2019-12-09 COMPASSCommunities in Motion 2040 2.0 Development Review
The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) is the metropolitan planning organization
(MPO) for Ada and Canyon Counties. COMPASS has developed this review as a tool for local governments to
evaluate whether land developments are consistent with the goals of Communities in Motion 2040 2.0 (CIM 2040),
the regional long-range transportation plan for Ada and Canyon Counties. This checklist is not intended to be
prescriptive, but rather a guidance document based on CIM 2040 2.0 goals.
Recommendations
The proposal is on the fringe of urban development in an area removed from employment centers and existing
public transportation. The closest transit services are located more than four miles away. ValleyConnect 2.0
proposes a bus route along Eagle Road, from East Taconic Drive to the City of Eagle, via downtown Meridian with
30-minute frequencies in the peak hour. Bus stops would be within ½ mile of this development when it is
operational. Safe pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure along Eagle Road to East Taconic Drive is critical for
promoting ridership.
Eagle Road is an arterial roadway. The proposal does not propose additional vehicular access to Eagle Road, other
than an emergency access. Additionally, the proposed stub roads and pathways will increase connectivity to other
neighborhoods. This access management approach is needed to promote efficiency and safety.
More information about COMPASS and Communities in Motion 2040 2.0:
Web: www.compassidaho.org
Email info@compassidaho.org
More information about the development review process:
http://www.compassidaho.org/dashboard/devreview.htm
Development Name: Sky Mesa Highlands Agency: Meridian
CIM Vision Category: Future Neighborhoods
New households: 75 New jobs: 0 Exceeds CIM forecast: No
Farmland contributes to the local economy, creates
additional jobs, and provides food security to the region.
Development in farm areas decreases the productivity
and sustainability of farmland.
Farmland consumed: Yes
Farmland within 1 mile: 1,202 acres
Housing within 1 mile: 1,260
Jobs within 1 mile: 320
Jobs/Housing Ratio: 0.3
Nearest bus stop: >4 miles
Nearest public school: 2.0 miles
Nearest public park: 0.9 miles
Nearest grocery store: 2.3 miles
CIM Corridor: None
Pedestrian level of stress: R: Eagle Rd
Bicycle level of stress: R: Eagle Rd
A good jobs/housing balance – a ratio between 1 and
1.5 – reduces traffic congestion. Higher numbers
indicate the need for more housing and lower numbers
indicate an employment need.
Residents who live or work less than ½ mile from
critical services have more transportation choices.
Walking and biking reduces congestion by taking cars off
the road, while supporting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Level of Stress considers facility type, number of vehicle
lanes, and speed. Roads with G or PG ratings better
support bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages and comfort
levels.
Nearest police station: >4 miles
Nearest fire station: 2.3 miles
Developments within 1.5 miles of police and fire
stations ensure that emergency services are more
efficient and reduce the cost of these important public
services.