systems).On-going Community
Development
5.08.01B Develop a source water protection plan.On-going Public Works
5.08.01C Coordinate with Idaho Department of Water Resources on reducing the proliferation of private
wells in the Area of City Impact.On-going Public Works
5.08.02 Provide water in a cost effective manner.
5.08.02A Develop and implement a water supply master plan.On-going Public Works
5.08.02B Assess and provide new water sources.On-going Public Works
5.08.03 Conserve existing water supplies.
5.08.03A Implement the Public Works Department Water Conservation Plan.On-going Public Works
5.08.03B Reduce reliance on City water (potable) for irrigation through use of recycled water, public
education and adoption of water conserving landscape guidelines.On-going Public Works
5.08.03C Initiate a public outreach program on water conservation.On-going Public Works
5.08.03D Encourage landscaping implementing the appropriate and attractive use of xeric, drought-
tolerant plant species and non-plant materials to reduce maintenance and water consumption. On-going Community
Development
5.09.00 Protect Meridian's surface water quality.
5.09.01 Establish and implement a Comprehensive Surface Water Protection program.
5.09.01A
Develop framework and components of a comprehensive surface water protection program
including Storm Water protection, Floodplain Management and stream and riparian protection
and restoration in order to satisfy the City's requirements under the Clean Water Act, FEMA, and
the National Flood insurance program.
On-going Public Works
5.09.01B Identify waterways, wetlands, and other natural resources for preservation.Medium Public Works
5.09.01C Implement policies that limit canal tiling and piping of creeks, drains where public safety issues
are not of concern.On-going Community
Development
5.09.01D Provide incentives for developers to grant conservation easements along creek-side corridors.Medium Community
Development
76City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
5Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
5.09.01E Incorporate creek corridors as an amenity in development design.On-going Community
Development
5.09.01F Identify and implement Low Impact Development (LID) in storm water drainage systems that are
administered by the City of Meridian.Medium Community
Development
5.09.01G Develop and cultivate partnerships with local and regional stakeholders on public education
campaigns for water conservation and water quality.On-going Public Works
5.09.01H Work to eliminate older, inefficient septic and private treatment plants; connect users to City
wastewater system.On-going Public Works
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6
77
Chapter
Chapter 6 – Public Services
Community, Social and Government Services
This chapter discusses community, social and government services provided
in Meridian. As part of this chapter, schools, parks and recreation, emergency
services, libraries, arts and entertainment, as well as general government and
private property rights are described. Some other services, like sewer, water, and
transportation, are addressed in other parts of this Plan and are not duplicated
here.
Education
For Meridian to encourage and attract new business,
to foster an environment which generates new ideas,
and to mold a diverse and sustainable economy, we
must continue to encourage and support educational
opportunities which create an employment base
attractive to employers. It is important for Meridian
residents to have accessible educational opportunities,
K-12 and beyond, which prepare them for rewarding
local career opportunities.
Public Schools
Public school facilities in the City of Meridian are part of the West Ada School
District, which serves an area larger than the City of Meridian and its Area of City
Impact. The District covers 384 square miles and serves the cities of Meridian,
Star, Eagle, western and south-western portions of Boise, part of Garden City,
and the unincorporated areas of Ada County that lie between these municipalities.
In total, there are 31 elementary schools, 9 middle schools, 5 comprehensive
high schools, 2 alternative high schools, 1 charter high school, and 1 magnet high
school throughout the West Ada School District.
Enrollment growth has placed tremendous demands on schools in recent past.
Since 2000, the District has opened eight elementary schools, three middle
schools, one alternative middle school, two high schools, and one alternative
high school. In the past ten years, West Ada School District has opened schools
at a faster pace than any district in the history of the state of Idaho. With an
additional 1,000 students per year projected to move into the District, this rate
of new school construction is expected to continue into the foreseeable future.
Land acquisition for future school sites within West Ada School District are based
upon the following acreage standards:
• Elementary Schools 10 to 12 acres
• Middle Schools 40 acres
• High Schools 55 acres
Chapter
78
6
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Based on past trends, West Ada School District estimates that approximately
1,000 acres of land will be needed within the City of Meridian’s Area of City
Impact to meet the needs of all existing and projected K-12 students. As shown
on the Future Land Use Map, about one elementary school is projected within
each square mile of the City. Depending upon the residential density of an area
and other build-out factors, the District estimates that it will need at least one
middle school for every two to two and a half square miles and one high school
for every three square miles of fully developed land.
To assist the District, the City of Meridian seeks to continue its support through
joint long range and site planning, continued exploration into multi-use and shared
facilities, and providing increased safety through efficient use of multi-modal
transportation corridors servicing schools. The City will continue to support
school sites within every square mile, encourage communication between essential
service providers to plan for and accommodate growth associated with schools,
and further explore opportunities to cut operating costs through joint land use
agreements. Thoughtful communication and coordination will help to ensure
residents in the City of Meridian have close, safe, and applicable educational
opportunities.
Continuing Education
In addition to Idaho State University–Meridian, other colleges and universities
in the Meridian area include (main campus location in parenthesis): University
of Phoenix (Meridian), George Fox University (Meridian), Guardian College
(Meridian), Broadview University (Meridian), Boise State University (Boise),
College of Western Idaho (Nampa), College of Idaho (Caldwell), Northwest
Nazarene University (Nampa), University of Idaho Extension (Boise), Stevens-
Henager College (Boise), Carrington College (Boise), Brown Mackie College
(Boise), and Treasure Valley Community College (Ontario, OR).
Emergency Services
Police
Despite the tremendous growth Meridian has experienced over the last decade,
the City has not been subject an increased crime rate. In fact, the rate of criminal
offenses in Meridian has remained lower than the national and state averages for
several years. Review of officer to population ratio and response times suggests
that with the more recent addition of officers, detectives, school resource
officers, neighborhood contact officers, support staff and the advancements of
the administration, the Meridian Police Departments is maintaining a respectable
crime rate as well as an impressive clearance rate at approximately 45.5% in 2009.
Going forward, continued coordination with the Police Department is vital to
ensure adequate services are available for proposed annexation and development
requests. Making best use of the Police Departments obvious expertise in matters
of safety is also important in the planning and design of new facilities, services,
and contingency/hazard response plans.
“Thoughtful commu-
nication and coordina-
tion will help to ensure
residents in the City of
Meridian have close,
safe, and applicable
educational opportuni-
ties.”
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6
79
Chapter
The Police Department also houses the City’s code enforcement team. These
individuals are primarily responsible for ensuring that City Code violations in
the City are identified and quickly corrected. Lastly, continued participation by
the Police Department in local events and special programs, such as the Police
Athletic league (PAL) will remain a key element of their success by promoting a
safe community, serving as proactive crime deterrents through good example,
and fostering the respect of the community.
Fire and Ambulance
The Meridian Fire Department has quickly transformed from a primarily all-
volunteer department into a combination department with 57 full-time firefighters
and 20 part-time, on-call personnel. Currently, the Meridian Fire Department
consists of five Fire Stations strategically located throughout the Meridian area,
with plans for a total of 11 at full build out of the Meridian Area of City Impact.
Services provided by the department include: fire, rescue, hazardous materials,
fire prevention education, plans review, inspections and advanced life-support
emergency medical service. The Meridian Fire Department will continue to be an
important asset in development and land use decisions, as they ensure that there
is adequate fire flow, access and compliance with the Fire Code.
Parks and Recreation
The City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department is the primary recreation
service provider for Meridian. Quality parks, recreation facilities, activities and
programs are considered by most Meridian residents to be vital in promoting
overall quality of life. The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible
for maintaining public open spaces and providing a quality system of parks and
recreation facilities and positive leisure opportunities available to all persons in
the community. The Department is also responsible for the development and
maintenance of the pathways system and urban forest. Parks and Recreation also
offers a variety of recreational programs, adult sports leagues, special events, and
handles shelter/field reservations and temporary use permits. Meridian parks and
recreation facilities and recreational programs provide residents with safe outlets
for entertainment, exercise, social activities, and learning opportunities.
Continued provision of high quality, year-round park and recreation facilities and
activities requires the acquisition and development of land, funding for maintenance
and renovations, and programming of elements and use activities. Developing new
parks and expanding the existing park system with cutting-edge features like multi
sensory games, ice skating rinks, dog parks, and year-round programs is vital to
keep up with demand from growth.
The City also seeks to continue expanding its pathway system by coordinating new
projects with regional partners, and providing safe, tightly integrated pathways
linking popular destinations such as schools and parks to neighborhood centers.
Therefore, the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Pathways Master Plan
should be used when evaluating proposed development for consistency with the
City’s plans.
“Further, parks and
open space help to
regulate air quality
and climate, counter
the warming effects
of paved surfaces,
recharge groundwater
and protect lakes and
streams from polluted
runoff.”
Chapter
80
6
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Arts and Entertainment
Meridian envisions a vibrant arts and entertainment scene that integrates the
arts experience into everyday life and enhances the spirit of the City. As part
of its commitment to raising awareness of existing opportunities and providing
new offerings to experience art, the City created the Meridian Arts Commission
(MAC) in 2006. MAC wants to ensure continued access to a variety of offerings for
all residents, regardless of age, race, or ability. In addition to supporting the arts,
the City seeks to continue its encouragement of Community Events. Programs
such as the Dairy Days Festival, Chili Cook-Off, Firefighter’s Salmon BBQ, Free
Family Fishing Day, the Meridian Symphony Orchestra, and others are vital to
community well being. The continued availability of a variety of social opportunities
is essential in promoting community for all residents. Other opportunities to
support new facilities for community enrichment, education, and outreach should
be explored.
Libraries
The Meridian Library District operates two locations, one on Cherry Lane
and the other in the Silverstone Business Campus, is free to all residents and
provides a variety of services in support of the community. The mission of the
Meridian Library District is to provide a safe and inviting place where residents can
interact with each other; find information about their community and its offerings;
investigate a wide range of topics pertaining to their work, school and personal
lives; and develop a love of reading and learning that will continue throughout
their lives. Even with the increasing demand and popularity of digitally based
media, libraries continue to provide a service to the traditional book readers, the
young, those needing a little extra help, and others, as a safe place to socialize,
share and learn.
Organizational Excellence
City Hall
Meridian City Hall, located in downtown, serves as the hub of Meridian’s
municipal government. City Hall currently houses ten City departments, serving
as a convenient “one-stop-shop” for citizens seeking services, including: Clerk’s
Office, Parks and Recreation, Fire Department Administration, Building Services,
Planning, Finance/Billing, Purchasing, Human Resources, City Attorney’s Office,
Information Technology, and the Mayor’s Office. City Hall is a community-centric
building that also features an art gallery, the Meridian Historical Society, and
community meeting spaces.
Meridian uses the Mayor-Council form of local government. The job of the City
Council, which includes the Mayor, is to adopt codes that govern the City in
addition to applicable state and federal laws, create an annual budget, and oversee
all of the City’s fiscal matters. The City of Meridian promotes citizen involvement
in government by inviting residents to serve on a variety of boards, commissions,
and committees designed to assist City leaders in information gathering and
“Life is the only art
that we are required
to practice without
preparation, and with-
out being allowed the
preliminary trials, the
failures and botches,
that are essential for
training.”
-Lewis Mumford
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6
81
Chapter
deliberative processes. Some of the volunteer boards and commission in
Meridian are: Parks & Recreation Commission, Planning & Zoning Commission,
Meridian Arts Commission, Historical Preservation Commission, Transportation
Commission, Impact Fee Advisory Committee, Solid Waste Advisory Commission
and the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council.
City staff is committed to providing the best customer service
to the community we serve, and responds to customers in
a genuine, positive, and timely manner. Interactions are
solution-oriented, where staff meets and exceeds expectations
by listening to customers and following through on their
concerns. Staff members understand each individual’s role in
the organizational team, know their jobs, and accept that each
person is responsible for their own work, choices, and actions.
Staff members are trustworthy and courteous and show honor
and accept people with diverse opinions and backgrounds. Staff
performs professionally beyond the parameters of the job while
being creative, innovative, flexible and adaptable to community
needs. In short, City Staff provides our best for the community
we serve. We provide quality service to our customers and
positive development of our staff that promotes and expects
accountability, respect and excellence.
One of the ways the City is improving upon service is by
investing in enterprise solution software that will integrate
the services and data collection of the building division,
development services division, planning department, clerk’s office, and code
enforcement. This system will also have the ability to “talk” to our geographic
information system, billing software, and water and sewer utility information
database. By having information in a shared database, staff will be able to process
permits, development applications, and licenses more efficiently and effectively
and provide more accurate and timely responses to customer queries.
Community Development Block Grant
The City of Meridian became an Entitlement Community as designated by the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the fall of 2006.
With the Entitlement Community designation, the City receives money annually
through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The CDBG
Program seeks to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing
and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities,
principally for low- and moderate-income persons. The City Council, with input
from the public, establishes the overall direction of the CDBG Program in the
Consolidated Plan, which identifies high-level goals and objectives for the five
year interval covered by the Plan. Activities the City will undertake each year
are detailed in annual action plans, which the City prepares and submits to HUD.
Providing decent housing for low- and moderate-income persons is one of the
primary goals of the CDBG Program, and HUD has a strong commitment to
“Staff performs pro-
fessionally beyond the
parameters of the job
while being creative,
innovative, flexible
and adaptable to
community needs.”
Chapter
82
6
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
affirmatively further fair housing. The City of Meridian, as a recipient of the CDBG
federal funds, and its partnering non-profits, are obligated to not discriminate in
housing or services directly or indirectly on the basis of race, color, religion, sex,
national origin, age, familial status, or disability.
In 2011, the City will update its Consolidated Plan for the next five years.
Community input is an important component of each Consolidated Plan update,
and the City works with individuals and local non-profit agencies to help determine
the most critical needs within the community and determine how best to address
those needs. As part of the updated Consolidated Plan process, the City will
undergo an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. This review will
determine any areas where the City can strengthen its anti-discrimination policies
and practices to insure that all persons and households have access to decent
housing options.
Property Rights
The City of Meridian wholly respects the rights of its citizens and their property,
and is abjectly against the negligence, abuse or devaluing of private property
by others. By encouraging property maintenance, preventing and mitigating
incompatible land use, and ensuring local, state, and federal code compliance,
residents should feel their private property rights are respected and secure. The
City will continue to review its policy for compliance with the State regulatory
takings guidelines, and ensure that its staff is appropriately trained in applicable
code related to property rights. For a comprehensive review of property rights
and regulatory takings analysis, which the City will use to review policy and code
against for compliance with private property rights, please see Appendix C.
“The City of Meridi-
an wholly respects the
rights of its citizens
and their property,
and is abjectly against
the negligence, abuse
or devaluing of pri-
vate property by oth-
ers.”
83City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
6.01.00
Provide a broad range of parks, programs, and recreational facilities that meet a variety of
needs and uses and that are located geographically throughout Meridian and available to
everyone.
6.01.01 Provide for park acquisition and maintenance to meet projected demands.
6.01.01A Require open space areas within all development.On-going Community
Development
6.01.01B Update and maintain existing parks and recreation facilities to meet all regulatory, safety, and
quality standards.On-going Parks
6.01.01C Support funding of Comprehensive Parks and Recreation System Plan projects and programs.On-going Council
6.01.01D Annually review, update and implement the Comprehensive Parks and Recreation System plan.High Parks
6.01.01E Identify and require future park sites using information in the Comprehensive Parks and
Recreation System and on the Future Land Use Map.On-going Parks
6.01.01F Consider population/housing density when acquiring future land for parks and recreation.On-going Parks
6.01.02 Throughout the City, develop all park and recreation land to provide diversity of uses and
activities.
6.01.02A Identify and provide for the recreation needs of all citizens.On-going Parks
6.01.02B Review possible sites within City for developing an indoor multiple-use facility.Medium Parks
6.01.02C Develop pathways to connect Meridian with Boise, Nampa, Kuna, and Eagle.Medium Parks
6.01.02D Develop indoor/outdoor multiple-use facilities (i.e., recreation center, fairgrounds, etc.) for a
variety of recreational, educational, cultural, and sports purposes and uses.Low Parks
6.01.02E Create parks that encourage year-round use and multi-sensory play.On-going Parks
6.01.02F Provide a variety of park types (neighborhood parks, community parks, regional parks)
interspersed throughout the community.On-going Parks
6.02.00 Ensure that adequate public services are provided for existing and future residents and
businesses.
6.02.01 Plan and expand services as part of the development process.
Chapter 6 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
84City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
6.02.01A
Implement the City's Pathways Master Plan to provide a bike and pathways system between
neighborhoods, local collectors, and community destinations. Work with new development, ITD,
ACHD, COMPASS, Ada County, and other entities to identify partnership opportunities.On-going Community
Development
6.02.01B Require that development projects have planned for the provision of all public services.On-going Council
6.02.01C Require adequate fees from new development to fund expansion of services.On-going Council
6.02.02 Cooperate with other agencies and service providers around the Valley.
6.02.02A Support joint use agreements with the West Ada School District, Western Ada Recreation District,
ACHD, irrigation districts, and other private and non-profit entities.On-going Council
6.02.02B
Communicate with essential service providers and local decision-makers to coordinate planning
efforts and direction of growth. Service providers include but are not limited to: All City
Departments, ITD, ACHD, COMPASS, VRT, Irrigation Districts, Western Ada Recreation District,
Ada County, St. Luke's Hospital, St. Alphonsus Hospital, West Ada School District, Meridian Library
District, Idaho Power, Century Link, Intermountain Gas, Solid Waste, Emergency Medical Services
(EMS), Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Department of Environmental Quality, Central
District Health Department, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Highest Council
6.02.02C Coordinate with irrigation districts to implement the proposed pathway network along irrigation
canals, ditches, creeks, and easements.On-going Parks
6.02.02D Schedule regular meetings with City and County planning staff to discuss projects and joint
planning efforts.High Community
Development
6.02.02E Participate in transportation planning efforts.On-going Community
Development
6.02.02F Coordinate the City's Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) with ACHD's projects.On-going Public Works
6.02.02G Address the Area of City Impact boundary with Ada County and the Cities of Eagle, Boise, Star,
and Kuna.Highest Community
Development
6.02.02H Coordinate with transportation agencies to ensure provision of services and transit development.On-going Community
Development
6.02.02I Coordinate with the City of Nampa and Canyon County on land use, transportation and
emergency services issues.On-going Community
Development
6.02.02J Coordinate with appropriate agencies on master planning and long-range planning efforts.On-going Community
Development
6.02.02K Ensure that other City departments, area agencies and service providers are informed about and
have an opportunity to participate in the City's development review process. On-going Community
Development
6.03.00 Allow all Meridian residents and visitors an opportunity to experience public art.
85City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
6.03.01 Provide art in public places.
6.03.01A Provide both permanent and rotating works of art in City Hall and other public places.On-going Finance
6.03.01B Encourage public art be integrated as a component of community development. On-going Community
Development
6.03.01C Utilize percent for art ordinance funding to raise awareness and appreciation of the arts.Medium Finance
6.03.01D Establish an Art and Cultural District High Community
Development
6.03.01E Provide local artists opportunities to showcase their work.On-going Finance
6.03.01F Find a way to fund a civic center - home for the arts. Medium Council
6.04.00 Provide hands-on experiences in the fine arts, regardless of age, race, ability, or other
protected class.
6.04.01 Provide a diversity of education and art experiences for all residents.
6.04.01A Develop and offer youth art opportunities at and after school. On-going Finance
6.04.01B Provide arts education for adults and seniors, and partner with other community organizations to
support and encourage arts programs.On-going Finance
6.04.01C Present a variety of performing arts locally. On-going Finance
6.04.01D Sponsor performing arts in partnership with community organizations.On-going Council
6.04.01E Raise awareness and promote existing arts offerings and artwork within the community.On-going Finance
6.05.00 Protect public health and safety by guiding growth and development away from hazardous
areas that pose a threat to people and property.
6.05.01 Reduce the threat of loss of life and property from hazards.
6.05.01A Plan and allow land uses surrounding Waste Water Treatment Plant to reduce human exposure to
odors.On-going Community
Development
6.05.01B Require industrial uses to conform to disposal, spill and storage measures as outlined by the EPA.On-going Public Works
6.05.01C Discourage residential areas in close proximity to Wastewater Treatment Plant.On-going Community
Development
86City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
6.05.01D Work with ITD and ACHD to ensure highways and roadways are as safe as possible.On-going Community
Development
6.05.01E Maintain a Critical Task Analysis plan for Fire and Police responses within the jurisdiction.High Police / Fire
6.05.01F Work with Idaho Power to ensure that a National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor does not
traverse through Meridian.On-going Community
Development
6.05.01G Locate areas below canals and laterals that could be damaged if the slope is compromised. On-going Public Works
6.05.01H Allocate resources to define, locate, map, and establish response plans for target hazards within
the jurisdiction.High Fire
6.05.01I Allocate resources to develop and implement Community Risk Reduction programs.High Fire
6.06.00
Ensure that all planning decisions and ordinance implementation balances the interests of
the community with the protection of private property rights for owners today and future
generations.
6.06.01 Enact land use ordinances, policies, fees and make decisions, including land use restrictions and
conditions of approval, that do not violate private property rights.
6.06.01A Conduct regular training with City staff to ensure that they properly adhere to and apply
provisions of Idaho Code §67-8003 in land use planning and development review processes.On-going Legal
6.06.01B Review policies, the Unified Development Code, and other regulations for consistency with Idaho
Code. High Community
Development
6.06.01C Encourage property owners to preserve and maintain their property for use of future
generations. On-going Council
6.06.01D Preserve private property rights and values by enforcing regulations that will prevent and
mitigate against incompatible and detrimental neighboring uses.On-going Council
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
7
87
Chapter
Chapter 7 – Implementation
When it comes to implementing the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan, the
primary responsibility lies with City Staff. As discussed in Chapter 1, however,
citizens, developers, the Planning and Zoning Commission, as well as the City
Council and other groups and commissions, are all involved and also responsible
for shaping community development and the overall pattern of growth within
the community.
Making the Plan Reality
Alignment with Other Plans and Resources
One of the key ways that the Comprehensive Plan becomes an improved tool
for growth is to align it with other established plans and goals for the City. The
specific plans and documents that are adopted as part of the Comprehensive
Plan include: the Existing Conditions Report, the
Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan, the City of
Meridian Strategic Plan, the Architectural Standards
Manual, the Comprehensive Parks and Recreation
System Plan, the Meridian Pathways Master Plan,
Downtown Meridian Street Cross-section Master
Plan, Destination Downtown, Communities in
Motion, ACHD’s Roadways to Bikeways Bicycle
Master Plan, and the Master Street Map, Complete
Streets Policy, the Livable Street Design Guide from
ACHD’s Transportation and Land Use Integration
Plan (TLIP), and the Ada County Emergency Plans
and Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan. The City hereby
adopts as addenda to the Comprehensive Plan the
versions of these documents in effect at the time the
Comprehensive Plan is approved by the City Council, and as amended.
The Comprehensive Plan has a symbiotic relationship with and works in concert
with City Code, the City’s Community Development Block Grant Consolidated
Plan, the City’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy, the City’s Sewer
and Water Master Plans, other department master plans, capital improvement
plans, and various transportation plans and studies. It is also used in conjunction
with each City department’s strategic plan, action plan, and annual employee
performance appraisal.
All City departments should use the Comprehensive Plan as a tool for setting
work plans, budgets, capital improvements, and allocating other resources for
City Council approval. City staff from all departments will regularly discuss and
coordinate the needs of the City. Staff will work together with the common
goal of guiding growth, providing City services within available resources, being
organized and efficient, and being good stewards of the public trust.
“Implementation
of the Plan will take
hard work and dedi-
cation from the entire
community.”
Chapter
88
7
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Next Steps
After adoption of the Comprehensive Plan, one of the first steps will be to
prioritize the action items listed in the Plan. City Departments and other
stakeholders will be part of the process to determine which action items are
immediate, intermediate or long-term priorities. This consolidated list of the
action items will be referred to as the Implementation Plan of the Comprehensive
Plan and it will establish both an action item lead and support, including all City
departments or civic organizations that need to be involved in completing each
action. After staff consensus on priorities, the draft Implementation Plan will be
shared with the Mayor and Council. By assigning both responsibility, and priority,
the intent is to provide for the timely execution of the various components of
the Plan. On a regular basis, City staff will report back to the Council on progress
being made in completing action items. It is also anticipated that additional action
items may be added and an update to both the text of the Comprehensive Plan
and the Existing Conditions Report will occur on a semi-annual basis, and/or as
otherwise needed.
Implementation of the Plan will take hard work and dedication from the entire
community. Hopefully, everyone finds the organization of this document to be
user-friendly and the goals, objectives and action items representative of the
community’s vision.
89City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
7Chapter
I.D.GOALS / OBJECTIVES / ACTION ITEMS ELEMENT PRIORITY RESPONSIBLE LEAD
7.01.00 Shape the future of the City by providing citizens and City leaders with a Comprehensive
Plan Vision and City ordinances that execute that vision
7.01.01 Advance, support, and promote development of planning and economic development tools.
7.01.01A Keep current the Unified Development Code and Future Land Use Map to implement the
provisions of this plan.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01B Support the Economic Excellence team.On-going Council
7.01.01C Maintain, update and find better ways to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in everyday
City business and project-specific purposes.On-going All
7.01.01D Engage the public in land use planning processes by using a variety of methods to inform and
solicit comments.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01E Update the Unified Development Code to establish incentives and regulations for small-scale or
specialized agricultural operations in certain parts of the City. High Community
Development
7.01.01F Integrate land use and transportation planning to ensure that they mutually support the
communities' goals and desires.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01G Review the status of the Comprehensive Plan implementation plan to ensure steady progress.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01H
Require that the Planning and Zoning Commission duties include detailed review of the adopted
Comprehensive Plan at least once a year and that decisions explicitly reflect support and advance
of the Plan as the primary factor of approval.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01I Require that public meetings be held regularly to review the Comprehensive Plan and to promote
a better understanding of the plan and its purpose.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01J Conduct work sessions with area cities and counties as needed to better coordinate planning
policies regionally.On-going Community
Development
7.01.01K Organize and fund committees or special commissions consistent with the provisions of this plan.On-going Council
7.01.01L Require that the Unified Development Code and all other City and County ordinances are
enforced.On-going Council
7.01.01M Educate the public and advisory boards so that they understand the Comprehensive Plan's legal
elements and intent.On-going Legal
Chapter 7 – Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
90City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
7Chapter
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
A
A-1
Appendix
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Glossary Terms
Affordable Housing – Housing with rents or mortgage costs that are 30% or less of
the gross monthly income of a household at 80% or below the Boise Metropolitan
Statistical Area median income.
Area of City Impact – Also known as the City’s planning area. It is the land area
surrounding the limits of each City, negotiated between each individual City and
the county in which it lies. Each City has comprehensive planning authority for
its Area of City Impact, but until annexation occurs, zoning and development
entitlement is handled by the county.
Buffer – An area within a property or site, generally adjacent to and parallel with
the property line, either consisting of existing natural vegetation or created by the
use of trees, shrubs, berms and/or fences and designed to limit views and sounds
from the development tract to adjacent parties and vice versa. Also commonly
used when describing a transitional use, typically office, between residential and
commercial or industrial.
Building Code – Legislative regulations that prescribe the materials, requirements
and methods to be used in the construction, rehabilitation, maintenance and repair
of buildings. The City of Meridian, per state statue, has adopted the Uniform
Building Code (UBC), developed by the International Conference of Building
Officials.
Capital Improvement Program – A process of identifying and budgeting for the
public facilities that a jurisdiction will need to construct in order to serve existing
and anticipated development. Capital improvement programming is typically done
in five-year increments with annual updates. A Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) must address the type of project, the location of the project, the cost of
the project, the source of funds to finance the project, the agency or department
responsible for the project, and the time frame for completion of the project.
Capital Improvement Programs are a primary tool of most growth management
programs.
Compatible – Land uses capable of existing together without conflict or ill effects.
Conditional Use – A utilization of land having characteristics such that it may be
allowed in a particular zoning district only after review by the Commission and
Council, and granting of approval imposing conditions deemed necessary to make
the proposed use compatible with other uses in the area.
Conditional Use Permit – Permit issued to allow a conditional use.
Cross-Access Agreement – An agreement between adjacent property owners
in which internal connections are provided between parking areas in order to
improve traffic flow on the street by minimizing the number of access points
needed. Cross-access agreements are typically obtained incrementally as a
condition of approval for new development. The first one to develop will be
Appendix A
A-2 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
required to make an irrevocable offer of cross-access to the adjacent parcel
and must design the parking lot to accommodate the access. When the adjacent
owner wishes to develop, they will be conditioned to reciprocate with a similar
cross-access agreement and complete the access.
Density Bonus – Incentives given for dedication of land to the public for parks,
schools, or other public facilities.
Dry-line Sewer – The installation of a sewage collection system designed to be
served by gravity flow into the City of Meridian municipal wastewater system, in
accordance with current facilities plans, that is not initially operational because
downstream sewers are not yet constructed.
Fair Housing Act – Fair Housing Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, enacted
to prohibit housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin,
handicap, sex, and/or familial status.
Fire Flow – The minimum number of gallons per minute that are needed to fight
a fire in a structure, for two continuous hours through fire plugs in the near
proximity of the structure. Fire flow requirements are established by the national
Uniform Fire Code and are a factor in the City’s Insurance Services Office (ISO)
rating.
Floodway – Drainage and irrigation channels and adjacent land areas that must
be reserved to discharge flood waters from a 100-year flood. Development is
prohibited in this area.
Green Building – Also known as green construction or sustainable building, is
the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally
responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life-cycle: from siting to
design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition.
Hazardous Waste – Waste that poses substantial or potential threats to public
health or the environment. There are four factors that determine whether or
not a substance is hazardous: ignitability (i.e., flammable), reactivity, corrosiveness
and toxicity
Infill Development – Development on vacant parcels, or redevelopment of
existing parcels to a higher and better use, that is surrounded by developed
property within the City of Meridian.
Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) – An internationally
recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification
that a building or community was designed and built using strategies intended to
improve performance in metrics such as energy savings, water efficiency, CO2
emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of
resources and sensitivity to their impacts.
Low Impact Development (LID) – A term used in the United States to describe
a land planning and engineering design approach to managing stormwater runoff.
A
A-3
Appendix
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
LID emphasizes conservation and use of on-site natural features to protect water
quality.
Neighborhood Center – A development area that includes a mix of uses and
housing types, a central public gathering place, interconnecting streets and alleys,
schools within walking distance, and services (office and retail) to serve the
neighborhood. The basic goal is integration of the activities of potential residents
with work, shopping, recreation and transit all within walking distance.
Public Facilities and Services – See Urban Services.
Reclaimed Water – Former wastewater (sewage) that has been treated to remove
solids and certain impurities, and then used in sustainable landscaping irrigation
or to recharge groundwater aquifers. This is done for sustainability and water
conservation, rather than discharging the treated wastewater to surface waters
such as rivers and oceans. Sometimes called recycled water.
Strategic Plan – The strategic plan will serve as a roadmap for the City’s success
over a period of five years. It will also serve as a tool to communicate the City’s
intentions to the community, focus the direction of its financial resources and
employees, and ensure that short-term goals and objectives are met in a timely
fashion to ensure attainment of the City’s overall vision.
Urban Service Planning Area – Priority planning area where City of Meridian
sewer and water facilities and most other services and utilities are available or
planned in officially adopted plans.
Urban Services – Services provided by the City of Meridian or established
jurisdictions within the City of Meridian, including City of Meridian water, fire
protection by Meridian City-Rural Fire District, City of Meridian parks and
recreation facilities, City of Meridian police protection, public sanitary sewers
owned by the City of Meridian, public transit, schools, storm drainage facilities,
and urban standard streets and roads.
Walkable – Development that contains a comprehensive network of sidewalks
and trails. Development tends to be compact, and diverse, providing varied and
plentiful destinations for walking and cycling; destinations tend to be within ¼ of
a mile from dwellings. Environment is safe and aesthetically pleasing, with open
space interspersed throughout development.
A-4 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
B
B-1
Appendix
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Acronyms and Abbreviations
ACHD Ada County Highway District
AOCI Area of City Impact
BGG Blueprint for Good Growth
BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand
CDBG Community Development Block Grant
CDHD Central District Health Department
CIM Communities in Motion
COMPASS Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho
CPRSP Comprehensive Parks and Recreation System Plan
DEQ Department of Environmental Quality
DOT U.s. Department of Transportation
EECS Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FAM Future Acquisitions Map
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
FLUM Future Land Use Map
GPM Gallons per Minute
HUD Housing and Urban Development
IDHW Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
IPUC Idaho Public Utility Commission
ISU Idaho State University
ITD Idaho Transportation Department
LEED Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design
LID Local Improvement District
MAC Meridian Arts Commission
MADC Mayor's Anti-Drug Coalition
MAYC Mayor's Youth Advisory Council
MDC Meridian Development Corporation
MGD Million Gallons per Day
NC Neighborhood Center
NMID Nampa Meridian Irrigation District
NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
PAD Position Accountability Definition
PAL Police Athletic League
RUT Rural Urban Transition (Ada County zoning designation)
SHPO State Historic Preservation Office
SWAC Solid Waste Advisory Committee
Appendix B
B-2 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
TLIP Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan
TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load
TMISAP Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan
TTF Transportation Task Force
UDC Unified Development Code
UPRR Union Pacific Railroad
USDOT U.S. Department of Transportation
USPA Urban Service Planning Area
VRT Valley Regional Transit
WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant
C
C-1
Appendix
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Regulatory Takings Checklist
The City of Meridian wholly respects the rights of its citizens and their property,
and is abjectly against the negligence, abuse or devaluing of private property
by others. By encouraging property maintenance, preventing and mitigating
incompatible land use, and ensuring local, state, and federal code compliance,
residents should feel their private property rights are respected and secure. The
City will continue to review its policy for compliance with the State regulatory
takings guidelines, and ensure that its staff is appropriately trained in applicable
code related to property rights. The following checklist is used in reviewing
proposed regulations or actions to ensure compliance with private property
rights.
1. Does the regulation or action result in a permanent or temporary
physical occupation of private property?
Regulation or action resulting in permanent or temporary occupation of all or a
portion of private property will generally constitute a “taking.” For example, a
regulation that required landlords to allow installation of cable television boxes in
their apartments was found to constitute a “taking.” (See Loretto v. Teleprompter
Manhattan CATV Corp., 458 U.S. 419 [1982].)
2. Does the regulation or action require a property to dedicate a
portion of property or to grant an easement?
Carefully review all regulations requiring the dedication of property or grant of
an easement. The dedication of property must be reasonably and specifically
designed to represent or compensate for adverse impacts of the proposed
development. Likewise, the magnitude of the burden placed on the proposed
development should be reasonably related to the adverse impacts created by
the development. A court will also consider whether the action in question
substantially advances a legitimate state interest. For example, the United States
Supreme Court determined in Nollan v. California Coastal Comm’n, 483 U.S. 825
(1987) that compelling an owner of waterfront property to grant public easement
across his property that does not substantially advance the public’s interest in
beach access, constitutes a “taking.” Likewise, the United States Supreme Court
held that compelling a property owner to leave a public green way, as opposed
to a private one, did not substantially advance protection of a floodplain, and was
a “taking.” (Dolan v. City of Tigard, 114 U.S. 2309 [June 24, 1994].)
3. Does the regulation deprive the owner of all economically viable
uses of the property?
If a regulation prohibits all economically viable or beneficial uses of the land, it will
likely constitute a “taking.” In this situation, the agency can avoid liability for just
compensation only if it can demonstrate that the proposed uses are prohibited by
the laws of nuisance or other pre-existing limitations on the use of the property
(See Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Coun., 112 S. Ct. 2886 [1992].)
Appendix C
C-2 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
Unlike 1 and 2 above, it is important to analyze the regulation’s impact on the
property as a whole, and not just the impact on a portion whether there is any
profitable use of the remaining property available. (See Florida Rock Industries,
Inc. v. United States, 18 F.3d 1560 [Fed. Cir. 1994]. The remaining use does not
necessarily have to be the owner’s planned use, a prior use or the highest and
best use of the property. One factor in this assessment is the degree to which
the regulatory action interferes with a property owner’s reasonable investment
backed expectations.
Carefully review regulations requiring that all of a particular parcel of land be left
substantially in its natural state. A prohibition of all economically viable users of
the property is vulnerable to a takings challenge. In some situations, however,
there may be pre-existing limitations on the use of property that could insulate
the government from takings liability.
4. Does the regulation have a significant impact on the landowner’s
economic interest?
Carefully review regulations that have a significant impact on the owner’s
economic interest. Courts will often compare the value of property before and
after the impact of the challenged regulation. Although a reduction in property
value alone may not be a “taking,” a severe reduction in the property value often
indicates a reduction or elimination of reasonably profitable uses. Another
economic factor courts will consider is the degree to which the challenged
regulation impacts any developmental rights of the owner. As with 3, above,
these economic factors are normally applied to the property owner as a whole.
5. Does the regulation deny a fundamental attribute of ownership?
Regulations that deny the landowner a fundamental attribute of ownership--
including the right to possess, exclude other and dispose of all or a portion of
the property—are potential takings.
The United States Supreme Court recently held that requiring a public easement
for recreational purposes where the harm to be prevented was to the flood plain
was a “taking.” In finding this to be a “taking,” the Court stated:
The City never demonstrated why a public green way, as opposed to a private one,
was required in the interest of flood control. The difference to the petitioner, of
course, is the loss of her ability to exclude others…[T]his right to exclude others
is “one of the most essential sticks in the bundle of rights that are commonly
characterized as property.”
Dolan v. City of Tigard, 114 U.S. 2309 (June 24, 1994). The United States
Supreme Court has also held that barring inheritance (an essential attribute of
ownership) of certain interest in land held by individual members of an Indian
tribe constituted a “taking.” Hodel v. Irving, 481 U.S. 704 (1987).
C
C-3
Appendix
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
6. Does the regulation serve the same purpose that would be served
by directly prohibiting the use or action; and does the condition
imposed substantially advance that purpose?
A regulation may go too far and may result in a takings claim where it does not
substantially advance a legitimate governmental purpose. (Nollan v. California
Coastal Commission, 107 S. CT. 3141 [1987]; Dolan v. City of Tigard, 114 U.S.
2309 [June 24, 1994].)
In Nollan, the United States Supreme Court held that it was an unconstitutional
“taking” to condition the issuance of a permit to land owners on the grant of an
easement to the public to use their beach. The court found that since there was
not an indication that the Nollan’s house plans interfered in any way with the
public’s ability to walk up and down the beach, there was no “nexus” between
any public interest that might be harmed by the construction of the house, and
the permit condition. Lacking this connection, the required easement was just
as unconstitutional as it would be if imposed outside the permit context.
Likewise, regulatory actions that closely resemble, or have effects of a physical
invasion or occupation or property, are more likely to be found to be takings.
The greater the deprivation of use, the greater the likelihood that a “taking” will
be found.
C-4 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
nn
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
nn
n
n
n
n
n
n n
n
n
n
n
n
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
k j
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
L
O
C
U
S
T
G
R
O
V
E
H U B B A R D
S
T
A
R
C
A
N
A
D
A
I N T E R S T A T E 8 4
M
C
D
E
R
M
O
T
T
L
I
N
D
E
R
L A K E
H A Z E L
C O L U M B I A
V I C T O R Y
F R A N K L I N
C H E R R Y
M C M I L L A N
U S T I C K
E
A
G
L
E
C
L
O
V
E
R
D
A
L
E
T
E
N
M
I
L
E
M
E
R
I
D
I
A
N
B
L
A
C
K
C
A
T
O V E R L A N D
C H I N D E N
A M I T Y
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
N .C .
C i t y
H a l l
L i b r a r y
S t a t e P o l i c e
P o s t
O f f i c e
G o l f
C o u r s e
I T D
I d a h o
P o w e r
C e m e t e r y
I d a h o
P o w e r
T r e a t m e n t
P l a n t
C e m e t e r y
M e r i d i a n
P o l i c e
I d a h o
P o w e r
G e n .
P l a z a
B o i s e R i v e r
[
N e i g h b o r h o o d C e n t e r
N .C .
L e g e n d
F u t u r e O v e r p a s s
E n t r y w a y C o r r i d o r
²µ
F i r e S t a t i o n
n
S c h o o l
k j
P a r k s
Æ b
T r a n s i t S t a t i o n
F u t u r e F a c i l i t i e s
²µ
n
k j
Æ b
E x i s t i n g W a t e r w a y
T e n M i l e I n t e r c h a n g e S p e c i f i c
F u t u r e R o a d w a y
C i t y o f M e r i d i a n
F u t u r e L a n d U s e M a p
0
0 .5
1
0 .2 5
M i l e s
N o t e s :
S y m b o l s
w i t h h a l o s i n d i c a t e g e n e r a l f u t u r e
f a c i l i t y l o c a t i o n s .
T h e s e s y m b o l s a r e n o t
p a r c e l s p e c i f i c a n d m a y f l o a t t o n e a r b y a r e a s .
L a n d
u s e
d e s i g n a t i o n s i n t h e
T e n
M i l e
I n t e r c h a n g e
S p e c i f i c A r e a
a r e
d i f f e r e n t
f r o m
t h e
r e s t
o f
t h e
C i t y .
D e s i g n a t i o n s
f o r
t h a t
a r e a
a r e
d e s c r i b e d
i n
t h e
T e n
M i l e
I n t e r c h a n g e S p e c i f i c A r e a P l a n .
F u t u r e L a n d U s e s
C i t y w i d e
T e n M i l e I n t e r c h a n g e S p e c i f i c A r e a
L o w D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
M e d i u m D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
H i g h D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
M e d -H i g h D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
P i p e l i n e E a s e m e n t
C i v i c
G r e e n S p a c e /P a r k L a n d
L o w D e n s i t y E m p l o y m e n t
H i g h D e n s i t y E m p l o y m e n t
I n d u s t r i a l
M i x e d E m p l o y m e n t
M i x e d U s e R e s i d e n t i a l
M i x e d U s e C o m m e r c i a l
L i f e s t y l e C e n t e r
L o w D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
M e d i u m D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
M e d -H i g h D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
H i g h D e n s i t y R e s i d e n t i a l
C o m m e r c i a l
O f f i c e
I n d u s t r i a l
C i v i c
O l d T o w n
M i x e d U s e C o m m u n i t y
M i x e d U s e N e i g h b o r h o o d
M i x e d U s e N o n -R e s i d e n t i a l
M i x e d U s e R e g i o n a l
M i x e d U s e - I n t e r c h a n g e
R u r a l / E s t a t e R e s i d e n t i a l
A d o p t e d O c t o b e r 1 1 , 2 0 1 6
T h e i n f o r m a t i o n s h o w n o n t h i s m a p i s c o m p i l e d f r o m v a r i o u s
s o u r c e s a n d i s s u b j e c t t o c o n s t a n t r e v i s i o n . T h e C i t y o f
M e r i d i a n m a k e s n o w a r r a n t y o r g u a r a n t e e a s t o t h e c o n t e n t ,
a c c u r a c y , t i m e l i n e s s , o r c o m p l e t e n e s s o f a n y o f t h e d a t a
p r o v i d e d , a n d a s s u m e s n o l e g a l r e s p o n s i b i l i t y f o r t h e
i n f o r m a t i o n c o n t a i n e d o n t h i s m a p .
P r e p a r e d b y M e r i d i a n P l a n n i n g D i v i s i o n
P r i n t D a t e : O c t 0 5 , 2 0 1 6
DAppendix
FLUM
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan D-1
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
Legend
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan E-1
EAppendix
S
Y
M
B
O
L
L
E
G
E
N
D
E
l
e
m
e
n
t
S
y
m
b
o
l
Ec
o
n
o
m
i
c
D
e
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
La
n
d
U
s
e
Na
t
u
r
a
l
R
e
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
&
S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Pu
b
l
i
c
S
a
f
e
t
y
Pu
b
l
i
c
F
a
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
a
n
d
U
t
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
S
Y
M
B
O
L
L
E
G
E
N
D
E
l
e
m
e
n
t
S
y
m
b
o
l
Pa
r
k
s
a
n
d
R
e
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
Hi
s
t
o
r
i
c
P
r
e
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
S
p
e
c
i
a
l
A
r
e
a
s
Ho
u
s
i
n
g
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
D
e
s
i
g
n
/
L
i
v
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
/
D
e
m
o
g
r
a
p
h
i
c
s
Go
v
e
r
n
a
n
c
e
S
H
A
D
I
N
G
L
E
G
E
N
D
Go
a
l
s
Ob
j
e
c
t
i
v
e
s
Ac
t
i
o
n
I
t
e
m
s
Flip over page flap, for use of Legend with
Goals, Objectives, and Action Item tables
in Chapters 2 through 7
City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan
EAppendix
E-2
Legend
S
Y
M
B
O
L
L
E
G
E
N
D
E
l
e
m
e
n
t
S
y
m
b
o
l
Ec
o
n
o
m
i
c
D
e
v
e
l
o
p
m
e
n
t
La
n
d
U
s
e
Na
t
u
r
a
l
R
e
s
o
u
r
c
e
s
&
S
u
s
t
a
i
n
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Pu
b
l
i
c
S
a
f
e
t
y
Pu
b
l
i
c
F
a
c
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
a
n
d
U
t
i
l
i
t
i
e
s
Tr
a
n
s
p
o
r
t
a
t
i
o
n
S
Y
M
B
O
L
L
E
G
E
N
D
E
l
e
m
e
n
t
S
y
m
b
o
l
Pa
r
k
s
a
n
d
R
e
c
r
e
a
t
i
o
n
Hi
s
t
o
r
i
c
P
r
e
s
e
r
v
a
t
i
o
n
/
S
p
e
c
i
a
l
A
r
e
a
s
Ho
u
s
i
n
g
Co
m
m
u
n
i
t
y
D
e
s
i
g
n
/
L
i
v
a
b
i
l
i
t
y
Po
p
u
l
a
t
i
o
n
/
D
e
m
o
g
r
a
p
h
i
c
s
Go
v
e
r
n
a
n
c
e
S
H
A
D
I
N
G
L
E
G
E
N
D
Go
a
l
s
Ob
j
e
c
t
i
v
e
s
Ac
t
i
o
n
I
t
e
m
s
~ This page left intentionally blank ~
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj
kj kj
kj
kj
kj
kj kj
kj
kjkj
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
²µ
L O C U S T G R O V E
HUBBARD
S T A R
C A N A D A
INTERSTATE 84
M C D E R M O T T
L I N D E R
LAKE HAZEL
COLUMBIA
VICTORY
FRANKLIN
CHERRY
MCMILLAN
USTICK
E A G L E
C L O V E R D A L E
T E N M I L E
M E R I D I A N
B L A C K
C A T
OVERLAND
CHINDEN
AMITY
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
N.C.
CityHall
Library
State Police
PostOffice
GolfCourse
ITD
IdahoPower
Cemetery
IdahoPower
TreatmentPlant
Cemetery
MeridianPolice
IdahoPower
Gen.Plaza
Boise River
[
Neighborhood CenterN.C.
Legend
Futur e Overpass
Entryway Corridor
²µFire Station
n School
kj Parks
Æb Transit Station
Futur e Facilities²µn kj Æb
Existing Waterway
Ten Mile Interchange Specific
Futur e Roadway
City of MeridianFuture Land Use Map
0 0.5 10.25 Miles
Notes:
Symbols with halos indicate general future facility locations. These symbols are notparcel specific and may float to nearby areas.
Land use designations in the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area are different fromthe rest of the City. Designations for that area are described in the Ten MileInterchange Specific Area Plan.
Future Land Uses
Citywide Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
Med-High Density Residential
Pipeline Easement
Civic
Green Space/Park Land
Low Density Employment
High Density Employment
Industrial
Mixed Employment
Mixed Use Residential
Mixed Use Commercial
Lifestyle Center
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Med-High Density Residential
High Density Residential
Commercial
Office
Industrial
Civic
Old Town
Mixed Use Community
Mixed Use Neighborhood
Mixed Use Non-Residential
Mixed Use Regional
Mixed Use - Interchange
Rural / Estate Residential
Adopted October 11, 2016
The inform ation show n on this m ap is compiled from varioussources and is subject to constant revision. The City of Meridian m akes no warranty or guarantee as to the content,accuracy, timeliness, or com pleteness of any of the data provided, and assumes no legal responsibility for the information contained on this map.
Prepared by Meridian Planning DivisionPrint Date: Oct 05, 2016