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22-2347 Comprehensive Plat Amendments to adopt Existing Conditions Report 2022 CITY OF MERIDIAN RESOLUTION NO. 22-2347 BY THE CITY COUNCIL: BERNT, BORTON, CAVENER, HOAGLUN, PERREAULT, STRADER A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO ADOPT BY REFERENCE THE EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT 2022; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, on December 17, 2019, the 2019 City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan ("Comprehensive Plan") was adopted by Meridian City Council Resolution No. 19-2179; and, WHEREAS, on September 1, 2020 the Comprehensive Plan was amended by Meridian City Council Resolution No. 20-2224; and WHEREAS, on December 21, 2021 the Comprehensive Plan was amended by Meridian City Council Resolution No. 21-2302; and WHEREAS, the Community Development Department further recommends updating the text of the Comprehensive Plan to adopt by reference the Existing Conditions Report 2022; and, WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on September 27, 2022 regarding the proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan; and, WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have deemed it appropriate to amend the Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS,the City has complied in all respects with the requirements of the Idaho Local Land Use Planning Act; NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. That the Comprehensive Plan is hereby amended to (1) adopt by reference the Existing Conditions Report 2022 and (2) delete references to the Existing Conditions Report (2017). Pursuant to Idaho Code § 67-6509(c), a copy of the amended Comprehensive Plan and Existing Conditions Report 2022, along 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. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT—EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT-SEPTEMBER 2022—H-2022-0049—Page I of 2 ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this 25th day of October 2022 APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this 25th day of October 2022. APPROVED: By Brad Hoaglun, Council President ATTEST: By: Chris Johnson, City Clerk COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT—EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT-SEPTEMBER 2022—H-2022-0049—Page 2 of 2 CITY OF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Adopted by Resolution # 19-2179 On December 17, 2019 •�� r _ .. •''. .� fir.��` g■ �s•_� � .. ��. .,ri n1 � r 00 .� a �+•:!_��aM -� fi J "` I / �� _ 1033 E Broadway Ave., Ste 102 E IDIAN r � r Meri . . ,: . . .. . This page left intentionally blank— CITY OF MERIDIAN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Adopted December 179 2019 Resolution No. 19-2 179 List of Amendments to Comprehensive Plan since Adoption Resolution # Date Description of Changes 20-2224 09/01/2020 Adding priorities and responsible lead information to Comprehensive Plan policies. 21-2302 12/21/2021 Adopting the Fields Subarea Plan by reference. 22-2347 10/2S/2022 Adopting the Existing Conditions Report 2022 by reference. www.meridiancity.org/compplan ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Mayor and City Council Steering Committee Technical Analysis and Tammy de Weerd, Mayor Treg Bernt Support Team Joe Borton - President Jim Conger Cameron Arial, Community Luke Cavener - Vice President Britton Davis Development Director Treg Bernt Nick Grove Caleb Hood, AICP, Planning Division Anne Little Roberts Lisa Holland Manager Genesis Milam Lori Jones Brian McClure, AICP, Comprehensive Ty Palmer Susan Karnes Associate Planner Cameron Kinzer Shandy Lam, Communications Manager Planning and Zoning Denise La Fever Kaycee Emery, Communications Manager Commission Stephen Lewis (previous) Rhonda McCarvel Justin Lucas Ryan Fitzgerald Frank Marcos Consultant Team Andrew Seal Patty Marrincic Logan Simpson Reid Olsen Rhonda McCarvel g P Sam McCaskill Bruce Meighen, AICP Lisa Holland Mitra Mehta-Cooper Megan Moore, ASLA, Assoc. AIA Jessica PCrrea William asauIt Carl Miller Miriam McGilvray, AICP Charlie Rountree Krissy Gilmore, AICP Robert Simison Kristy Bruce, GISP Meridian Community Doug Taylor Olivia Cvetko Special thanks to the community members, David Turnbull Maria Michieli-Best residents,and business owners who helped Mike Vuittonet shape the vision for the future of our city. Kittleson Nick Foster Leland Consulting Ted Kamp Alisa Pyszka www.meridiancity.org/compplan LIST OF IMPLEMENTATION TOOLS The following table lists existing tools which will be utilized to implement the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan. These tools are already approved through City ordinance, but may require updates to most effectively implement this Plan. Meridian's online City Code is maintained by Sterling Codifiers. ToolsList of Implementation Tool Link City of Meridian Architectural Standards Manual (2016) https://meridiancity.org/design Meridian City Code (2019) https:Hmeridiancity.org/CityCode Unified Development Code(Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances,Title 11 of Meridian City Code) (2019) https://meridiancity.org/UDC LIST OF ADOPTED PLANS AND STUDIES BY REFERENCE The following table lists plans that are adopted by reference by the City of Meridian. The most current major amendment dates are reflected on this table. Sites listed without a www.meridiancity.org domain are not maintained or operated by the City. AdoptedList of Plan Lead Agency Link Meridian Arts Commission Strategic Plan (2019) Meridian Arts Commission https://meridiancity.org/mac/ Meridian Environmental Programs Plan (2019) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/environmental/ Welcome to Meridian Signage Plan (2019) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/WelcomePlan Communities in Motion 2040 2.0(2018) COMPASS https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning Existing Conditions Report(2022) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/comp-plan Meridian Water Master Plan (2018) City of Meridian hUas://meridiancity.org/WataLMESummary Roadways to Bikeways Master Plan (2018) Ada County Highway District https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning Valley Connect 2.0(2018) Valley Regional Transit https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning Ada County Hazard Mitigation Plan (2017) Ada County https:Hmeridiancity.org/AdaHazardPlan City of Meridian Collection System Master Plan (2017) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/CollectionMPSummary City of Meridian Strategic Plan 2016-2020(2015) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/StategicPlan www.meridiancity.org/compplan List of Adopted Plans By Reference Plan Lead Agency Link Meridian Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2015) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/parks/masterplan Downtown Meridian Street Cross-section Master Plan City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/StreetPlan (2014) Meridian Historic Preservation Plan (2014) Meridian Historic Preservation https://meridiancity.org/HistoricPlan Commission Downtown Meridian Neighborhood Pedestrian and Ada County Highway District/City of https://meridiancity.org/transportation Bicycle Plan (2012) Meridian Eastern Treasure Valley Electric Plan (2012) Idaho Power https://meridiancity.org/ElectricPlan Airport-Overland Corridor Study(2011) ACHD and City of Nampa https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning Meridian Water Conservation Plan (2011) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/water/conservation Destination Downtown (2010) Meridian Development Corporation https://meridiancity.org/downtown Meridian Pathways Master Plan (2010) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.orq/parks/pathways Meridian Rail-With-Trail Action Plan (2010) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning ACHD Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan Ada County Highway District https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning (2009) US-20/26 Corridor Study(2006) Idaho Transportation Department https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning (ITD) Downtown Meridian Transportation Management Plan Ada County Highway District/City of https://meridiancity.org/TransportationPlanning (2005) Meridian Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan (2007) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/planning/TMISAP Destination Downtown (2010) Meridian Development Corporation https://meridiancity.org/downtown Fields Subarea Plan (2021) City of Meridian https://meridiancity.org/Fields www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE OF CONTENTS ■ Future Land Use Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 Executive Summary i ■ Utilities and Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26 ■ The Value of Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .i ■ Plan Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii Livable Community 4-1 ■ Community Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iii ■ Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 ■ Parks and Pathways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2 Introduction 1-1 ■ Stewardship. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8 ■ Plan Purpose and Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-3 ■ Public Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13 ■ Nature of the Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 ■ Plan History and Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5 Vibrant Community 5-1 ■ #MyMeridianVision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6 ■ Planning Successes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-7 ■ Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1 ■ Plan Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8 ■ Character, Design, and Identity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 ■ Using this Document. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8 ■ Historic Preservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7 ■ Online Living Document. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-9 ■ Arts and Culture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9 ■ A Community-Driven Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-9 ■ Overview of Sustainable Growth and Development . . . . . .1-11 Connected Community 6-1 ■ Making the Plan Reality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-12 ■ Next Steps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-12 ■ Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1 ■ Transportation and Streets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 Premier Community 2-1 Appendices A-1 ■ Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1 ■ Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2 ■ Appendix A. Glossary of Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1 ■ Education, Health, and Community Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7 ■ Appendix B.Acronyms and Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1 ■ Economic Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11 ■ Appendix C. Regulatory Takings Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 ■ Appendix D. Future Land Use Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 Evolving Community 3-1 ■ Appendix E. Analysis and Public Involvement Summaries. . .E-1 ` ■ Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1 ■ Growth and Population. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2 ■ Future Land Use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9 www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLES AND FIGURES Executive Summary i Livable Community 4-1 ■ Table 4.1. Parks and Pathways Goals, Objectives and Action Introduction 1-1 Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-4 ■ Table 4.2. Stewardship Goals, Objectives and Action Items 4-9 ■ Figure 1A: Regional Context Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 ■ Table 4.3. Public Safety Goals, Objectives and Action Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-15 Premier Community 2-1 Vibrant Community 5-1 ■ Table 2.1. Housing Goals, Objectives and Action Items. . . .2-4 ■ Table 2.2. Education and Community Services Goals, ■ Table 5.1. Character, Design, and Identity Goals, Objectives Objectives and Action Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9 and Action Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 ■ Table 2.3. Economic Goals, Objectives and Action Items . 2-13 ■ Table 5.2. Historic Preservation Goals, Objectives and Action Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-8 ■ Table 5.3. Arts and Culture Goals, Objectives and Action Evolving Community 3-1 Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10 ■ Table 3.1. Growth and Population Goals, Objectives and Action Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 Connected Community 6-1 ■ Figure 3A:General Mixed Use Concept Diagram . . . . . . . . 3-14 ■ Figure 313: Mixed Use Neighborhood Concept Diagram . . 3-16 ■ Table 6.1. Transportation and Streets Goals, Objectives and ■ Figure 3C: Mixed Use Community Concept Diagram . . . . .3-18 Action Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6 ■ Figure 3D:Mixed Use Regional Concept Diagram. . . . . . . . 3-19 ■ Figure 3E: Mixed Use Non-Residential Concept Diagram .3-20 ■ Table 3.2. Future Land Use Goals, Objectives and Action Items 3-24 ■ Table 3.3. Utilities and Infrastructure Goals, Objectives and Action Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-29 www.meridiancity.org/compplan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Value of Planning Meridian's Comprehensive Plan is a long-term policy document Since 2011, when the last Comprehensive Plan was adopted, for the community with guiding visions and policies relating the City of Meridian has changed significantly. While much to new development, redevelopment, city programs, and of this change has been positive, the City faces challenges in services. The Comprehensive Plan policies are used to guide accommodating additional growth. This Plan sets forth the the direction for development in Meridian. It is a dynamic framework necessary for orderly growth and development document designed to reflect the community vision as well reflecting the communities values today, while anticipating as adapt to changes in technologies, demographics, growth the needs, wants, and desires of later generations. Without patterns, values, and transportation needs. guided growth and development, overcrowding, congestion, The goal of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan is to create an safety, community identity, and an overall deterioration of the effective vision and source document that the general current quality of life and living may result. o public, developers, and decision makers can reference E and utilize to ensure Meridian is a premier place to live, E work, and raise a family. a� Below:Meridian City Hall The Comprehensive Plan is periodically updated to ensure that the Plan remains relevant and represents community aspirations, w reflects market and demographic trends, and is user-friendly. This Plan infuses a fresh focus on creation and preservation c of the area's character, evolution, livability, vibrancy, and connections,all while conforming to the requirements of Idaho Code, Title 67, Chapter 65, the Local Land use Planning Act. ` r tis, iti o U 4 c r r�T O a U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Plan Development » Encourages partnerships and participation in A year-long planning process resulted in a Comprehensive education to realize the work force we need for the Plan document that continues to elevate Meridian as a major diverse economic base that we desire population and employment center within the Treasure Valley » Aligns transportation modes with population needs and one the most desirable places to live in the nation. » Emphasizes environmental stewardship and importance of parks and open spaces This updated Comprehensive Plan: » Supports existing neighborhoods and future planning efforts that will contribute in ongoing Is inspired by a grass-roots and citizen-based and success collaborative process » Provides new tools and ways to evaluate where • Defines approach to areas of growth and change growth is most appropriate • Supports a diversity of housing types and for all » Is accessible in multiple formats, from traditional income groups hardcopy to digitally online • Cultivates sustainable quality neighborhoods with diverse and context-sensitive amenities 0 • Promotes the creation of distinct, engaging places E • Clarifies land use designations for consistency of implementation. Q) • Highlights city services for prioritization of future projects and programs Q) Reinforces the direction of providing an unsurpassed w level of parks and recreation facilities Strengthens Meridian's historic and communityIL character a� Prioritizes walkability, bikeability, and N interconnectedness of mobility systems that promote a healthy environment a Encourages multi-modal corridors Embraces emerging trends and technologies in 0 transportation Anticipates demographic changes and plans for an integrated community a� Addresses livability and service needs for all 0 ftZ www.meridiancity.org/comppIan f# - i� r - h _ F - r dye �,� • � - ,d - � � r LM ILM #�14 WL Above:Gene N The Comprehensive Plan establishes a future vision and desired course of action based on the values and feedback of the community. The community's vision for Meridian Meridian is • premier, evolving, livable, is summarized in vision statements with five over-arching and connected community. IL themes. The #MyMeridian Vision document embodies these > .N unique qualities and reaffirms a desire to preserve Meridian's character with the onset of inevitable changes that come with population growth and demand for services. This vision D reinforces the core values of guided and strategic growth,jobs o creation and sound economics, service provision, sustainable U neighborhoods, and being good stewards of the public trust. 0 The vision was developed through a process that offered residents, business owners, and visitors an opportunity to articulate their community values—the City's design for the o future reflects a collaborative vision. } U www.meridiancity.org/compplan PREMIER COMMUNITY EVOLVING COMMUNITY Making Meridian a Premier Community means putting an Strategically planning for Meridian's evolving future means emphasis on quality of life through creating safe neighborhoods implementing land use tools and promoting responsible with diverse housing, open spaces, and amenities that provide growth through the provision of services and infrastructure varied lifestyle choices, as well as planning for exceptional in key areas at the right time. Meridian looks to maintain a social, educational, and economic opportunities. balanced mix of land uses based on a holistic understanding of community character,transportation systems, market realities, A vibrant, diverse, clean, safe, and secure and utility use. community in which to live, work, and thrive. This theme focuses on the relationship between where we work, A community thoughtfully adapting to changes. educate, live, and play, and includes the following elements: This theme supports an efficient and high-quality development pattern, and includes the following elements: Housing E Education, Health, and Community Services » Growth and Population Economic Excellence » Future Land Use a) Utilities and Infrastructure U N x w c N N L CQ C 0 U c 0 C(D L 0 ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan LIVABLE COMMUNITY VIBRANT COMMUNITY Livability represents the overall relationship between the Being a Vibrant Community centers on the intersection of past community and the satisfaction they derive from their and future. The Meridian community values its heritage and surroundings. This means strategic use and stewardship of strong historic character and charm and hopes to preserve our environment, providing opportunities for recreation, key cultural elements while creating well-designed new places mitigating the impact of hazards, and ensuring health, safety, that honor our community's story, contribute to the past and and welfare of the Meridian community. present, and will serve generations to come.Arts, community events, cultural assets, and celebrations also play a role in A community of family-friendly, healthy, and making Meridian a vibrant and beloved place with distinct, engaging places. engaging characteristics. This theme is grounded in access to and responsible management of Meridian's parks, open space, and natural resources, and A community strengthened by historic character includes the following elements: and vibrant activity centers. This theme reinforces quality community design and placemaking, E Parks and Pathways and includes the following elements: Stewardship > Public Safety » Character, Design, and Identity Historic Preservation x Arts and Culture w c a a� N L CQ C 0 U c 0 SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan CONNECTED COMMUNITY MAKING THE PLAN REALITY Connecting Meridian requires a strong relationship between The measure of the Comprehensive Plan's success is its ability various modes of travel and destinations, ensuring that the to direct and bring about actions that implement the Plan's broad system functions safely and efficiently. It also requires articulated vision and supporting policies.This implementation efficiently connecting Meridian to its neighbors, facilitating effort will largely be accomplished through a consolidated regionally and locally within the City.This means accommodating list of action items referred to as the implementation plan. appropriate modes of transportation by planning, designing, This implementation will work in coordination with the City's and building facilities for pedestrians, bicycles, public transit, Strategic Plan, Comprehensive Financial Plan,Capital Investment motor vehicles, and freight all the while anticipating for the Plan, and by updating City Code and the Unified Development future needs of additional methods and trends for people, Code. City staff will report to City Council on progress made goods, and services to move. toward completing action items on a regular basis. A community of safe and efficient transportation. o E Efficiency and innovation can be accomplished through land use planning, street design, and accommodations of new and emerging technologies. This theme includes the following element: U N x w Transportation and Streets c 0 a� N L CQ C 0 U c 0 C(D L 0 ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan INTRODUCTION Meridian,Idaho is located just west of Boise in the southwestern wishes, integrates previous and upcoming plans and projects, part of Idaho, and is one of six cities in Ada County.The Area of and recognizes the contributions of our leaders and community City Impact contains 60 square miles, including approximately members that have made Meridian of the most desirable places 33 square miles within the city limits.As of 2019 there are over to live. Thoughtful and deliberate planning is imperative to 114,000 residents in Meridian, making it the second largest city preserve and improve upon the current quality of life. in Idaho—and one of the top ten fastest growing communities in the nation.It has become the area's new regional epicenter. As part of the Introduction,the following elements are included in this chapter: This Comprehensive Plan is the guide to the future of the City of Meridian. It builds on Meridian's history and community » Plan Purpose and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . » #MyMeridianVision Below:#MyMeridian Public Event » Planning Successes Plan Structure » A Community-Driven Plan o » Overview of Sustainable Growth and Development ' » Making the Plan Reality � R A I- — - - •-ir��. .l--L Sm..n]Cr.• IL J `_ �� V = 3r "Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now" Alan Lakein U p �1~FT,1Nvot� 0 LA LiO.'.a L U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan F''IGURE IA: REGIONAL CONTEXT MAP - r - - - - - - - - - Will IDAHO 1 N r V 1 CA IDDLETON -� TA EAGLE DE EA ALDWELI ® GARDEN CITY MERIDIAN m B01SE o "NAMPI` Z A----- 1 � � o o z Z 0 a KLINA 1 C: IL — 1 0 1 N 1 1 � 1 CQ C 0 1 U 0 " 1 1 1 0 U Source: City of Meridian Planning Division 2019 www.meridiancity.org/compplan Plan Purpose and Scope All legislative requirements, specifically the Idaho Local Land The purpose of the City of Meridian's Comprehensive Plan (Plan) Use Planning Act, are addressed in the Plan. Idaho Code § is to integrate the values of the community into a document 67-6508 (the Local Land Use Planning Act) provides for a that guides the growth and development of the City.The Plan planning process as follows: uses maps, tables, and narrative to describe the City, provide "Prepare, implement, and review and update a a vision of a desired future, and recommend specific policies comprehensive plan, hereafter referred to as the plan. and actions to reach that future. The plan shall include all land within the jurisdiction of the governing board. The plan shall consider previous The goal of the Comprehensive Plan is to create an effective and existing conditions, trends, desirable goals and vision and source document that the general public, developers, objectives, or desirable future situations for each planning component." and decision makers can use to ensure Meridian is a premier place to live, work and raise a family. 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 The required components of a comprehensive plan specified in and expressions of the community, but upon the analysis in Idaho Code include private property rights; population;economic the Existing Conditions Report that is adopted concurrently as c development; land use; natural resources; hazardous areas; public Volume II of this Plan.The Existing Conditions Report includes services, school facilities; transportation; recreation; special background information and analysis about the built and � areas or sites; housing; community design; implementation; natural environment in Meridian today (as of 2022), trends, o agriculture; airports; national interest electric transmission and a strategic plan for the future. Together, the Existing corridors; and any other component that may be necessary. Conditions Report and the Comprehensive Plan together — address all of the elements required in the Local Land Use One of the primary uses of the Comprehensive Plan is to Planning Act of Idaho. provide direction for land use regulations, including zoning, as well as strategic plans, municipal budget and capital projects, This Plan applies to all geographic areas within Meridian's and other implementation actions. Idaho Code § 67-6511 jurisdiction, including its surrounding Area of City Impact. Plan requires: "The zoning districts shall be in accordance with the q g goals, objectives, and action items are designed to address a a adopted plans." 20-year planning horizon. o U c SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Nature of the Plan The 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 Pathways Master Plan, Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs). It is also used in conjunction with each City department's strategic and tactical plans.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. It is expected and required that the Plan consider and inform efforts to align City Code and policy with the community's changing shape,values, and needs. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Citizens, developers, the Planning and Zoning Commission, o Above:Pathway at sunset as well as the City Council and other groups are all involved Below:View of artwork and fountains in the Village at Meridian in shaping community development and have a primary R 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, makes development decisions concerning IL -�' annexation, rezoning, and subdivision developments at public `t hearings, as well as decisions regarding variances, and planned N unit developments. The Planning and Zoning Commission is a 4 responsible for making decisions regarding conditional use a permits. Due to the responsibilities of the City Council, it is -40 Al E necessary for the City to implement technical guidelines and U +, adopt policies that will provide the framework for considering proposed physical development and its suitability, impact on the quality of life for Meridian citizens, and the best interest - of the City. The City also needs to establish and maintain a long-range implementation strategy for coordinated, unified o ! development of public improvement projects. ftz _ . U www.meridiancity.org/compplan L _� � _ C U O i req enacted 1975 Land Use Planning Act of the State of Idaho,Title its content,today's City leaders recognize changes are needed. 67, Chapter 65. In 1993, the City of Meridian invited citizens Many goals, objectives, and actions outlined in the 2011 plan 0- representing neighborhood groups, developers, real estate remain. However, some objectives and action items have been o professionals, and public agencies to engage in a participatory achieved or are no longer desired.Additionally, new initiatives C process to revise a modernized City of Meridian Comprehensive focus on creation and preservation of the area's character, Plan. Similar processes took place again in 2002 and 2011 to evolution, livability, vibrancy, and connections. a bring needed revisions to the Meridian Comprehensive Plan. o U c SW L O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan #INIyMeridianVision • The Plan establishes a future vision and course of action based Meridian is • premier, evolving, livable, • on the values and feedback of the community. The overall nected community. #MyMeridianVision statement, developed by the people of The Vision Themes and corresponding _ regularly Meridian, represents their voice about what they value in the l to community and an equally strong mandate for what they want revisitedbe - adoption • - -• .. for the future.It embodies these unique qualities and reaffirms reviewedthese vision statements reflect the community's values and • updated . - • - horizon, a desire to preserve Meridian's character with the onset of dreams inevitable changes that come with population growth and _ of the City of • - demand for development. Building on the#MyMeridianVision, Community: rant, verse, ean, • secure the City has established five Citywide Vision Themes to bring community in which to live, work, • together City departments and trained staff that are committed to the City's core values to guide growth, create jobs and a adapting t• sound economic base, provide services,facilitate neighborhood sustainability, and be good stewards of the public trust. Livable Community:A community of family-friendly, healthy, Kight:fishingatKleiner• •Park• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • engaging places. o Vib munity: A community strengthened by historic k character • vibrant activity centers. O C Connected •mmunity; A community of • efficient — ;. transportation. IL L E O - U U j U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Planning Successes Accomplishments in the last 10 years • - Meridian's rapid growth has propelled the City into continual Enhanced traffic operations using agency technology change. Development and infrastructure must be directed to and the addition of newpathways create neighborhoods and centers that foster social interaction, public safety, and a sense of community for the City's residents ' alone and commerce.Without a coordinated plan for the City, unguided Welcomed Idaho State University nd Idaho College of growth could harm the vital qualities clearly articulated in the Osteopathic Medicine, Idaho's �medical #MyMeridianVision. Having a community-vested vision and plan helps guide and inform the decision-making process to Worked toward the"greening"of Meridian with 4,736 trees define and manage the City's future. in Meridian'sparks Meridian has seen a significant increase in population over the Opened the Public Safety Training Center on Watertower last decade and it is predicted to grow another 52% between Street 2017 and 2040. During the last 10 years (2007-2017), the City Developed _ premiere lifestyle center has seen 37% growth in the labor force and a 5% reduction with _ e at r a million square _t of _tail and office in the unemployment rate. The median household income is space well over the Treasure Valley average, and two-thirds of the Relaunched the Main Street Market o children in the community have walkable access to a park or U open space.' Partneredon-demand service designed for seniors and those with disabilities o With a strong vision for managing community growth, the City will apply the values defined by the #MyMeridianVision Invested in and expanded park themes and more to harness growth as a community asset. Strategic long-range planning is an opportunity to influence the trajectory—to setCreat_• .nd expanded a compelling, prescribed, and collaborative course for thepartnerships '— future. Over the lifetime of the Plan, a single policy change can produce enormous and valued impact. Started building up the Ten Mile Interchange area Q) Q Completed Split Corridor road investments in Downtown E Expanded Storey Park with new dog park—Storey Bark Park 1 Existing Conditions Report 2017 O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Plan Structure community.The Plan facilitates this by establishing policies that The Comprehensive Plan is structured around five Vision describe City led initiatives, and by establishing expectations Themes and their corresponding topic elements. Each Vision for approvals of development applications. The intent is to Theme chapter includes a brief explanation about its topics and initiate greater certainty in creating successful projects that lists the relevant policy direction, including goals, objectives, match the City's vision; address the concerns and property and action items. rights of neighbors; and provide the flexibility to accomplish a developer's vision without compromising the larger community's Chapter 1. Introduction: plan purpose and scope, vision and goals. #MyMeridianVision, planning successes, plan structure, a community-driven plan, overview of sustainable growth and Citizens are encouraged to use this document to better development, and making the plan reality understand the City's vision for their neighborhood, their business, and the City as a whole.Applicants for development Chapter Premier Community: housing,education and services, are also encouraged to use this document to better understand and economic development the City's vision. Chapter 3. Evolving Community:growth and population, land Finally,this document will be utilized in earnest by City staff, City use, and utilities and infrastructure commissions and task forces,and elected officials as the roadmap o to achieving the Vision Themes; the Planning Department in Chopter4. Livable Community:parks and pathways, stewardship, reviewing development applications, all departments in crafting public safety their strategic plans; and in developing and implementing o capital improvement and master plans. c Chapter 5. Vibrant Community:character and design, historic — preservation, and arts/culture IL Chapter 6. Connected Community:transportation and streets > N The Appendices includes the Future Land Use Map, Glossary of Terms, Acronyms and Abbreviations, and a Regulatory "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the a Takings Checklist. seeds that you plant." o Using this Document - Robert Louis Stevenson The Comprehensive Plan is designed to serve a diverse audience: (, citizens, applicants for development, City staff, commissioners, � and elected officials. The purpose of the Plan is to provide o a clear vision for the future by outlining expectations of the ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Online Living Document The full power and utility of this Plan is best experienced in its online form. In the online format, the Plan is designed to be fully navigable, searchable, and interconnected with hyperlinks. Relevant text and graphics are designed to be easily excerpted } for applicable use. The maps and graphics are interactive in order to enhance their value. Hyperlinks are available and will be maintained with other supporting documents, including the topic-specific plans that support this Plan, and are essential to its full and effective implementation. MY A Community-Driven Plan MERIDIAN The Comprehensive Plan captures the community's values in 2019 and how the community envisions Meridian in the future. As such, it is critical to authentically integrate the concerns and expressions of the community and its stakeholders into Above:Pu. .invol. . . . . . . . . . . . .at Kleiner Park 0 the document that will guide the growth and development Below:Gene Kleiner Day festivities at Kleiner Park of the City. 0 The first step toward creating a vision for the community c was listening. Public input and leadership from the Steering — Committee, Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council, and Boards and Commissions guided the planning process. 0- Diligent effort encouraged meaningful public participation by a) involving interested parties early and frequently. A7. At these events and through online surveys, participants were asked questions like"What do you love about Meridian?", "What _ o would you improve about Meridian? and What is your vision U for Meridian's future?"This allowed the residents, employees, - ^ and other community members the opportunity to provide -' and discuss their values, options, goals, and to prioritize future a) opportunities for their community. � 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan a 17)—ram f )L �1 0 CL tif„ — 0 Images:5,500 community participants provided feedback at community events,workshops,and through online engagement polls and surveys. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Overview of Sustainable Growth and also be used as a framework to set priorities, and to identify Development areas that that are likely to develop first. Review of Recent Research and Tools This tool considers both areas that already receive city services Getting the timing and appropriate land uses right, today and those that haven't.The tool looks at a number of attributes and in the future, is at the heart of managing growth and and ranks each criterion on a numeric scale.Attributes include the character of Meridian. Decisions about how, where, and among other things, proximity to water,and sewer infrastructure, what kind of development takes place in the future will affect proximity to schools and pathways, emergency services' other aspects of Meridian, including traffic, noise air and response time, and environmental constraints. Over time, it environmental quality; opportunities forjobs, housing and is envisioned that the service impact tool will help the City business development; community character and design; and coordinate services so growth is strategic and more consistent the need for public facilities and services of all types. with plans for infrastructure. An example is the relationship between traffic, commercial Economic Development Analysis and Market development,and transportation investment decisions. Providing Analysis expanded opportunities and access to neighborhood shopping One objective of the Comprehensive Plan is to strategically and live-work units could result in reduced pressure on roadways. for land use and transportation investments that will As with commercial development, the level of residential prepare p o density near future transportation hubs influences the timing support economic development across the City.An analysis of j and investment in public transit services and infrastructure. economic development trends, regional demographics, Meridian's o Choices about housing types and location will influence industry strengths,and anticipated areas of employment growth future decisions about both commercial and transportation was conducted as part of Plan development, and concluded investments. — with recommendations for this Plan that are informed by data, � interviews with economic development stakeholders across Through the Comprehensive Plan process, several levels of the region, and best practices. analysis were conducted to reflect how these topical layers influence each other and should be considered into the future: Corridor Analysis A focused review of key corridors in Meridian was conducted a Service Impact Tool to evaluate whether planned land uses have the right mix and E A service impact tool was developed for use by staff to scale to support transit in the future. This analysis aims to U t hi id l ti ridership o t h id potential d t l uses prove enough thaan evaluate the serviceability of a parcel at the time annexation ensure � is requested. The intent is to promote thoughtful growth support transit investments,while also leveraging each unique by clearly considering and reporting relevant factors to City corridor's development context. The study also identified leaders as they consider development proposals.The tool may opportunities to capture the value of real estate and economic o development along each corridor to support funding of a ,, future transit system. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Making the Plan Reality City services within available resources, being organized and A wide range of users can find meaning in this Plan. Citizens, efficient, and acting as good stewards of the public trust. developers, the Planning and Zoning Commission, as well as the City Council and other commissions are all involved and Next Steps responsible for shaping community development and the Implementation of the Plan will take hard work and dedication overall pattern of growth within the community. from the entire community. Many of these actions have already started based on community input. After adoption Alignment with Other Plans and Resources of the Comprehensive Plan, one of the first steps will be to The Comprehensive Plan becomes an improved tool for growth prioritize the action items listed in the Plan. City Departments by driving the process of alignment with other plans, code, and and other stakeholders will be part of the process to determine policy updates and goals for the City. The specific plans and which action items are immediate, intermediate, or long-term documents that are adopted as part of the Comprehensive priorities. This consolidated list of the action items will be Plan are listed at the front of the Plan (List of Adopted Plans referred to as the Implementation Plan of the Comprehensive by Reference). Plan and it will establish both an action item lead and support, including all City departments or civic organizations that need The City hereby adopts as addenda to the Comprehensive Plan to be involved in completing each action.After staff consensus the versions of these documents in the List of Adopted Plans on priorities, the draft policies will be shared with the Mayor by Reference in effect at the time the Comprehensive Plan is and City Council. The intent of the Implementation Plan is to 0 approved by the City Council, and as amended. provide transparency to the community and ensure timely execution of the Comprehensive Plan's action items through The Comprehensive Plan provides the overarching vision for assigned responsibilities and priorities. updates and revisions to City Code, and works symbiotically with the City's Community Development Block Grant On a regular basis, City staff will report to Council progress Consolidated Plan, the City's Sewer and Water Master Plans, made toward completing action items. It is also anticipated other department master plans, capital improvement plans, that additional action items may be added and an update and various transportation plans and studies.It is also used in to both the text of the Comprehensive Plan and the Existing conjunction with each City department's strategic plan, action Conditions Report will occur on a bi-annual basis, and/or as plan, and annual employee performance appraisal. otherwise needed. a a All City departments shall use the Comprehensive Plan as a o tool for setting work plans, budgets, capital improvements, amending the City Code,and allocating other resources for City "The unique characteristics of place may be the only truly Council approval. City staff from all departments will regularly defensible source of competitive advantage for cities & towns." discuss and coordinate the needs of the City. Staff will work � together with the common goal of guiding growth, providing - Joe Cortright, CEO's for Cities o ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan ■ PREMIER COMMUNITYVISION PREMIER COMMUNITY A vibrant, - secure community live,in which to work, and thrive. Overview The City of Meridian, uniquely situated within the Treasure Valley, has distinguished itself with thriving neighborhoods; a vibrant job market; broad educational opportunities; and inviting, creative, and enriching environment. Employment will extensive community services. Meridian has become atop- be located in emerging walkable centers and along multi-modal choice community for businesses and residents in the United corridors.The Plan encourages an exceptional educational system States. creating an employment base attractive to the right type of employers and provides the foundation for a new generation Meridian's Comprehensive Plan embraces the next steps to of Meridian residents. This Premier Community will continue solidifying itself as the region's Premier Community.The Plan to evolve from an edge community into a complete city with safe neighborhoods, diverse housing,well-designed buildings, encourages the attraction of diverse businesses by fostering an g g� g g , � and amenities. The Plan encourages enriching and inviting • . • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • environments for all lifestyle choices, ages, and backgrounds. E Below:The Scentsy campus on Pine Ave and Eagle Road o As part of the Premier Community Vision, the following elements are included in this chapter: E a� - _- Housing Education, Health, and Community Services �ra.w » Economic Excellence IL > - ,_ -- �, i ►_.yam_ O U c r t# o U www.meridiancity.org/compplan _ t ... _ o �.-.. - N using _.. - _ .- ^ _ �- As part of the City's Vision, new neighborhoods should emphasize E Introduction diverse open spaces and amenities, distinct, engaging places a) --- and identities, and Meridian's strong historic character and Opportunities for housing should be available for all income charm. As such, this section relates closely with the policies groups with a diverse mix including rural, modular,townhouses, in Chapters 3, 4, and 5. o apartments, workforce housing, large lot subdivision, and a single-family homes ranging in size from one-bedroom to N estate homes. A premier community needs a good cross- section of housing and therefore must guard against an a abundance of subdivisions in similar and repetitive densities, appearances, and price ranges. Neighborhoods should also U enhance and retain livability and value through innovatively designed amenities, pathways, public spaces, gathering spaces, and elements that promote social interaction and provide the a� city with a sustainable tax base. High-density housing must be strategically located to public transportation, community o services, and employment areas. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Background For additional information, refer to the following Until 2014, Meridian's population was distributed throughout the resources: community primarily in detached single-family suburban-style » Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of developments.Increasingly, however, higher density housing is Meridian Comprehensive Plan being constructed throughout the community, particularly near » Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice employment areas, major roadways, and regional attractions. » Consolidated Plan and Fair Housing Assessment The City realizes that the baby boomer generation is aging and creating an increased demand for 55-plus-age non-single- family detached dwellings. Coupled with the fact that more young adults are waiting longer to have children and may not want large homes on large lots, this necessitates providing more diversity in housing choices.The majority of the growing senior population will prefer to "age in place" within existing neighborhoods. Many will seek residential accommodations to suit their emerging health and mobility needs. However, E there will also be a growing demand for highly specialized "To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also 0 senior living facilities within the community. dream; not only plan, but also believe." U This Comprehensive Plan supports and encourages a variety - Anatole France E of housing types ranging from large single-family detached AlF homes to multi-family dwellings. Future Land Use designations allow the City to integrate a range of residential unit densities, a from Low Residential to High Density Residential. These land a uses and other supportive policies are intended to ensure N opportunities exist for a variety of incomes, housing preferences, lifestyles, household sizes, and age groups integrated within a neighborhoods and across the community. See the Future Land Use element in Chapter 3 for more details. For character, 0 design, and identity elements related to housing, see the Vibrant Community, Chapter 5. ° SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 2.1. Housing Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.01.00 Support a balance and integration of diverse housing and neighborhood types. CD, MO CD,AO, MO 2.01.01 Encourage diverse housing options suitable for various income levels, household sizes, and CD, MO AO, MO lifestyle preferences. Align City Code with the policies of the Comprehensive Plan to reflect the community's desires for 2.O1.OlA various types,sizes, and designs of residential neighborhoods. Very High CD AO 2.01.0113 Regularly assess permitting activity and work to encourage a mix of housing types. On-going CD 2.01.01C Maintain a range of residential land use designations that allow diverse lot sizes, housing types, On-going CD and densities. 2.01.01D Regularly monitor local codes and ordinances to ensure compliance with state and federal laws On-going CD such as the Fair Housing Act. Encourage development of universally accessible home designs within new developments and 2.01.01E home retrofits,allowing residents to age in place and creating full accessibility for all residents of On-going CD varying levels of physical ability. c 2.01.01F Maintain clear and concise housing development ordinances,codes, requirements, restrictions, On-going CD and policies that are consist with the Comprehensive Plan. E Avoid the concentration of any one housing type or lot size in any geographical area; provide for 0 2.01.01G On-going CD U diverse housing types throughout the City. 2.01.01H Locate higher density housing near corridors with existing or planned transit, Downtown,and in On-going CD E proximity to employment centers. N 0- 2.01.01I Consider providing incentives to developers that produce affordable housing units as defined by Low CD CD, AO, MO — federal and state agencies. C: 2.01.01J Support an open housing market for all persons, regardless of protected class. On-going CD IL Remove regulatory barriers and develop design criteria that support the construction of accessory 2.01.O1K dwelling units and micro homes where appropriate. Medium CD Ensure the Unified Development Code provides opportunities for diverse and innovative housing 2.01.01E On-going CD options. Q 2.01.01M Support active-adult or independent senior living developments. On-going CD E O Work with the County/State on developing property tax relief programs for seniors and others on U 2.01.01N low/fixed incomes. Low MO 2.01.02 Support a balance of housing tenure and supply and demand. CD N 2.01.02A Regularly monitor property tax revenue and vacancy rates in the rental and ownership market. On-going CD Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. O Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.1. Housing Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.01.02B Coordinate and align public and private housing development to improve consistency with local On-going CD housing agency plans. 2.01.02C Explore ways to encourage diversity of housing tenure and price points. High CD Encourage a variety of housing types that meet the needs, preferences,and financial capabilities of 2.01.02D Meridian's present and future residents. On-going CD 4 Support housing affordability,special-needs housing, ownership opportunities,and housing 2.01.02E rehabilitation through programs administered by the State of Idaho,Ada County, nonprofits,and On-going CD federal agencies. Plan for safe,attractive,and well-maintained neighborhoods that have ample open space, FD, FI,AO, 2.02.00 and generous amenities that provide varied lifestyle choices. CD PR, PD 2.02.01 Elevate and enhance the quality and connectivity of residential site and subdivision planning. CD FD, FI,AO, PR, PD With new subdivision plats, require the design and construction of pathways connections, easy 2.02.01A pedestrian and bicycle access to parks,safe routes to schools,and the incorporation of usable On-going CD PR � open space with quality amenities. E 2.02.01B Evaluate open space and amenity requirement and criteria for consistency with community needs Very High CD PR, PD 0 and values. U L Require all new residential neighborhoods to provide complete streets,consistent with the 2.02.01C Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan. On-going CD FD E L Require pedestrian access in all new development to link subdivisions together and promote 2.02.01D neighborhood connectivity. On-going CD c Encourage the development of high quality,dense residential and mixed use areas near in and O 2.02.01E around Downtown, near employment, large shopping centers, public open s aces and parks,and On-going CD IL � along major transportation corridors,as shown on the Future Land Use Map. > .N Evaluate the potential to incentivize dedication of public school sites, public parks and other open N 2.02.01F spaces,and public access easements to linear open space corridors,which contain bicycle and/or Low CD FI, PR -C a) pedestrian pathway systems. 0- Ensure development provides safe routes and access to schools, parks, and other community E 2.02.01G On-going CD O gathering places. U Evaluate and improve the current grading and stormwater drainage requirements for subdivisions 0 2.02.O1H to ensure they reflect the community's values. Very High PW CD,AO Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.1. Housing Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support Maximize public services by prioritizing infill development of vacant and underdeveloped CD, FI,AO, 2.02.02 parcels within the City over parcels on the fringe. CD PW 2.02.02A Develop standards for upkeep of vacant lots such as dust and weed mitigation requirements. Low PD CD Consider incentives such as density bonuses, reduced open space requirements,and reduced fees 2.02.02B for infill development in key areas near existing services. Very High CD FI,AO, PW Support infill development that does not negatively impact the abutting, existing development. 2.02.02C Infill projects in Downtown should develop at higher densities, irrespective of existing On-going CD development. 2.02.02D Apply appropriate design and construction standards to infill development in order to reduce On-going CD adverse impacts to existing development. 2.02.02E Assist development groups to develop multiple plats into one cohesive plat. On-going CD 2.02.02F Ensure that new development within existing residential neighborhoods is cohesive and Very High CD complementary in design and construction. c Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., E MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. 0 U E c O IL 0 N L CQ C 0 U 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Education, Health, and Community Background Services Educational facilities and programs in the City of Meridian Introduction are provided by the West Ada School District, a growing This element discusses the educational and community variety of charter and private schools, and several college services provided by Meridian and partner organizations and university campuses. K-12 student enrollment growth that enhance Meridian residents' well-being. To address the has placed tremendous demands on schools in the recent physical and mental health needs of the community, a wide past resulting in a record-setting pace of new schools. This array of services are needed, including educational, social, rate of school construction is expected to continue into the cultural, and health services. Some other services, like sewer, foreseeable future, as Meridian and its neighbors continue to water, and transportation, are addressed in other parts of this grow. New school locations require land acquisition and are Plan and are not duplicated here. based on residential density of an area and other build-out factors. To support access to quality lifelong learning opportunities, the City of Meridian seeks to continue joint long range and site planning, continued exploration into multi-use and shared E • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • facilities,and providing increased safety through school resource o Below:The Meridian Senior Center in Kleiner Parl<. officers and efficient use of multi-modal transportation corridors U servicing schools.The City will continue to support appropriate locations of school sites, encourage communication between E 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. a Thoughtful communication and coordination will help to ensure residents in the City of Meridian have accessible and safe educational opportunities. = Partner organizations such as the Meridian Library District, ' I Meridian Senior Center, Meridian Food Bank, Meridian Boys U and Girls Club, and many others also support the community by providing a variety of Important services, facilities, and lip - . °. programs. Even with the increasing demand and availability of digital resources, community facilities still play a key role :E r . f in connecting residents with those services. o - U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Lj rrrrrr r n rr r it r —� rrrirrrr ricr Frr- �J -*Ve:South. radian YMCA ._ •_ _ E c Meridian prides itself on maintaining a safe and caring commune y U where residents of all ages and abilities feel accepted, respected, and connected.The City has developed several initiatives and organizations focused specifically on youth, and has invested in programs and facilities designed for older residents. With the provision of community services and a continuum of care, c Meridian families and individuals have the opportunity to stay IL and thrive in their communities as they age. N For additional information, refer to the following resources: a Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of o Meridian Comprehensive Plan U c a C� L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Policy Direction TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.2. Education and Community Services Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.03.00 Improve coordination of long range City and school district planning. CD, PD FD 2.03.01 Jointly plan and site schools and subdivisions to ensure mutual benefits, neighborhood identity, CD and community health. 2.03.01A Assist West Ada School District in identifying potential future school sites, by providing On-going CD information about anticipated future land uses, utilities,and entitlements. 2.03.0113 Support construction of multi-use facilities that can be used by both schools and the community. On-going CD 2.03.01C Invite West Ada School District staff to pre-application meetings with potential developers and On-going CD discuss school siting and access needs. 2.03.01D Ensure the location and design of schools are compatible with existing and planned On-going CD neighborhoods and land uses. 2.03.01E Work with West Ada School District to locate and connect schools to safe and accessible walking, On-going CD bicycle,transit,and automobile routes. 2.03.02 Coordinate with public safety officials and other local agencies to ensure safe school PD FD environments. Z) 2.03.02A Support educational and training programs lead by school resource officers and neighborhood On-going PD FD o contact officers. U 2.04.00 Support a diverse range of educational opportunities that continues lifelong learning. MO CD, FD, PR, N PD E Partner with schools, non-profits,and other community-based organizations to provide a CD, FD, PR, 2.04.01 variety of educational opportunities throughout all stages of life. MO PD Support a network of public resources,schools,community centers and other public facilities that FD, PR, PD, 2.04.O1A address the city's educational and training needs. On-going MO PW IL Encourage educational institutions and community organizations to provide a broad set of 2.04.0113 programs within the community, including programs for special needs students,early childhood, On-going MO the arts, math and science, English as a Second Language,and life-skills. a) Investigate potential public-private partnerships to provide additional health and educational a) 2.04.01C Medium MO CD, PR Q programs. E Plan for a multi-generational city with adequate public services and health care resources MO PR CD, FD, MO, U 2.05.00 for existing and future residents of all ages. CD, , PR O 2.05.01 Cooperate with other agencies and service providers around the Valley. CD, MO, PR MO, PR, 2.05.01A Identify partnerships that support multi-generational activities. Medium MO PR Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., >_ MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.2. Education and Community Services Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.05.0113 Continue to support the Meridian senior citizens'organization as an important social program in On-going MO PR the community. 2.05.01C Support joint use agreements with the West Ada School District, Meridian Library District,and On-going MO PR other private and non-profit entities. 2.05.01D Coordinate planning efforts and strategic growth of the City with other service providers and local On-going CD MO decision-makers. 2.05.01E Support and encourage involvement of seniors in activities, groups, and volunteer opportunities. On-going MO PR 2.05.01F Support and encourage involvement of community youth in the Mayor's Youth Advisory Council On-going PR MO (MYAQ and other youth activities,groups and volunteer opportunities. 2.05.01G Strengthen public services, programs,and community resources to be responsive to and On-going PR MO representative of Meridian's diversity. 2.05.02 Support access to high-quality emergency care, primary,outpatient, home care, long-term care, MO CD, FD and mental health care within the community. � ft__ 2.05.02A Encourage the expansion of medical service related industries that are needed. On-going MO CD, FD Z) E Priorities.Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. E Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., 0 MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. N E N C O IL N N L CQ C 0 U 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I w yr, R t .7F ♦�rAr�I o hwr�r'f U aw�v. C N encourage and promote a robust and sustalna le economy. — The Economic Excellence element gives context to the City's goals, objectives, and action items regarding economic development and provides the framework for growing Meridian's workforce and economy. Policy decisions reflect Meridian's goal of improving and diversifying the local economy to ensure a sustainable economic tax base. "New investment is increasingly seeking locations based on the a Back round quality of place rather than the utility of location." v 9 - Steve McKnight, Fourth Economy Consultants A strong and diverse business community that is "Built for Business and Designed for Living" is fundamental to the City's vision to be a premier city in which to live, work, and :E grow. As part of its commitment to economic excellence, the o U www.meridiancity.org/compplan The City realizes that the 21st century economy requires For additional information, refer to the following flexibility. Over the last several decades, Meridian has evolved resources: from an economy based primarily on agriculture to one » Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of increasingly based on innovation and creativity. The City is Meridian Comprehensive Plan striving to strengthen its competitive position by creating an » Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan environment and infrastructure where industries can create, » Destination Downtown respond, and adjust rapidly. Several of the goals, objectives, and action items contained in this Comprehensive Plan are meant to improve economic prosperity by ensuring that the economy grows in ways that strengthen industries, retain and create good jobs across a variety of sectors, increase average income, attracts companies willing to pay a living wage, and stimulate economic investment in the community.A strong and diverse economy provides the financial support and stability for Meridian residents that will ensure that public facilities, services, and quality of life are superior. E 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U Below:Graphic from the Destination Downtown vision plan N Q) �� rraf fig Cc�tnn.i.v�g a.t• �vs'f�+'+[- , � � r � Lam. IL Q e r�" U r � _ N o 'lop1 A& j U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Policy Direction TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.3. Economic Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.06.00 Enhance Meridian's economic vitality and position in the local and regional economy. MO CD,P FI, MO, W 2.06.01 Diversify Meridian's economic base to establish and maintain a self-sustaining,full-service MO,CD CD, FI, MO, economy. PW 2.06.01A Provide location-specific standards as incentives to attract high-quality businesses and living-to- Medium MO CD, FI high wage jobs. 2.06.01B Establish methods to support the business community by drafting an Economic Development Plan High CD MO in partnership with the Meridian Chamber of Commerce and Meridian Development Corporation. 2.06.01C Regularly conduct industry market analysis to determine feasibility of existing and emerging On-going CD MO industries to better understand workforce, land use,and transportation needs. 2.06.01D Encourage environmentally-friendly industries. On-going CD MO 2.06.01E Focus on developing industries that tend exceed the living wage, such as technology, healthcare High CD MO >1 and other similar industries. 2.06.02 Support economic opportunities for a community with diverse income levels. On-going CD MO Z) E 2.06.02A Regularly assess changes in local income levels. On-going CD MO E 0 Pursue public-private partnerships and economic development grants that bring additional job U 2.06.0213 opportunities to the community. On-going CD MO Q) 2.06.02C Coordinate with the public, private,and non-profit sectors on possibilities for creating/sustaining On-going CD MO E workforce housing. 2.06.02D Work to encourage a diversity of housing, recreation,and mobility options to attract and sustain On-going CD MO the local workforce. _O Create a business-friendly environment that supports and expands existing business IL 2.07.00 opportunities by developing a diverse and qualified workforce through educational CD MO > partnerships. 0 2.07.01 Promote business retention,expansion,and improvement programs. CD MO C a) 2.07.01A Connect businesses with local,state, regional,and federal resources for incentives, resources,and On-going CD MO 0- opportunities. E O Establish and maintain relationships with existing businesses and industry groups to determine U 2.07.0113 present and future needs. On-going CD MO 2.07.02 Implement a clear development application review process for new and expanding businesses. CD N Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.3. Economic Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.07.02A Streamline the approval process for development proposals that are consistent with the vision and Very High CD values of the community. 2.07.0213 Maintain the integrity of public process and transparency of development review. On-going CD 2.07.02C Encourage developers to engage with the public early in the development proposal process. On-going CD 2.07.02D Review development regulations to ensure an efficient process and remove unnecessarily High CD burdensome costs and delays. 2.07.03 Support innovative workforce development,training,technology,and education to meet the CD needs of a diverse workforce. Coordinate with business leaders and local, regional,state,and non-profitjob-oriented programs 2.07.03A to match existing and anticipated business and industry needs and identify gaps in workforce On-going CD education and training needs. 2.08.00 Proactively recruit and attract new businesses to the area. CD, MO MO,CD, PR 2.08.01 Develop effective marketing tools and regional partnerships. CD MO Z) 2.08.01A Develop and maintain marketing materials to share with targeted industries. High CD E Strengthen relationships with economic development sources for new business referrals and E 2.08.01B On-going CD MO 0 opportunities. U Pursue economic development opportunities with technology, healthcare,environmentally- 2.08.02 friendly manufacturing, light industrial,and professional service industries. MO CD, PR E N Make Meridian the premier place to create,attract, and retain high-quality businesses and a 2.08.02A talented workforce. On-going MO CD, PR c 2.08.02B Capitalize on the City's central location by promoting more tourism and business growth along On-going MO CD entryways and key corridors. IL 0 Encourage new dynamic,sustainable,and collaborative opportunities that enhance Meridian's 2.08.03 existing and planned industrial nodes. MO, CD CD 0 Keep the Future Land Use Map current by defining appropriate locations for industrial, commercial, 2.08.03A and office businesses. On-going CD Q E 2.08.03B Identify and consider services and programs desired by potential businesses within the industrial Medium MO CD 0 areas. C 2.08.03C Work with existing industrial businesses to expand or relocate operations to appropriate areas. On-going MO CD 2.09.00 Create positive,vibrant,and accessible commercial activity centers within the community. CD, MO, PR CD, FI, MO, PR Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. 0 Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 2.3. Economic Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 2.09.01 Support redevelopment and infill opportunities Downtown. CD CD, FI, MO, PR 2.09.01A Pursue public-private partnerships to develop parking facilities. High CD FI, MO 2.09.01B Establish incentives to develop gathering spaces and civic facilities within Downtown. High CD FI, PR 2.09.01C Work towards mitigating and removing floodplain issues around Downtown. High PW CD 2.09.01D Pursue grant and other funding mechanisms to fund complete street and streetscape On-going CD improvements. 2.09.01E Explore incentives for targeted projects that meet economic development goals. High CD 2.09.02 Integrate and maintain quality public spaces throughout Downtown for recreation,social,and CD, MO, PR MO civic activities. 2.09.02A Actively implement action items in the Destination Downtown Plan. High MO CD 2.09.02B Pursue grants and public-private partnerships to enhance Downtown. On-going CD 2.09.02C Develop programs with local partners to expand art, cultural,and educational facilities in Medium PR MO Z) D E Develop and support regular cultural activities and events Downtown, in partnership with the U 2.09.02D Medium PR MO Downtown Business Association and other organizations. N 2.09.02E Implement consistent landscaping, lighting,and historic preservation standards. On-going CD E 2.09.02F Support a compatible mix of land uses Downtown that activate the area during day and night. On-going CD Implement the City of Meridian Design Standards and City of Meridian Architectural Standards — 2.09.02G Manual to ensure that Downtown remains the historic center for mixed-use tourism, business, On-going CD retail, residential,and governmental activities. IL 2.09.03 Cultivate unique and diverse destination-type activities within Meridian's centers. CD, PR MO,CD .N 2.09.03A Establish distinct,engaging identities within commercial and mixed use centers through design High CD N standards. 2.09.03B Promote Ten Mile, Downtown,and The Village as centers of activity and growth. On-going CD Q 2.09.03C Support public-private partnerships that provide plazas and public areas within activity centers. On-going PR MO, CD p 2.09.03D Develop a collaborative economic development strategy to recruit new businesses. High CD Develop concept plans of potential destination activities and promote appropriate development, 2.09.03E infill,and redevelopment of activity centers. Low CD Priorities:Very High= Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., p MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan ■ EVOLVING COMMUNITYVISION EVOLVING COMMUNITY A community thoughtfullyadapting Overview Since 1990, Meridian has experienced exponential growth, becoming the second largest city in Idaho and one of the top The Plan embraces Meridian as an Evolving Community by ten fastest growing cities in the nation. Due to the desirability focusing on strategically planning for future growth.It provides of the area, population growth will continue. Over the last 20 new land use tools to ensure strategic and sustainable growth years, property in and around Meridian has changed from through the provision of services and infrastructure consistent primarily agricultural and single-family residential to include with this Plan's vision. Essential to community health is the a more diverse mix of residential types and commercial and promotion of responsible land use and growth by ensuring industrial uses. That trend will continue as land traditionally that development pays for itself and enhances the quality and used for agriculture develops at urban intensities. However, character of the community. Reinventing key areas, supporting the foremost goals will remain to grow the city as a premier infill, and focusing growth in strategic areas support an efficient j and high-quality development pattern that aligns with the place to live, work, and play. E availability and capacity of services and infrastructure. E 0 U As part of the Evolving Community Vision, the following 0) .--- -- =--�=- -�— elements are included in this chapter: > Growth and Population I-Y » Land Use 7 » Utilities and Infrastructure U - i•C NMI" N go • -x E ,:, r •; Left:Artistic rendering of potential development with economic opportunities,mixed residential U y neighborhoods,and quality services and amenities. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Growth and Population Background Introduction Understanding the implications of changing demographics and population projections enables a community to anticipate The Growth and Population element reinforces the City's and effectively plan for future market conditions and how best commitment to meet and protect the needs of existing residents to meet its residents' future needs. COMPASS, the agency and businesses in tandem with future population growth and responsible for regional transportation planning, estimates land development. Policies in this section address how to that by 2040 the regional population total will exceed 1 million plan for the redevelopment of properties already within the people. At the center of all this, very conservative estimates corporate boundaries of the City and its Area of City Impact, put Meridian's population at over 160,000 people in the same and guide growth to priority areas, all while protecting private time period.COMPASS updates these numbers yearly to reflect property rights. recent growth. As Meridian continues to grow and respond to development pressure, it is important to employ tools and planning protocols that guide responsible development and the expansion of public utilities and services. c The City of Meridian's leaders and staff adopt and enforce E policies and regulations that govern the City, in addition to U applicable state and federal laws. Meridian is committed o, to authentic citizen engagement in government through P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p Below:Treasure Valley Kite Festival > participation on boards, commissions, and committees, as o j well as through public feedback as part of planning initiatives. w _ Area of City Impact In accord with § 67-6526 of Idaho Code, unincorporated properties within the City's Area of City Impact (AOCI) are governed by Ada County for day-to-day administration of zoning matters. However, there is an agreement between a Ada County and Meridian for the Area of City Impact. This E `y agreement states that the current Meridian Comprehensive (j Y.: Plan will apply within the City's established AOCI. � C �L o �J U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Within the AOCI, the county has generally applied a Rural quality development, fiscal impact, and compatibility with Urban Transition (RUT)zone which permits five-acre-lot, single- Meridian's Unified Development Code, among other attributes family residential development, as well as agricultural-related the community values regarding growth and population. uses and a range of conditional uses. County development applications within the AOCI are reviewed by the City of Property Rights Meridian for compliance with the comprehensive plan and The City of Meridian respects the rights of its citizens and applicable City policies. their property, and is committed to counter negligence, abuse or devaluing of private property by others. Residents should The City of Meridian desires, over time, all development within feel their private property rights are respected and secure. its Area of City Impact to be served with urban services from See Appendix C for a checklist used in reviewing proposed the City of Meridian. Such services primarily include sanitary regulations or actions to ensure compliance with private sewer,water, reclaimed water,fire, police,and parks.Secondarily, property rights. the City considers the availability and capacity of the school system, transportation facilities, libraries, and storm water For additional information, refer to the following resources: facilities in any review of development within the AOCI. All requests for annexation into the City limits will require that the » Existing Conditions Report: Addendum to the City of E owner extend City-owned services at the time of development. Meridian Comprehensive Plan o » Ada County Code, Title 9, Chapter 4: Meridian Area of U The importance of cooperating with Ada County and City Impact neighboring cities is imperative to successful long-term land Communities in Motion 2040 2.0 0 use,transportation,and utility planning.There are very significant » Appendix C: Regulatory Takings Checklist w' financial and quality-of-life implications for not doing so. As — such, the City of Meridian is committed to fulfilling the terms of its Area of City Impact Agreement with Ada County and coordinating with adjacent service providers. N Meridian aims to guide growth in a way that efficiently expands infrastructure and services to support sustainable growth a patterns. Targeting the right development and growing o responsibly—in the right locations with the right services—is U the foundation of the Evolving Community Vision. Plans for specific areas,corridors,and infrastructure provide the next level of detail for implementation of the vision, including o Urban Renewal Districts and Opportunity Zones.These following ,, policies address utility and service expansion, transportation, U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 3.1. Growth and Population Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 3.01.00 Recognize that Meridian's population will continue to grow and positively foster Meridian's CD All continued growth. 3.01.01 Provide facilities and services that maintain a premier level of service commensurate with CD All growth. 3.01.01A Evaluate comprehensive impacts of growth and consider City Master Plans and Strategic Plans in On-going CD All all land use decisions(e.g.,traffic impacts,school enrollment, and parks). 3.01.01B Update the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code as needed to accommodate the On-going CD community's needs and growth trends. 3.01.01C Ensure that regulations and plans support and encourage desired development and land use On-going CD patterns within the Area of City Impact. 3.01.01D Evaluate development proposals based on consistency with the vison as well as physical,social, High CD economic,environmental,and aesthetic criteria. 3.01.01E Coordinate with the City of Nampa,Canyon County, Star, Eagle, Kuna, Boise, and Ada County on On-going CD All c land use,transportation, and emergency services. 3.02.00 Maintain, improve,and expand the City's infrastructure to meet existing and growing FI, MO, PW All,CD, FI, demands in a timely,orderly,and logical manner. HR U 3.02.01 Develop and implement master plans for all public facilities,services,and safety to guide the FI, MO, PW All, CD, FI, growth of the City. HR 3.02.01A Provide City utilities in high priority growth areas and discourage in low priority growth areas. On-going PW 0 w Protect investments in existing public facilities(water,sewer, streets,fire, police,etc.) by ensuring 3.02.01B extension of services by new development is in the best interest of the City. On-going PW CD C: 0 Utilize preferred methods of communication with citizens and engage their input on public IL 3.02.O1C facilities planning,construction,and funding. On-going PW N Support the appropriate expansion of City facilities, services, staff,and other resources to keep up 3.02.O1D with demand and established levels of service. On going PW CD, FI, HR Phase-in developments in accordance with their connection to the municipal sewer and water 3.02.01E system and the provision of other necessary infrastructure and services. On-going PW CD Q Maintain an efficient and fair system of fees and development requirements that assesses the costs U 3.02.01F and benefits of financing public facilities and services,the need for which is generated by new On-going FI CD, PW C development. 2 3.02.01G Establish and maintain levels of service for public facilities and services, including water,sewer, High MO All police,transportation,schools,fire,and parks. Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to S years;Low=S to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. O Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO=Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 3.1. Growth and Population Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 3.03.00 Direct and prioritize development in strategic areas and in accordance with corridor and CD, PW All, CD,AO, special area plans. PW Plan for an appropriate land use mix, recreational and civic facilities,and phased service 3.03.01 extension within specific area plans and urban renewal districts. CD, PW All,CD 3.03.01A Continue to develop and implement the desired vision in special areas, areas with specific plans, On-going CD and along key transportation corridors. Actively engage with City leadership and community members to explore the idea, process,and 3.03.0113 potential impacts of implementing districts, subareas, neighborhood association areas,or similar On-going CD concepts. Consider developing new subarea plans as appropriate for areas with unique characteristics, 3.03.01C public/private partnerships in place,and that are compatible with Comprehensive Plan policies in Very High CD All order to provide additional guidance on future land uses,design, infrastructure,and amenities. 3.03.O1D Ensure that adequate water supply and pressure are available for fire protection in areas suitable On-going PW for industrial and commercial uses. 3.03.01E Encourage infill development. High CD 3.03.02 Prioritize growth and development where it furthers the City's vision and allows for the efficient CD, PW All,CD (j provision of services. Engage with service providers,City leadership,and community members to identify priority 3.03.02A Very High CD All growth areas. p 3.03.0213 Focus future investments within established priority growth areas. On-going CD All LU 3.03.02C Utilize the City's Service Impact Tool to help identify potential strategic growth areas. On-going CD All As part of establishing and implementing strategic growth areas,consider including targeted IL redevelopment/opportunity areas within the Area of City Impact,areas within the City limits N 3.03.02D and within a specified distance of major utility connections,and unincorporated county enclaves Very High CD All N suitable for annexation. N 3.03.02E Develop incentives for appropriate investment in strategic growth areas;discourage development Very High CD All Q outside of established growth areas. Require proposed development within areas further away from urban services,existing utilities U or requiring significant City utility upgrades,to demonstrate fiscal benefits,strategic fit with the 3.03.02F Comprehensive Plan,contiguity with existing development,and appropriate mitigation for any On-going CD impacts to existing City service users. Priorities:VeryHigh = Current!/Immediate) ;High =1 to 3 ears;Medium =3 to 5 ears;Low=5 to 10 ears;and On-going regularly or at ever opportunity. 9 Y Y 9 Y Y Y 9 9 = 9 Y Y � Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 3.1. Growth and Population Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 3.03.02G Build and provide services in a manner that promotes the vision of priority growth areas, On-going PW CD reinforcing and protecting Meridian's growth objectives. 3.03.02H Require rural area residential development to submit alternative development plan to allow for the On-going PW CD efficient extension of urban services in the future(resubdivision plan). Annex lands into the corporate boundaries of the City only when the annexation proposal 3.03.03 conforms to the City's vision and the necessary extension of public services and infrastructure PW, CD CD,All is provided. Ensure development is connected to City of Meridian water and sanitary sewer systems and the 3.03.03A extension to and through said developments are constructed in conformance with the City of On-going CD PW Meridian Water and Sewer System Master Plans in effect at the time of development. 3.03.03B Implement an irrevocable consent to annexation as a condition of hook-up to City sanitary sewer On-going PW CD or water and make a deed restriction on all buildable lots to be placed as a note on all final plats. Require all City sewer and water inspections and plan review fees(for the main lines) in effect at 3.03.03C the time of development be paid to the City of Meridian.the PW CD 3.03.03D Require all development to be consistent with Future Land Use Map designations for the property. On-going CD 3.03.03E Require all development to be contiguous to the City. On-going CD U Permit new development only where it can be adequately served by critical public facilities and 3.03.03F urban services at the time of final approval,and in accord with any adopted levels of service for On-going CD All public facilities and services. p Require urban infrastructure be provided for all new developments, including curb and gutter, LU 3.03.03G sidewalks,water and sewer utilities. On going CD c 3.03.03H Evaluate both the short and longer-term fiscal and environmental impacts of annexing lands. On-going CD All U IL Evaluate the feasibility of annexing existing county enclaves and discourage the creation of N 3.03.03I additional enclaves. On-going CD N Encourage the assembly of parcels for master planning, design and entitlement purposes; � 3.03.03J discourage piecemeal annexation and development. On-going CD Q 3.03.04 Plan for transportation connectivity and the provision of adequate urban utilities and services CD AO, PW E for county enclaves. U 3.03.04A Plan for connectivity between annexed parcels and county enclaves that may develop at a higher On-going CD C intensity. 3.03.04B Ensure existing county enclaves provide necessary urban-level transportation and utility On-going CD PW N infrastructure as part of the annexation process. Priorities:Very High= Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. O Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 3.1. Growth and Population Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support Consider the establishment of improvement districts,extra-ordinary impact fee areas,and other 3.03.04C funding mechanisms to provide the necessary urban infrastructure and services for existing county High CD AO, PW enclaves. 3.04.00 Shape the future of the City through implementation and coordination of long range CD,IT, MO All,CD, PW planning efforts. Advance,support,and promote development of City planning tools, including the 3.04.01 Comprehensive Plan,City ordinances, plans,and other guiding documents that execute the CD, IT, MO All, PW City's vision. 3.04.01A Promote the Comprehensive Plan as the primary guide for growth and development of the On-going CD community. 3.04.0113 Maintain and update the Unified Development Code and Future Land Use Map to implement the On-going CD provisions of this Comprehensive Plan. 3.04.O1C Support and expand the capabilities of all City Departments and Staff to better serve the On-going MO All community. 3.04.O1D Maintain, update, and find better ways to use Geographic Information Systems(GIS) in everyday On-going IT All, PW City business and for project-specific purposes. O 3.04.01E Monitor the progress of the Comprehensive Plan implementation plan to ensure steady progress. On-going CD U Review the policies within the adopted Comprehensive Plan on a regular basis and update as 3.04.01F On-going MO All needed to ensure that they reflect, support,and advance the City's vision. p Participate in planning efforts with COMPASS and affiliated local governments and agencies to LU 3.04.01G better coordinate planning policies regionally. On going CD PW c Organize and fund committees or special commissions consistent with the provisions of this 3.04.01H Comprehensive Plan. On-going MO All IL N Enforce the Unified Development Code and all other City ordinances and ensure their alignment 3.04.01I with the Comprehensive Plan. On-going CD 3.04.02 Engage and inform the public about land use planning processes. CD, MO CD Q 3.04.02A Solicit public participation in the land use and entitlement process through a variety of digital and On going CD in person methods. U 3.04.0213 Hold public meetings in conjunction with updates to the Comprehensive Plan to promote a better On-going MO CD understanding of the plan and its purpose. Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 3.1. Growth and Population Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support Convey the Comprehensive Plan's legal elements and intent by informing and educating the 3.04.02C public,agencies and service providers,advisory boards and other stakeholders to improve the On-going CD overall planning process. 3.04.02D Improve the neighborhood meeting and public notice process. Very High CD AO Ensure that all planning,zoning and land use decisions balance the interests of the 3.05.00 community by protecting private property rights for current citizens and future AO CD generations. Enact land use ordinances, policies,and fees,and make decisions, including land use 3.05.01 restrictions and conditions of approval,that do not violate private property rights. AO CD Conduct regular training with City Council, Planning &Zoning Commission,and City staff to 3.05.01A ensure that Idaho Code§67-8003 is properly applied in land use planning and development review On-going AO CD processes. 3.05.01B Regularly review policies,the Unified Development Code,and other City regulations for On-going AO CD consistency with Idaho Code. Preserve private property rights and values by enforcing regulations that will prevent and mitigate 3.05.01C against incompatible and detrimental neighboring uses. On-going AO CD E O Priorities:Very High = Currentlyllmmediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. U Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. > O LU C O IL N N L CQ C 0 U 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Future Land Use in the area, and preservation and enhancements of the high Introduction quality of life that currently exists in Meridian. The policies in this section are graphically represented in the Future Land The Future Land Use element emphasizes the importance of Use Map. thoughtful and responsible land use planning, cooperation, and collaboration among the various jurisdictions and agencies Background Planning in a deliberate manner, with an understanding of and Corridors market,financial, and physical realities, can help foster a healthy Transportation, Land balance of land uses and minimize uncertainty for officials, The transportation network plays especially _ staff, residents, and others. Land use planning is an important • on, types, balance • land-uses across the City. Two types tool in attracting and retaining the residents, businesses, and corridorsof - Chapterrelevant_ -rticularlythe land _ policiesare visitors that sustain the community's economy and contribute below.defined • _ on transportation - to a city's high quality of life. As such, it is important to •n. continually evaluate what changes are needed to ensure that use integratithe community grows the way it desires. Key Multimodal Corridors: These corridors have land uses with the The location and balance of land uses and densities should be o potential . support future multimodal •• •n,including transit. U efficient and sustainable; enhance community identity; support 0) Fairview Avenue/Cherry Lane J Overland •..d a multimodal transportation network; provide housing choices _ nearjobs, schools, shops, and parks; minimize conflicts between o Meridian ■ •''' incompatible uses; and integrate development with existing w' CorridorRailroad .. and planned infrastructure. See the Transportation element in the Connectivity Chapter of this Plan for more information _o TransportationIL Key . .rs: These corridors are important on Transportation and Land Use Integration. � regional .N nd community identity,and may require special • •- • •• For additional information, refer to the following resources: Chinclen Linder Q Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of E Ustick L- Lake Hazel Meridian Comprehensive Plan U ■ Highway16 » ACHD Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan RailroadFairview/Cherry 1Franklin 13 Ten Mile Corridor 13 Meridiano Overland ■ Eagle U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Future Land Use Map Difference between Mapping future land uses is a key component of the Future Land Use andZoning Comprehensive Plan, so that development occurs in the _ Comprehensive . s Future Land _ descriptions . nd direction and manner most desired by the community. map work in tandem with the Plan's policies to help direct The Future Land Use Map (FLUM) identifies the vision for a development patterns citywide to achieve the #MyMeridian portfolio of land uses to implement the City's many diverse Vision.They determine the desired character of new develop- goals and objectives, and works in conjunction with the text ment, range of densities allowed,and intensity and mix of uses. of the Comprehensive Plan, City Code and various policies of The City of Meridian - - .. - Code the City. In addition, the FLUM is closely aligned with ACHD's defines - of zoning . - Master Street Map (MSM). The MSM is the transportation specific in terms of allowed uses andother development equivalent of the City's Future Land use Map and reflects a operational - built-out collector and arterial street network. The FLUM is _ _ _ _ not a zoning map and differs in that the FLUM describes the land development_' ' determine character and type of use that is desired in the future andzoning_ ' project not necessarily what is currently in place. The FLUM depicts aannexation _ _ allowances built-out Meridian that is very diverse in residential densities, ' property 0 commercial and industrial land uses as well as civic/public use designations and zoning districtsdesignation' ' opportunities. one with each other. Some future land use descriptions in this chapter .- sample zoning.Sample > 0 Descriptions of the various future land use designations that zoning listed does not preclude the use of other zoning w appear on the FLUM are described on the following pages. districts provided "' project is c The FLUM is shown in Appendix D. the description of ' use designation. 0 n 0 Contact the Meridian Planning Division for more informa- (D Symbols tion on what zoning districts typically apply to the variousAll "future" symbols shown on the Future Land Use Map, such Future Land as parks, schools, fire and police stations, transit stations, etc., a represent generalized locations based on the best information E the City has to date. All such symbol locations are to be U considered conceptual and not exact locations. All "existing" symbols shown on the Future Land Use Map for parks, schools, fire and police stations, etc. represent precise locations based on the facilities in place at the time of Plan adoption. 0 U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan I Y^ 1 S- L C: ms. I I 0 e 0 n d U, c Future Land Use designations are not parcel specific.An adjacent, in following pages. o abutting designation,when appropriate and approved as part "' of a public hearing with a land development application, may be Within residential areas the following ideas and policies shall used.A designation may not be used however, across planned apply: 0 or existing collector or arterial roadways, must not be used a� on a parcel not directly abutting the designation, and may » The Comprehensive Plan encourages a variety not apply to more than 50% of the land being developed. All of product types and lot sizes within every other changes to designations must be approved through a neighborhood. o Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment. Sample zoning listed in » Gross residential densities are rounded to the nearest E the future land use designation descriptions does not preclude whole number. o » At the discretion of City Council, areas with a the use of other zoning districts provided the proposed project c is consistent with the description of the land use designation. Residential Comprehensive Plan designation may request an office use if the property only has •� Residential Land Uses frontage on an arterial street or section line road and is two acres or less in size. In this instance, no 0 The purpose of this designation is to provide for a variety ancillary commercial uses shall be permitted. tz of housing types and densities varying from large estate U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Low Density Residential High Density Residential This designation allows for the development of single-family This designation allows for the development of multi-family homes on large and estate lots at gross densities of three homes in areas where high levels of urban services are provided dwelling units or less per acre. These areas often transition and where residential gross densities exceed twelve dwelling between existing rural residential and urban properties. units per acre. Development might include duplexes, apartment Developments need to respect agricultural heritage and buildings, townhouses, and other multi-unit structures. A resources, recognize view sheds and open spaces, and maintain desirable project would consider the placement of parking or improve the overall atmosphere of the area. The use of areas, fences, berms, and other landscaping features to serve open spaces, parks,trails, and other appropriate means should as transitions between neighboring uses. These areas are enhance the character of the area. Density bonuses may be compact within the context of larger neighborhoods and are considered with the provision of additional public amenities typically located around or near mixed use commercial or such as a park, school, or land dedicated for public services. employment areas to provide convenient access to services and jobs for residents. Developments need to incorporate Medium Density Residential high quality architectural design and materials and thoughtful This designation allows for dwelling units at gross densities of site design to ensure quality of place;they should incorporate connectivity with adjacent uses and area pathways, attractive three to eight dwelling units per acre. Density bonuses may be E considered with the provision of additional public amenities landscaping, gathering spaces and amenities, and a project U such as a park, school, or land dedicated for public services. identity. o, Medium High Density Residential Commercial Land Uses w This designation allows for a mix of dwelling types including This designation will provide a full range of commercial uses townhouses, condominiums, and apartments. Residential to serve area residents and visitors. Desired uses may include gross densities should range from eight to twelve dwelling retail, restaurants, personal and professional services, and IL units per acre. These areas are relatively compact within the office uses, as well as appropriate public and quasi-public context of larger neighborhoods and are typically located uses. Multi-family residential may be allowed in some cases, around or near mixed use commercial or employment areas to but should be careful to promote a high quality of life through provide convenient access to services and jobs for residents. thoughtful site design, connectivity, and amenities. Sample a Developments need to incorporate high quality architectural zoning include: C-N, C-C, and C-G. o design and materials and thoughtful site design to ensure U quality of place and should also incorporate connectivity with Office Land Uses a adjacent uses and area pathways, attractive landscaping and This designation will provide opportunities for low-impact a a project identity. business areas.These uses would include professional offices, ]�i technology and resource centers;ancillary commercial uses may o be considered (particularly within research and development centers or technological parks). Sample zoning include L-O. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Industrial Land Uses Mixed Use Land Uses This designation allows a range of uses that support industrial and In general, the purpose of this designation is to provide for a commercial activities.Industrial uses may include warehouses, combination of compatible land uses within a close geographic storage units, light manufacturing, flex, and incidental retail area that allows for easily accessible and convenient services for and offices uses. In some cases uses may include processing, residents and workers.The intent is to promote developments manufacturing, warehouses, storage units, and industrial that offer functional and physical integration of land uses, support activities. Sample zoning include: I-L and I-H. to create and enhance neighborhood sense of place, and to allow developers a greater degree of design and use flexibility. Old Town Land Uses This designation includes the historic downtown and the true Uses can be mixed vertically, such as a building with retail on community center. The boundary of the Old Town district the ground floor and offices above, or horizontally, such as predominantly follows Meridian's historic plat boundaries. In a healthcare center with a mix of doctor offices, pharmacy, several areas, both sides of a street were incorporated into the beauty salon, assisted care facilities,and apartments. Mixed use boundary to encourage similar uses and complimentary design areas tend to have higher floor area ratios (less area devoted of the facingp houses and buildings. Sample uses include offices, to parking), open space, and interconnected vehicular and retail and lodging, theatres, restaurants, and service retail for pedestrian networks. A Mixed Use designation is typically E used to identify a key area within the City which is either infill 0 surrounding residents and visitors. A variety of residential in nature or situated in a highly visible or transitioning area U uses are also envisioned and could include reuse of existing 0 buildings, new construction of multi-family residential over where innovative and flexible designs are encouraged. ground floor retail or office uses. There are five sub-categories of the Mixed Use designation w' The City has developed specific architectural standards for Old that are used throughout the City: Neighborhood, Community, Town and other traditional neighborhood areas. Pedestrian Regional, Interchange, and Non-Residential. This section U further describes the purpose, intent, and development amenities are emphasized in Old Town via streetscape standards. Additional public and quasi-public amenities and outdoor standards for these sub-categories.In addition,there are three gathering area are encouraged. Future planning in Old Town sub-categories of the Mixed Use designation that are solely a, will be reviewed in accordance with Destination Downtown, a used in the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area: Commercial, Residential, and Lifestyle Center. Mixed Use designations in visioning document for redevelopment in Downtown Meridian. E Please see Chapter 2 Premier Community for more information the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area are different than those 0 on Destination Downtown. Sample zoning include O-T. throughout the rest of the City and are not subject to this C section. For detailed descriptions of the land use designations in the Ten Mile area, go directly to the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan. :E 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan FIGURE 3A: GENERAL MIXED USE CONCEPT DIAGRAM 1_ --L-LJLJ I i Connectivity Single Family Residential Townhouses or Condos olle Open oca or c or oa Space - 4 Multi-family 4 4 4 u Transit c Stop Office, 1-6 4 E live-work,or 4--4 U Townhouses �- Commercial/ o Retail Core w' Office or Service Use Plaza 1 Open Space Arterial Road E 0 U c For the purposes of the Mixed Use section, the City identifies 3. residential; five different land use types: 4. civic (includes public and quasi-public open space, ]�i parks, entertainment venues, etc.); and, o 1. commercial (includes retail, restaurants, etc.); 5. industrial. >_ 2. office; U www.meridiancity.org/compplan All development in Mixed Use areas fall within one of these five » Community-serving facilities such as hospitals, clinics, categories.Industrial uses are typically discouraged in residential churches, schools, parks, daycares, civic buildings, or mixed use areas. However, if the developer can demonstrate public safety facilities are expected in larger mixed that industrial uses are compatible and appropriate in Mixed use developments. Use Regional (MU-R), Mixed Use Non-Residential (MU-NR), » Supportive and proportional public and/or quasi- or Mixed Use Interchange (MU-I) areas, the City will consider public spaces and places including but not limited to industrial uses when proposed as part of a larger Mixed Use parks, plazas, outdoor gathering areas, open space, development. libraries, and schools are expected; outdoor seating areas at restaurants do not count. In reviewing development applications, the following items » Mixed use areas should be centered around spaces will be considered in all Mixed Use areas: that are well-designed public and quasi-public centers of activity. Spaces should be activated A mixed use project should include at least three and incorporate permanent design elements and types of land uses. Exceptions may be granted for amenities that foster a wide variety of interests smaller sites on a case-by-case basis. This land ranging from leisure to play. These areas should be use is not intended for high density residential thoughtfully integrated into the development and E development alone. further placemaking opportunities considered. o Where appropriate, higher density and/or multi- » All mixed use projects should be accessible to U family residential development is encouraged for adjacent neighborhoods by both vehicles and projects with the potential to serve as employment pedestrians. Pedestrian circulation should be o destination centers and when the project is adjacent convenient and interconnect different land use types. w' to US 20/26, SH-55, SH-16 or SH-69. Vehicle connectivity should not rely on arterial streets — Mixed Use areas are typically developed under a for neighborhood access. master or conceptual plan; during an annexation » A mixed use project should serve as a public or rezone request, a development agreement will transit location for future park-and-ride lots, bus typically be required for developments with a Mixed stops, shuttle bus stops and/or other innovative or Use designation. alternative modes of transportation. In developments where multiple commercial and/or » Alleys and roadways should be used to transition office buildings are proposed, the buildings should from dissimilar land uses, and between residential o be arranged to create some form of common, usable densities and housing types. U area, such as a plaza or green space. » Because of the parcel configuration within Old The site plan should depict a transitional use and/ Town, development is not subject to the Mixed Use or landscaped buffering between commercial standards listed herein. :E and existing low- or medium-density residential o development. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Mixed Use Neighborhood (MU-N) and residential land uses is particularly critical in MU-N areas. The purpose of this designation is to assign areas where Tree-lined, narrow streets are encouraged. Developments are neighborhood-serving uses and dwellings are seamlessly also encouraged to be designed according to the conceptual integrated into the urban fabric. The intent is to avoid MU-N plan depicted in Figure 3B. predominantly single-use developments by incorporating a In reviewing development applications, the following items variety of uses. Land uses in these areas should be primarily will be considered in MU-N areas: residential with supporting non-residential services. Non- residential uses in these areas tend to be smaller scale and Development should comply with the items listed for provide goods or services that people typically do not travel far development in all Mixed Use areas. for(approximately one mile) and need regularly. Employment Residential uses should comprise a minimum of 40% opportunities for those living in the neighborhood are of the development area at gross densities ranging encouraged.Connectivity and access between the non-residential from 6 to 12 units/acre. FIGURE 3B: MIXED USE NEIGHBORHOOD CONCEPT DIAGRAM » Non-residential buildings should be proportional t0 and blend in with residential buildings. j Three specific design elements should be E Single Family incorporated into a mixed use development: a) street o Residential connectivity, b) open space, and c) pathways. U "1 » Unless a structure contains a mix of both residential Apartments, and office, or residential and commercial land uses, Four pleas ` -- maximum building size should be limited to a 20,000 or Duplexes p .- square-foot building footprint. For the development — of public school sites, the maximum building size f f does not apply. ® a Plaza Area J I Supportive and proportional public and/orqu asi- public spaces and places such as parks, plazas, Office or outdoor gathering areas, open space, libraries, 5erkeUse and schools should comprise a minimum of 10% a —� of the development area. Outdoor seating areas at o I restaurants do not count towards this requirement. U » Where the development proposes public and quasi- public uses to support the development above the o` o c3 0 '4 W ©T.4 p p minimum 10%, the developer may be eligible for Collector Road additional residential densities and/or an increase to 0 the maximum building footprint. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan A straight or curvilinear grid or radiating street Mixed Use Community (MU-Q pattern is encouraged for residential areas, and most The purpose of this designation is to allocate areas where blocks should be no more than 500' to 600' long, community-serving uses and dwellings are seamlessly integrated similar to Old Town or Heritage Commons; larger into the urban fabric. The intent is to integrate a variety of blocks are allowed along arterial streets. uses, including residential, and to avoid mainly single-use and Sample uses appropriate in MU-N areas include: alley-loaded strip commercial type buildings. Non-residential buildings in single-family homes,townhouses, multi-family developments, these areas have a tendency to be larger than in Mixed Use neighborhood grocer, drug stores, coffee/sandwich/ice-cream Neighborhood (MU-N) areas, but not as large as in Mixed Use shops, vertically integrated buildings, live-work spaces, dry Regional (MU-R) areas. Goods and services in these areas tend cleaner/laundromat, salons/spas, daycares, neighborhood- to be of the variety that people will mainly travel by car to, but scale professional offices, gift shops, schools, parks, churches, also walk or bike to (up to three or four miles). Employment clubhouses, public uses, and other appropriate neighborhood- opportunities for those living in and around the neighborhood scale uses. Sample zoning include: R-8, R-15,TN-R,TN-C, L-O, are encouraged. Developments are encouraged to be designed and C-N. according to the conceptual MU-C plan depicted in Figure 3C. c In reviewing development applications, the following items E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . will be considered in MU-C areas: U Below:The Village at Meridian » Development should comply with the general guidelines for development in all Mixed Use areas. o All developments should have a mix of at least three w' land use types. » Residential uses should comprise a minimum of 20% a of the development area at gross densities ranging from 6 to 15 units/acre. N Non-residential buildings should be proportional to and blend in with adjacent residential buildings. a Vertically integrated structures are encouraged. Unless a structure contains a mix of both residential o and office, or residential and commercial land uses, U c maximum building size should be limited to a 30,000 - square-foot building footprint. For community a� - grocery stores, the maximum building size should be :E limited to a 60,000 square-foot building footprint. For o i��• the development of public school sites, the maximum ` building size does not apply. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Supportive and proportional public and/or quasi- Sample uses appropriate in MU-C areas include: All MU-N public spaces and places including but not limited to categories, community grocer, clothing stores, garden centers, parks, plazas, outdoor gathering areas, open space, hardware stores, restaurants, banks, drive-thru facilities, libraries, and schools that comprise a minimum of auto service station, and retail shops, and other appropriate 5% of the development area are required. Outdoor community-serving uses. Sample zoning include: R-15, R-40, seating areas at restaurants do not count towards TN-R, TN-C, C-C, and L-O. this requirement. Where the development proposes public and quasi- Mixed Use Regional (MU-R) public uses to support the development above the The purpose of this designation is to provide a mix of minimum 5%, the developer may be eligible for employment, retail, and residential dwellings and public uses additional residential densities and/or an increase to near major arterial intersections. The intent is to integrate a the maximum building footprint. 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 FIGURE 3C: MIXED USE COMMUNITY CONCEPT DIAGRAM a regional draw with the appropriate supporting uses. For E example, an employment center should have supporting retail U Single Family uses; a retail center should have supporting residential uses o, Residential as well as supportive neighborhood and community services. Apartments, } E o The standards for the MU-R designation provide an incentive o �.__ -� f �_JL w Four-plexesc �o for larger public and quasi-public uses where they provide or Duplexes Ryla� s .. — Office, LocalorcollectorRoad Day-care or a meaningful and appropriate mix to the development. The LJ 0 Service Use developments are encouraged to be designed consistent with the conceptual MU-R plan depicted in Figure 3D. Integrated Plaza Area —•- v a In reviewing development applications, the following items a will be considered in MU-R areas: a Office or p Q Service Use © d E Development should generally comply with the o Retail Use general guidelines for development in all Mixed Use I I areas. I� » Residential uses should comprise a minimum of 10% of the development area at gross densities ranging � - from 6 to 40 units/acre. o Arterial Road >, www.meridiancity.org/comppIan There is neither a minimum nor maximum imposed planned and dedicated, the project would be eligible on non-retail commercial uses such as office, clean for two additional acres of retail development. industry, or entertainment uses. » For active open space or passive recreation areas, Retail commercial uses should comprise a maximum such as a park, tot-lot, or playfield, the developer of 50% of the development area. 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 Where the development proposes public and quasi-public uses additional acres of retail development. to support the development, the developer may be eligible » For plazas that are integrated into a retail project, for additional area for retail development(beyond the allowed the developer would be eligible for a 6:1 bonus. 50%), based on the ratios below: Such plazas should provide a focal point (such as a fountain, statue, and water feature), seating areas, For land that is designated for a public use, such as and some weather protection. That would mean a library or school, the developer is eligible fora 2:1 that by providing ahalf-acre plaza, the developer bonus. That is to say, if there is a one-acre library site would be eligible for three additional acres of retail development. FIGURE 3D: MIXED USE REGIONAL CONCEPT DIAGRAM Sample uses, appropriate in MU-R areas would include: All E Single Family MU-N and MU-C categories, entertainment uses, major U Residential employment centers, clean industry, and other appropriate office or r regional-serving most uses. Sample zoning include: R-15, R-40, Hospitality Retallor TN-C, C-G, and M-E. w 5ervi[e use v Local orColledor oad _ Residential 0 Office Park/ m Q or Office Headquarters _ la • �� _ oo N o 0 Integrated Plaza Area i r 0 o Retail U �.;: 3 ❑'•ci 0' 0.ct:: 0 .G1 a _�_v p a O � O Q 4 O.'41 � � � Arterial Road :E -------------------- U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Mixed Use Non-Residential (MU-NR) In reviewing development applications, the following items The purpose of this designation is to designate areas where will be considered in MU-NR areas: new residential dwellings will not be permitted, as residential No new residential uses will be permitted (existing uses are not compatible with the planned and/or existing residential may remain). uses in these areas. For example, MU-NR areas are used near All developments should have a mix of at least two the City's Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility and where types of land uses. there are heavy industrial or other hazardous operations " Development is not required to comply with the that need to be buffered from residential. Developments are encouraged to be designed similar to the conceptual MU-NR minimum number of uses in the general mixed use standards. plan depicted in Figure 3E. Street sections consistent with the Ada County Highway District Master Street Map are required within the Unified Development Code. FIGURE 3E: MIXED USE NON-RESIDENTIAL CONCEPT DIAGRAM » There is neither a minimum nor maximum imposed on non-retail commercial uses such as office, food _I l i } 1 1 ' }� 0 � service/restaurants, industry, or warehouse uses. Office,Light » U A transitional use is encouraged on the perimeter of U Distribution or Service Uses the MU-NR areas between any existing or planned �- residential development. o w .ight Manufacturing Sample uses, appropriate in MU-NR areas would include: — orWarehousing a c I i employment centers, professional offices, flex buildings, o Existing Industrial warehousing, industry, storage facilities and retail, and other IL oca oa - Use appropriate non-residential uses. Sample zoning include: C-C, Q' C-G, L-O, M-E, H-E, I-L, and I-H. Single Family O Residential a a v ll O U Office or Service Use - Office or Retail lnfill N Arterial Road >_ F U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Mixed Use Interchange (MU-1) development is inter-connected with adjoining The purpose of this designation is to call-out areas where parcels. construction of future SH-16 interchanges is likely to occur, » The SH-16/US 20-26 interchange will be one of and to acknowledge that this land will have a high degree of only two regional gateways to the City of Meridian visibility. These areas will be served by highway interchange for travelers coming from north of the Boise River ramps and restricted local access. There are two interchange (the other being Linder Road). As such, buildings, areas, one located at US 20-26 and one at Ustick Road, that landscaping, and other design features at this differ from the other Mixed Use categories in that a much interchange should reflect Meridian's heritage, stronger emphasis will be placed upon gateway elements and quality, and character. traffic flow/trip generation factors when reviewing new land » Regional ridesharing, park-and-ride and transit use applications. Uses in these areas will need to be compatible transfer facilities are strongly encouraged. with the impacts of a freeway interchange.These areas are not » The MU-I area at Ustick Road, west of SH-16, should intended for high volume uses such as retail. The intention minimize retail and auto-oriented services and is to protect the immediate vicinity of the interchange from transition rapidly from the interchange to residential traffic conflicts and shift the high traffic-generating uses away uses near the county line. from the immediate vicinity of the interchange. » Examples of uses include schools, post office E or library branches, office uses, light residential o In reviewing development applications, the following items developments, athletic clubs, and technology/ will be considered in MU-I areas: research parks. c 3 Land uses within the MU-I areas and adjacent to the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan w SH-16 corridor should be carefully examined for their The City developed a specific plan for approximately 2,800 acres potential impacts on nearby existing and planned bordered (roughly) by Linder Road to the east; McDermott Road a retail and restaurant in Commercial and Mixed Use to the west:the Union Pacific Railroad line to the north and 1/2 areas. mile south of Overland Road on the south. The specific area N A traffic impact study may be required for larger plan is an addendum to this Comprehensive Plan and places developments in these areas. an emphasis on a mix of uses, both residential and commercial; Vehicular access points are prohibited near new employment areas; higher density residential; a planned interchange ramps. Future uses should be planned collector road network and design guidelines. U to integrate with a frontage/backage road type U circulation system. It is important to note that the Ten Mile Interchange Specific o Any new development at or near MU-I areas should Area Plan (TMISAP) uses different land use designations than the promote a nodal development pattern where rest of the FLUM.While there are some similarities,for example :E buildings are clustered, off-street parking is screened Low Density Residential,there are also new designations which o in the rear of the parcel and, where practical, do not exist outside of this Ten Mile area. The TMISAP was U www.meridiancity.org/compplan adopted as an addendum to the City of Meridian Comprehensive Park Land Uses (Symbol) Plan on June 19th, 2007 by Resolutions Numbers 07-563 (Map) The purpose of this designation is to preserve and protect and 07-564 (Text). Development in the Ten Mile Interchange existing and future public neighborhood, community, regional, area will also be reviewed using the TMISAP. See the Ten Mile and urban parks.The park locations designated on the Future Interchange Specific Area Plan for more details of this area. Land Use Map are the most current and should be used for Civic Land Uses planning purposes. Constructed parks are further described in the Existing Conditions Report Addendum. The purpose of this designation is to preserve and protect existing and planned municipal, state, and federal lands for School Land Use (Symbol) area residents and visitors. This category includes public The purpose of this designation is to provide areas throughout lands, law enforcement facilities, post offices, fire stations, the Area of City Impact which provide educational opportunities, cemeteries, public utility sites, public parks, public schools, and community gathering places, and green space. other government owned sites within the Area of City Impact. Fire and Police Stations (Symbol) j The purpose of this designation is to preserve and protect E existing and planned fire and police station locations throughout o the Area of City Impact which provide efficient emergency U response. c Below:The PKG.building on Pine Ave. > 0 Entryway Corridors w' The City feels it is important to identify roadways that introduce and welcome both visitors and residents to the City of Meridian. IL These roadways are noted as entryway corridors on the FLUM a� and are subject to additional standards within the Unified Development Code. E a o U t � U www.meridiancity.org/compplan ' MT x 6i '*. 4 . - > - E Valley Regional Transit and COMPASS _ p U V Transit Stations and Transit Oriented Development Residential densities that are at least 8 dwelling units (Symbol) per acre and designed to comply with the Traditional w The Transit Station designation is used for areas where transit Development Code supported uses are envisioned along the railroad and other Park and ride lots and other transit-supportive a predefined corridors Within areas around these symbols, facilities are encouraged at interchanges throughout the City seeks projects that incorporate features which the City. VRT and ACHD Commuteride should be N enhance alternative transportation and are transit friendly. Said developments are envisioned within commercial activity partners in determining appropriate facilities at each interchange. o centers and should incorporate the following development >> New types of street cross sections, including multi- and design principles: purpose pathways, buffered bike lanes and managed o >> A mix of land uses lands that can accommodate new forms of vehicles c from electric bicycles, scooters, autonomous >> Building orientation that provides the maximum level L of services to pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users vehicles and future dedicated transit. >> Alternative transit features such as a bus shelter o (where approved by VRT), bicycle lockers or similar facilities U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 3.2. Future Land Use Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 3.06.00 Ensure a variety and balance of land uses within the Area of City Impact. CD MO, PW 3.06.01 Plan for periodic review, monitoring, and updating of land uses within City limits and Area of CD MO City Impact. 3.06.01A Maintain the Future Land Use Map to reflect existing facilities. On-going CD 3.06.01B Monitor and adjust the amount and mix of industrial,commercial,and office areas needed to meet High CD the employment needs of the City. Coordinate with Ada County to ensure all applicable land use ordinances and provisions of this 3.06.01C Plan are recognized when development within the Area of City Impact but outside City Limits is On-going CD MO proposed. 3.06.02 Plan for an appropriate mix of land uses that ensures connectivity, livability,and economic CD PW vitality. 3.06.02A Support the inclusion of small-scale neighborhood commercial areas within planned residential On-going CD developments as part of the development plan,where appropriate. Encourage and support mixed-use areas that provide the benefits of being able to live, shop, dine, 3.06.0213 play, and work in close proximity,thereby reducing vehicle trips,and enhancing overall livability On-going CD E and sustainability. U 3.06.02C Encourage the development of supportive commercial near employment areas. On-going CD 3.06.02D Plan for industrial areas with convenient access to state highways or the rail corridor,where On-going CD p appropriate. w 3.06.02E Discourage residential land uses in close proximity to the Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility, High CD PW — the Intermountain Gas Facility on Can-Ada Road,and other incompatible land uses. C: Allocate land uses near the rail corridor to both support industrial and freight movement but also IL 3.06.02E residential and the movement of people within the corridor. On-going CD N 3.07.00 Encourage compatible uses and site design to minimize conflicts and maximize use of land. CD PR O 3.07.01 Proactively address potential conflicts between incompatible uses. CD Require all new development to create a site design compatible with surrounding uses through Q 3.07.01A buffering,screening,transitional densities,and other best site design practices. On-going CD E O 3.07.0113 Encourage land uses and site designs that do not harm natural systems and resources. On-going CD U Require appropriate landscaping, buffers,and noise mitigation with new development along 3.07.01C On-going CD transportation corridors(setback,vegetation, low walls, berms,etc.). •L O Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO=Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,FIR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., 0 MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 3.2. Future Land Use Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support Preserve the industrial base within designated industrial land use areas by discouraging 3.07.01D non-industrial uses and focusing on light manufacturing,distribution,flex-space,and base- High CD employment. Where feasible,encourage large transmission and pipeline utility corridors to function as 3.07.01E transitional buffers, parkland, pathways,and gathering spaces within and adjacent to their right of On-going CD way. 3.07.02 Integrate land use and transportation planning to ensure that they mutually support the CD PR communities' goals and desires. 3.07.02A Require pedestrian circulation plans to ensure safety and convenient access across large On-going CD commercial and mixed-use developments. Locate smaller-scale, neighborhood-serving commercial and office use clusters so they 3.07.0213 complement and provide convenient access from nearby residential areas, limiting access to On-going CD arterial roadways and multimodal corridors. 3.07.02C Focus development and redevelopment intensity on key transportation corridors. On-going CD 3.07.02D Pursue transit-supportive densities of residential and employment uses along key multi-modal On-going CD corridors. O Explore the development of additional design guidelines or standards for transit-oriented U 3.07.02E development. On-going CD 0) 3.07.02E Coordinate with transportation agencies to align future needed infrastructure with land use plans On-going CD o and implement through the development review processes. LL Coordinate with transportation agencies, private property owners and the public to plan for 3.07.02G appropriate land uses that will accommodate both freight and public transportation access within On-going CD the rail corridor. IL Integrate the Meridian Pathways Master Plan into the site development review process to ensure 3.07.02H planned paths are built out as adjacent land develops. On-going CD PR N Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., O MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. E O U c C� O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Utilities and Infrastructure Introduction Utilities are the foundation to quality of life within cities. Clean "Plans are only good intentions unless they immediately drinking water, electricity, stormwater management, natural gas, telecommunications, and wastewater make city-living degenerate into hard work." possible.Adequate, efficient, accessible, and affordable utilities - Peter F. Drucker contribute to attracting business, reducing the environmental footprint of urban development,and playing a vital role in social development. Public facilities discussed in this section include With a vision for sustainability, Meridian works to conserve domestic water service, sewer collection, sewage treatment, ground water and reduce discharge flows into the Boise River. and other independently operated utilities (such as power, As Meridian is located in an arid climate, using recycled water natural gas, and communications).The Utilities Element works is a "drought-proof" water supply that reduces demand on in concert with the Growth and Land Use Elements to ensure municipal supply, frees up agricultural water for agricultural adequate infrastructure is in place to accommodate existing uses, and lowers effluent flow to the Boise River. and future needs. E Back round Water Service U 9 The City's domestic water system is currently supported by a o, The City owns and operates its own domestic water and sewer series of deep wells, booster pump stations, multiple reservoirs, services; however it relies on other entities for some of the other and pipeline.In order to keep up with water demand,the City ° essential services. Therefore, coordination between the City w has constructed, on average, one new well per year, each funded _ and each service provider is vital in planning and prioritizing by connection fees and charged to new development. Water of expansion areas, and continued service to existing locations. line extensions to new developments are generally paid for IL With the exception of a portion of north Meridian where SUEZ and constructed by developers. Although the City plans new wells and reservoirs, the specific locations to those facilities Water provides service, the City s Public Works Department are largely dictated by growth patterns, and will continue to provides water to Meridian residents. In order to keep up be funded by new development. In a few small areas of the with water demand, new wells and water line extensions are City, SUEZ provides water service to residents and businesses, E constructed and generally funded by new development. and new development must coordinate this service with both �j the City of Meridian and with SUEZ. C� L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan ADIAN ftv- �i -` E -Rove. O U Sewer 0 w generally flows by gravity to the Wastewater Resource Recovery (NPDES)Wastewater discharge permit from the Environmental Facility located northwest of the Ten Mile/Ustick intersection. Protection Agency (EPA). The Sewer Master Plan includes development of a computer > model which helps Public Works staff identify priority areas With a vision for sustainability, Meridian holds a Citywide for development in the City as well as segments of the existing Class A Recycled Water Permit. Recycled water is a highly sewage collection system that are approaching capacity. treated water resource generated at the WRRF that meets a Future capital improvements are prioritized to upgrade the standards for reuse, as established by the Idaho Department E lines that are approaching capacity. The City will evaluate the of Environmental Quality.The WRRF makes this recycled water U need for additional expansion projects based on the Sewer available free of charge in supported areas. 0 Master Plan and model. Garbage and Recycling The Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) consists Republic Services (Republic) is the solid waste and recycling o of primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment followed by collection contractor for the City of Meridian. Republic is ,- disinfection.Treated effluent is discharged to Five Mile Creek. dedicated to providing reliable and innovative recycling and U www.meridiancity.org/compplan waste reduction programs to the City.The City has established Communications a Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC)to help set steer a Sparklight and CenturyLink provide landline phone and cable curbside recycling program and to advise the City Council on television agreements in the area.Sparklight(formerly CableOne) other solid waste issues.The SWAC works in conjunction with has a franchise agreement with the City for traditional cable T.V. Republic staff.The SWAC focuses its attention on growing the services. There are also a number of other fiber and wireless solid waste and recycling programs and making them as user providers which also offer telecommunication services. friendly as possible. For additional information, refer to the following Irrigation resources: Meridian irrigation water is largely supplied by a series of » Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of canals and laterals diverted from the Boise River. There are Meridian Comprehensive Plan many irrigation districts with operations in Meridian's Area of » Meridian Water Master Plan City Impact, but the two largest affecting most of Meridian » Meridian Water Conservation Plan are the Settler's Irrigation District and Nampa and Meridian Meridian Collection System Master Plan Irrigation District (NMID). » Eastern Treasure Valley Electric Plan (Idaho Power) Environmental Programs Plan E Power 0 U 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 w Utility Commission (IPUC), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), and the state regulatory commissions of Idaho and Oregon. Idaho Power's long-range electrical plan IL for Meridian and the larger area is called the Eastern Treasure Valley Electrical Plan,which is listed in the adopted by reference section of this Plan. a Natural Gas E 0 Intermountain Gas Company is the sole provider of natural U gas in southern Idaho, including Meridian. Meridian is serviced by dual, high pressure natural gas pipelines that bisect the southwest part of the Area of City Impact. These lines are an ]�i important consideration for any development adjacent to them. o U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 3.3. Utilities and Infrastructure Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 3.08.00 Coordinate with service providers to ensure the long-term utility needs of Meridian's existing CD, PW, PR, AII, and future residents and businesses are met. MO PW 3.08.01 Plan and expand public utility facilities and services as part of the development process. CD All 3.08.01A Require that development projects have planned for the efficient provision of all public services. On-going CD All 3.08.0113 Require adequate fees from new development to fund expansion of services. On-going CD All Ensure that other City departments,area agencies,and service providers are informed about and have 3.08.O1C an opportunity to participate in the City's development review process. On-going CD All 3.08.011) Consider the impact on key service providers prior to acting on annexation requests at a public On-going CD All hearing. Ensure key service providers have provided written comment on the impact and potential mitigation 3.08.01E measures that may be necessary, prior to acting on large development applications. On going CD All 3.08.02 Cooperate with other agencies and service providers around the Valley to continuously provide PW, PR, MO CD, IT, PW essential services and utilities to all residents. c 3.08.02A Communicate planning efforts with local decision makers and utility service providers, including On-going PW CD irrigation districts,energy, natural gas, solid waste, and telecommunications. o Coordinate with developers, irrigation districts,and drainage entities to implement the proposed U 3.08.02B pathway network along canals,ditches,creeks, laterals and sloughs. Very High PR CD Regularly coordinate with other public utilities and essential service providers and annually review o 3.08.02C master plans for public facilities and services;update as needed. On-going PW CD P P p w 3.08.02D Coordinate with Idaho Power to make additions and improvements to their facilities so that adequate On-going CD PW capacity for projected growth is realized. O 3.08.02E Encourage the enhancement of the capacity and reliability of renewable energy resources. On-going PW CD IL a) 3.08.02F Encourage multi-use utility corridors. On-going CD PW .N c Support the expansion of and accessibility to high-speed internet and broadband throughout the a) 3.08.02G Area of City Impact. On-going MO IT, PW � Coordinate with utility providers on acceptable landscape materials,design and site locations for Q 3.08.03 their future facilities to avoid negative impacts to the community. CD PW o U 3.08.03A Minimize the impact of electric facilities in environmentally sensitive areas and consider social and On-going CD PW environmental justice impacts. 3.08.0313 Site utility corridors within identified or designated transportation corridors and ensure that they On-going CD PW connect to similar facilities in adjacent jurisdictions. Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. O Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., >' MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 3.3. Utilities and Infrastructure Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 3.08.03C Coordinate future placement of Idaho Power electrical transmission lines and substations in On-going CD PW accordance with Eastern Treasure Valley Electric Plan. 3.08.03D Encourage all electrical distribution utilities to be located underground. On-going CD PW 3.09.00 Maximize diversion of the municipal waste stream from disposal to recycling and reduce the PW FI,AO, MO amount of solid waste generated in the City. 3.09.01 Develop and support markets for recycled materials and products. PW AO, MO 3.09.01A Investigate opportunities with other jurisdictions and private refuse contractors for new waste Medium PW AO reduction and recycling markets. 3.09.0113 Establish solid waste fees that encourage waste reduction and recycling. Low PW AO 3.09.01C Develop and implement public education and outreach activities to raise awareness on waste On-going PW MO reduction, reuse, recycling,and hazardous waste reduction. 3.09.02 Establish recycling/diversion and hazardous waste disposal goals. PW 3.09.02A Maintain opportunities for proper disposal of target priority waste streams such as mercury, used oil, On-going PW fluorescent lamps, used gas,and waste tires. Work with local stakeholders to develop public education campaigns regarding the importance of and o 3.09.02B opportunities for the proper disposal of hazardous waste. On-going PW U 3.09.03 Reinforce existing City recycling and procurement policies. PW FI Partner with City's solid waste contractor to investigate conservation options including composting, O 3.09.03A recycling,and green waste. Medium PW w 3.09.03B Maintain internal recycling and sustainability programs that procure specific recycled content and less On-going PW FI C: hazardous materials. O IL Priorities.Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. N Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., >_ MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. N O Q E O U 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I IF- ■ LIVABLE COMMUNITYVISION LIVABLE COMMUNITY A community of family-friendly, healthy, and engaging places. Overview "Quality of life" represents the social well-being of individuals in a community; "livability" is a term used to express the overall relationship between community members and the satisfaction they derive from their surroundings. Quality of To enhance the Livable Community, the Plan encourages life and livability factors can be both public service-related stewardship of natural features that define the community,such and derived from natural and constructed open space and as open spaces and waterways. The Plan provides a setting amenities. Elements such as security, parks, trails, recreation, for a safe and resilient community through crime prevention, and natural resources contribute to the overall livability of an sustainability,and emergency services.The community's quality area.Quality of life factors have a direct connection to citizens' of life will be enhanced by the diversification and expansion health, happiness, andprosperity. of the renowned comprehensive parks and recreation system. pp The Plan promotes the acquisition and development of land, • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • funding for maintenance and renovations, developing new Below:Meridian Pathway parks, and the creation of new programs. This park system 0 will be connected by new pathways, linking schools, parks, U and commercial areas. -0 0 As part of the Livable Community vision,the following elements are included in this chapter: c �. » Parks and Pathways a Stewardship Public Safety -- E U L^` S 0 U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan i i1^ Rjo AM - 7 C: - E U . a quality system of parks and recreation facilities with leisure Introduction o opportunities for all people in the community.The Department IL The Parks and Pathways element reflects the City's dedication is also responsible for the implementation of the Pathway to providing a comprehensive parks and recreation system that Master Plan, including some development and maintenance contributes to the quality of life in Meridian and surrounding of priority pathways and key connections. The system as a areas. As part of this section, the policy direction outlined in whole is stronger and more sustainable when responsibility of a the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Pathways Master development and maintenance of parks and pathways is shared o Plan are summarized. between the City, developers, and homeowner associations. U c a C� L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This system consists of recreation and community facilities, destination playgrounds, and year-round programs is vital to pathways, and hundreds of acres of parkland. Parks and keeping up with demand from growth. Recreation offers and manages a variety of recreational programs, adult sports leagues, and special events. Additionally, staff The City also seeks to continue expanding its pathway system handles shelter/field reservations and assists in the issuance by coordinating new projects with regional partners, and of temporary use permits. providing safe, integrated pathways linking popular destinations such as schools and parks to neighborhood centers.Therefore, The continued provision of high quality, year-round park and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and Pathways Master recreation facilities and activities requires the acquisition and Plan should be used when evaluating proposed development development of land,funding for maintenance and renovations, for consistency with the City's plans. Refer to Chapter 6 for and programming of activities. Developing new parks and additional policies related to pathways, transportation, and expanding the existing park system with cutting-edge features connectivity. like outdoor exercise equipment, pickleball courts, dog parks, For additional information, refer to the following resources: �- c Below:Outdoor exercise equipment at Keith Bird Legacy Park » Meridian Parks and Recreation Master Plan E Meridian r. Pathway Master Plan E � � » Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of U _ Meridian Comprehensive Plan T » Meridian Rail-With-Trail Action Plan 44 _� ./ 'urn- pie1— I � E ,.� —~ o U c 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 4.1. Parks and Pathways Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.01.00 Pursue partnerships and funding sources to facilitate and expand access to parks and FI, PR CD, FI, HR, recreational facilities, programming,and services. AO, MO, PR 4.01.01 Increase appropriate partnerships within the community to provide programs and activities to FI, PR CD, FI,AO, the community. MO 4.01.01A Explore additional partnership opportunities as well as build on existing partnerships with focus on On-going PR CD, FI low-service areas. 4.01.0113 Identify desired sports facilities or complexes and establish partnerships that foster their High PR FI, MO development. 4.01.01C Continue to explore partnerships with alternative providers,such as schools,to increase level of On-going PR CD,AO service. 4.01.01D Evaluate impact fees for public open space to ensure development is paying the full allowable fee. On-going FI PR 4.01.02 Increase opportunities to fund programming,services,and facility improvements. FI, PR FI,AO, PR 4.01.02A Increase special event and activities sponsorships. On-going PR AO c 4.01.0213 Pursue grant and philanthropic opportunities at the federal,state, regional,and local levels. On-going PR FI Implement a cost recovery and pricing policy to determine a consistent method of pricing Parks 4.01.02C and Recreation activities. Medium FI PR o U Explore feasibility of a dedicated funding source for parks and recreation through special revenue, 4.01.02D sports,or other available sources. Medium PR FI 4.01.02E Consider a process and policies for the acceptance of donated land and or money to be dedicated Low PR FI,AO J to public open space or facilities. — c 4.01.02F Explore the use of digital displays to show showcase and advertise City events near parks. Low PR AO O IL 4.01.03 Continue to improve organizational efficiencies and maintain existing quality standards for park PR FI, HR O facilities and recreational amenities. N Enhance and improve internal and external communication regarding recreation activities and O 4.01.03A services using social media and mobile tools. On-going PR IT 4.01.0313 Staff appropriately to meet demand and maintain established quality of service. On-going PR FI Q E 4.01.03C Expand and improve the volunteer program to meet growing needs. On-going PR HR U Provide for park acquisition and maintenance to meet projected city and population growth CD, FI,AO, 4.02.00 FI, PR O and demands. MO Continue working toward the park land level of service goal of four acres/1,000 persons and a CD, FI,AO, O 4.02.01 0.5 miles service area radius from residences. FI, PR MO �E O Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. >, Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., U MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.1. Parks and Pathways Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.02.01A Evaluate developer impact fee to align with Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) requests and current On-going FI PR park land level of service. 4.02.0113 Continue to find and purchase additional land for future park development where level of service is On-going PR FI below threshold. 4.02.01C Identify and require future park sites using information in the Meridian Parks and Recreation On-going PR CD Master Plan and on the Future Land Use Map. 4.02.01D Look for opportunities to add parks and pathways in new growth areas. On-going PR FI,AO, MO 4.02.01E Consider population/housing density and accessibility when acquiring future land for parks and On-going PR CD recreation. 4.02.02 Provide a variety of park types(neighborhood parks,community parks, regional parks)with a PR FI, MO diversity of uses and activities interspersed throughout the community. 4.02.02A Consider programming needs for all ages and abilities when adding new components to existing On-going PR FI parks or when developing new parks. 4.02.0213 Continue to monitor recreational trends to stay current with programming and demand. On-going PR MO 4.02.02C Consider future operation and maintenance costs and work to minimize those costs into the On-going PR FI development of park while delivering a highly functional and quality park. U 4.02.03 Monitor and evaluate the use,demands,and trends of recreation components. PR FI, MO Implement and maintain the existing Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), Master Plan,Comprehensive p 4.02.03A Parks and Recreation System Plan,and Life Cycle Replacement Programs. On-going PR FI, MO Y Y P g _, 4.03.00 Maintain and improve the user experience and awareness of recreational facilities, PR CD,IT,AO, — amenities,and programs. MO _O Increase year round recreational programming and activities that encourage education, health CD, IT,AO, IL 4.03.01 PR and wellness,community involvement,and multi-sensory play. MO .N Explore opportunities for additional indoor recreation space through partnerships,agreements, 4.03.01A Very High PR CD,AO, MO a)and the construction of a new Community Center. -C a) 4.03.0113 Continue to look for opportunities to expand programs around working hours and commuting On-going PR MO 0 citizens. O Explore increasing the number of program opportunities for seniors,young adults,teens,tweens, U 4.03.01C and people with special needs. On-going PR MO Set targets, identify gaps,and deploy programs, activities,and events that provide 4.03.01D multigenerational recreational opportunities. On-going PR IT, MO Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. 0 Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., >_ MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.1. Parks and Pathways Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.03.01E Support symbiotic uses of facilities through programs that encourage community interactions. On-going PR MO 4.03.02 Add destination park amenities that uniquely blend arts,entertainment,and culture. PR FI, MO 4.03.02A Explore opportunities to add destination playground and natural play areas with climbing features High PR FI, MO and multi-sensory play. 4.03.0213 Foster development of discovery-oriented parks that uniquely blend arts,entertainment,and High PR FI, MO culture. 4.04.00 Develop a connected,comfortable,and comprehensive network of multi-purpose pathways. PR CD 4.04.01 Seamlessly connect local pathways with regionally significant pathways. PR CD 4.04.01A Ensure that new development and subdivisions connect to the pathway system. Very High PR CD 4.04.0113 Provide options for passive recreational opportunities not typically supplied by parks and facilities, Very High PR CD such asjogging,walking,and bicycling. 4.04.01C Establish and enhance regional pathway connections to the adjacent communities of Eagle, Very High PR CD tz Nampa, Boise,Caldwell,and Kuna. c 4.04.02 Link pathways to important pedestrian generators,environmental features, historic landmarks, PR CD public facilities,Town Centers,and business districts. o Identify opportunities for new paths that connect residential neighborhoods and community U 4.04.02A facilities,such as the library and city hall, parks, schools,athletic facilities, swimming pools, historic Very High PR CD districts,the Downtown,as well as other commercial and retail activity centers in Meridian. Preserve existing public rights-of-way and other easements for future pathways and accessways, =� 4.04.0213 particularly along powerline and utility corridors, railway corridors,and waterway or irrigation Very High PR CD — corridors. C: _O Continue partnerships with area irrigation districts to continue to expand pathway system along IL 4.04.02C On-going PR CD N existing waterways. > N Facilitate accessibility of pathway system for people of all abilities, pedestrians, bicyclists,and CD, FD, MO, C 4.04.03 other non-motorized pathway users. PR PD Through coordination with Pathway Plan updates, locate trailheads at or in conjunction with park Q 4.04.03A sites,schools,and other community facilities to increase local access to the pathway system and High PR CD 0 reduce duplication of supporting improvements. (� Furnish pathway systems with trailhead improvements that include interpretive and directional p 4.04.03B signage systems, benches, drinking fountains, restrooms, parking and staging areas,and other High PR MO services for all ages and abilities. (D Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. �E Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., O MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.1. Parks and Pathways Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.04.03C Develop pathway design and development standards that are easy to maintain and access by High PR FD, PD maintenance, security, and emergency vehicles. Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. O U a� .Q O J C _U CL N L CQ C O U c SW L O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Stewardship opportunities, provide for pedestrian travel ways, and offer Introduction a simple break from the standard suburban affair. As growth continues however, increased pressures are placed on natural The Stewardship element discusses the City's ongoing resources. While development is expected within the Area of commitment and obligation to be good stewards of the City Impact, a maze of monotonous expansion is not desired, public trust. As part of this section, the natural and built either.It is essential to find a balance that protects and preserves environment, sustainability, hazardous areas, and historic Meridian's natural resources, agricultural heritage, and open resources are covered. spaces, while supporting the need for new development and sustainable provision of services. Background Productive agricultural soils, open space,vegetation, air,water, Growth projected for Meridian emphasizes the need for and energy are all valuable resources that the residents of attention to Meridian's character, specifically its natural and Meridian enjoy and want to preserve. Beyond the environmental historic resources. Meridian has seen much of its natural and health benefits realized from preserving the natural resources change over the years from agricultural open spaces resources, preservation can offer exciting recreational to a growing city. Providing and protecting unique sites and resources will assure the quality of life that the residents have . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . come to know and expect. E Below:Youth volunteers planting a tree. U The City of Meridian is committed to creating balanced solutions; Q, solutions that deliver services at levels citizens expect in an environmentally and socially responsible way;and ensuring the _'—, best economic choice in the long term. These fundamentals - - should balance the needs of protecting and enhancing the economy and preserving the natural and built environment IL today and for future generations. For additional information, refer to the following =y resources: a i Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of o Meridian Comprehensive Plan d" » Meridian Parks and Recreation Master Plan �-- i „ � » Eastern Treasure Valley Electric Plan f_ » Meridian Water Conservation Plan Meridian Environmental Programs Plan o ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 4.2. Stewardship Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.05.00 Preserve, protect,enhance,and wisely use natural resources. CD, MO, PR, CD, FI,AO, PW PR, PW 4.05.01 Protect and enhance existing waterways,groundwater,wetlands,wildlife habitat,air,soils,and CD, PR, PW CD other natural resources. 4.05.01A Identify waterways,wetlands,other natural resources,viewsheds, and natural features of On-going PW CD topographic interest for preservation. 4.05.0113 Develop and implement programs to encourage and promote tree health and preservation Medium PR CD throughout the City, including along waterways and within proposed development. 4.05.01C Limit canal tiling and piping of creeks,sloughs, laterals,and drains to man-made facilities where On-going CD public safety issues cannot be mitigated or are not of concern. 4.05.01D Improve and protect creeks and other natural waterways throughout commercial, industrial, and On-going CD residential areas. 4.05.01E Assess environmental impact of potential new development, infill,and redevelopment. On-going CD 4.05.01F Preserve, protect,and provide open space for recreation, conservation, and aesthetics. On-going CD 4.05.01G Support a long-term transportation system that conforms to the public health standard for carbon On-going CD monoxide attainment. o U 4.05.02 Protect Meridian's surface water quality. CD, PW CD, FI,AO, N PR, PW Refine framework of environmental programs including construction,storm water compliance,and J 4.05.02A floodplain management to satisfy the City's requirements under the Clean Water Act, FEMA,and Medium PW the National Flood insurance program. 4.05.0213 Provide incentives for developers to grant conservation easements along creek-side corridors. Medium CD FI,AO, PR, IL PW N 4.05.02C Encourage the incorporation of creek corridors as amenities in development design. On-going CD a) 4.05.02D Identify and implement Low Impact Development(LID) in storm water drainage systems that are Low CD C administered by the City of Meridian. Q 4.05.02E Develop and cultivate partnerships with local and regional stakeholders on public education On-going CD o campaigns for water conservation and water quality. U Promote the increase of permeable areas through sound site design and use of materials that limit 4.05.02E stormwater runoff. On-going PW CD Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. N Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.2. Stewardship Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.05.03 Preserve prime farmland within the Area of City Impact to maintain rural character and provide CD, MO CD opportunities for local produce and continued farming operations. 4.05.03A Encourage,as appropriate,the continued use of land for farming near Area of City Impact On-going CD boundaries to effectively transition from rural uses to urban. 4.05.0313 Slow the outward progression of the City's limits by discouraging fringe area development; High MO CD encourage development of vacant or underutilized parcels currently within City limits. 4.05.03C Support appropriate agriculture operations within the Area of City Impact as a source of locally On-going MO CD grown food. 4.05.03D Consider public support for funding to preserve open space as part of permanent land trust. Very High CD MO 4.06.00 Improve air quality and reduce air pollution in the Meridian and Treasure Valley airshed. CD, PWO D , FI, All, F 4.06.01 Protect public health by reducing ozone,fine particulate matter and other greenhouse gases CD, PW, MO All, FD and toxics in the air. 4.06.01A Coordinate with ACHD to improve traffic flow, minimize vehicle time spent idling and accelerating, On-going CD and reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles. 4.06.01B Promote transportation choices,facilities,and alternatives such as car and van pooling, public On-going CD 0 transit,alternative fleet vehicles, bicycle racks/storage and telecommuting. Q) Partner with transportation agencies and large employers to promote public awareness of air Q 4.06.01C On-going CD gg O quality concerns and the need/benefits of making alternative transportation choices. ,> J 4.06.01D Research utilization/installation of Energy Management Systems in municipal buildings to track and Medium PW cut energy costs for lighting and heating/cooling. C: 4.06.01E Convert appropriate municipal fleet vehicles to low-emission/alternative fuel vehicles when On-going PW All IL feasible. N 4.06.01F Participate with Ada County in publicizing burning bans when necessary. On-going MO FD Reduce energy consumption in municipal facilities and operations;provide leadership in CD, FI, MO, 4.07.00 promoting energy conservation throughout the City. PW, CD PW Q 4.07.01 Provide City services in an environmentally sustainable and cost effective manner. PW, CD CD,Pv MO, 0 Investigate funding opportunities to finance City conservation programs and projects,and retrofit 4.07.01A Meridian public buildings to improve energy efficiency. On-going PW FI Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. N Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., �E MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.2. Stewardship Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.07.0113 Support construction projects that demonstrate an innovative and effective approach to On-going PW CD stormwater management and Low Impact Development. 4.07.01C Partner with other entities to expand opportunities for energy conservation outreach and On-going PW MO education,such as schools, utility providers,and other public places. 4.07.01D Seek opportunities for public-private partnerships to develop and showcase alternative electricity- On-going PW MO generating facilities or to enhance the capacity and reliability of renewable energy resources. 4.07.01E Build public facilities that utilize energy conservation technologies. On-going PW MO 4.07.01F Adopt and implement guidelines and standards for energy conservation practices. Low PW 4.07.01G Partner with regional stakeholders to increase public awareness of the benefits of sustainable On-going PW CD, MO design and constructing high-performance built environments. Collaborate with stakeholders to develop demonstration projects incorporating water and energy 4.07.O1H conservation;and energy efficient construction methods and materials. Low PW Integrate new technologies and advancements in building science to promote a whole-building 4.07.01I approach to sustainability. Recognize performance in five key areas of human and environmental On-going CD PW health:sustainable site development,water savings,energy efficiency, materials selection,and indoor environmental quality. o Identify funding sources and appropriate partners to stimulate energy efficient retrofits in existing U 4.07.01J On-going CD FI, PW housing stock. .Q Responsibly treat wastewater for current and future users by focusing on stewardship and 4.08.00 PW CD fiscal and environmental sustainability. J 4.08.01 Protect public health and watersheds through adequate treatment and disposal of wastewater. PW Implement and maintain the Public Works Department's Sewer Master Plan and Wastewater IL 4.08.O1A Resource Recovery Facility Plan. On-going PW 4.08.02 Provide cost effective and environmentally sustainable wastewater service to citizens and PW CD business. a) Eliminate existing private treatment and septic systems on properties annexed into the City and a) Q 4.08.02A instead connect users to the City wastewater system;discourage the prolonged use of private On-going PW CD E treatment septic systems for enclave properties. U 4.09.00 Provide ample and clean water to the citizens of Meridian in perpetuity. PW CD, MO, FI c O 4.09.01 Protect the quality of source water. PW CD 4.09.01A Ensure that new development is connected to the City's sanitary sewer system (no septic systems). On-going PW CD a) Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., >_ MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.2. Stewardship Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.09.0113 Develop a source water protection plan. High PW CD 4.09.02 Provide water in a cost effective and healthy manner. PW 4.09.02A Develop and implement a water supply master plan. On-going PW 4.09.0213 Assess and provide new water sources. On-going PW 4.09.03 Conserve existing water supplies. PW,CD MO, PW 4.09.03A Implement and maintain the Public Works Department Water Conservation Plan. On-going PW Reduce reliance on City potable water for landscape irrigation purposes by educating the public, 4.09.03B encouraging the use of recycled water,and adoption of water conserving landscape guidelines. On-going PW 4.09.03C Maintain a public outreach program on water conservation. On-going PW MO Encourage the appropriate and attractive use of xeric, drought-tolerant plant species and non- 4.09.03D plant materials that reduce landscape maintenance and water consumption. On-going CD PW Priorities:Very High= Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. :z Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., O MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. O U N O J C _U D_ N L CQ C 0 U 0 0 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan * 201 ANT, ❑idle C .,H.�...�. Building A! : � TrMt HENINC OUR COMMUNITY �• Tummy ff A�yq��R 412-S283 ?8b5798 S - I aeuse� .{ .,kb VA� - - -- t E 0 r,Tp � U • 'dian Anti Drug Q 0 MEN% ww%y of hazardous chemicals associated with certain businesses. Introduction While federal regulations require some preventative measures ° The Public Safety element considers the City's role and with hazardous uses, as development increases so will the responsibility to maintain the public safety and welfare for potential for spills, accidents, and fires. The City coordinates Meridian residents.As part of this section,the function of the with Ada County Emergency Management on natural hazard Q) Police and Fire Departments, as well as the City's approach to disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation, and recovery, a hazard preparedness and mitigation are discussed. and is a participant in the Ada County Hazard Mitigation Plan. 0 Background With the rapid rate of growth, one would expect an increase in the number of crimes and vehicle collisions occurring in Fortunately, very few natural hazards exist within the City of Meridian. The City takes great pride in the crime rate when Meridian and its Area of City Impact. However, there exists compared to the dramatic increase in population.The rate of :E man-made hazards that may require both police and fire criminal offenses has remained lower than the national and o response. As more development occurs, responses to time state averages for several years. Going forward, continued U www.meridiancity.org/compplan coordination with the Fire and Police Departments is vital As the rate of growth increases, so too will the rate of requests to ensure adequate services and resources are available for for service from the community. The Meridian Fire and Police proposed annexation and development requests. Departments' will continue to be an important asset in development review and land use decisions, as they ensure The Meridian Fire Department has been effectively serving the that there is adequate access, service, and mitigation measures Meridian area since 1908, and is now a full-time all-hazards in place. response department servicing both the City of Meridian and the Meridian Rural Fire District. Services provided by the Making best use of the Fire and Police Departments' obvious department include fire suppression, advanced life support expertise in matters of safety is important in the planning emergency medical service, technical rescue, community and design of new facilities, services, and contingency/hazard risk reduction, fire prevention education, fire and life safety response plans. inspections, and plans' review for new developments and construction. For additional information, refer to the following resources: Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of j Meridian Comprehensive Plan Below:Youth dressed up.as a.Fire Fighter • • . • • • • • • • . . . . . . . . . . » Ada County Hazard Mitigation Plan 0 U i♦ o J E o � � U c � C L 0 \ � U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 4.3. Public Safety Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support Protect public health and safety by guiding growth and development away from hazardous CD, FD, 4.10.00 areas that pose a threat to people and property. CD, PW MO, PD, PW 4.10.01 Reduce the threat of loss of life and property from hazards. CD, PW CD, FD, MO, PD, PW 4.10.01A Plan for and allow land uses surrounding the Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility that reduce Very High PW CD human exposure to odors. 4.10.01B Require industrial uses to conform to disposal,spill,and storage measures as outlined by the On-going PW CD, FD, PD Environmental Protection Agency. 4.10.01C Work with ITD and ACHD to ensure highways and roadways are designed to mitigate natural On-going CD PD, FD hazards and are as safe as possible. 4.10.01D Work with Idaho Power to ensure that a National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor does not On-going CD MO traverse through Meridian. 4.10.01E Identify and protect areas below canals and laterals that could be damaged if the slope is On-going CD PW compromised. 4.10.01F Identify target hazards based on commercial/industrial occupancy type. On-going FD PD o Encourage the installation of residential fire sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safe U 4.10.01G community effort. On-going FD CD .Q Develop lot grading,dust, and drainage standards for residential development to mitigate slope 4.10.01H erosion and protect property. Very High PW CD,AO J Create an environment in which the people of Meridian feel safe by providing effective fire, CD,CO, FD, 4.11.00 police,and other emergency response services. FD, PD MO PR, IL N Ensure the capability to direct,control,and coordinate emergency response and recovery 4.11.01 FD, PD CD, MO operations. a) 4.11.01A Coordinate with emergency service providers on proposed annexation and development requests, On-going FD, PD Q and the reporting of impacts on services through comprehensive analysis and adopted standards. 0 4.11.01B Assess and compare response times to adopted standards for identification of additional needed On-going FD, PD CD, MO U resources. Identify future and current fire and police station locations based on adopted service level 4.11.01C ,On-going FD PD standards and goals. � Priorities:Very High= Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., 0 MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. >_ ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action SupportTable 4.3. Public Safety Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead 4.11.01D Prioritize the location of future fire and police stations on collectors to eliminate access issues on On-going FD, PD arterials. 4.11.01E Communicate with staff, elected and appointed officials on impacts from development to adopted On-going FD, PD CD, MO Police and Fire Department response time standards and goals. 4.11.01F Based on Police Allocation Model (PAM),ensure adequate Police staff and resources to respond to On-going PD growth and development. 4.11.02 Support crime prevention and risk reduction through environmental design,sharing resources PD, FD and information with other cities,and citizen assistance. 4.11.02A Develop programs, in partnership with allied agency responders,which focus on preventative On-going FD, PD emergency medical services risk reduction. 4.11.02B Coordinate Fire and Police Department planning,training, and response efforts with neighboring On-going FD, PD jurisdictions. 4.11.02C Coordinate with Meridian Rural Fire Protection District as growth occurs in the Area of City Impact. On-going FD 4.11.02D Help educate and curtail the rate of drug, alcohol,tobacco and other substance use. On-going PD 4.11.02E Work with public and private development and management groups to promote and implement On-going PD Crime Prevention through Environmental Design(CPTED)strategies. U Enhance crime prevention awareness through the education of neighborhood watch groups, multi- 4.11.02F family property management companies, homeowners'associations,and other organizations. On-going PD Utilize the crime analysis unit to identify ongoing crime trends utilizing statistical analysis, heat 4.11.02G maps,and other tools to more effectively and effectively deploy police resources. On-going PD 4.11.03 Ensure that quality fire protection, rescue and emergency medical services are provided within FD CD,CO, PR, � Meridian. PD IL Maintain and enforce construction standards, and adopt fire protection codes that are consistent 4.11.03A with International Fire Code standards.with FD CD N Develop contingency plans for special events to ensure adequate fire and emergency medical &_- 4.11.03B services. On-going FD CO, PR, PD Q 4.11.04 Provide quality police services for public health,safety,and welfare throughout the community. PD CO, FD, PR E O 4.11.04A Develop contingency plans for special events to ensure adequate police protection. On-going PD CO, FD, PR U 4.11.04B Support and cooperate with federal,state,and local public safety agencies. On-going PD Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. 0 CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Table 4.3. Public Safety Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 4.11.04C Consider police protection and enforcement issues as part of the development review process and On-going PD as part of mobile sales,vehicle immobilization,and alcohol permitting and licensing processes. 4.11.04D Continue coordinating with the Idaho Humane Society to ensure delivery of services. On-going PD Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. O U a� .Q J C IL > .N C i CQ C O U c C� O ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan ■ VIBRANT COMMUNITYVISION VIBRANT COMMUNITY A community strengthened by historic character and vibrant activity centers. Overview Community design focuses on aspects of the built environment that add enduring value to the community. Thoughtfully designed community spaces improve the livability and quality places that will serve generations to come. Arts, community of life for current and future generations of Meridian residents. events, cultural assets, and celebrations can play a critical Without intentional and context-oriented design to promote role in making Meridian a vibrant and beloved place with a neighborhood reinvestment,vibrancy, and social interactions, distinct, engaging identity. The Plan focuses on enhancing the city could lose sight of its unique character. and improving the built environment, contributing value to Meridian's sense of place and reinforcing community identity A Vibrant Community is built on creative design that integrates through redevelopment areas that incorporate amenities and past and future.As Meridian becomes one of the larger cities gathering places.The Plan stresses encouraging creativity and in the West,the Plan encourages the creation of well-designed high-quality in new neighborhoods and commercial areas.The Plan identifies tools for implementation so that neighborhoods, E • • • • • • • • • • • gateways, corridors, public spaces, and commercial areas U Below:Gene Kleiner Day festivities at.the Kleiner Parl< Band Shell represent community values through thoughtful design and strategic building placement, materials, and signage. The L 4` community also seeks authenticity within places; the Plan's historic reservation element underscores the importance of p p heritage by directing the preservation, restoration, celebration, c and memorialization of sites/buildings with historical or cultural relevance. The Plan transcends all these elements with arts and culture, which brings enrichment to the community and reinforces sense of place. As part of the Vibrant Community vision,the following elements E ti are included in this chapter: 0 c Character, Design, and Identity Historic Preservation r » Arts and Culture 0 1 www.meridiancity.org/compplan . . . . . . . . . i . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Below:Outdoor seating Downtown,adjacent to Generations Plaza _ Gathering places should be convenient and integrated,encourage social activity and engagement through generous and intentional amenities and activation, and be a cornerstone of community ^r pride and timeless neighborhood value. Policy decisions reflect Meridian's desire for quality and aesthetic design that reinforces the community's identity, Instills community ride, and is built to last. = - Background The inherent goal of community design is to prioritize and ' improve livability and quality of life for current and future - generations of Meridian residents. For the purpose of this Plan, community design refers to both residential and non-residential layout and building design, transition, and buffers. Moreover, community design is inextricably linked to sustainability, livability, healthy initiatives, as well as other elements of this Plan. E 0 Community design also involves preserving and enhancing U •- �—�� unique and extraordinarily valuable areas or attributes of the City; community design provides a means to maintain the Q unique characteristics of the City and to improve the built environment. Character, Design, and Identity IL Introduction Subdivision Design The Character, Design, and Identity element focuses on The foundation of ensuring good Community Design principles protecting, enhancing, and improving the unique features is largely accomplished through the City's subdivision review of the natural and built environment that contribute value and approval process. This process involves the entitlement a to Meridian's quality of place. From residential areas to retail of land for division through a public hearing process. While E centers, business parks to open space, the community should land use is an integral component of the development process U look and feel intentional. Neighborhoods, neighborhood centers, (see Chapter 3), equally if not more important is the role and commercial developments should be both grounded and of the Subdivision Design and Improvement Standards, unique, incorporating features of their surroundings while Common Open Space and Amenity Requirements, and other offering residents, visitors, and employees distinctive, safe, supporting development standards contained in Title 11 of o and inviting environments. Meridian City Code, in supporting the vision and intent of the ftZ Comprehensive Plan. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan These sections of City Code should be continually re-examined 0 GUIDE TO COMMUNITY and updated as needed to enable and implement the vision and policies in the Comprehensive Plan related to the general The following material helps to identify key design characteristics and location and configuration of all development types to be benefits of different development densities. realized. Subdivision review and approval establishes future Keys , Urban Character road configurations, access locations, lot layouts, areas and 0 Streets and other public spaces are framed by buildings amounts of open space, and serves as a prelude to subsequent 0 Housing types range from small,narrower single-family lots dominated administrative design review. by driveways and front-loaded garages(auto-urban)to attached residen- tial(e.g.,brownstones,town houses)and multi-family dwellings with Building and Site Design alley access or rear garages.Yard and landscaped areas are reduced. 0 Reduced front and side setbacks with tighter building spacing. The City requires Certificate of Zoning Compliance and 0 opportunities for pedestrian activity and interaction. Administrative Design Review approval prior to construction 0 Higher land use intensities allow for additional amenities otherwise not of any new building (except single-family).This process typically cost effective in lower densities. occurs after subdivision approval.The Architectural Standards Keys to Rural Manual (ASM) and Title 11 of City Code are the primary 0 wide-open landscapes j tools used in this process. The ASM provides the City with 0 Views to the horizon mostly unbroken by buildings as structures are in the background and blend into the landscape E a standards based tool to guide the creation of attractive, 0 lasting, and quality-built environments that contribute to the O Very high open-space ratios and very low building coverage U 0 Great building separation,providing privacy and detachment from neigh- progression of Meridian as a livable community.This process boring dwellings ensures that development complies with all of the provisions eysaracter of City Code as well as encouraging high quality building o More horizontal development than the rural class with broader spacing construction that employs the use of good design principles than the urban class. to produce attractive developments with unique character 0 Space enclosure,if any,is provided by trees and vegetation rather than U 0- and that are appropriate for existing district identities. Some buildings. in the community have voiced concern about the design and 0 Building setbacks from streets with more"green"and open space versus on-lot driveways and on-lot parking surfaces character of buildings and integration of some projects into the 0 0 More building separation,through larger setbacks and,in some cases, community.Thoughtful design of commercial and residential larger lots. developments can have a positive or negative effect on E p p g o Much lower lot coverage than the urban class and a correspondingly E community pride,city character,and economic vitality.The City higher open spaces ration on lots. 0 should explore ways to improve the building and site design 0 Extensive vegetation and landscaping. review process. Building permit review follows the Certificate Schwab,Jim,(2010,Dec).Defining and Measuring(ommunity Character.2oningPractice,Vol.21,No.12,6-1 of Zoning Compliance process, ensuring life safety standards are met regarding building construction. 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Entryway Corridors and Gateways Sustainability Meridian welcomes residents and visitors into the community The fundamentals of sustainability within local government center through designated entryway corridors and gateways. It is on creating balanced solutions; solutions that deliver services the community's intent to require additional landscaping and at levels citizens expect in an environmentally, economically, entryway features at these locations. This includes elevated and socially responsible way. These fundamentals interact building fagades, parking lot layout, and public space design. in the process of balancing the needs of protecting and Artistic features and public art can also enhance the overall enhancing the economy, the natural environment, and the character of a gateway. The goal of entryway and gateway built environment. By utilizing industry standard best practices, design standards is to make a positive impression on visitors quality design standards, and project commissioning,the City and instill community pride in residents. Gateways will inspire can quantify and verify that tax and rate payers are paying for people to live, work, play, and stay in Meridian. facilities and infrastructure that enable sustainable and livable neighborhoods. The City has also established a plan for welcoming residents and visitors into the community with welcome signage. In For additional information, refer to the following combination with entryway and gateway requirements,these resources: signs have a significant effect on visitors'first impression of the E Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of City. See the List of Adopted Plans and Studies by Reference Meridian Comprehensive Plan o for more information. U Welcome to Meridian Signage Plan = Architectural Standards Manual Signs » Meridian City Code, Title 11, Subdivision Design and Signs are an invaluable source of providing direction and Improvement Standards, Common Open Space and maintaining optimal mobility through a city. They can also Amenity Requirements provide advertising,and marketing,and contribute to community identity.Signs will not be a distraction to motorists or pedestrians, or otherwise present a safety hazard by interfering with line- of-sight, blocking traffic control devices, or hampering traffic flow. By complementing building design and landscaping, a signs will integrate aesthetically into the community. Sign "New investment is increasingly seeking locations based on the 0 regulations must ensure there is balance between safety, advertising, communication,architectural elements, aesthetics, quality of place rather than the utility of location." and free speech. - Steve McKnight, Fourth Economy Consultants C� L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 5.1. Character, Design, and Identity Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support Sustain,enhance, promote,and protect elements that contribute to livability and a high FD, PR, PD, 5.01.00 quality of life for all Meridian residents. CD, MO PW 5.01.01 Encourage the safety, health,and well-being of the community. CD PR, PD 5.01.01A Foster a walkable and bikeable community through good site and street design. On-going CD 5.01.0113 Provide pathways,crosswalks,traffic signals and other improvements that encourage safe, physical On-going CD PR activity for pedestrians and bicyclists. 5.01.01C Provide, partner,and preserve public and private indoor and outdoor recreation amenities for a On-going CD diverse range of physical activities. 5.01.01D Plan for and encourage neighborhoods that provide reasonable pedestrian and bicycle access to On-going CD services like healthcare, daycare,grocery stores,and recreational areas. 5.01.01E Promote best management practices to control the spread of noxious weeds, in conjunction with On-going CD PD Ada County Weed and Pest Control and City Code Enforcement. 5.01.01E Minimize noise, lighting,and odor disturbances from commercial developments to residential On-going CD dwellings by enforcing city code. 5.01.01G Ensure developments employ proper water drainage techniques to eliminate the risks of water On-going CD E contamination, mold,and pests. o U Support beautiful and high quality development that reinforces neighborhood character and 5.01.02 sustainability. CD O 5.01.02A Maintain and implement community design ordinances, quality design criteria,and complete street High CD policies to set quality standards citywides. 5.01.0213 Coordinate with ITD regarding interstate beautification and appropriate signage. On-going CD _O Promote area beautification and community identity through context sensitive building and site IL 5.01.02C On-going CD N design principles,appropriate signage, and attractive landscaping. > .N Require appropriate building design,and landscaping elements to buffer,screen, beautify,and 5.01.02D integrate commercial, multifamily,and parking lots into existing neighborhoods. On-going CD 5.01.02E Support and protect the identity of existing residential neighborhoods. On-going CD 5.01.02E Explore development and implementation of architectural and/or landscape standards for High CD U geographic areas of the City. c 5.01.02G Require attractive landscaping and pedestrian friendly design within new developments. On-going CD 5.01.02H Require the improvement and maintenance of landscaping along public rights-of-way and On-going CD landscaping of dedicated but unimproved rights-of-way strips. Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. O Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO=Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., ftZ >' MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Design,Table 5.1. Character, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 5.01.03 Strengthen community pride and identity. CD, MO, PD FD, PW Continue supporting community-betterment activities, such as "Rake Up Meridian,"and 5.01.03A implementing new or old programs to support residents in need of help for property cleanup and On-going MO repair. 5.01.0313 Work with residents and homeowners associations to maintain and take pride in their common On-going MO areas and landscaping along public rights of way and other areas visible to the public. 5.01.03C Review and implement design guidelines for properties along entryway corridors and gateways to Medium CD promote aesthetic features and clearly identify the community. 5.01.03D Continue property maintenance programs to remove junk vehicles,abate weed nuisances,and On-going PD FD eliminate trash build up. Implement the Welcome to Meridian Signage Plan by budgeting for construction and maintenance 5.01.03E of signs at key locations throughout the City; look for partnership opportunities with property On-going CD PW owners and developers. 5.01.03F Encourage volunteerism within the community,City Hall,and City Boards and Commissions. On-going MO C: Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately,High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. E Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., 0 MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U i C O IL N N 0 L CQ C 0 U 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Historic Preservation Some Meridian properties are on the National Register Introduction of Historic Places, but there are many additional historical resources and architectural features within the city limits and The Historic Preservation element underscores the importance the Area of City Impact that are not yet listed on this Registry. of preserving Meridian's heritage by remembering previous Although they may not be listed on the National Registry, generations who laid the foundation for Meridian today. they still carry historical and cultural significance to Meridian. Policies not only direct the preservation and restoration of Meridian's important agricultural heritage and history of town sites/buildings with historic or cultural relevance, but also how settlement is reflected in the many private historic residences to celebrate and memorialize them. and commercial buildings within the area. However, continued urban expansion and development have threatened some of Background these sites over the years. Meridian has a unique, storied history. Preserving that history is important because it defines the roots of the community While many of these sites and features have been lost, and and provides a sense of belonging to residents who treasure it. others can no longer be realistically preserved, they can still >1 be remembered.To preserve the memory and significance of • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • these sites, all viable resources such as photos, models,written Below:Meridian Historic Walking Tour sign at City Hall E and oral stories, and memorabilia or significant artifacts should E be used to pay tribute to a site's important role in shaping U Meridian history.The design of new structures and landscapes _ can also acknowledge and celebrate Meridian's heritage by NIN-110W incorporating art and/or learning experiences for youth. HISTORIC BALKING TOURFor additional information, refer to the following resources: u�a tiruai maatr,�rixSYrtnkr OF�srnnrori.S: + N ��pp. _ r~ - » Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of N Meridian Comprehensive Plan » Meridian Historic Preservation Plan a » Destination Downtown E 0 ESL � L r O tz _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Policy Direction Goal Objective Action Table 5.2. Historic Preservation Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 5.02.00 Celebrate Meridian's historical,cultural,and agricultural heritage. PR CD, FI, MO 5.02.01 Enhance and restore the historical quality of Old Town. PR CD 5.02.01A Maintain and implement design and building standards for historically significant buildings and Medium PR CD resources in Old Town. 5.02.016 Support owners of historic buildings in their efforts to restore and/or preserve their properties. On-going PR CD 5.02.02 Preserve and enhance historic and cultural resources. PR CD, FI 5.02.02A Coordinate with the Meridian Historic Preservation Commission to recommend use, restoration, On-going PR CD and preservation of historical structures and sites throughout Meridian. 5.02.02B Investigate and promote incentive programs for historic properties. On-going PR FI Implement tools and undertake programs that will increase the community's awareness of its 5.02.02C heritage as well as the economic and aesthetic value of historic preservation. Low PR MO 5.02.02D Stimulate private and public investment in the restoration and preservation of historic buildings, On-going PR CD, FI outdoor spaces, and natural historical features. j 5.02.02E Support the efforts of the Historic Preservation Commission to foster preservation and On-going PR MO E conservation. E 0 When appropriate, seek comments and approval from the Historic Preservation Commission prior U 5.02.02F to any changes to City-owned or controlled property, including buildings,outdoor spaces,and On-going PR CD naturalfeatures. 5.02.02G Place informational plaques on historic structures and special sites. On-going PR MO > Incorporate, into the development review process,a way to determine any impact on unique 5.02.02H geological, historical, and archeological sites; preserve and protect as appropriate. On-going PR CD 0 IL 5.02.02I Encourage events and activities that celebrate the cultural heritage of Meridian. On-going PR MO N Develop policies to preserve and protect or document and memorialize historic and culturally 5.02.02.1 significance structures and sites. On-going PR MO Priorities:Very High =Currently/Immediately,-High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. Q Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO=Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., Q MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. 0 U 0 0 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Arts and Culture In addition to supporting the arts, the City will continue to Introduction encourage community events and annual programs that are vital to the community's well-being. Maintaining a variety The Arts/Culture element reinforces the City's vision for a of social opportunities is essential in promoting community vibrant arts and entertainment scene that integrates the arts for all residents; the City supports the exploration of other experience into everyday life and enhances the spirit of the City. opportunities to support new facilities for community enrichment, education, and outreach. Background As part of its commitment to raising awareness of existing Through Meridian's Art in Public Spaces Ordinance and opportunities and providing new offerings to experience art,the community partnerships, major public art pieces have been Meridian Arts Commission (MAC) provides the community with installed throughout Meridian—in Downtown, in several parks, visual, performing, and musical arts opportunities throughout and in city buildings.The visual arts, performing arts,community the year. MAC ensures continued access to a variety of offerings events, and Meridian's heritage are integral components of for all residents, regardless of age, race, or ability. the community's identity. The sense of community is evident >1 in many celebrations and events, neighborhoods, and public . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . institutions. Below:Sculptures on Broadway Ave,adjacent to City Hall E For additional information, refer to the following u resources: Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of Y. Meridian Comprehensive Plan Citywide Strategic Plan Meridian Arts Commission Strategic Plan _.... . �,. .. E di -?-fir. •'�P7{ � SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Policy Direction Table 5.3. Arts and Culture Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 5.03.00 Create opportunities for all Meridian residents and visitors to experience public art. PR CD,AO MO 5.03.01 Support art throughout the community. PR CD,AO, MO 5.03.01A Exhibit both permanent and rotating works of art in City Hall and other public places. On-going PR AO, MO 5.03.01B Encourage the integration of public art as an integrated component with new development. On-going PR CD 5.03.01C Consider a central Art and Cultural District to showcase a wide variety of cultural offerings. Low PR MO 5.03.01D Provide local artists with opportunities to showcase their work. On-going PR MO 5.03.01E Determine and respond to the community's art and cultural facility needs. On-going PR MO 5.03.02 Raise awareness and promote existing arts offerings and artwork within the community. PR AO, MO 5.03.02A Utilize the Meridian Art in Public Spaces program to raise awareness and appreciation of the arts. On-going PR MO Partner with the Ada County Highway District(ACHD)to create and install artwork on traffic boxes, C: 5.03.0213 within roundabouts, and as part of other roadway improvement projects as appropriate. On-going PR AO, MO Z) E 5.04.00 Support hands-on experiences in the arts. PR, MO MO, PR o 5.04.01 Provide a diversity of education and art experiences for all residents. PR, MO MO, PR U Develop and offer youth art opportunities in partnership with the School District and afterschool 5.04.01A programs. On-going PR MO Strengthen partnerships with community organizations,schools,and institutions to support and 5.04.016 encourage arts programs and education for adults and seniors. On-going PR MO — c 5.04.01C Sponsor a variety of musical and performing arts in partnership with community organizations. On-going MO PR O IL Identify opportunities to partner with existing organizations and businesses to make their facilities 5.04.01D available for civic and cultural purposes. On-going PR MO 5.04.01E Engage with and support the full diversity of the community in the planning for arts and culture On-going PR MO facilities, programs,and events. Q Priorities:Very High =Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going=regularly or at every opportunity. E Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO=Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., O MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U O N O C www.meridiancity.org/compplan I ■ CONNECTED COMMUNITYVISION CONNECTED COMMUNITY A community of safe • • efficient •• • Overview The condition of an area's transportation system impacts the community's quality of life and economic vitality. Great cities such as Meridian need better connectivity, a range of that represent a community ready to embrace the future.At the transportation options, and vibrant multi-modal corridors. center of transportation, Meridian knows that it mustjoin with These communities understand that transportation technology partner agencies that plans for the functional integration of is changing rapidly, and cities must plan accordingly, altlowing land use and infrastructure to create the community residents' for flexibility to address new types of vehicles,autonomous and desire. shared vehicles, transit, walking, and biking. Appropriate mix The Plan promotes a Connected Community that sets the c and intensity of uses must be integrated to make alternative stage for different modes of travel while ensuring broad � modes of transportation viable.As a growing community, new system functionality, safety, and efficiency. The Plan creates E businesses and residents are looking for safe and efficient choices o the framework for accommodating all modes of transportation U , , , , , , , by planning, designing, and developing land use and corridors Q) Below:Main Street in downtown Meridian that support pedestrians, bicycles, transit, motor vehicles, U and new forms of mobility. Refer to Chapter 4 for additional � policies related to pathway connectivity. U As part of the Connected Community Vision, the following element is included in this chapter: IL a� Transportation and Streets a E li o U - c SW L p U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Transportation and Streets "Life is the only art that we are required to practice without Introduction preparation, and without being allowed the preliminary trials, The Transportation and Streets element prioritizes regional the failures and botches, that are essential for training." coordination to meet the existing needs for adequate -Lewis Mumford transportation service,while planning for and accommodating future growth as efficiently as possible. Background Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS)to make sure residents' and business' transportation needs are met. As Meridian does not have roadway authority of its own, In addition to planning for future transportation needs, the providing adequate transportation service across all modes roadway infrastructure already developed will require funding requires significant coordination with transportation agencies for maintenance, rehabilitation, and expansion. in the region. The City works closely with the Ada County �- Highway District(ACHD),the Idaho Transportation Department Beyond supporting traditional motor vehicle use, the City (ITD), Valley Regional Transit (VRT), and the Community continues to maintain and promote alternative methods of E transportation. From sidewalks for pedestrians and regional o Below:Bridge deck of the Ten Mile Interchange over 1-84 multi-modal pathways to public transportation efforts,the City 0 recognizes that supporting diversity and providing modal choice 0 helps to not only promote a healthier, happier community, but reduces over-use of roadways by passenger vehicles.Through o cooperation with regional partners, Meridian supports and U promotes developments that provide transportation options for everyone. o IL The City also recognizes that while it does not directly control the N roadways or public transportation service, its land use decisions a have a direct effect on the effectiveness and sustainability of a how these systems are able to function.The future land-uses in Chapter 3 have been developed to support existing area U transportation plans, as well as to guide the future build-out and operation of the different systems into the long-range - - future. Idaho is one of two states that do not currently have a dedicated o funding source for public transportation. The ability of the ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan City to act alone in remedying this situation is limited since more specifically evaluate where and how various opportunities State law does not allow the City's residents to vote to tax for access can and should be provided in downtown. The themselves through a local-option sales tax. Realizing that Downtown Meridian Transportation Management Plan was the current system is neither sustainable nor able to grow developed by ACHD with insight provided by the City to propose indefinitely,this Plan assumes that State legislature will act to solutions to circulation-related challenges in downtown Meridian. resolve this issue at some point in the future. While most of the work in this plan has been completed, two projects remain:the 3rd Street and Commercial Street extensions. Regional Transportation Plan Communities in Motion 2040 2.0 (CIM 2.0) is the region's long- To increase connectivity and facilitate additional north-south range transportation plan. However, CIM is more than just a traffic movement downtown, the City will work through transportation plan; the intent of CIM is to further integrate development and redevelopment to preserve right-of-way land use and transportation planning. and construct East 3rd from Franklin Road to Fairview Avenue per the alignment identified in the subsequent 2009 East 3rd Transportation and Land Use Integration Street Extension Alignment Study Report. :D E To better connect transportation planning and land use decisions, Adopted in 2012, the City worked with the ACHD to develop a o ACHD and the cities in Ada County use the Transportation plan for future enhancements of pedestrian and bicycle facilities U and Land Use Integration Plan (TLIP), which envisions livable downtown.The Downtown Meridian Neighborhood Pedestrian Q) streets for tomorrow and depicts how streets should look and Bicycle Plan is intended to inform how investments in the Q) and function in the future. The goal is to create a roadway network can best be made to realize a safe, convenient and C: network that balances the needs of all roadway users-motorists, accessible area to bike and walk. ° U pedestrians, cyclists,transit riders, and people with disabilities, with streets that complement the built environment. Because The City has also adopted the Downtown Meridian Street a one-size-fits-all program for roadway construction does not Cross-section Master Plan, which is intended to preserve for respond to either the land use or transportation needs of the and work towards long-term connectivity and streetscape community, the City and ACHD have agreed to join together improvements. Finally, the railroad passes east-west through the land use plans of the City with the transportation plans of the middle of downtown, and is the subject of several studies ACHD.A component of TLIP is the Master Street Map (MSM). and on-going local and regional planning efforts to share a This map is a companion component to the City's Future Land the corridor, currently used for freight, for uses ranging from o Use Map, and indicates the types of complete street facilities regional pathways to public transportation. U and right-of-way necessary to support the adjacent land uses. Alternative Transportation Downtown Transportation Network The City works with transportation providers to improve :E The City envisions a multi-modal transportation network access to employment opportunities, medical appointments, o throughout the city, but there are several plans and studies that recreational activities, and education. Local partnerships _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan AL - i I .Ey may_• - ..,::'f' �6 _ C: ....• t _ i• gyp-... E . . . . . 'Meridian Pathway and Park °' '- V provide opportunities-t =c- �ate c_o driv well as no f o Valley Regional Transit(VRT) is the regional public transportation City and to other parts of the metropolitan region. authority for Ada and Canyon counties and is responsible for o IL coordinating transit service and implementing a regional public The ACHD has adopted a plan that seeks to create and connect transportation system.VRT operates the bus service in this area bicycle lanes throughout Ada County,to create a bicycle network under the name ValleyRide and works in close coordination that provides a designated bicycle facility within a quarter-mile with other regional partners to plan for enhancements to the from 95 percent of the residents in the County. The City, as public transportation system. part of development review and ACHD roadway projects, look E to expand bicycle opportunities throughout the City. U Pathways that encourage use by bicyclists and pedestrians can decrease road congestion and add to the community's quality Meridian Transportation Commission of life. Meridian continues to develop a pathway network that The City has an appointed transportation commission of nine identifies a core system of pathways based on the existing canal residents, along with six non-voting ex-officio members,that system within the City of Meridian. This system is augmented advises the City on transportation related issues.The Meridian °, by the developer-implemented pathways that will provide Transportation Commission works with City staff and agency U www.meridiancity.org/compplan partners to set the City's priorities and communicate them to the The City of Meridian promotes citizen involvement in transportation agency partners.It also makes recommendations to the City regarding its own policies and actions. government by inviting residents to serve on a variety of boards, commissions, and committees designed to assist City For additional information, refer to the following leaders in information gathering and deliberative processes. resources: Existing Conditions Report; Addendum to the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan Meridian Pathway Master Plan Communities in Motion 2040 2.0 ValleyConnect 2.0 Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan Roadways to Bikeways Bicycle Master Plan Downtown Meridian Neighborhood Pedestrian and :D Bicycle Plan E Downtown Meridian Transportation Management U Plan 0 Downtown Meridian Street Cross-section Master Plan U Airport - Overland Corridor Study c c 0 U c a a� N L CQ C 0 U c 0 SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action Policy Direction Table 6.1. Transportation and Streets Goals, Objectives and Action Items Priority Lead Support 6.01.00 Facilitate the efficient movement of people and products to and from the City. CD, PR CD, FI, MO, PR, PW 6.01.01 Support multi-modal and complete-street transportation improvements. CD, PR FI, MO, PR, PW Work with the Union Pacific Railroad,Watco Companies and other interested stakeholders to 6.01.01A preserve and protect the existing Boise Cut-off rail corridor as a multi-use corridor, including High CD PW freight. Support Valley Regional Transit's(VRT)efforts to construct multi-modal transit centers in areas 6.01.01E of high commercial activity and employment as well as areas with transit-supportive residential On-going CD PW densities. 6.01.01C Improve ingress and egress opportunities for all modes of transportation in Downtown. On-going CD 6.01.01D Pursue construction of the City's pathways network. Very High PR FI, MO 6.01.01E Pursue bicycle routes/lanes/paths on roadways that will be appropriate for a wide range of ages On-going CD 0 and abilities. U 0 6.01.01F Work with transportation providers to implement transportation plans, projects, and studies. On-going CD PW Q) 6.01.01G Develop criteria for plan review in determining whether a development proposal is safe,accessible, High CD c and comfortable for pedestrians and cyclists. C: 0 Require pedestrian access connectors in all new development to link subdivisions together and to U 6.01.O1H promote neighborhood connectivity as part of a community pathway system. On-going CD PR Work with Ada County Highway District(ACHD)to identify gaps in the sidewalk system and pursue 0 6.O1.OlI sidewalk construction for existing substandard streets. On-going CD PW IL Encourage new development to include buffered sidewalks,a sidewalk separated from the motor 6.01.01J vehicle lane by a planter strip,especially on collector and arterial roadways. On-going CD 6.01.02 Enhance existing transportation systems. CD PW O Work with transportation partners to include Meridian's highest priority transportation projects Q 6.01.02A within their plans and budgets. On-going CD PW 0 Reduce the number of existing access points onto arterial streets by using methods such as cross- U C 6.01.02B access agreements,access management,and frontage/backage roads,and promoting local and On-going CD PW O collector street connectivity. _0 L Priorities:Ver Hi h =Current)/Immediate) ;High =1 to 3 ears;Medium =3 to 5 ears;Low=S to 10 ears;and On-going regularly or at ever opportunity. N Y �9 Y Y 9 Y Y Y 9 9= 9 Y Y �E Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO=Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., ,E MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. 0 CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action TransportationTable 6.1. . . . 6.01.02C Require new development to establish street connections to existing local roads and collectors as On-going CD well as to underdeveloped adjacent properties. 6.01.02D Consider needed sidewalk, pathway, landscaping,and lighting improvements with all land use On-going CD PW decisions. 6.01.02E Consider incomplete and underserved roadways and timing of necessary roadway improvements On-going CD in all land use decisions. Improve coordination with ACHD,ITD,VRT,COMPASS, and developers in addressing transportation issues and needs before public hearings, including having school and transportation agency 6.01.02E comments in with adequate time to allow for review by the City before a decision is made on a On-going CD PW land-use application. 6.01.02G Work with the Transportation Commission and transportation partners to implement needed On-going CD PW >1 neighborhood traffic calming and address safety concerns. c 6.01.02H Work with transportation partners to establish and implement a system of performance measures On-going CD to gauge whether transportation goals and objectives are being realized. E Pursue the extension of Idaho Ave.and/or Broadway Ave.to Commercial Dr.and the extension of 0 6.01.02I East 3rd St.from Fairview Ave.to Pine Ave. in Downtown. On-going CD U Pursue the extension of Overland Road into Canyon County,consistent with the 2011 Airport- 6.01.02J Overland Corridor Study. On-going CD Q) c Pursue the expansion of US 20/26;the development of an overpass of I-84 at Linder Road;the 6.01.02K extension of SH-16 from US 20/26 to I-84;and SH-55 and SH-69 corridor improvements. On-going CD U 6.01.02E Work with ACHD to implement projects from the 2012 Downtown Meridian Neighborhood On-going CD Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan. Work with transportation agencies and private property owners to preserve transportation IL 6.01.02M corridors,future transit routes and infrastructure, road,and highway extensions,and to facilitate On-going CD PW > access management. c Coordinate with ACHD to more carefully examine the appropriateness of roundabouts with 6.01.02N intersection improvements in relation to pedestrians and other users. On-going CD PW Q 6.01.03 Provide the most efficient transportation network possible. CD o Work with ITD and ACHD to establish truck routes and design routes appropriately for their U 6.01.03A On-going CD c contexts. Require collectors consistent with the ACHD Master Street Map(MSM), generally at/near the mid- 6.01.03B mile location within the Area of City Impact. On-going CD Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. p Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE LEGEND Goal Objective Action TransportationTable 6.1. . . . 6.01.03C Require the public street system to be continuous through each mile section,avoiding long, On-going CD straight stretches. 6.01.03D Consider ACHD's Master Street Map(MSM),Complete Streets Policy and the Transportation and On-going CD Land Use Integration Plan in all land use decisions. 6.01.03E Participate in the development of the Regional Transportation Plan (CIM 2.0) and Transportation On-going CD PW Improvement Program (TIP). 6.01.04 Encourage new and alternative transportation systems that reflect changes in technology and CD, PR CD, MO, PR lifestyles. 6.01.04A Support efforts to evaluate and plan for future transportation services such as public transit,on- On-going CD demand services,autonomous and shared vehicles. 6.01.0413 Develop and implement agreements with irrigation districts and the Union Pacific Railroad to allow Medium PR CD, MO >1 for bike/pedestrian pathways. 6.01.04C Work with transportation partners to identify and promote strategies for reducing reliance on the Low CD single-occupant automobile. O 6.01.04D Work with COMPASS and VRT to expand public transportation in Meridian. On-going CD U Integrate new technologies(e.g.,connected and automated vehicle technology, micro-mobility Q) 6.01.04E options)to increase efficiency,safety,and opportunities of transportation users. On-going CD v 6.01.04F Consider and mitigate undesired impacts of emerging transportation and delivery technologies. On-going CD C: c Work with transportation partners to identify locations for future park&ride lots,shuttle buses, U 6.01.05 and/or transit stations. CD PW U In coordination with VRT and COMPASS,explore grants and other funding opportunities to provide � 6.01.05A incentives for developers to locate public transit infrastructure within areas planned for transit. On-going CD IL 6.01.05B Work with VRT in developing design guidelines for transit stations. On-going CD > N 6.01.05C Support alternative public and private sector funding opportunities for transportation investment. On-going CD PW C 0 Priorities:Very High = Currently/Immediately;High =1 to 3 years;Medium =3 to 5 years;Low=5 to 10 years;and On-going =regularly or at every opportunity. Departments:All=All City Departments,AO=Attorney's Office,CD=Com.Dev.,CO= Clerk's Office,FD=Fire Dept.,FI=Finance,HR=Human Resources,IT=Information Tech., Q MO=Mayor's Office,PD=Police Dept.,PR=Parks and Recreation,PW=Public Works. E 0 U 0 0 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan APPENDIX A. GLOSSARY OF TERMS Area of City Impact-Also known as the City's planning area.It Compatible- Land uses capable of existing together without is the land area surrounding the limits of each City, negotiated conflict or ill effects. between each individual City and the county in which it lies. Each City has comprehensive planning authority for its Area of City Conditional Use -A utilization of land having characteristics Impact, but until annexation occurs,zoning and development such that it may be allowed in a particular zoning district only entitlement is handled by the county. after review by the Commission and Council, and granting of approval imposing conditions deemed necessary to make the Buffer-An area within a property or site, generally adjacent to proposed use compatible with other uses in the area. and parallel with the property line, either consisting of existing �- natural vegetation or created by the use of trees, shrubs, berms Conditional Use Permit-Permit issued to allow a conditional use. o and/or fences and designed to limit views and sounds from 0 the development tract to adjacent parties and vice versa.Also Cross-Access Agreement- An agreement between adjacent o commonly used when describing a transitional use, typically property owners in which internal connections are provided office, between residential and commercial or industrial. between parking areas in order to improve traffic flow on the Q street by minimizing the number of access points needed. Building Code - Legislative regulations that prescribe the Cross-access agreements are typically obtained incrementally materials, requirements, and methods to be used in the as a condition of approval for new development.The first one a construction, rehabilitation, maintenance,and repair of buildings. to develop will be required to make an irrevocable offer of Q The City of Meridian, per state statue, has adopted the Uniform cross-access to the adjacent parcel and must design the parking — Building Code(UBC),developed by the International Conference lot to accommodate the access. When the adjacent owner _0 of Building Officials. wishes to develop,they will be conditioned to reciprocate with 0- a) a similar cross-access agreement and complete the access. >- N Capital Improvement Program - A process of identifying and budgeting for the public facilities that a jurisdiction will Density-The rate of residential development intensity, generally need to construct in order to serve existing and anticipated described as a ratio of residential units per acre of land. development. Capital improvement programming is typically o done in five-year increments with annual updates. A Capital Density Bonus-Incentives given for dedication of land to the U Improvement Program (CIP) must address the type of project, public for parks, schools, or other public facilities. the location of the project, the cost of the project, the source of funds to finance the project, the agency or department Fair Housing Act- Fair Housing Title VIII of the Civil Rights responsible for the project, and the time frame for completion Act of 1968, enacted to prohibit housing discrimination based o of the project. Capital Improvement Programs are a primary on race, color, religion, national origin, handicap, sex, and/or tool of most growth management programs. familial status. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Fire Flow—The minimum number of gallons per minute that the intention of creating quality public spaces that promote are needed to fight a fire in a structure, for two continuous people's health, happiness, and well-being. hours through fire plugs in the near proximity of the structure. Fire flow requirements are established by the national Uniform Public Facilities and Services—See Urban Services. Fire Code and are a factor in the City's Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating. Quality of Life—Quality of life refers to the day living enhanced by wholesome food and clean air and water, enjoyment of Floodway— Drainage and irrigation channels and adjacent unfettered open spaces and bodies of water, conservation land areas that must be reserved to discharge flood waters of wildlife and natural resources, security from crime, and from a 100-year flood. Development is prohibited in this area. protection from radiation and toxic substances. It may also be used as a measure of the energy and power a person is Green Building—Also known as green construction or sustainable endowed with that enable him or her to enjoy life and prevail building, is the practice of creating structures and using over life's challenges irrespective of the handicaps he or she o processes that are environmentally responsible and resource- may have. efficient throughout a building's life-cycle: from siting to N design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, Reclaimed Water — Former wastewater (sewage) that has ° and demolition. been treated to remove solids and certain impurities, and O then used in sustainable landscaping irrigation or to recharge X Hazardous Waste—Waste that poses substantial or potential groundwater aquifers.This is done for sustainability and water threats to public health or the environment. There are four conservation, rather than discharging the treated wastewater Q factors that determine whether or not a substance is hazardous: to surface waters such as rivers and oceans. Sometimes called Q ignitability(i.e.,flammable), reactivity, corrosiveness,and toxicity recycled water. c Infill Development — Development on vacant parcels, or Implementation Plan—The implementation plan will serve as a redevelopment of existing parcels to a higher and better use roadmap for the City's success over a period of five years.It will that is surrounded by developed property within the City of also serve as a tool to communicate the City's intentions to the Meridian. community, focus the direction of its financial resources and employees, and ensure that short-term goals and objectives a Low Impact Development (LID) — A term used in the United are met in a timely fashion to ensure attainment of the City's o States to describe a land planning and engineering design overall vision. U approach to managing stormwater runoff. LID emphasizes conservation and use of on-site natural features to protect Urban Service Planning Area—Priority planning area where City water quality. of Meridian sewer and water facilities and most other services and utilities are available or planned in officially adopted plans. ,. Placemaking — The process and philosophy that capitalizes ° on a local community's assets, inspiration, and potential, with U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan 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 1/4 of a mile from dwellings. Environment is safe and aesthetically pleasing, with o open space interspersed throughout development. N N 0 C� Q x c Q) Q Q Q c N N L CQ C 0 U c SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan APPENDIX B. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ACHD Ada County Highway District NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination System AOCI Area of City Impact RUT Rural Urban Transition (Ada County zoning designation) o CDBG Community Development Block Grant SWAC Solid Waste Advisory Committee 0 CDHD Central District Health Department TLIP Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan CIM 2.0 Communities in Motion 2040 2.0 -0 TMISAP Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan -0 COMPASS Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho UDC Unified Development Code 0 DOT U.S. Department of Transportation UPRR Union Pacific Railroad E EPA Environmental Protection Agency USDOT U.S. Department of Transportation o FHWA Federal Highway Administration USPA Urban Service Planning Area Q FLUM Future Land Use Map VRT Valley Regional Transit m HUD Housing and Urban Development WRRF Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility IDHW Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Q Q IPUC Idaho Public Utility Commission ISU Idaho State University ITD Idaho Transportation Department Q) LID Local Improvement District MAC Meridian Arts Commission MADC Mayor's Anti-Drug Coalition E 0 MAYC Mayor's Youth Advisory Council U c MDC Meridian Development Corporation ° MSM Master Street Map NC Neighborhood Center o NMID Nampa Meridian Irrigation District :tZ '\ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan APPENDIXC. REGULATORY TAKINGS CHECKLIST The City of Meridian wholly respects the rights of its citizens 1. Does the regulation or action result in a permanent or and their property, and is abjectly against the negligence, abuse temporary physical occupation of private property? or devaluing of private property by others. By encouraging N property maintenance, preventing and mitigating incompatible Regulation or action resulting in permanent or temporary land use, and ensuring local, state,and federal code compliance, occupation of all or a portion of private property will generally Q) residents should feel their private property rights are respected constitute a "taking." For example, a regulation that required U and secure. The City will continue to review its policy for landlords to allow installation of cable television boxes in their 0) compliance with the State regulatory takings guidelines, and apartments was found to constitute a "taking." (See Loretto ensure that their staff is appropriately trained in applicable v. Teleprompter Manhattan CATV Corp., 458 U.S. 419 [1982].) �- code related to property rights. The following checklist is o used in reviewing proposed regulations or actions to ensure 2. Does the regulation or action require a property to 0 compliance with private property rights. 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. 0- Likewise,the magnitude of the burden placed on the proposed Q 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 >_ N 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 D substantially advance the public's interest in beach access, o constitutes a "taking." Likewise, the United States Supreme U 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].) o U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 3. Does the regulation deprive the owner of all economically value alone may not be a "taking," a severe reduction in the viable uses of the property? property value often indicates a reduction or elimination of reasonably profitable uses. Another economic factor courts If a regulation prohibits all economically viable or beneficial uses will consider is the degree to which the challenged regulation of the land, it will likely constitute a "taking." In this situation, impacts any developmental rights of the owner. As with 3, the agency can avoid liability for just compensation only if it above, these economic factors are normally applied to the can demonstrate that the proposed uses are prohibited by the property owner as a whole. laws of nuisance or other pre-existing limitations on the use of the property (See Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Coun., 5. Does the regulation deny a fundamental attribute of �U 112 S. Ct. 2886 [19921.) ownership? c Unlike 1 and 2 above, it is important to analyze the regulation's Regulations that deny the landowner a fundamental attribute impact on the property as a whole, and not just the impact on of ownership-- including the right to possess, exclude other, o a portion whether there is any profitable use of the remaining and dispose of all or a portion of the property—are potential �- 0 property available. (See Florida Rock Industries, Inc.v. United takings. States, 18 F.3d 1560 [Fed. Cir. 1994]. The remaining use does not necessarily have to be the owner's planned use, a prior The United States Supreme Court recently held that requiring U use, or the highest and best use of the property. One factor in a public easement for recreational purposes where the harm to x this assessment is the degree to which the regulatory action be prevented was to the flood plain was a "taking."In finding t interferes with a property owner's reasonable investment this to be a "taking," the Court stated: Q backed expectations. Q The City never demonstrated why a public green way, as Carefully review regulations requiring that all of a particular parcel opposed to a private one,was required in the interest of flood of land be left substantially in its natural state. A prohibition control. The difference to the petitioner, of course, is the loss IL of all economically viable users of the property is vulnerable of her ability to exclude others...[T]his right to exclude others to a takings challenge.In some situations, however,there may is "one of the most essential sticks in the bundle of rights that be pre-existing limitations on the use of property that could are commonly characterized as property." insulate the government from takings liability. a Dolan v.City of Tigard, 114 U.S.2309(June 24, 1994).The United E 4. Does the regulation have a significant impact on the States Supreme Court has also held that barring inheritance U landowner's economic interest? (an essential attribute of ownership) of certain interest in land held by individual members of an Indian tribe constituted a Carefully review regulations that have a significant impact "taking." Hodel v. Irving, 481 U.S. 704 (1987). on the owner's economic interest. Courts will often compare the value of property before and after the impact of the 0 ftZ challenged regulation. Although a reduction in property U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan 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, Q) 107 S. CT. 3141 [1987]; Dolan v. City of Tigard, 114 U.S. 2309 U [June 24, 1994].) V) M c In Nollan,the United States Supreme Court held that it was an unconstitutional "taking"to condition the issuance of a permit o 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, U there was no "nexus" between any public interest that might x be harmed by the construction of the house, and the permit condition. Lacking this connection, the required easement Q was just as unconstitutional as it would be if imposed outside Q the permit context. — c 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. D- E 0 U c SW L 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan 4 1 9 ..1 go ME PORK, fill ; f5 �, yl i i �i� _•� �� a O1d'1' rrli=:' ■ ROD r ■ nr- i LL Mullin; F ■-I `.l�i��f�=' iic •F��.�.c,—k',•7ti'n:;?4%-��-. 1.■�'I 1 ® .1 J �W 4 111111 1 � ��1@�TI�■ '! ++ �1lllllr■_ R7■ ■ o�'� .:.■: _ — r-fin,,,. ..-: F IIr■■r,� ■■��■.�� . ` l I' IIT ��'I :- _ Ten Mlle Intercliunge Specific Area Plan 9A F" � ■r O -- I■ -Franklin Rd 9:Q •� � ME s - Victory Rd L LIJ, I\ IIIIIFcq i .a..� Amity Rd - _ 1■ '■�al�ri■�' - - �t �,�1 __ ■ Iv I11��1■i - -- .. \ _,1\� �� '11111 ,•��■. r 11 ire ��tttttttttt�._Itr��nhvt►�,�@.r■Itll�rtllllll_tl_ttttw ��, I i.' ��\ , - — — '+��!IR!��1►■II■VLIL�■��'��JLai�t ��.��r�Jl... ■i:_• � I�I N 1'��fi�■ rNIPUN III P.N11 ows=141: MMM_ Itt www.meridiancity.org/compplan D-1 u old dwooffl1o*Ajpuoip jal.u'MMM ->lu72l9 Alleuoi;ua;ui:}al a2ud siy 1 This page left intentionally blank— (:NM' IENIDLIAN�-- IHJ EXI TIN NDITI Ns REPORT 4 Ali: 4 _ - y �{ •� Y ■ 33 E Broadway Ave., Ste 102 E IDIAN%--� Meridian, ID 83642 Phone: (208) 884-5533 I D A H O www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT ADDENDUM TO THE CITY OF MERIDIAN COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, BY RESOLUTION NO. 22-2347, ON OCTOBER 25, 2022 Prepared by: City of Meridian 33 E Broadway Suite Meridian,Idaho 83642 Phone 208.884.5533 E IDIANI----ft-ll 0 www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan TABLE OF CONTENTS ■ Recreation, Parks, and Pathways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19 Introduction 1-1 ■ Solid Waste. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-23 ■ Review of the Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 ■ Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-30 ■ Comprehensive Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 . Public Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-30 ■ History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 The People 2-1 Physical and Cultural Features 5-1 ■ Natural, Special, Historic, &Agricultural Resources . . . . 5-1 ■ Population, Housing, and Economic Development. . . . . 2-1 ■ Sustainabilit y. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7 ■ Population and Demographic Characteristics . . . . . . . . . 2-2 ■ Hazardous Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8 ■ Housing Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 ■ Housing and Urban Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18 ■ Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20 Summary 6-1 Community Development 3-1 ■ Land Use, Transportation, and Community Design. . . . . 3-1 ■ Land Ownership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2 ■ Zoning & Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 ■ Future Land Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 ■ Area of City Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 ■ Special Planning Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7 ■ Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 ■ Linking Transportation and Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14 ■ Transportation Choice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14 ■ Community Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18 Services Provided 4-1 ■ Public Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 ■ Municipal Government, City Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 ■ Public Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 ■ Public Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 www.meridiancity.org/compplan FIGURES ■ Figure 2AA. Change in Establishments by Total . . . . . . . . .2-24 Introduction 1-1 ■ Figure 2AB. Change in Establishments by% . . . . . . . . . . . .2-24 ■ Figure 1A. Heart of the Valle 1-2 ■ Figure 2AC. Change in Employment Age Groups. . . . . . . .2-26 g y" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " ■ Figure 2AD. Change in Employment Income Groups. . . . . 2-26 ■ Figure 2AE. Change in Meridian Unemployment Rate. . . . 2-28 The People 2-1 ■ Figure 2AF. Origin of Meridian Establishment Employees.2-29 ■ Figure 2AG. Change in Employment Age Groups. . . . . . . . 2-31 ■ Figure 2A. Population Change per Decade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 ■ Figure 2AH. Change in Employment Income Groups. . . . . 2-31 ■ Figure 2B. Population Growth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 ■ Figure 2A1. Meridian Employment to Meridian Labor Force ■ Figure 2C. Aggregated Population Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 Comparison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-32 ■ Figure 2D. Comparison of Ages by Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4 ■ Figure 2AJ. Destination of Meridian Labor Force . . . . . . . .2-34 ■ Figure 2E. Change in Population Groups, Interval . . . . . . . . 2-5 ■ Figure 2F. Change in Median Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 ■ Figure 2G. Change in Population Groups, Total . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 Community Development 3-1 ■ Figure 2H. Change in Median Age, Aggregated. . . . . . . . . . 2-5 ■ Figure 3A. Comparison of Private to Non-private Land Area. . ■ Figure 21. Racial and Ethnicity Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6 ■ Figure 2J. Racial and Ethnicity Composite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6 ■ Figure 3B. Meridian Area of City Impact (AOCI) . . . . . . . . . .3-6 ■ Figure 2K. Comparison of Ages by Gender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 ■ Figure 3C. Functional Classification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-9 ■ Figure 2L. Change in Attainment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 ■ Figure 3D. Roadway Traffic Activity 3-11 ■ Figure 2M. Change in Attainment by Gender . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 g y y' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ■ Figure 2N. Comparison of Attainment by Area. . . . . . . . . . .2-8 ■ Figure 20. Attainment by Gender Comparison. . . . . . . . . . .2-8 Services Provided 4-1 ■ Figure 2P. Change in Cost of Living for Boise, ID (Metro) . 2-10 ■ Figure 2Q. Mean Income by Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 ■ Figure 4A. Meridian Fire District and Service Areas. . . . . .4-17 ■ Figure 2R. Change in Mean Income, 2014 to 2020. . . . . . . 2-12 ■ Figure 4B. Change in Enrollment Groups as a % of Whole4-27 ■ Figure 2S. Poverty Rate by Year and Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 ■ Figure 4C. Enrollment Compared to City Population. . . . .4-27 ■ Figure 2T. Poverty Rate by Educational Attainment. . . . . . 2-13 ■ Figure 4D. West Ada School Enrollment Boundaries, 2021- ■ Figure 2U. Comparison of Housing Unit Types . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 2022. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-29 ■ Figure 2V. Housing Costs as a % of Income by Type . . . . . 2-16 ■ Figure 4E. Existing Idaho Power Infrastructure . . . . . . . . . .4-32 ■ Figure 2W. Change in Housing Cost as a % of Income by Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16 Physical and Cultural Features 5-1 ■ Figure 2X. Median Sales Price, Ada County. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 ■ Figure 2Y. Median Sales Price and Total Change by Area . 2-17 ■ Figure 5A. Soils in the Meridian Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 ■ Figure 2Z. Urban Renewal Districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-23 ■ Figure 5B. Agricultural Tax Exempt Land in Meridian. . . . . .5-4 www.meridiancity.org/compplan ■ Figure 5C. Prime Farmland by Jurisdiction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6 ■ Figure 5D. Gas Transmission in Meridian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9 ■ Figure 5E. Floodplains in Meridian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12 Summary 6-1 www.meridiancity.org/comppIan TABLES ■ Table 3C. Average Commute Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 ntroduction 1-1 Services Provided 4-1 The People 2-1 ■ Table 4A. Meridian Water Consumption - Potable Water ■ Table 2A. Historical Census Population, Meridian . . . . . . . . 2-2 Irrigation Impacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8 Table 4B. Historical Sewer Service Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . .4-10 ■ Table 2B. Communities in Motion 2050 Vision Forecast . . . 2-3 ■ Table 4C. Meridian Police Department Calls for Service. . 4-13 ■ Table 2C. Age by Place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4 ■ Table 4D. Crime Estimation in Idaho Report: Year 2020. . . 4-13 ■ Table 2D. Meridian Population Groups Over Time. . . . . . . .2-4 ■ Table 4E. Prescription Drugs Recovered: 2018 to 2021 . . .4-14 ■ Table 2E. Racial and Ethnic Composition by Jurisdiction. . .2-6 ■ Table 4F. Meridian Fire Department Apparatus Response 4-16 ■ Table 2F. Gender by Age Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 ■ Table 4G. City of Meridian, Public Park Acreage. . . . . . . . .4-20 ■ Table 2G. Educational Attainment by Jurisdiction and Gender ■ Table 4H. Solid Waste Collection (Tons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-24 (25 and older) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9■ Table 2H. Comparative Cost of Living Index, Council for ■ Table 41. Historical Fall Enrollment, West Ada School District . 4-28 Community and Economic Research. . . . . . . . . . 2-11 ■ Table 4J. Idaho Power Substations in Meridian. . . . . . . . . .4-31 ■ Table 21. Household Income by Jurisdiction. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 ■ Table 2J. Percent of Residents Living in Povety. . . . . . . . . . 2-13 ■ Table 2K. Total Meridian Housing Units by Year. . . . . . . . . 2-15 Physical and Cultural Features 5-1 ■ Table 2L. Persons per Housing Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15 ■ Table 2M. Housing Costs as a % of Household Income . . 2-16 ■ Table 5A. Agricultural Land by Exemption. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 ■ Table 2N. Median Rental Costs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 ■ Table 513. Agricultural Land by% Overall Area . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 ■ Table 20. Home Sale Values in Ada County and Meridian 2-18 ■ Table 5C. National Register-Listed Historical Resources. . .5-6 ■ Table 2P. Meridian Establishments by Supersector . . . . . . 2-25 ■ Table 2Q. Employment: Meridian Jobs by Sector, Age, and Summary 6-1 Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-27 ■ Table 2R. Labor Force: Meridian Resident Jobs by Sector, Age, and Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-30 ■ Table 2S. Meridian Commercial Vacancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-33 Community Development 3-1 ■ Table 3A. Non-private Parcel Ownership in the AOCI . . . . . 3-2 ■ Table 313. Roadway Miles by Classificaion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 www.meridiancity.org/compplan INTRODUCTION Review of the Report This Existing Conditions Report(Report) provides a framework In 2010 the City of Meridian revamped it's Comprehensive for future decision making by detailing the current state, Plan. The primary goal of this process was to make it more specific directions, and actions taken related to each topical useful for the community, City staff, and decision makers. One area discussed.The Report takes the City's Mission,Vision, and way the Plan became more useful, was to separate out key Values and melds it with the City's Strategic Plan Initiatives, City information about the City's history, present day conditions, department capital improvement plans, and the initiatives in trends, and current initiatives, from policy and future-looking the current Comprehensive Plan.While not policy oriented,this initiatives. This separated information became the Existing Report is also intended to aid in integrated decision making: Conditions Report,which allowed the Comprehensive Plan to i.e., decisions that are made regarding land use policy within focus on policy moving forward.The Existing Conditions Report Meridian, take into full account existing conditions within o continues to be an addendum in the current Comprehensive Meridian, and the impacts on transportation, housing, and j Plan (Plan). economic strategies that current policies have had. 0 Below:The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine held its Inagural Commencement on May 13, 2022. N A good plan is like a road map: it shows the final o N ' destination and usually the best way to get there." o a �- - H. Stanley Judd o i e • O �`; ;,�' ,► To compose this report, information regarding Meridian and U its Area of City Impact was gathered from many resources.This AA �Ac= effort was accomplished by consulting with other agencies, N --- �, - individuals, and resources including existing plans, studies, w and other documents. Where needed, City staff contacted key agencies and requested assistance in putting together this report. This report should be updated every few years, (D , — to keep information current and relevant. ftz U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 1A. Heart of the Valley vim 1Se o Ron er A DW GA EN CIT o IVY RIDIAN 10 -2 Arrowrock L P - BOISE Rese oir 04 N tip' , Lucky�Peak Co Lake Lowell ,� `,ors (Reservoir a 5 Miles:225,9 1 - River N 4_ _o Blacks Creek t 10 Miles: 557,274 Reservoir 0 0 U c a 15 Miles: 738,256 w L 0 o 2 Miles: 767,358 o Source:City of Meridian Planning Division 2022 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan c U Above:Agricultural land near US and SH-16 in north-west Meridian: .i. . CompPehe pie P " previous and`exlsttng coricfitions ari tr6`ds'in Meridian;fdaho 0 regarding most of the State-required planning components Meridians first Co rm pensive Plan was,ado __.: 0 facilities and transportation; economic development; land use; 0 the 1975 Land Use Planning Act of the State of Idaho. The 0�1 natural resources; hazardous areas; public services, facilities, N Comprehensive Plan received major updates in 1993, 2002, c and 2010. In 2017, the Meridian City Council directed staff to and utilities; transportation; recreation; special areas or sites; o housing; community design; agriculture; implementation; t begin work on a new Plan, and on December 17th, 2019 the c current Plan was adopted. This Plan received an extensive national interest electric transmission corridors; public airport U amount of public involvement, and is available online. facilities;and, other components the City has deemed necessary 0) to analyze. However,the desired goals and objectives for each } Local Land Use Planning Act of the 17 planning components are not part of this report. w Rather,this existing condition report sets the foundation and c Section 67-6508 of Idaho Code (the Local Land Use Planning background information to base a desirable future plan for Act), requires Comprehensive Plans to consider, at a minimum: the City. Implementation of the policy elements are addressed previous and existing conditions, trends, desirable goals in the full Comprehensive Plan itself, and are not part of this and objectives, or desirable future situations for 17 planning report. Those components not addressed in this report are components.This report provides an informative snapshot of the addressed in the full Comprehensive Plan. ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan .f^ History' �{ Originally known as Hunter, after a railroad official along the Oregon Short Line route,the City of Meridian was incorporated z in August, 1903. Meridian is one of six cities in Ada County, = and is located on the western edge of the Ada-Canyon County border.The City has transformed from a sagebrush-filled mail drop located on the Oregon Trail in the 1880s to a small fruit orchard center after the turn of the century through the 1930s, _ r _ to a dairy-based farming community in the 1940s. Its character li as a small farming community continued until approximately 1990, when its population was still about 10,000. Since 1990, Meridian has experienced exponential growth that has changed both its character and appearance. With the increase in population, farms and fields have given way to residential and commercial development. Farm vehicles and o • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • feed stores have largely disappeared to be replaced with large Above:The historic Clara home onMainStreet. residential subdivisions and commercial complexes.Today,the — Below:The Pine Street Schoolhouse City has a number of large employment centers, bank branches, N restaurants, medical centers, and several major retail centers o including a major lifestyle center, the Village at Meridian. o a To continue to provide elevated levels of service,City Departments `�. and their service capabilities have grown. In 2021 a new two- o story Police and Fire training center was constructed;this new facility includes an indoor scenario village with residential o - - - and commercial storefronts. The Meridian City Council also U approved a new police substation in South Meridian in 2021, °' _ ] i _-_� 1 I pp p &PA 4M� ■I, kip 04% 014 N ` l immediately next to Discovery Park, along with a new fire X LU station, and another fire substation in North Meridian near Discovery High School. These are to begin construction in rT 2022. The wastewater resource recovery facility in northwest •_ Meridian has seen several additions, and it can now treat ]�i �. 1 For comprehensive review of•Meridian's heritage,see Meridian, by ftz Frank Thomason and Polly Ambrose Peterson,Arcadia Publishing,2010 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan T Ll - J] LZ ( [) [ AN •.- r. -.F -- -T-- Street. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The City is in the ,r- growth continues to put a.strain on the tran's $rtation system CD the wastewater �. . in Meridian. Fu =`-' to not only maintain the existing roadways nt caps a.*t�m .- � o to 15 million gallons per day. This project is expected to be be critical to lessen the strain a growing community has on completed in 2026. Parks have also expanded, with 3 new the transportation system. c parks since 2017. o Meridian is the population center of the Treasure Valley; The transportation network looks substantially different than people are evenly distributed in all directions from Meridian, o it did in 1990, or even 10 years ago.The Idaho Transportation with more than 225,901 people within 5 miles of downtown U Department (ITD) has and continues to widen and re-construct Meridian (see Figure 1A). Airports, regional medical centers, } Interstate 84 through the Treasure Valley. New lanes and cultural events and venues, and other urban services and X LU upgraded intersections were added recently to Eagle Road (SH amenities are all easily accessible. 55) between Interstate 84 and Ustick Road,with more capacity ° improvements planned for 2022.Ada County Highway District (ACHD) road improvements, such as Ustick Road widening, Ten Mile roadway widening, and completion of the Downtown O Split Corridor project, have helped to relieve congestion, but U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan THE PEOPLE Population, Housing, and Economic The primary purpose of the Population and Demographic Development Characteristics element is to look at past trends that may This chapter discusses characteristics of Meridian's demographics help to understand future needs and projections. Population including population, gender, race, age, income, education, inventories and forecasts are used to measure the demand for home ownership, and employment data.As required by Idaho future facilities such as parks, water supply wells and roads, State Statute §67-6508, analysis on Population, Housing and and for services such as police and fire protection. Forecasts Economic Development components of the Comprehensive can also be used by businesses to anticipate market demand Plan are provided below. These three components set the and to locate service and commercial facilities. foundation for consideration of other components later in this report. The primary purpose of the Housing Characteristics element is to evaluate the recent trends in residential dwellings. Past o ' a� Below:View of homes from across the pond at Fuller Park. provide specific information on residential use. The report a) assesses where people live and in what type of dwellings. C4 "When planning for a year, plant corn. When planning } 0 �► for a decade, plant trees. When planning for life, train and educate people:" V) A '�• � - Chinese Proverb tea. 0 U The purpose of the Economic Development analysis of the chapter is to portray the business make-up and to evaluate the w on- _ _ local economy for strengths and weaknesses.This background c g- i r _•- information may be used to discuss how Meridian might expand its economic base and target specific industries. Employment a, - trends and forecasts may also be used to determine if there is a need for additional land in specific zoning categories, as 0 = well as the demand for future levels of public services. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Population and Demographic Characteristics ' Population Chan' " Historic Counts and Current Estimates The following • • •' " Meridian's population was fairly stable up to about 1990,when Figure 2A. Population Change per Decade the City had a population of 9,596. However, in the mid-1990s, the City's population began increasing rapidly, more than 2020 doubling by 2000, and then doubling again by 2010.The 2020 decennial population was the biggest increase ever for the City, 2010 increasing by more than 42,000 people since 2010 and reaching 2000 a population total of 117,635.Table 2A tracks historical Census population data. In April of 2022, the Community Planning .0 1990 21938 Association of Southwest Idaho, or COMPASS, estimated the City's population at 133,470 residents. •`� a) Q • 0 535o a� CL 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 a) Table 2A. Historical Census Population, Meridian Average Total Population 10 Year% c-4 Year Annual % N Population Change Increase o Increase Figure 2B. Population Growth N } 1940 1,465 N/A N/A N/A 125,000 300% O Q 1950 1,810 345 2.4% 23.5% 1960 2,081 271 1.5% 15.0% 00, 1970 2,616 535 2.6% 25.7% 1980 6,658 4,042 15.5% 154.5% 50,000 C 00CL 1990 9,596 2,938 4.4% 44.1% U 000 0, 0) 2000 34,919 25,323 26.4% 263.9% N 0 0 , 2010 75,092 40,173 11.5% 115.0% w c 2020 117,635 42,543 5.7% 56.7% r1j r1j r4 Source:U.S. Census Bureau, via Idaho Department of Labor,Communication& Population 10 Year%Increase Research. "City Population Data 7940-2020."Retreived on February 8,2022 N from https://lmi.idaho.gov/census. ]�i O ftz www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2C. Aggregated Population Change Table 2B. Communities in Motion 2050 Vision Forecast Area of City 2022 Pop 2050 • . . • . . . . . Impact Estimate Forecast Change Change Meridian 133,470 192,540 59,070 44.26% Population, :.:.:.:.:. Boise 243,570 314,520 70,950 29.13% 42,543,36% :•:•:•: Nampa 109,120 168,140 59,020 54.09% Ada County 532,710 715,820 183,110 34.37% Canyon 249,720 359,180 109,460 43.83% County • Population, Regional Total 782,430 1,075,000 292,570 37.39% 75,092,64% Note:Area of City Impact(AOCI)boundaries are larger than existing City limit boundaries.2022 estimates reflect current city limits,whereas 2050 forecast include all populations within an AOCI. Source:COMPASS,COMPASS Board Memo for February 28,2022, "Communities Q) in Motion 2050 Vision,Foreasted Growth."Retreived on February 18,2022 Q 0 Everything before 2010 ■2010 to 2020 and COMPASS Board Memo for April 18,2022, "2022 Population Estimates." 0 Retreived on April 78,2022,both from https://www.compassidaho.org/people/ o_ Note:Graph depicts the significant growth between 2070 and 2020,more than a boardmeetings.htm N 1/3 of the overall population total,and compares it to everything that came before. �— See table 2A for data/source. the Treasure Valley as designated by the U.S. Department of N While it did not grow quite as precipitously as Meridian, the Transportation. As part of its Federal mandate, COMPASS o two-county region as a whole also experienced considerable prepares and periodically updates a regional long-range o growth over the last decade. Ada County grew from 392,365 transportation plan for the region. Part of that process is 0 residents in 2010 to 532,710 in 2022. Similarly, Canyon County to monitor population growth and forecast future changes grew from 188,923 residents in 2010 to 249,720 in 2022. Meridian within the region. o accounted for 41.6% of Ada County's overall growth between 2010 and 2022, and 29.0% of the two-county region.' COMPASS estimates that the population of Meridian will o increase to 192,540 by 2050, an increase of 55.5% from 2020. U The regional forecast adopted by the COMPASS Board for the Forecasts Communities in Motion 2050 regional long-range transportation N The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho, plan estimates that the population of the two-county region will w or COMPASS, is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for grow from 726,080 in 2020 to 1,075,000 people in 2050.Table 0 i•COMPASS,COMPASS Demographic Advisory Workgroup Memo for 2B provides 2022 estimates and 2050 forecasts of population April 18,2022,'Historic Population Estimates by City Limits." Retrieved in select Treasure Valley Demographic Areas. on April 11,2022 from https://www.compassidaho.org/people/ boardmeetings.htm. O ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2C. Age by Place Table 213. Meridian Population Groups Over Time Meridian Ada Idaho U.S. Age •0 2000 2010 2020 0 to 9 14.4% 13.6% 15.4% 11.9% 0 to 9 19.6% 21.5% 19.6% 14.4% 10 to 19 16.2% 14.5% 15.8% 14.2% 10 to 19 14.8% 14.2% 16.0% 16.2% 20 to 29 I 12.2% 13.4% 13.7% 13.2% 20 to 29 15.9% 14.1% 10.7% 12.1% 30 to 39 14.3% 13.1% 13.3% 14.8% 30 to 39 19.4% 20.3% 16.5% 14.4% 40 to 49 I 13.7% 11.8% 11.9% 13.1% 40 to 49 10.7% 13.3% 14.4% 13.7% 50 to 64 16.8% 18.0% 16.2% 18.3% 50 to 64 9.3% 10.1% 14.0% 16.7% 65 + 12.4% 15.8% 13.8% 14.4% 65 + 10.3% 6.4% 9.0% 12.4% 2014 Median 34.1 35.5 35.2 37.4 Median Age 29.8 30.1 32.5 35.9 Age (years) Source:U.S. Census Bureau, 1990 Census of Population, "General Population 2020 Median 35.9 37.2 36.6 38.2 Characteristics,Idaho".Accessed on February22,2022 from https://www2. Age (years) census.gov/library/publications.2010 and 2020 Decennial Census,Redistricting Q) Data(Table P2 and P8),generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov. Q Change 1.8 1.7 1.4 0.8 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table 50101;generated by City of Meridian 0 Notes:Margin of error results in values slightly greater or less than 100%. using data.census.gov. QL Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2070-2074 and � 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table 50101,generated by City of Meridian; �s using data.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/cedsci/> (17 March 2022). Figure 213. Comparison of Ages by Area N N 0 20.0% n1 Age a The average age of a Meridian resident has been steadily 15.0 D increasing over the last 30 years. Median age is up from the 1990 Census of 29.8 to 30.1 in 2000, 32.5 in 2010, and 36.2 in 10.0% o the 2020 American Community Survey(ACS) 5-Year Estimate. o The change in Meridian's median age is higher than Ada a 5.0% o 0 U County,the State of Idaho, and the United States. Since 2000, the 0 to 9 population has decreased by 5.2% of the overall, 0.0% } while the 50 to 64 has increased b 7.4%and the 65 and older o °� N m � „ X Y O O O O O lD W group has increased by 7.2%. Because the overall population o 0 0 � o is growing so rapidly, groups are not shrinking in total, some arejust increasing faster than others. See Table 2C and 2D for ❑Meridian ■Idaho ❑Ada ■u.s. comparisons over time. Note:See table 2C for datalsource. o ftz www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Age and Changes Over Time The following charts reference information in Table 2D. Figure 2E. Change in Population Groups, Interval Figure 2F. Change in Median Age 25.0% 40.0 20.0% — 35.0 — c35.9 0 15.0% - 30.0 — 0 0' 25.0 0 L — — t 10.0% - 0 20.0 — — o � 5.0% - - - I a 15.0 — — 1 0.0% 10.0 — — • rn rn m rn rn �t + • O a-i N M V l0 LO 1 +' O O O O O � � Q Y Y Y Y Y O O O O O 1 i N M v Ln - ■1990 ■2000 ■2010 0 2020 1990 2000 2010 2020 Figure 2G. Change in Population Groups,Total Figure 2H. Change in Median Age,Aggregated - %Change in Age Groups, 1990 to 2020 Change from 1990 to 2010, -6% -4% -2% 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 2.7 Years, 44% • 0to9 • Total • 10 to 19 Change 20 to 29 6.1, • years 30 to 39 1 Change from 40 to 49 2010 to 2020, 3.4 years, • • 50 to 64 56% I 65+ ■Change from 1990 to 2010 ■Change from 2010 to 2020 • 2-5 CompositeFigure 2L Racial and Ethnicity Change Figure 23. Racial and Ethnicity %Change, • • to 2020 2020, OtherWhite White Black or African American I Black or African American I American Indian and Alaska... American Indian and Alaska Native Asian M Asian I Pacific Islander I Pacific Islander Two+Races Two+Races 0 Hispanic or Latino Hispanic or Latino 111110 a� Q 0 a) 0 Table 2E. Racial and Ethnic Composition by Jurisdiction MeridianRace& Ethnicity 04 N CD 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 hange 2010 2020 Change } Population of one race: 91.1% 85.6% - 5.5% 90.8% 85.9% -4.8% 87.1% 82.8% -4.3% 81.7% 77.2% -4.5% 0 Q • White alone 88.1% 81.2% - 6.9% 86.5% 80.4% - 6.1% 84.0% 78.9% - 5.1% 63.7% 57.8% - 5.9% N • Black or African American alone 0.7% 0.9% + 0.2% 1.1% 1.6% + 0.5% 0.6% 0.8% + 0.2% 12.2% 12.1% -0.2% • American Indian and Alaska o Native alone 0.4% 0.3% -0.0% 0.5% 0.5% -0.1% 1.1% 1.0% -0.1% 0.7% 0.7% -0.0% 0 • Asian alone 1.7% 2.5% + 0.8% 2.4% 2.8% + 0.4% 1.2% 1.4% + 0.2% 4.7% 5.9% + 1.2% O U • Native Hawaiian and Other ° o 0 0 0 ° o ° o 0 0 0 0) Pacific Islander alone 0.1/0 0.2/0 + 0.1/0 0.2/0 0.2/0 + 0.0% 0.1/0 0.2/0 + 0.0% 0.2/0 0.2/0 + 0.0% X • Some Other Race alone 0.1% 0.4% + 0.3% 1% 0.5% + 0.4% 0.1% 0.4% + 0.4% 0.2% 0.5% + w 0.3% Population of two or more races: 2.1% 4.8% + 2.7% 2.1% 4.9% + 2.8% 1.7% 4.2% + 2.5% 1.9% 4.1% + 2.2% 2 0 Hispanic or Latino 6.8% 1 9.5% + 2.7% 7.1% 9.1% + 2.0% 11.2% 13.0% + 1.8% 16.3% 18.7% + 2.4% N Not Hispanic or Latino: 93.2% 90.5% -2.7% 92.9% 90.9% -2.0% 88.8% 87.0% - 1.8% 83.7% 81.3% -2.4% �E 0 Note:Rounding results in values that do not always total to 700%. Table is the perspective of Hispanic Or Latino,regardless of race.Population of one race,two or more races,and >- hispanic or latino total 700%.Source:U.S.Census Bureau, 2070 and 2020 Decennial Census,Redistricting Data(Table P2 and P8),generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.go v; U <https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/>(75 February 2022). www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2K. Comparison of Ages by Gender Race and Ethnicity ■%Male ❑%Female Table 2E shows the racial and ethnic composition of select 85 and older subgroups for Meridian, Ada County, the State of Idaho, and a 65 to 84 6.51. the entire United States. c 55 to 64 i 45 to 54 Meridian, Ada County and the State of Idaho are less racially o and ethnically diverse than the nation as a whole.The majority 35 to 44 ,7. . of residents in Meridian are white (85.6%) and not Hispanic c 2oto34 . . . . . . . . . or Latino (90.5%). This composition is changing though, both a 10 to 19 locally and nationally. Since 2010, those that are of one race 0to9 6:yY alone, and also white alone, have decreased while most other 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% non-white races or those of multiple races, have seen increases. Percent of Population Note:See table 2F for data/source. Q Table 2F. Gender by Age Groups Q) Q_ Female Female Gender 0 • OverallrouBased on the 2016-2020 American Community Survey data , P Group Overall 49.7% of the population are male and 50.3% female. This c14 0 to 9 53.7% 46.3% 7.7% 6.7% 14.4% gender split is not equal among all age groups however, as o CN 10 to 19 55.3% 44.7% 9.0% 7.2% 16.2% shown in Table 2F. 0 20 to 34 48.5% 51.5% 8.9% 9.5% 18.4% Q 35 to 44 48.1% 51.9% 7.1% 7.7% 14.9% Educational Attainment � 45 to 54 51.0% 49.0% 6.9% 6.6% 13.5% Compared to many other communities in the Nation, Meridian 00 /° has maintained a relatively high level of educational attainment. 10.3 55 to 64 47.2% 52.8% 4.8% 5.4% ° The percentage of Meridian residents 25 and older with a o 65 to 84 43.0% 57.0% 4.9% 6.5% 11.3% high school diploma increased from 94.9% in 2014 to 95.8% U 85 and older 37.4% 62.6% 0.4% 0.7% 1.1% in 2020.The percentage of Meridian residents from the same 0' } age group with a bachelor's degree or higher increased from X Overall 49.7% 50.3% 33.3%to 37.2%.As shown in Table 2G,there are other changes U Source:U.S.Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 and for various education attainment benchmarks, and between ° 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S1501;generated by City of Meridian; genders. using data.census.gov<https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/> (22 March 2022). (D • 2•U.S.•Census Bureau/American FactFinder. "DP05: Demographics and 0 Housing Estimates"2011-2015 American Community Survey.Web.May 18, ftz 2017<http://factflnder.census.gov>. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Educational Attainment The following charts reference information in Table 2G. High School+ and Bachelor's+ include all attainment levels beyond. Figure 2L. Change in Attainment Figure 2M. Change in Attainment by Gender Change >than H.S. -6.0% -4.0% -2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% 8.0% H.S.(or equiv.) >than H.S. Some college �- H.S.(or equiv.) Associate's - Some college Bachelor's - Associate's � Graduate � Bachelor's Graduate High School+ High School+ I I Bachelor's+ Bachelor's+ -10.0% -5.0% 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% %Overall ■Idaho ■U.S. Figure 2N. Comparison of Attainment by Area Figure 20. Attainment by Gender Comparison - • . Meridian ■ Idaho U.S. >than H.S. I I I 30% H.S.(or equiv.) • 25% + Some college • 0 20% Associate's I I • a15% Bachelor's a° 10% ♦ • o Graduate 5% High School+ 0% Bachelor's+ I I I I • \ z �C y� e N peso �6 09% 25% 50% 75% 100% • -7�r \ot �� Pyyo lac 0t ■Male ■Female 2-8 Table 2G. Educational Attainment by Jurisdiction and Gender (25 and older) Level of Education Meridian . . . . 2074 Overall Male Female Overall Ma Fema verall _ Male Female Overall Male Fe Less than High School graduate 5.2% 5.6% 1 4.7% 6.2% 6.3% 6.1% 10.8% 11.7% 10.1% 13.6% 14.4% 13.1% High school graduate(or 23.9% 22.3% 25.3% 21.6% 21.2% 21.9% 27.7% 27.6% 27.8% 28.0% 28.5% 27.5% equivalency) Some college, no degree 28.7% 25.6% 31.6% 127.3% 25.8% 28.7% 27.0% 25.9% 28.2% 21.2% 20.8% 21.5% Associate's degree 8.9% 10.1% 7.9% 8.6% 8.4% 8.8% 9.0% 8.3% 9.6% 7.9% 7.0% 8.8% Bachelor's degree 24.3% 24.5% 24.2% 24.4% 24.4% 24.4% 17.4% 17.2% 17.6% 18.3% 18.1% 18.4% Graduate or professional degree 9.0% 11.9% 6.3% 12.0% 13.8% 10.1% 8.0% 9.3% 6.7% 11.0% 11.2% 10.8% High school graduate or higher 94.9% 94.4% 95.3% 93.8% 93.7% 93.9% 89.1% 88.3% 89.9% 86.3% 85.6% 87.0% Bachelor's degree or higher 33.3% 36.4% 30.4% 36.4% 38.3% 34.6% 25.4% 26.5% 24.3% 29.3% 29.3% 29.2% 12020 Less than High School graduate 4.2% 4.6% 3.8% 4.8% 5.3% 4.4% 9.2% 10.0% 8.4% 12.0% 12.7% 11.4% Q) High school graduate(or Q 21.9% 20.0% 23.5% 22.4% 22.4% 22.4% 27.4% 28.5% 26.3% 27.0% 27.9% 26.0% � equivalency) a- Some college, no degree 25.4% 24.7% 26.1% 24.3% 23.4% 25.3% 26.0% 24.6% 27.4% 20.4% 20.2% 20.6% Q) Associate's degree 11.3% 10.5% 11.9% 9.9% 9.4% 10.5% 9.8% 9.1% 10.6% 8.5% 7.6% 9.3% Bachelor's degree 25.3% 24.5% 26.0% 25.5% 25.7% 25.4% 18.6% 17.9% 19.2% 19.8% 19.4% 20.1% N 0 Graduate or professional degree 11.9% 15.7% 8.7% 13.0% 13.9% 12.1% 9.0% 9.9% 8.1% 12.4% 12.1% 12.6% N } High school graduate or higher 95.8% 95.3%IP 96.2% 95.2% 94.7% 95.6% 90.8% 90.0% 91.6% 88.0% 87.3% 88.6% O Q Bachelor's degree or higher 37.2% 40.2% 34.7% 38.5% 39.6% 37.5% 27.6% 27.8% 27.3% 32.1% 31.6% 32.7% � N Change _ � Less than High School graduate -1.0% -1.0% -0.9% -1.4% -1.0% -1.7% -1.6% -1.7% -1.7% -1.6% -1.7% -1.7% 0 High school graduate(or -2 0% -2.3% -1.8% 0.8% 1.2% 0.5% -0.3% 0.9% -1.5% -1.0% -0.6% -1.5% U equivalency) Some college, no degree -3.3% -0.9% -5.5% -3.0% -2.4% -3.4% -1.0% -1.3% -0.8% -0.8% -0.6% -0.9% Associate's degree 2.4% 0.4% 4.0% 1.3% 1.0% 1.7% 0.8% 0.8% 1.0% 0.6% 0.6% 0.5% w Bachelor's degree 1.0% 0.0% 1.8% 0 1.1% 1.3% 1.0% 1.2% 0.7% 1.6% 1.5% 1.3% 1.7% Graduate or professional degree 2.9% 3.8% 2.4% 1.0% 0.1% 2.0% 1.0% 0.6% 1.4% 1.4% 0.9% 1.8% L High school graduate and higher 0.9% l � 0.9/° 11 0.9/° 1 .0% L 1.7/°��1.7/°11 1.7/° 1.7/° 1.7/° '� 1.7/° 4r-1.6% Bachelor's degree and higher 3.9% 3.8% 4.3% 1 r 2.9% 2.2% 1.3% 3.0% 2.8% 2.3% 3.5% o Note:Change greater equal or greater than 3.0%highlighted.Margin of error results in values slightly greater or less than 700%.Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community U Survey(ACS),2070-2074 and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S1501;generated by City of Meridian;using dato.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/cedsci/>(22 March 2022). www.meridiancity.org/compplan Cost of Living Figure 2P. Change in Cost of Living for Boise, ID (Metro) The Council for Community and Economic Research annually prepares comparative cost of living data for urban areas across Misc.Goods&Services 8.9% the U.S. The results comprise a relative cost of living (index) Health Care -1.7% for each participating metropolitan area based on expenditure Transportation -1.1% pattern for professional and executive households.The average utilities 2.3% 1 of all participating localities is the baseline index value of 100, so categorical and composite values can be gauged as a Housing 3 .596 percent of the"norm" or U.S. average based on available data. Grocery 7.O% Composite Index 12.0% The index has certain limitations. For example, it does not calculate variations in tax structure and subsequent burdens -10.0% 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% from one locality to another. It also does not factor in cost Change in Composite Index a� Note:See table 2H for data/source. p . . N Below:Home construction at Eagle and Lake Hazel,looking north-west. a- Q) N N 0 differences between sub-metropolitan area jurisdictions (a } single value for housing,for example, is assigned to the entire a Boise City-Nampa metro area). Related work by the Boise (D Valley Economic Partnership (BVEP) shows there can be great N variations in some commodities and services across the region. o - _ Still, the Council for Community and Economic Research Cost W c of Living Index is the most comprehensive and straightforward U annual comparison of different metro areas of which the City is currently aware. Table 2H lists comparative costs of livinghh� } -A' � `~ -1 for metro areas in the northwest region of the United States. LU X Within the Boise metro area, the changes between 2016 and 2021 were significant. The composite index increased by more than 12%, and now surpasses the overall national .f �rl average for cost of living. Housing especially increased by 0 t �• a staggering 36.5%. Grocery and Miscellaneous Goods and www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Table 2H. Comparative Cost of Living Index, Council for Community and Economic Research TransportationMetro Area Composite Utilities Index 2016 2021 2016 2021 2016 2021 „2016 2021� EMIJJL.`016 2021 2016 2021 mafiiamdBoise, ID 91.2 102.1 87.7 93.8 80.9 110.4 84.2 82.3 112.9 111.7 104.6 102.8 94.3 102.7 Anchorage,AK 130.6 126.0 130.3 124.3 153.5 137.0 100.9 129.7 115.7 111.2 140.9 147.2 124.3 114.8 Colorado Springs,CO 94.4 108.2 95.8 101.0 97.7 115.8 75.2 99.0 99.3 103.1 101.6 100.2 94.3 110.2 Reno-Sparks, NV 104.6 108.2 101.1 1 105.4 97.5 126.4 92.9 82.5 118.6 118.9 104.9 104.1 111.0 97.7 Spokane,WA 98.1 104.9 94.2 102.7 90.7 104.2 87.9 101.3 116.8 110.3 115.4 117.8 100.6 105.0 Provo-Orem, UT 91.1 100.0 99.5 97.7 84.1 103.2 84.5 86.6 97.5 105.3 90.3 90.3 93.8 102.7 National Average 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 Source:C2ER,2027 and 2016. "Comparative Data for Urban Areas:2021 Annual Average Data,Cost of Living Index,2021"' 021".Received on February 17 2022 via Boise Valley Economic Partnership(BVEP). "Cost of Living Index,Comparative Data for Urban Areas,2016."Accessed on May 12,2017 http://c2c.coli.org/. _O Q O N CL Services also saw notable increases. Several areas reduced income, and the breakdown of income ranges by percent of slightly, including Utilities, Transportation, and Health Care, the whole. however Transportation and Health Care are both still above N the national average. Poverty o } Poverty is determined by using income thresholds for a o Income household of a given size.According to the 2016-2020 American Meridian is a relatively affluent community with a mean Community Survey, 6.5% of the population in Meridian is household income greater than that at the County, State, and considered to be living in poverty (down from 8.6% in the O national levels. Based on the 2016-2020 American Community 2010-2014 ACS). This is considerably lower than the national Survey, Meridian has a higher mean household income than rate of 12.8%. U Boise and Nampa, and saw a higher change in mean income for all comparison areas listed in Table 21, between the 2010- As shown in Table 2J, there is a strong correlation between } 2014 and 2016-2020 ACS periods. education and poverty.Those without a High School equivalent w education are significantly more likely to be living in poverty. The State of Idaho is roughly 15.5% below the national mean Furthermore, this same information shows that at the local, for household income. Table 21 provides mean household state and national level,the more education one receives, the incomes for select peer Treasure Valley cities, both Ada and less likely they are to live below the poverty threshold. Canyon County, the State of Idaho, and the United States. o Table 21 also reports the percent change in mean household ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 21. Household Income by Jurisdiction Boise Less than $10,000 5.4% 6.8% 6.1% 6.0% 5.6% 5.7% 6.0% $10,000 to$14,999 2.1% 3.4% 4.4% 2.9% 4.7% 4.4% 4.3% $15,000 to $24,999 6.0% 9.7% 9.5% 8.1% 9.0% 9.8% 8.9% $25,000 to $34,999 8.1% 9.3% 13.2% 8.3% 11.6% 10.3% 8.9% $35,000 to$49,999 12.1% 13.2% 18.1% 12.0% 16.3% 14.3% 12.3% $50,000 to $74,999 18.7% 18.2% 22.8% 18.5% 22.5% 20.2% 17.2% $75,000 to $99,999 17.1% 12.3% 13.0% 14.2% 12.8% 12.9% 12.7% $100,000 to $149,999 17.0% 14.8% 10.0% 16.7% 12.2% 13.8% 15.1% $150,000 to $199,999 7.3% 5.9% 2.2% 6.4% 3.2% 4.6% 6.8% $200,000 or more 6.3% 6.4% 0.8% 6.8% 2.1% 4.0% 7.7% N 2020 Mean income(dollars) $98,497 $86,841 $61,603 $93,909 $69,41 $$77,399 $91,547 0 2014 Mean income(dollars) $75,177 $69,076 $47,289 $73,523 $52,293 $61,544 $74,596 QL Change in Mean Income $23,320 $17,765 $14,314 $20,386 $17,117 $15,855 $16,951 SQ) %Change in Mean Income 31.0% 25.7% 30.3% 27.7% 32.7% 25.8% 22.7% Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S7901;generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov N <https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/> (17 March 2022). o N } O Figure 2Q. Mean Income by Area Figure 2R. Change in Mean Income, 2014 to 2020 a N 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 � Meridian Meridian Boise Boise O U Nampa Nampa Ada •�• Ada H x Canyon Canyon w Idaho Idaho O U.S. U.S. N I 02020 Mean income(dollars) ■Change in Mean Income 0 Note:See table 21 for data/source. Note:See table 21 for data/source. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2S. Poverty Rate by Year and Area Figure 2T. Poverty Rate by Educational Attainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Idaho (or equiv.) Ada Some college Meridian 04 m 2020 m202O m2014 a) Q 0 Note:See Table 2J for datalsource. Note:See Table 2J for datalsource. a) OL 0 Table 2J. Percent of Residents Living in Povety o N Meridian . . } 010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change 2010 2020 Change_ Q N Poverty Status(All Ages) 8.6% 6.5% -2.1% 12.8% 9.3% -3.5% 15.6% 11.9% -3.7% 15.6% 12.8% -2.8% N Under 18 years 9.6% 6.8% -2.8% 14.9% 9.4% -5.5% 19.4% 14.4% -5.0% 21.9% 17.5% -4.4% 0 18 to 64 years 8.3% 6.7% -1.6% 12.8% 9.5% -3.3% 15.5% 12.0% -3.5% 14.6% 12.1% -2.5% t 65 years and over 6.9% 4.9% -2.0% 7.7% 7.9% 0.2% 8.4% 7.9% -0.5% 9.4% 9.3% -0.1% 0 U Poverty Status by Education(those 25 and older) C Population 25 years and over 6.9% 5.5% -1.4% 9.5% 7.5% -2.0% 11.7% 9.4% -2.3% 12.0% 10.4% -1.6% H Less than high school graduate 22.6% 20.4% -2.2% 125.0% 21.1% -3.9% 24.4% 19.4% -5.0% 27.6% 24.1% -3.5% "' High school graduate(includesq Y) e uivalenc 8.9% 6.8% -2.1% 12.8% 10.3% -2.50%/o 13.7% 12.1% -1.6% 14.2% 13.4% -0.8% Some college, associate's degree 5.8% &M .5% 19.3% 8.2% - ° 10.7% 9.1% - ° 10.5% 9.4% -1.1% Bachelor's degree or higher 4.3% 2.0% -2.3% 5.4% 4.0% -1.4% 5.7% 4.3% -1.4% 4.5% 4.3% -0.2% Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2070-2074 and 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table S1701;generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov U <https://dato.census.gov/cedsci/> (77 March 2022). www.meridiancity.org/compplan a• - ram. --- .. __ .� ..�". �- _ -- - �. �•� _ fir_ Above:The Historic Tol Housing Characteristics Housing Unit Type o 04 The City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan supports and Meridian's population is distributed throughout the cq encourages a variety of housing types ranging from single-family primarily in suburban-style developments, comprised of rrTt a detached homes to multi-family dwellings. Future Land Use detached single-family housing units. Increasingly however, � designations allow the City to integrate a range of residential higher density housing is being constructed throughout c unit densities, from Low Density Residential to High Density the community, particularly near employment areas, major Residential. Land use, housing, density and other supportive roadways, and regional attractions. In 10 years the ratio of C policies are intended to ensure opportunities exist for a variety multi-family homes has increased by 10% from a roughly U of incomes, housing preferences, lifestyles, family sizes, and 90:10 split to 80:20. age groups. } As shown in Table 2D, an increasingly larger percent of the w Number of Dwelling Units population is of the 65-plus population group, and that there is an increased need for senior housing opportunities. In Meridian, the growth in housing stock has paralleled the There appears to be a growing demand for non-single-family aD pace of growth in population. As shown in Table 2K, in 2012 � there were 29,151 total housing units in Meridian, and by 2022, detached dwelling units, that are easier to take care of and o there were 50,917, an increase of almost 75%• closer to activities and services. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2K. Total Meridian Housing Units by Year Figure 2U. Comparison of Housing Unit Types Single Multi Total Yr over % % Year Family Family Units Yr% Chang - Single Multi50,000 12.00 c 2012 26,731 2,420 29,151 - 91.7% 8.3% 40,000 10.00 LL 2013 27,644 2,810 30,454 4.5% 90.8% 9.2% bf 30,000 8.00 s 2014 28,409 3,414 131,823 4.5% 89.3% 10.7% c 6.00 u+ = 20,000 8 2015 29,399 3,864 33,263 4.5% 88.4% 11.6% 4.00 2016 30,767 4,052 34,819 4.7% 88.4% 11.6% 10,000 2.00 M • LL 2017 32,195 4,806 37,001 6.3% 87.0% 13.0% 2018 34,007 6,038 40,045 8.2% 84.9% 15.1% oti� oti� oti° oti�' oti�O oti� oti�' oti� oti° otiti oti� ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti ti 2019 36,116 6,878 42,994 7.4% 84.0% 16.0% 2020 37,983 7,815 45,798 6.5% 82.9% 17.1% Single Family©Multi Family�Single to Multi Unit Ratio 2021 39,917 8,427 48,344 5.6% 82.6% 17.4% N Note:Housing ratio refers to the number of single-family for each multi-family O 2022 40,795 9,227 50,022 L3.5% I 81.6% 18.4% unit.See table 2L for data/source. 0 o_ Note:Units are calendar year except 2022, which is current as of May,2022. N Source:City of Meridian. �s Persons per Housing Unit Occupancy The 2016-2020 American Community Survey reports that the o According to the 2016-2020 American Community Survey overall average of all households in Meridian was 2.82 persons N data, the ratio of housing units occupied by owners to renters per household. This was down only 0.04 from the 2006-2010 a in Meridian is 75.2% to 24.8% (with a 2.3% margin of error);. average of 2.86. Average family size has increased slightly to (D More currently, and not a direct comparison, in January 2022 3.30 from 3.25 over the same period. A family is any two or there were 31,065 parcels in Meridian with a dwelling unit that more people residing together, and related by birth, marriage, g received a home owners exemption on their property taxes or adoption.A household may include families and non-families, t (meaning the property owner generally lived on site and was or even single individuals. See Table 2L. U not a rental). Compared to the 50,917 total dwelling units, this equates to 61.0% of dwellings that are owner occupied. Table 2L. Persons per Housing Unit } Not all home owners necessarily apply for the tax exemption. w Household Type 2010 2020 Average Household Size (all types) 2.86 2,82 9 YP � Average Family Size 3.25 3.30 N 3'U.S.'Census Bureau,'American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 Source:U.S. Census Bureau,American Community Survey(ACS),2006-2070 and � and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates,Table DP04;generated by City of 2076-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table 57101,generated by City of Meridian, 0 Meridian;using data.census.gov<https:Hdata.census.gov/cedsci/> (17 using dato.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/cedsci/> (24 March 2022). ftZ March 2022). U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2M. Housing Costs as a % of Household Income Housing Cost Groups Meridian . . Owner Occupied with Mortgage 2014 2020 Change 2014 2020 Change+` 2014 2020 Change 2014 2020 Change Less than 20.0 percent 46.9% 52.5% 5.6% 49.4% 50.5% 1.1% 47.1% 47.7% 0.6% 45.9% 46.7% 0.8% 20.0 to 24.9 percent 15.4% 14.7% -0.7% 15.4% 15.6% 0.2% 16.2% 16.1% -0.1% 15.7% 15.6% -0.1% 25.0 to 29.9 percent 12.8% 10.4% -2.4% 11.3% 10.5% -0.8% 10.8% 10.6% -0.2% 10.5% 10.3% -0.2% 30.0 to 34.9 percent 6.7% 6.5% -0.2% 5.9% 6.2% 0.3% 7.1% 7.1% 0.0% 6.9% 6.8% -0.1% 35.0 percent or more 18.2% 15.9% -2.3% 17.9% 17.1% -0.8% 18.9% 18.5% -0.4% 20.9% 20.6% -0.3% Renter Occupied Less than 20.0 percent 26.5% 25.5% -1.0% 28.0% 29.0% 1.0% 28.9% 29.4% 0.5% 26.0% 26.4% 0.4% 20.0 to 24.9 percent 11.1% 12.5% 1.4% 13.4% 14.2% 0.8% 13.5% 13.6% 0.1% 12.9% 12.9% 0.0% 25.0 to 29.9 percent 14.6% 18.3% 3.7% 11.8% 12.6% 0.8% 1 11.4% 11.9% 0.5% 11.6% 11.6% 0.0% 30.0 to 34.9 percent 9.1% 8.9% -0.2% 7.8% 8.3% 0.5% 8.5% 8.4% -0.1% 9.1% 9.1% 0.0% N 35.0 percent or more 38.7% 34.9% -3.8% 39.0% 35.9% -3.1% 37.7% 36.6% -1.1% 40.5% 40.0% -0.5% o Note:This data does not reflect some of the dramatic changes to home values in 2021,and which may influence the results of the nextACS release of data.Source:U.S. Census Bureau, � American Community Survey(ACS),2010-2014 and 2016-2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table DP04;generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov<https://data.census.gov/ O cedscV>(23 March 2022). Figure 2V. Housing Costs as a % of Income by Type Figure 2W. Change in Housing Cost as a % of Income by Type 04 N 0 -6.0% -4.0% -2.0% 0.0% 2.0% 4.0% 6.0% N } 35%or More 15 9% 34.9% ° Q ° -1.0% >20/ 5.6% 8.30 to 35% ;6.5%9/° 1.4% p 20 to 25% -0.7% 25 to 30% 10.40 18.3% 3.7% O 25 to 30% C) -2.4% 20 to 25% 12.5% 0) 14.7% 30 to 35% 0.2% 0.2% >20% 25.5% w 52.5% ° 35%or More .3.8% O 0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% 2.3°% N ■Renter ❑Home Owner ■Renter ❑Home Owner O Note:Comparison shown for Meridian only.Home Owners with a mortgage only. Note:Change shown for Meridian only.Home Owners with a mortgage only.See U See table 2K for data/source. table 2K for data/source. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2N. Median Rental Costs Type 2012 2022 Change Change in Housing Value Rental Costs $910 $1,766 1 94.1% _ following charts reference information in Table 20. Note:Since no recent ACS data is available for a 10-year comparison,average rental costs for 2022 were researched from a variety of multi-family projects Figure , County with a diversity of configurations(rooms and area).Source:U.S.Census Bureau, American Community Survey(ACS),2012 ACS 1-Year Estimates, Table DP04, generated by City of Meridian;using data.census.gov<https://data.census. gov/cedsci/> (24 March 2022).2022 values researched by the City of Meridian 2021 $510,987 Planning Division. Housing Value Due to dramatic increases in home values in the Treasure 2016 $zaa,9oo Valley between 2020 and 2021, and the delay or cancellation in receiving more recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, ACS data is not used for more recent data in this 2011 $la7,000 Q section. A more recent local source of housing value data which captures actual selling prices of homes in Meridian is $100,000 $200,000 $300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 Q) the Intermountain Multiple Listing Service (MLS). MLS tracks i:S trends in the local housing market, and their data may better Median Ada County Sales Price — illustrate historical and current home sale trends. Table 20 N presents the annual average of monthly median sale price for Change o homes in the four Meridian MLS sub-areas. Overall median o sales prices rose dramatically on average over the 2011 to 2021 Meridian,Northwest Oe period. In southwest Meridian, home sales more than doubled, and in the southeast, northeast, and northwest, home sale o Meridian,Northeast prices more than tripled. Meridian,Southwest 0 The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has historically indicated that any household paying more than 30% owl Meridian,Southeast of its income for housing is paying an excessive percentage of X LU their income for housing. For renters that percentage includes Ada County all utilities, and for home owners that includes taxes, interest, ° and utilities.This is not the only rule,with others recommending 00 000 $400,000 $600,000 splits such as 28/36 (maximum 28%with debt and 36%without debt), and other critical factors such as transportation burden w 2021 o also come into play. As of 2016-2020 ACS data, more than CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 20. Home Sale Values in Ada County and Meridian Income Range 2011 2016 2021 10-Year Change 10-Year% Change Median Price $147,000 $244,900 $510,9187 $363,987 247.6% Days On Market 84 44 18 -66 -78.6% Median Single-family Home Value Ada County $147,000 $244,900 $511,900 $364,900 248.2% Meridian, Southeast $185,000 $275,000 $575,725 $390,725 At�211.20%/o Meridian, Southwest $265,000 $323,346 $558,521 $293,521 110.8% Meridian, Northeast $160,000 $245,000 $490,000 $330,000 206.3% Meridian, Northwest $144,900 $240,000 $509,990 $365,090 252.0% Source:Intermountain MLS,2071,2076,and 2027 "Yearly Report".Retreived on February 8,2022 from https://imismembers.com/statsPublic-2. N Q • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 20% of Meridian homeowners spend 30% or more of their ° Below:Meadow Lake Village,near Eagle and Franklin. household income on their mortgage. More than 43%of renters � spend 30% or more of their household income on housing related costs. See Table 2M for a comparison of housing costs. — Due to the recent changes in housing value, market rates for o rentals, and income, it's likely that housing burden may be N very different in 2022 for some populations. o a Housing and Urban Development The Meridian Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) ro ram includes a number of initiatives to help the P g P underprivileged.The City of Meridian became an Entitlement U - Community as designated by the U.S. Department of Housing _ and Urban Development (HUD) in the fall of 2006. With the N mow; - Entitlement Community designation,the City receives formula w funds annually through the CDBG program.The City receives approximately $500,000 each year for the Program. Mayor's 2 Office Staff administers Meridian's CDBG Program. Q) The purpose of the CDBG Program is to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable U www.meridiancity.org/compplan l ZAL Cl- Aboye.:All accessibility playground at Meridian•Elementary school,and which utilized CDBG • funding. ~ N living environment and by expanding economic opportunities, The overall direction of Meridian's CDBG Program ablished o principally for low- and moderate-income persons. The City in the Consolidated Plan, which identifies high-level goals funds a variety of activities to meet that end, with several and objectives for.the upcoming five (5) years. Activities the 6 recent examples including: City will undertake are detailed in action plans,which the City 0�1 prepares and submits to HUD annually. Community input is o 1. Rent/mortgage assistance an important component of the CDBG Program with multiple opportunities to provide feedback, including at least two (2) C 2. Homeowner repair public hearings per year. U 0) 3. Boys & Girls Club scholarships N X LU 4. Infrastructure design in targeted areas S. Community amenity improvements such as parks and Q) pathways �i 0 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Economic Development cost of doing business, strong leadership, and a highly educated Meridian seeks to be a vibrant community whose vision is to be and dynamic workforce has led to Meridian's success. Indeed, the premier city to live, work and raise a family. Fundamental the Treasure Valley and Idaho consistently rank among the to this vision is a strong and diverse business community that best areas in business friendliness, cost of living and overall is "Built for Business and Designed for Living." A high priority cost of doing business. for the city is attracting companies that provide family wage jobs for Meridian's highly educated workforce. Overall, sense of community combined with a low With a vibrant and diverse economic environment, Meridian cost of doing business, strong leadership, and a highly is home to major employers such as Blue Cross of Idaho, CITI Bank, Crucial Technology, Engineering Structures Inc., Scentsy, educated and dynamic workforce has led to Meridian's St. Luke's Regional Medical Center, T-Mobile, and United success. Heritage. Overall, sense of community combined with a low a) a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Below:New office building at the Silverstone business park. An economic development analysis that began in pre-pandemic a- 2020, identified industry and workforce strengths and provides ) a focus for City economic development efforts in the following ~ four industries: c-4 N 0 0 Advanced Manufacturing } 0 0 Health Care a 0 0 Information Technology c 0 Professional Services - - c The Business and Economic Vitality focus area, one of six focus 0 areas in the City's 2021-2025 Five-Year Strategic Plan, directly r addresses economic development efforts.The Council-identified N Business and Economic Vitality priority goals and strategies w center around downtown revitalization, utilization of urban renewal, creating family wage jobs, and fostering the four key industry sectors. r ��101. ftZ www.meridioncity.org/comppIan I The COVID-19 Pandemic The pandemic negatively affected countless Meridian businesses, Recent Business Growth especially those in the leisure and hospitality industries whose New Businesses . . Business operations were severely limited or shut down entirely. Some • -. Sign/Decalcomania retail businesses, and especially those offering nonessential * American Credit • •• , • Albertsons goods, also suffered significant losses. - • - :- * Bastian SolutionsBBSI Overall, and despite pandemic-related challenges,the MeridianBerkley North Pacific Group _ Cross of •, • job and commercial real estate markets, like much of the ,• Bucknereven nce Treasure Valley and Idaho, continue to rebound and flourish. • • ,• • Distributing. While many of the recent negative economic impacts of the Covington Engineering can be directly attributed to the pandemic, some believe EngageTechnologies G • . _ Analytics that the pandemic may have exacerbated and/or accelerated _• • uNet other inevitable demographic and market changes including * First American Title * • • Q employment shortages related to aging population, reduced ° birth rates, and changing preferences related to industry FunctionalMedicine • •, • •_ • * Hangar Clinic *practices. ..- s rs Kiln * Harris Business Development and Infrastructure Leyn•• • _ • •. • ■• _• • o The City recognizes the need for infrastructure to be in place (or •, • • - • Osteopathic ' readily available) if it is going to attract employers. Infrastructure Lumber -. Q needs vary depending on the user, but typically roads, sewer •.- • � and water, electric utility facilities, as well as easy access to the ■- • - � highways and railroad, are often key factors in determining ■- •- - •• ° when and where a business chooses to locate or expand. •n Pharmacy * Keller Associates The cost of not having infrastructure in the right place and - U available at the right time, can harm the housing-jobs balance, ■, ylocity create significant transportation related impacts, and lead to -. POWER EngineersN unrecoverable missed opportunities when land is converted to of Dubuque Red Aspen LU other more easily accommodated uses for short-term demand. • _ Mortgage C3 UnitedCenter * Heritage Therefore,the City strives to be proactive in ensuring sufficient _• infrastructure to support all types of businesses. The City has * Western States Equipment partnered with Idaho Power Company, to plan for possible transmission and substation facilities to accommodate large U www.meridiancity.org/compplan load requests.The City works with ACHD and ITD to ensure that Urban Renewal Districts highways, bridges and intersections are in good repair and can A total of three new urban renewal districts were established accommodate traffic.The City's Public Works Department has in 2020 and 2021, bringing the total number of Meridian master plans for sewer main lines water supply, and wastewater districts to five.While urban renewal districts are administered treatment that will eventually accommodate all of the lands by the Meridian Development Corporation (MDC), a separate within the Area of City Impact. Quality of life is a huge factor legal entity, the City and MDC work closely together to align when a company is selecting a community to do business. goals and strategies that spur private investment resulting Having good schools, parks and supporting services in place in funding for public infrastructure and other improvements help Meridian rise to the top of the class. with district boundaries. Tax increment financing is a method that provides for new revenue generated by private development within a district to be re-invested in specific public improvements within that , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , district. Improvements must be cited in each district urban T Below:Gramercy Park,a mixed use development,west of Eagle Road on Overland Road. renewal plan upon adoption.Of the three new districts including the Northern Gateway, Union District and Linder District, the Linder District is especially job-focused. In late 2021, the City Council and MDC approved the Linder � District in an effort to accelerate and provide additional funding o for the future Linder Road Overpass Project, a joint effort of o the Idaho Transportation Department and the Ada County 0 -: _- Highway District which would connect Overland Road to Franklin Road over 1-84.The Linder District encompasses 170 0 _ acres along the south side of Interstate 84, north of Overland i Road between Linder and Ten Mile Roads. o U - _ - More than $3.5 million in sewer improvements are necessary r i r for this area to develop. To-date, no sole property owner X or developer has been willing to independently front those Lu costs. The City and MDC are hopeful that the potential to be reimbursed for required public infrastructure improvements will spur private investment within the Linder District. • U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2Z. Urban Renewal Districts uJ j Barbara-% gam IStem Academy al r ' Lj Golf Course ^) I . Settler's .` rVill'age E34 I P I Cherry Fairview High �Doral Meridian Y Of Northern - + ' Fuller dalio'clem—� Middles GDist�rict School Park P Meridian Chaparral High School Meridian Elementa Elementary ry � Crossroads Pine Generations Middle Plaza School Centennial c iiCompass Public ti Union park J -Charter School ' City District ' Hall Plaza o 0 I I J ° Franklin Q_ • � I N nlPar — _ Rebound School _ M_ Of Opportunity IT TerrMile Peregrine a N Road Revenue Elementary — ■ p ' Allocation Area School N u Meridian Renaissance Q ' I Urban Renewal#1 So b�er School �� • _ _ I rielcl 0 Legend — �� — 1?�� .0 RIdaho Icom + State Area of City ■ ♦ University 0 + + Impact J Linder I U ® Meridian D'15trict- Overland Parks ■ School w Property Victory a Middle 0 0.25 0.5 School_ Bea�Creek Miles Park May 2022 Source:City of Meridian Planning Division,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Meridian Business Sectors The two most significant factors in site location decisions are Change in Business Establishments, 2019 to 2021 talent and operating costs'. Anecdotal evidence has shown The following charts reference information •• ' that Meridian, and the Treasure Valley as a whole, lacks the Figure 2AA. Change in Establishments by Total abundance of highly educated talent sought by some employers, especially those in the health care and technology sectors.This ' ' 50 100 150 " 250 300 has been compounded by record periods of low unemployment; Natural Resources employers have reported difficulties in recruiting and engaging Trade, Utilities,Transportation readily available regional talent. Construction Manufacturing In addition, recruiting employees from outside the region has Information become more challenging as housing costs and cost of living Financial Activities overall (see previous section) in the Valley have escalated. Professional Remote work has further impacted recruiting, opening the ••. • ' Healthcare Q regional talent pool to employers based anywhere in the Leisure&Hospitality ° world. Recruiters specifically target talent in desirable regions, Other Services Q_ such as the Treasure Valley, offering higher salaries than local Pub employers, yet still below those in more established metro m Establishments — locations. Local employers are reporting wage increases of N 10 to 20 percent have become the norm to retain and recruitFigure Change o professional talent across all market sectors. o N Much has been written about the Demographic Droughts (and Natural Resources the Great Resignation) and how those trends, and especially Trade, Utilities,Transportationo with other cost of living increases mentioned, are impacting Construction labor markets in all industries. It's notjust employers in higher- o paying industries that are experiencing workforce challenges. InfFinancial Activities U In today's post-pandemic market, the leisure and hospitalityProfessional&Business Services and retail sectors are finding it difficult to secure entry level Education • • Healthcare X workers.While Idaho minimum wage law remains unchanged, . . C market forces appear to have increased that much higher. It is • 0 Public Administration t 4•https://siteselectorsguild.com/site-selectors-survey-reveals-latest trends-in-corporate-location-decisions/ Establishments 0 5 The Demographic Drought.https://www.economicmodeling.com/ demographic-drought/ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2P. Meridian Establishments by Supersector Supersector Establishments Jobs Estabr obs Establishments Jobs Establishments Jobs Natural Resources 23 120 25 112 2 -8 8.7% -6.7% Trade, Utilities,Transportation 586 11,410 716 13,797 130 2,387 22.2% 20.9% Construction 440 4,974 585 5,529 145 555 33.0% 11.2% Manufacturing 106 1,470 130 1,885I 24 415 22.6% 28.2% Information 54 736 680 28 -56 51.9% -7.6% Financial Activities 397 4,140 549 5,227 152 1,087 38.3% 26.3% Professional &Business Services 564 6,717 824 6,820 260 103 46.1% 1.5% Education and Healthcare 580 10,732 775 11,492 195 760 33.6% 7.1% Leisure&Hospitality 301 6,841 351 7,030 50 189 16.6% 2.8% Other Services 227 1,320 273 1,279 46 -41 20.3% -3.1% Public Administration 7 914 6 942 -1 28 -14.3% 3.1% Q 0 Total _� wn��" 4,316 1,031 5,419 CL Source:Idaho Department of Labor,Quarterly Census of Wages&Employment. "Quarter 3".Received on March 7,2022 via e-mail. Q) not unusual to see help wanted signs at fast food franchises Business Establishments C, advertising a $15.00 hourly starting wage. The number of businesses establishments in Meridian increased o Operating costs, arguably the second most important factor during the previous five and ten years—even in two past two 0 years despite the pandemic. As shown in Table 2P, Meridian D in determining business locations, are significantly affected Establishments by Supersector, there was a year-over-year 0�1 by real estate costs.The Treasure Valley region has benefited net increase of business establishments through Quarter 3 C from the pandemic-related corporate exodus from larger, of 2021 despite the pandemic. often more established metro regions. This has created new job opportunities— another workforce challenge for existing Much of the new growth in establishments was in the Information, U employers — it has also increased commercial real estate Professional and Business Services, and Financial Activities prices in all market sectors. This increase in value is positive supersectors with established companies opening regional N for landowners and some developers; but represents yet offices or expanding their Treasure Valley presence. While w another challenge for existing companies, and especially those Professional and Business Services had the highest area of operating on small margins. This challenge is particularly establishment growth, there were comparatively fewer jobs prominent in the industrial sector, and many establishments than in other supersectors.The highest supersectors that also � seeking to grow in the eastern half of the region have been saw the most positive job increase are in Financial Activities, o pushed further west to more available, affordable locations. Trade, Utilities, and Transportation, and Manufacturing. _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan As stated,the City's Retail and Leisure and Hospitality supersectors experienced the greatest pandemic-related setbacks. Despite Change in Employment Groups, 2009 to 2019 this,there is still a net increase in both establishments andjobs The following charts reference information in Table between 2019 and Quarter 3 of 2021.Approximately one-third of Meridian jobs are within the Leisure, Hospitality, and Retail Change in Employment Age Groups supersectors. While these establishments provide valuable 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% •"' goods and services within the community, they are more vulnerable to pandemic-related restrictions and the wages paid %jobs,29oryounger 29.0Uo make it difficult for employees to work and live in Meridian. Worth noting, under the State's current sales tax distribution method, the City does not receive a commensurate share of 0, sales tax revenue collected from Meridian-based businesses, ' •• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . despite often providing increased services and service calls to uses with a regional or larger customer base. 0%%jobs,55 or older o Employment Trends 18.8% a- Q) Employment Group00• Group%2019 Table 2Q overviews detailed employment information in Meridian C,, for the years of 2009, 2014, and 2019. In Meridian, Education o 04 Services, and Health Care and Social Assistance constitute Figure 2AD. Change in Employment Income Groups — about 23% of all jobs. Around 18% of jobs in Meridian are ' ''% 20.0% 40.0% •' '' Q Information, Finance and Insurance, Management of Enterprise, � and Professional Services, and an additional 26% are in Retailjobs, LO Trade or Accommodation and Food Services. less 24.9% ° In the last ten years the largest increase in Meridian employment o U sectors by total jobs was Retail Trade with almost 4,000, or a 90% increase. At over 3,000 jobs, Health Care and Social `' N Assistance was the second largest job sector increase. The LU largest percent change was in the Information sector at .. U approximately 267%, increasing by over 600jobs from 2009. For overall sector changes, between 2009 and 2019, Construction and Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sectors were 00. ,19 o both up 1.9% and 3.1% respectively. CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 2Q. Employment: Meridian Jobs by Sector, Age, and Income Sector Description 2009 2014 2019 Change % Change Group % Group % Group% WWX - to 2 i • to 19 2009 2014 2019 0• to 19 #of jobs,age 29 or younger 8,970 10,320 15,350 6,380 71.1% 29.0% 26.7% 28.6% -0.4% #of jobs, age 30 to 54 17,650 21,870 28,230 10,580 59.9% 57.0% 56.5% 52.6% -4.4% #of jobs, age 55 or older 4,320 6,520 10,070 5,750 133.1% 14.0% 16.8% 18.8% 4.8% #of jobs, $1250/month or less 9,740 11,370 13,360 3,620 37.2% 31.5% 29.4% 24.9% -6.6% #of jobs, $1251 to $3333/month 13,360 15,670 19,790 6,430 48.1°/ 43.2% 40.5% 36.9% -6.3% #of jobs, greater than $3333/month 7,830 11,680 20,500 12,670 161.8% 25.3% 1 30.2% 38.2% 12.9% Jobs by Sector Agriculture, Forestry,Game 120 110 90 (30) -25.0% 0.4% 0.3% 0.2% -0.2% Mining and Extraction . 20 (10) -100.0% 0.0% 0.1% ■ 0.0% 0.0% Utilities 10 20 10 - 0.0% 0.0% 0.1% 0.0% 0.0% Construction 2,310 3,120 5,030 2,720 117.7% 7.5% 8.1% ■ 9.4% ' 1.9% Manufacturing 1,160 1,400 1,620 460 39.7% 3.8% 3.6% 3.0% -0.7% Wholesale Trade 1,860 1,730 2,290 430 23.1% 6.0% 4.5% 4.3% ' -1.8% 0 Retail Trade 4,280 6,190 8,140 3,860 90.2% 13.9% 16.0% 15.2% 1.3% Q) Transportation and Warehousing 930 690 1,400 470 3.0% 1.8% 2.6% ' -0.4% �s Information 240 270 880 640 266.7% 0.8% 0.7% 1.6% 0.9% 04 04 Finance and Insurance 2,000 2,380 3,780 1,780 6.5% 6.2% 7.1% 0.6% o Real Estate 250 390 670 420 168.0% 0.8% 1.0% 1.3% 0.4% 0 Professional Services 1,640 2,110 4,520 2,880 5.3% 5.5% 8.4% 3.1% Management of Enterprise 280 330 210 (70) -25.0% 0.9% 0.9% 0.4% -0.5% N Administrative and Support Services 2,730 2,780 3,710 980 J35.9% 8.8% 7.2% 6.9% -1.9% o Educational Services 3,140 3,660 4,470 1,330 42.4% 10.2% 9.5% 8.3% -1.8% � 0 Health Care and Social Assistance 4,480 6,970 7,790 3,310 73.9% 14.5% 18.0% 14.5% 0.0% U Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 570 980 1,080 510 89.5% 1.8% 2.5% 2.0% 0.2% C Accommodation and Food Services 3,520 4,070 5,570 2,050 58.2% 11.4% 10.5% 10.4% -1.0% •X w Other Services 580 650 1,210 630 108.6% 1.9% 1.7% 2.3% 0.4% C O Public Administration 750 790 1,100 350 46.7% 2.4% 2.0% 2.1% -0.4% 0 Total Number of Jobs N Note:Values by year are rounded to the nearest ten. This informations is a LODES data product constrained to the Meridian Area of City Impact.It is composed of administrative 0 records,census and survey data focused on the labor market,worker,and firm statistics.State unemployment insurance reporting and account information and federal worker earnings >- records which provide information on employment location for covered jobs and residential information for workers.Source:U.S. Census Bureau.2022.LEHD Origin-Destination U Employment Statistics 2079.Retrieved on April 28,2022 from LODES 7.5 via R Statistical Census API. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2AE. Change in Meridian Unemployment Rate 12.0% Apr,11.3% 10.0% 8.0% E I I I I I I I I C 6.0% a E I I I I Dec,2.2% c 4.0% 0 2.0% 0.0% _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U Q 7 U a o , a o , Q , o Q o Q o a o a o a o a o a o N M Ln lD I, 00 Ql O N N 1-1 —4 ci —4 —4 —4 —1 .--I N N N O O O O O O O O O O O O O N N N N N N N N N N N CL O Note:See source link for complete table of values.Source:U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics,Local Area Unemployment Statistics, "Unemployment Rate:Meridian city,ID(U)".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https.//beta.bls.gov/dataViewer/view/timeseries/LAUCT 165212000000003 N N 0 As shown in Figure 2AC and 2AD, changes in age and wage The data collection between these sources vary, but generally } groups associated with these jobs were diverse. Overall and align in direction and change, and are helpful to show detailed a consistent with general demographic changes,the 55 and older historic information aligned with more general recent data. � group increased by 4.8%of the overall employment workforce. Figure 2AF shows the origin-destination of employees for c The largest increase both by total jobs and by percent wage jobs in Meridian. ° group were those that are $3,333 or higher (this wage group is now low, but would have once been family-wage). Unemployment U Unemployment continues to be low in Meridian since the Table 2P also shows newjobs associated with new establishments pandemic spike in April of 2020, with a February and March N for 2019 through Quarter 3 of 2021. As of March 2022, there X are an estimated 62,683 jobs in Meridian'.This is an increase of 2022 rate of 2.6%. Meridian' lowest rate of unemployment U 16.8%from the more detailed 2019 data available in Table 2Q. in the last 10 years was 2.2% (2.7%for Idaho), and the overall a 10-year average rate was just 3.7% (4.4% for Idaho). Figure a 2AE shows unemployment changes over the last 10-years in ]�i b U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics,Local Area Unemployment Meridian.This data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is o Statistics, "Employment:Meridian city,ID (U)".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https://beta.bls.gov/dataViewer/view/timeseries/ subject to revision. LAUCT165212000000005. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan • • • • - • 1 • 16 I I � \ ----------------- MIDDLETON � I \ 11 r�� ' �� v • ��!��\��J • �t��i�l��1 '�;�� '_':ems� ��•` <• � ,��h�� ° � � _ v 1 Rol!P 34 i/ Wit— I'r ;wow 20 Nil 45 -. - �'► /�7�!=�•� • ��l`\�� ,I � � , Boise�� 1 I 69 11 84 • I . • z • - . . . . .. . 2-29 Table 2R. Labor Force: Meridian Resident Jobs by Sector, Age, and Income GroupSector Description 2009 2014 2019 Change % Change Change #of jobs,age 29 or younger 6,110 8,020 11,250 5,140 84.1% 23.6% 20.7% 22.6% -1.0% #of jobs, age 30 to 54 15,970 24,180 28,730 12,760 79.9% 61.7% 62.3% 57.7% -4.0% #of jobs, age 55 or older 3,810 6,610 9,810 6,000 157.5% 14.7% 17.0% 19.7% 5.0% #of jobs, $1250/month or less 6,960 9,310 10,500 3,540 50.9% 26.9% 24.0% 21.1% -5.8% #of jobs, $1251 to $3333/month 10,080 13,540 15,190 5,110 50.7% 38.9% 34.9% 30.5% 1 -8.4% #of jobs, greater than $3333/month 8,860 15,970 24,090 15,230 171.9% 34.2% 41.1% 48.4% 14.2% Jobs by Sector Agriculture, Forestry,Game 210 260 280 70 33.3% 0.8% 0.7% 0.6% -0.2% Mining and Extraction . 30 110 50 20 66.7% 0.1% . 0.3% 'W0.1% 0.0% Utilities 100 220 210 110 110.0% 0.4% 0.6% 0.4% 0.0% Construction 1,440 1,960 3,290 1,850 128.5% 5.6% FM 5.1% W 6.6% 1.0% Manufacturing 2,360 3,300 3,720 1,360 57.6% 9.1% 8.5% 7.5% -1.7% Q Wholesale Trade 1,270 1,970 2,370 1,100 86.6% 4.9% I 5.1% 4.8% -0.1% 0 Retail Trade 3,090 4,870 5,990 2,900 93.9% 12.0% 12.6% 12.0% 0.1% L Transportation and Warehousing 850 1,020 1,490 640 75.3% 3.3% I 2.6% 3.0% -0.3% Information 530 680 830 300 56.6% 2.1% 1.8% 1.7% -0.4% N 04 Finance and Insurance 1,170 1,730 2,390 1,220 104.3% 4.5% I 4.5% 4.8% 0.3% o Real Estate 330 460 650 320 97.0% 1.3% 1.2% 1.3% 0.0% 0 Professional Services 1,440 2,230 3,360 1,920 133.3% 5.6% I 5.8% 6.8% 1.2% C Management of Enterprise 470 590 810 340 72.3% 1.8% 1.5% 1.6% -0.2% � Administrative and Support Services 2,210 3,080 3,610 1,400 63.3% 8.6% l 7.9% 7.3% -1.3% 0 Educational Services 2,170 3,270 3,780 1,610 74.2% 8.4% 8.4% 7.6% -0.8% C: 0 Health Care and Social Assistance 3,570 6,000 7,820 4,250 119.0% 13.8% 15.5% 15.7% 1.9% U Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 350 560 820 470 134.3% 1.4% 1.4% 1.6% 0.3% Accommodation and Food Services 2,100 2,900 3,940 1,840 87.6% 8.1% 7.5% 7.9% -0.2% X w Other Services 680 1,010 1,410 730 107.4% 2.6% 2.6% 2.8% 0.2% O Public Administration 1,460 2,540 2,890 1,430 97.9% 5.7% 1 6.6% j 5.8% 0.2% Total Number of Jobs 25,900 38,820 49,7 N Note:Values by year are rounded to the nearest ten. This information is a LODES data product constrained to the Meridian Area of City Impact.It is composed of administrative records, 0 census and survey data focused on the labor market,worker,and firm statistics.State unemployment insurance reporting and account information and federal worker earnings records >, which provide information on employment location for covered jobs and residential information for workers.Source:U.S.Census Bureau.2022.LEHD Origin-Destination Employment U Statistics 2019.Retrieved on April 28,2022 from LODES 7.5 via R Statistical Census API. www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Labor Force 0 Change in Labor Force Groups, 2009 to 2019 As shown in Table 2R, Meridian's labor force much like its The following charts reference • • • • " 2R. population has grown;the labor force grew substantially from Figure 2AG. Change in Employment Age Groups just over 30,000 in 2009 to over 49,000 in 2019.This labor force demands jobs that are very different from those employment opportunities available in Meridian though; Meridian residents 23.65 takejobs throughout the Treasure Valley.The largest sectors for %jobs,29 or younger Meridian residents by a wide margin are those in Health Care and Social Services; approaching 16.0% of the labor force. In the last 10 years the biggest sector change for residents was 0, also Health Care and Social Services, increasing in both the total number of jobs (over 4,000), and as a percent of all jobs. Similar to the employment age groups, the Meridian labor a jobs, older force has increased in age. There was a 5.0% increase in age ° for the 55 and older group, between 2009 and 2019. There CL a) was also a higher change in jobs providing monthly income "' m Group%2019 of $3,333 or more, increasing by 14.2% of all jobs since 2009. — N N As of March of 2022, Meridian's labor force is estimated at o EmploymentFigure 2AH. Change in } �, �, �, .� �, 64,357'. This is an increase of 29.0% from the detailed 20190. a data available in Table 2R. 0 Jobs Access o less 21.1% Being located at the population and job center of the metropolitan area, it's natural for residents and workers to U commute. Being able to choose to live in one place and ' work elsewhere provides greater flexibility in priorities for } N home location, schools, amenities, access to services, and w ,, greater than34.2% places to retreat. This is even more true for households with multiple workers. For some, issues with both housing cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2009 7 U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics,Local Area Unemployment Statistics, "Labor Force:Meridian city,ID (U)".Accessed on May o 3,2022 from https://beta.bls.gov/datoViewer/view/timeseries/ ftz LAUCT165212000000006. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 2AI. Meridian Employment to Meridian Labor Force Comparison This figure is an overall comparison of the 2019 job sectors that the Meridian labor force (residents) are employed in, to the employment(jobs) available in Meridian. Equilibrium is zero, with larger values, negative or positive, representing extremes. See Tables 2Q and 2R for data and sources, and the Jobs Access section for other narrative. Employment Shortfall Labor Force Shortfall (2,500) (2,000) (1,500) (1,000) (500) - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 Agriculture,Forestry,Game (190) Mining and Extraction (50) Utilities (200) Construction 1,7A 0 , • Manufacturing (2,300) • , Wholesale Trade (80) Retail Trade - 2,150 Transportation and Warehousing (90) Information 50 • Finance and Insurance L,390 • Real Estate 20 Professional Services 1,160 Management of Enterprise (600) • • Administrative and Support Services 100 • Educational Services ! - 690 • Health Care and Social Assistance (30) Arts,Entertainment,and Recreation 26 Accommodation and Food Services 1,630 • • Other Services (200) , Public Administration (1,790) • - . . . . .. . 2-32 Table 2S. Meridian Commercial Vacancy OccupiedType Buildings Total SF Office 446 5,993,153 5,625,407 367,746 6.14% Industrial 260 6,483,617 6,419,427 64,190 0.99% Retail 130 5,208,293 499,055 216,238 4.15% Total SF 836 17,685,063 12,543,889 648,174 3.67% Source:TOK Commercial Real Estate,Boise Valley Information. "Vacancy Reports".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https://www.tokcommercial.com/boise-msa. and transportation burden can quickly restrict this freedom, The Commercial Real Estate Market and for others increasing congestion may influence previous The commercial real estate market has experienced some of priorities for home and job location over time. Finally, evolving its highest and lowest vacancy rates over the past two years. opportunities for remote work may increase opportunities for Of particular note, the Meridian industrial vacancy rate has some and further restrict opportunities for others. remained under one percent for nearly two years. One major a) Never-the-less, comparing the Meridian labor force to Meridian driver is the increased demand for warehouse and distribution o employment (jobs) by sectors, provides for interesting space,the result of pandemic-related increases in e-commerce � comparisons.The sector with the largest"surplus",those jobs sales as well as population increases in the region resulting Q) where the Meridian labor force could not fill the positions, in enough local demand for operators to justify a regional presence in the market. is Retail Trade with over 2,000 jobs. Construction is second N with just over 1,700 jobs, and the Accommodation and Food CD Warehouse/distribution uses require considerable square o Services sector is third with over 1,600 jobs. The sector with footage and the use typically does not generate a significant o the largest deficit, where the jobs do not exist in Meridian a even if the labor force wanted them, is Manufacturing with a number of jobs despite the large footprint. Large users and � deficit of over 2,000 jobs. The second largest sector deficit is large vehicle distribution often have more significant impacts Public Administration with almost 1,800 jobs. on transportation networks by reducing intersection efficiency o and bottle necks at access points, and may push out family t Figure 2AJ shows the origin-destination of jobs for Meridian wage jobs and services requiring other users to then also travel U residents. While a large number of Meridian residents do further.While these uses are necessary, they generally do not 0) work in the City, most commute outward. Several areas of meet the goal of increasing family wage jobs and should be concentration include Manufacturing in the Census Tract contained to areas where both the land use and transportation w around Micron Technology, and the Public Administration and network were planned for them. Healthcare jobs in Downtown Boise and the Central Bench. There are many industrial users that bring family wagejobs at higherjobs/square foot.Conversely,when considering business retention, there are essential supply and service businesses 0 necessary to serve the existing business community, regardless ftz U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 1 1 I 1 I \ \ Boise River• t�r se R• 1 20 ° 2"�� , Nam. -� WIN 84 I I ��I��\� = r • � _._ _i 21 • 84 - . . . . .. . 2-34 of wages and jobs/square foot. A balanced business and the majority of the growth. Nearly 753,000 square feet was economic base is essential to ensure jobs for residents as well added in 2020 by new projects (60.5% of the total square feet as a community's fiscal health and stability.The residential-to- added in 2020); More than 373,500 square feet added in 2021 commercial land use ratio should be monitored as well as the (46.5% of the total square feet added in 2021). balance of specific uses within commercial zones to maintain this balance if the City is to continue focus on family wage jobs. As of April 11, 2022,the Office vacancy in Meridian is at 6.14%, Industrial vacancy is at 0.99%, and Retail vacancy is at 4.15%1. Market Statistics While overall Industrial vacancy is low, there is a very high Despite the remaining uncertainties from the Pandemic, the vacancy of Class A Multi-Tenant industrial buildings. Virtually Meridian office market saw the greatest square footage increases all new industrial space permitted is the same configuration across the three commercial real estate segments in both 2020 of large warehouse style configurations. and 2021. New construction at Ten Mile Crossing, El Dorado, In 2021,the City received 98 inquiries from existing and potential Eagle View Landing, and Silverstone projects accounted for new businesses. The majority of these inquiries came from a) companies interested in siting manufacturing operations in o Below:Aerial view of.the plaza,in The Village•at Meridian.. • . . . . . . . . . . . . Meridian. Most of these requests could not be accommodated due to a lack of readily available and appropriate space, or Q) -xA� due to undeveloped acreage with existing services. .416. f Meridian Chamber of Commerce o } The Meridian Chamber of Commerce is a membership °Q - organization, supported by member investment and the committed involvement of leaders in the Meridian business community.The Chamber provides ways to become involved o in the community through leadership opportunities, business advocacy, networking, and promotion of individual businesses'. o �= 4 The Chamber is in the business of building relationships U between the business community, government, and the rest of the community to maintain a healthy economy and quality X of life in Meridian. The Meridian Chamber of Commerce is a U key partner in the City's economic development efforts. • aD r 8 TOK Commercial Real Estate,Boise Valley Information. "Vacancy Reports".Accessed on May 3,2022 from https://www.tokcommercial. PIF . com/boise-msa. O 1 = 9 Meridian Chamber of Commerce. "About".Access on June 2,2022 ftZ A from https://meridianchamber.org/about/. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT Land Use, Transportation, and the previous section (population, demographics, etc.) and Community Design the background information and analysis that follows later This chapter discusses the framework for land use and in the report on other planning components (public services, development in the City of Meridian and its Area of City utilities, recreation, etc.) Impact (AOCI). As required by Idaho State Statute, analysis Q) on Land Use, Transportation, Public Airport Facilities, and This section of the report is organized by outlining: land E Community Design components of the Comprehensive Plan ownership, land use, transportation, and community design. o are provided in this section of the Existing Conditions Report. This portion of the report also includes a brief summary of These components bridge the gap between the topics from future land uses,transportation trends, and community design o principles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Below:Vacant land near Citibank,in the Silverstone business ark. E P The primary purpose of the Land Use discussion is to broadly E frame the topics of zoning and future land uses, to define the o area of city impact, and to include a brief summary of special U planning areas. The purpose of the Transportation portion of — the chapter is to explain how roads are classified and used in o the region and how planning for future facilities is done. An } explanation on funding for transportation projects is provided a as well as how roadways are starting to evolve into complete 0 streets. An overview of pathways, transit and travel lanes is provided. Further, some basic information is included on Public o rP � w Airport Facilities within the Transportation section. 34 O s "'• ;:, r �i The purpose of the Community Design discussion is to provide a framework for how Meridian will ensure the City remains } z dM.Q a great place to live, work, and raise a family. This section w overviews the City's design review process, and efforts to c enhance livability and quality of life in the community. •. �t. U www.rneridioncity.org/comppIan Table 3A. Non-private Parcel Ownership in the AOCI Land Ownership Name Acres % of AOCI Land within the corporate City boundaries and the Area of Federal(Subtotal) 66.7 0.20% City of Impact are controlled by a mix of private and public Bureau of Reclamation 63.6 0.19% ownerships, with a large majority of the land (93.5%) being Postal Service 3.0 0.01% held privately. The remaining 6.5% is owned by West Ada Fate(Subtotal) 99.8 0.30% School District, City of Meridian, Federal Government, State Board of Education 22.0 0.07% Government, other local agencies, and various utilities. The State Police 50.2 0.15% amount of privately-owned land in Meridian is substantial Transportation Department 27.6 0.08% when compared to the County as a whole, where Ada County parcel records show that over 45%, of the total land area is Idaho State University 16.3 o.o5°i° Q federally owned, and combined with State ownership, is over Department of Lands 2.4 0.01% 50% of total parcel area. Table 3A summarizes non-private Local(Subtotal) 1,872.4 5.54% I 0 land ownership within the Area of City Impact. Ada County 19.1 0.06% Ada County Highway District 91.7 0.27% Figure 3A. Comparison of Private to Non-private Land Area City of Meridian 800.6 2.37% E Meridian Cemetery District 30.6 0.09% U Acres, . . . . . . 2,182.4,6.5% West Ada School District 886.4 2.62% - Western Ada Recreation District 25.1 0.07% N . . . . . . . . . o . . . . . . . . . . Meridian Rural Fire District 9.2 0.03% } . . . . . . Other 9.7 0.03% Q Utility(Subtotal) 143.5 0.43% � N Idaho Power 21.9 0.06% o Intermountain Gas 65.7 0.19% c Nampa &Meridian Irrigation District 43.4 0.13% O U . . . Northwest Pipeline 4.1 0.01% 0) . . . . . . . . . Acres, Phyllis Canal Company 4.4 0.01% } 31,586.5, Pioneer Irrigation District 4.0 0.01% w 93.5% c Other 0.5 0.00% O ■Non-Private Land OAII Other Land Total Non-private Land 2,182.4 6.46% N Note:See table 3A. All Other Land 31,586.5 93.54% �i Total Parcel Area in AOCI 33,768.9 100.00% 0 016 ftZ Source:City of Meridian Planning Division,March 2022 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Zoning & Land Use Zoning and land use are a physical expression of the community. Identification and analysis of a City's existing development patterns provides a basis for future land use decisions. Because " the City of Meridian has experienced such rapid growth and expansion over the past few decades, it is important to more regularly inventory current land uses and then determine how further development should occur. For more information on these inventories, see the annual City of Meridian Land Use and Development Report.' 0- As a property requests to annex or rezone within the City, - - -- - — > the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) of the Comprehensive Plan - 0 directs the appropriate zoning district of that property. E Zoning Districts o . . The City of Meridian maintains a Zoning Map that depicts Above:Vacant land around High School U zoning districts of the City.There are 16 zoning districts listed Below:Looking west from Kleiner Park,towards The Village power center. N in the Unified Development Code (UDC) for use within the o incorporated limits of the City.The following is a brief summary } of zoning districts by group. Descriptions are taken from the a Unified Development Code (UDC). See also the UDC for a complete zoning related information.' 0 D Residential. The purpose of the residential districts is to provide for a range of housing opportunities ,;_ - o consistent with the Meridian Comprehensive Plan. Residential districts are distinguished by the dimensional standards of each corresponding zone Y X LU and housing types that can be accommodated. , -:7 a Included zoning districts: R-2; R-4; R-8; R-15; and RAO. 70 'i C �1. I o 1 Land Use and'Development Report:https:Hmeridiancity.org/planning. ftz 2 Unified Development Code:https://meridiancity.org/planning/UDC. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 Commercial: The purpose of the commercial districts warehousing, and distributing. In accord with the is to provide for the retail and service needs of Meridian Comprehensive Plan. Included zoning the community in accordance with the Meridian districts: I-L and I-H. Note: I-H is a heavy industrial Comprehensive Plan. These districts differ in the size district and does not currently zoned anywhere in the and scale of commercial structures accommodated in City. the district, the scale and mix of allowed commercial 0 Traditional Neighborhood: The purpose of the uses, and the location of the district in proximity to traditional neighborhood districts is to encourage streets and highways. Included zoning districts: C-N; mixed use, compact development that is sensitive C-C; C-G; L-O; M-E; and H-E. Q) to the environmental characteristics of the land and 0 Industrial: The purpose of the industrial districts facilitates the efficient use of services. Vertically o are to provide for convenient employment centers integrated residential projects are encouraged in a) of light manufacturing, research and development, all traditional neighborhood districts. A traditional o neighborhood district diversifies and integrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . land uses within close proximity to each other, and Below:Look in south east from the Silverstone business ark. g p it provides for the daily recreational and shopping E needs of the residents. Included zoning districts: O-T, E TN-C; and TN-R. U Future Land Uses N 0 In 2022, the City of Meridian has over 21,000 acres within its } municipal boundaries.At full build out, Meridian is anticipated a to incorporate approximately 39,000 acres.This build out area is known as the Area of City Impact (AOCI). The Future Land Use Map (FLUM) portrays locations for the various land use types throughout the AOCI. The FLUM's primary purpose is to define and map future land uses so that development U occurs in the direction and manner most desired by Meridian's 0) -- _ stakeholders.The FLUM works in conjunction with the text of N the Comprehensive Plan, city code, and the various policies of w - - the City. However, the FLUM is not a zoning map and differs in that it describes the character and type of the use that is desired in the future, and not necessarily what currently exists. Over time, however, the FLUM has also evolved to depict o where some existing land uses exist. For example, existing ftZ www.meridioncity.org/compplan schools, parks, fire stations and other civic and private uses 0 Commercial —These areas are intended to provide a are depicted on the FLUM. full-range of commercial and retail services for area residents and visitors. The FLUM depicts a built-out Meridian that is very diverse in 0 Office—These areas provide opportunities for residential densities, commercial and industrial land uses, and low-impact business areas including: personal and public/quasi-public opportunities. While the FLUM depicts professional offices, technology and resource centers. many types of land use designations, they can be broadly divided into eight basic categories: 0 Employment—These land uses designations, for use primarily within the Ten Mile Interchange specific 0 Residential —These areas are intended to provide area plan (see section on Specific Area Plans), E a variety of housing types. Uses include a range of are intended to support a variety of office and o densities varying from large estate lots to multi- manufacturing uses of varying intensity, along with Q) family homes. supporting and complimentary secondary uses. o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Industrial —These areas are designated to allow a Below:End of the Main Street and Meridian Road couplet,north. .of.Frankl.in Road.. . . . . . range of industrial uses to support industrial and commercial activities. Uses may include warehouses, E storage units, light and heavy industry such as manufacturing and processing. U - -. -- 0 Old Town —This area includes the historic downtown N and the core community activity center, and is a o unique type of Mixed Use. A wide variety of land uses o .� are encouraged and envisioned in Old Town. 0 Mixed Use —These areas incorporate a variety of different, but complimentary and compatible land - - - uses together. These areas are typically situated in highly visible or transitioning areas of the City, ° and vary in intensity and allowed uses. Most future 0) commercial and office uses are anticipated to occur N within these mixed use areas, along with some higher w density and transitional residential uses. 4-r••� 0 Civic and Utility—These areas preserve and protect aD municipal, state, and Federal lands for use as parks, ]�i schools, and quasi-public uses. o U www.meridianc1ty.org/comppIan Figure 3B. Meridian Area of City Impact (AOCI) For detailed descriptions of each specific land use, as well as associated policies regarding development, see Chapter 3 of State ywy,aa the full City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan. Area of City Impact 1 In accord with section 67-6526 of Idaho Code, an Area of City Chin den a . - . - . . . Impact (AOCI) has been established for Meridian (see Figure r 313). The City's AOCI is the future planning area for the City, c where annexation and development in Meridian is anticipated. E a ,+� McMillan Although all properties are not yet incorporated, planning o responsibilities for lands within the AOCI rest with the City ust;ck of Meridian. 0 ' The City's AOCI is negotiated with Ada County, pursuant to Cherry Fairview the Local Land Use Planning Act (LLUPA), Idaho Code section Pine �, 67-65. Within the City's AOCI, unincorporated properties are o Franklin �� governed by Ada County for day-to-day administration of U zoning matters. However,the County uses the City's adopted Overland �� _ Comprehensive Plan and the negotiated agreement in the o administration of those duties. Ada County has applied a `�' w Rural Urban Transition (RUT) zoning district to most of the a Victory i properties within the City's AOCI. The RUT zone allows five- (D i acre-lots, single-family residential development, as well as c Amity ' agricultural-related uses and a range of conditional uses. To g Meridian d develop with urban-level intensities,the owner/developer must • request services from the City of Meridian. Such services include U Boundaries s + + Area of City J Lake Hazel •— sanitary sewer, water, fire, police, parks, transportation, and • • Impact libraries. The City (with rare exception) will not provide such } City Limits Columbia ' services unless the property annexes into the City.All County w 0 0.5 1 2 L lY ; - ; 9 development applications within the AOCI are reviewed by the 100001�.Miles = �� City of Meridian for compliance with the Comprehensive Plan March2022 m Hubbard and applicable City policies. The importance of cooperating with Ada County is imperative 0 Source:City of Meridian,2022. to successful, long-term land use, transportation, and utility U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Y l E 0- 0 N > N Q E E O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . c sure adopted U ve:Interstate 84 and Meridian Road in e,looking south-west. �'irpf planning (such as water and sewer).There are very significant Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan } financial implications for not doing so. As such, the City of A specific plan was developed in 2007 for approximately 2,800 a Meridian is committed to fulfilling the terms of its Area of City acres bordered roughly by Linder Road to the east, McDermott � Impact Agreement with Ada County, and in working regional Road to the west, the Union Pacific Railroad line to the north, o partners such as COMPASS which has developed a fiscal impact and 1/2-mile south of Overland Road on the south. The Ten tool to consider land use entitlements.; Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan includes specific land use X designations, a planned transportation network, and design U Special Planning Areas guidelines. In addition to the general citywide land use designations X described above, more detailed plans have also been developed Destination Downtown (Urban Renewal) U for special areas of the City. These Specific Area Plans were The Destination Downtown vision plan was developed in 2009 ° developed with heavy stakeholder input to provide additional and outlines a vision and marketing strategy for strengthening narrative and specific detail into how development should downtown Meridian's role in the community.The planning area ]�i for Destination Downtown encompasses not only the historic o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . areas of downtown, but also the entire urban renewal district ftz 3 https://www.compassidaho.org/prodserv/fscaIimpact.htm U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan extending from Fairview Avenue/Cherry Lane to Interstate Meridian's transportation challenge is planning for and 84.The City's original Urban Renewal #1 district, which aligns accommodating regional growth, by working with the with Destination Downtown, will expire in the next few years. transportation agencies to meet the existing and future transportation service demand. Collaborative land use and Fields Subarea Plan transportation planning can relieve Meridian's unique traffic The Fields Subarea Plan was adopted in 2021 and covers congestion burden. approximately 4 square miles in the northwest corner of the City.The Fields Subarea Plan is an opportunity to plan for one Roadway Authority of the City's last growth areas, in a way that aligns with the The City does not have any authority to build or maintain Q) Vision described in the full City of Meridian Comprehensive public roadways.The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) o Plan; continues to grow the employment base; and integrates has authority over the highways and interstate system in a) high-quality neighborhoods, parks and pathways, and schools. Meridian: 1-84, SH-69, SH-55, SH-16 and US 20-26. The Ada o A central mixed-use activity center will serve as a hub for County Highway District (ACHD) owns and maintains all of the surrounding neighborhoods, and is a feature element of the public, non-ITD roads in Ada County.The Community Planning Fields Subarea Plan. Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) is the region's E Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and is charged o Transportation with air quality conformity and maintaining the long-range U transportation plan for Ada and Canyon counties.Valley Regional Meridian is situated in the center of the metropolitan area and Transit (VRT) is the regional public transportation authority N bisected by the interstate and several highways.This location for Ada and Canyon counties. City staff and elected officials CD o is prime for connecting people, goods and services both serve on several transportation agency groups, committees, o local and through the Pacific Northwest to Inter-Mountain and boards. Although the City does not have authority, it 0 West. Today, Meridian's transportation network is composed spends a considerable amount of time and effort to work with � primarily of roadways.Although the local network of pathways, ACHD, ITD, COMPASS, and VRT to plan for the needs of the o sidewalks, and bicycle facilities is growing. Transit is available community and ensure that the transportation agencies make via dial-a-ride services for seniors, Veterans, and persons decisions that are in the best interest of the City. o with disabilities, as well as limited stops on inter-county bus U routes that run on weekdays between Nampa-Caldwell and Transportation Commission Meridian-Boise.The rail corridor through Meridian has a long N and rich history, and still moves freight. The City and Valley In addition to many workgroups, regional advisory committees, „� Regional Transit (VRT) are exploring local transit routes for and other transportation agency based groups, in which City the near-future, and Community Planning Association of staff participates,the City has also established a Transportation Southwest Idaho (COMPASS) is exploring high-capacity transit Commission that meets monthly.The Commission is made up in long-range plans. The future holds promise for expanded of nine voting members and six non-voting ex-officio members. o modes of transport and new types of service. Members on the Commission are made up of Meridian citizens, ftZ business owners or employees, and transportation professionals U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Figure 3C. Functional Classification with technical expertise and/or education. In aggregate, the - Commission provides a broad, city-wide perspective on State yivyraa transportation issues. Appointments to the Commission are made by the Mayor with City Council approval. The Meridian Transportation Commission's primary responsibilities include reviewing traffic safety and transportation matters such Ghinilen r as: speed limits, meeting the needs of the traveling public, safe routes to schools, etc. that are brought before them either McMillan by City Staff, a transportation agency or a member of the Q 9 public, and in making recommendations to the City Council o as warranted. > Usticli 0 Roadway Network c ITD Functional Cherry Fairview As shown in Table 313, Meridian has almost 650 centerline miles Classification of roadway today, including state highways and the interstate. o lamigPine + + Area City Local roadways makeup the largest share of this area, and U Impact Frankli + + n c Functional Class —g" have increased by over 50 lane miles in just five years. The — southern portion of Meridian is bisected from the northern C�',, Interstate overland �� J p part of town by Interstate 84 (1-84). N Other m Highway W O Principal victory Meridian's roadways are described in terms of a hierarchy of 0 Arterial t streets, known as a functional classification system which involves V) Minor Arterial grouping roadways into classes according to the character of o Major ._�;amity service they are intended to provide.This system,which is used Collector in some variation by the ACHD,Ada County,COMPASS, ITD,and o Minor Lake Hazel the City, classifies roads and highways into three classifications: U Collector ' arterials (further divided into principal and minor), collectors, Local Street ; and local streets (which includes private streets). X Columbia Lu r p ` w 0 o.s 1 z Miles p Principal arterials facilitate statewide and interstate o � > Ma 2022 g 1\j Hubd - transport, involve longer trip lengths, carry high volumes of traffic, and should have a minimal number of access points. o Source:City of Meridian,2022. ftz www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 313. Roadway Miles by Classificaion Year 2017 2022 2017 to 2022 Interstate and State Highways Miles %of All Miles %of All Change Change (Miles) (%) There are four state highways that traverse Meridian and have Interstate 13.5 2.3% 13.5 2.1% 0.0 0.0% a significant influence on the transportation system: Interstate 8.2 1.4% 8.2 1.3% + 0.0 + 0.0% Ramps 0 US 20-26/Chinden Boulevard: US 20-26 serves as Principal 669 112% 641 99% - 28 -41% the northern boundary of Meridian's Area of City Arterial . . . . . . Impact east of Linder Road and west of McDermott Minor and bisects the Area of City Impact between 61.9 10.4% 61.7 9.6% -0.2 -0.3% N Arterial the aforementioned. Widening to four lanes is E Collector 18.8 3.1% 18.8 2.9°�° + o.o + o.o°�° currently underway, and the improvements are o being constructed to accommodate future widening Local 427.7 71.6% 479.7 74.3% + 52.0 + 12.2% to six lanes. This roadway needs to be protected from multiple access points and preserved as a Q_ Note:Arterial reductions are due to a reduced Area of City Impact since 2077 high capacity corridor (see the US 20-26 Access Source:City of Meridian Planning Division,March 2022. Management Plan.) The City of Meridian has E ordinances and development standards that preserve E 0 Minor arterials provide long-distance access, mainly the highway as a major regional transportation U within the state and region. These include medium facility, connecting the cities of Nampa, Caldwell, - traffic volume streets to and from other arterials and Star, Meridian, Eagle and Boise. The City supports o the freeway. beautification and appropriate sound mitigation N 0 Collectors serve to link local roads with other measures along the Chi Boulevard corridor. o a collectors/arterials or connect one arterial to another 0 State Highway 16 (future extension): In 2014, SH 16 0 through a given mile. Typically, they provide direct was constructed as an expressway across the Boise c service to residential areas. River, from State Highway 44 in Eagle to US 20-26 in Ada County. Phase II of the extension will traverse 0 Local streets serve to provide direct access to 0 abutting residential and commercial areas and should further through the north-west region of the City U be for local traffic movement. Through traffic is from US 20-26 to I-84. Construction of Phase II is discouraged. anticipated to begin in 2022. This is the next critical N step to providing regional mobility for citizens from „X The ACHD Livable Street Design Guide and Master Street north Ada County and Gem County to I-84 and south Map are integral tools for reviewing development application Ada County. Phase III will be a future project and alignment with functional classification transportation network further enhance elements of Phase II. needs. 0 State Highway 55/Eagle Road: State Highway 55 (SH o 55) connects Meridian with the cities of Boise to the _>_ ft www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Figure 3D. Roadway Traffic Activity east, Eagle to the north, and Kuna to the south. South of Overland Road it is designated as an arterial and State 44 owned and maintained by ACHD. North of Overland Eagle Road becomes State Highway 55 and is a State of Idaho-maintained facility. Eagle Road is the most I: _ heavily traveled non-interstate roadway in the State '- of Idaho. Recent improvements to Eagle Road include •Chinden widening, safety medians, intersection improvements .� Iand landscaping. Additional widening improvements Q) ' + McMillan are still planned, and the City will continue to pursue 0- __Ta additional enhancements to reduce congestion and 2 - - - - - - -Ustick— improve usability and safety for all modes of travel. 0 State Highway 69/Meridian Road: State Highway 69 ' (SH 69) connects Meridian with Kuna to the south. Cherry Fairview North of 1-84 it is owned and maintained by ACHD. E Pine I Meridian Road is designated as a minor arterial E Franklin o AV from Chinden Boulevard, south to Cherry Lane. The U e I � � Dail i � designation changes to a principal arterial between — _ s Cherry Lane and 1-84 where it traverses downtown. N ` + Area of City Overland ._Impact At 1-84, Meridian Road becomes State Highway 69 0 � � „ � City Limits ; w and is a State of Idaho-maintained facility. Meridian o 2019 AADT Road/SH 69 varies in street section and speed Up to 1,000 i throughout the City, but not in its importance to the ' Amity — ' ; transportation network. The City of Meridian has o 1,000 to 5,000 -Ir. ' - - -M L ordinances and development standards that preserve 5,000 to 1ok ; ; ; - " Meridian Road through downtown and south of the o 1 Ok to 50k - i - Lake Hazel ' Interstate. U C More than • } • 50k Travel Times and Commuting N \ Columbia �- w L ' ' 7." As shown in Table 3C, the average commute time in 2021 for c 0 o.s 1 z lY ' ' ' ' ' ' those living in Meridian is 20 minutes. This is equal with the Miles m, May2022 �) Hubbard I v average commute time for all Ada County residents and less (D /// than the surrounding communities of Eagle, Nampa, Kuna ']�.i and Star. ° Source:City of Meridian,2022. ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 3C. Average Commute Time 13 Change in Meridian Traffic Community Average commute tim Meridian 20 Boise 19 Overall, Citywide Eagle 29 Garden City 18 Traffic increased between ' Kuna 23 2015 and by130/0between Star 29 c N Nampa 22 North Meridian (North of I-84) Q Ada 20 0 Canyon 28 _ Traffic increased . between 2010 and Data is from the COMPASS 2021 Treasure Valley Travel Survey.Home- 215 0 based work trips include any trip with one trip end at home and one trip end ' ' ' ' ' - ' ' 21 that is at work.Summaries are for car trips only and do not include other modes. Source:Mary Ann Waldinger and Mitch Skiles,COMPASS. "RE:Travel Time E Data."April 26,2022.E-mail. South Meridian (Sout line I084) E 0 U Traffic increased ' between 2010 andThe time of day people travel has a significant impact on not N only commute times but also on planning for transportation 2015 and by ' between '15 and 2021 o infrastructure.The highest portion of trips in Ada County occurs o during the morning and late-afternoon rush hours.Therefore, On the State System (20/MIME., demand on roadways leads to congestion during these peak times. This congestion often causes more people to look at between o alternative times to travel, and when available, alternative Traffic increased by220/0 modes of transportation. Spreading out the distribution of ' ' - o trips would make more efficient use of the transportation U infrastructure already in place. Policies for remote work, IKOR Local Arterials (e.g. Locust Grove or Ustick) staggered work hours, or non-traditional work schedules, X could be designed by businesses to encourage travel outside LU Traffic increased of the normal rush hour. 0 2015 d by 100/0 .9 Source:See table 3C for source information. 0 CU www.meridiancity.org/compplan Transportation Funding Plans shows how Federal transportation funds will be used to finance Long-Range Plans projects including: roadways, bridges, highway safety, public transportation, maintenance projects like overlays (i.e., new The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho layers of paving), and even airports and air quality projects. (COMPASS) maintains the region's long-range transportation plan,Communities in Motion (CIM),which contains the regionally The ACHD near-term funding program is called the Integrated significant corridors primarily in Ada and Canyon counties. Five-Year Work Plan (IFYWP).This plan is usually adopted in the COMPASS does transportation modeling for the region and uses summer of each year by the ACHD Board of Commissioners. traffic forecasts to not only anticipate where roadway projects The IFYWP primarily contains both maintenance and capital Q) are needed but also to monitor a gamut of indicators such as projects for roadways, intersections, bridges and pedestrian Q safety, congestion, accessibility, air quality, and other metrics. facilities, and is meant to coincide with the overall budget o adoption process. Projects in the IFYWP are prioritized primarily The COMPASS Board,which is largely composed of local elected on safety, congestion and other cost-benefit and programmatic o officials and special interest organizations, is charged with criteria. Each year the City of Meridian sends a list of priority making decisions about transportation and related air quality projects to ITD, COMPASS and ACHD for consideration as the planning, primarily through CIM.The plan which is updated at ITIP, TIP and IFYWP are adopted. E least every four years,addresses anticipated transportation issues o over the next 20 years, evaluates how projected populations, Meridian's Priority Roadway Projects U economic growth, and development patterns will impact Each year the City Council, at the recommendation of the N existing transportation facilities, and considers funding and City's Transportation Commission, sends a list of high priority CD o expenditures for future transportation needs.The Ada County transportation projects to ITD, ACHD, and COMPASS. The o Highway District (ACHD) also has a long-range transportation projects in the priority list include state facilities (highways 0 plan, called the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), for all of Ada and interchanges),ACHD roadways and intersections, and key County. The ACHD CIP lists arterial roadways that are eligible pedestrian and bicycle projects. o to use impact fee dollars that are generated within the County. The ACHD CIP is fiscally constrained with a 20-year horizon. Funding o Funding for roadways in Meridian, and throughout Ada Count U Short-Range Plans g Y g Y, � is provided through taxes and fees. Most of the money for } In addition to long-range plans, ITD and ACHD have near-term roadwaymaintenance and new capital projects are provided X transportation plans. The ITD's Transportation Investment p p p w Program (ITIP) contains about five years of projects and is via the gas tax, vehicle registration fees, Highway User Funds, typically updated annually by the ITD development impact fees, and property taxes. New funding Board, with input from mechanisms will most likely be needed to keep up with the other agencies (like COMPASS) and the public.The projects in demand for both maintenance and expansion of the necessary COMPASS's CIM are used to draft the Regional Transportation transportation infrastructure in the Valley. 0 Improvement Plan (TIP) which feeds into the ITIP. The ITIP _ U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Linking Transportation and Land Use ACHD have agreed to work more closely to join together the The relationship between housing, transportation, and the land use plans of the City with the transportation plans of the environment is becoming more evident every day. Changes District.There are several tools that ACHD and the City use to to one impact the others, and there are very real financial and implement TLIP:the Complete Streets Policy,the Livable Streets quality of life implications for decisions. Design Guide, the Livable Streets Performance Measures, a Cost Share Policy, and a Master Street Map. To better connect transportation planning and land use decisions, ACHD and the cities in Ada County have compiled Transportation Choice the Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan (TLIP). This pathway System and Sidewalks Q) plan, initiated in 2007 and adopted in 2009, envisions livable 0- streets for the future.The goal is to create a roadway network The Meridian Pathways Master Plan is a guide for pathway 2 that balances the needs of all roadway users —motorists, development.The Plan proposes an extensive pathway network pedestrians, cyclists, transit and people with disabilities—with stemming from the existing creeks, canals and other drainage o streets that complement the built environment. Because a or irrigation laterals within and around the City of Meridian. one-size-fits-all program for roadway construction does not The Plan includes an inventory of existing pathways and respond to the land use needs of the community,the City and micro-pathways, as well as a comprehensive network of future E pathways that will connect residents to schools, parks, businesses, U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . neighborhoods, and various recreation and entertainment Below:From the AND,Livable Streets Performance Measures Plan. destinations. N N 0 N The City of Meridian currently maintains nine pathways, ANATOMY OF A LIVABLE STREET including the Fothergill Pathway, the Bear Creek Pathway, the 0 Connects You ————————————————] Blackstone Pathway, the Locust Grove Pathway, the H.R. Bud 0�1 to where you Porter Pathway,the Diane &Winston Moore Pathway,the Five o Want to Go Adequate Mile Creek Pathway from Pine to Badley(which now runs for Space for Cars nearly five contiguous miles), the Jackson Drain Connection, o W and Buses and the Lochsa Falls/Paramount Pathway.Today,these pathways U primarily serve as a recreational amenity, but they are also 'J , I used for commuters going to and from work and school.The N �w Pathways Master Plan includes detailed maps and design U standards for future pathways in the City. jAs an offshoot of the Meridian Pathways Master Plan, the City aD Safe Appropriate � Well Maintained also finalized a Rail with Trail Action Plan in early 2010. The Sidewalks for Bike Facilities o Facilities for All Action Plan takes a closer look at the Union Pacific Rail Corridor, All Abilities Users presents a conceptual alignment for a multi-use pathway U www.meridiancity.org/compplan paralleling the tracks from McDermott Road to Eagle Road, and proposes strategies for implementation of the future facility. In 2016, COMPASS formed a Rails with Trails Workgroup that y Y is looking at developing a continuous regional pathway within the rail corridor, connecting Meridian to Nampa and Boise. Additional local and federal grant money is being pursued for design and construction of the trail. " - ACHD has a dedicated pool of funds for projects that expand and enhance a safe, efficient, and accessible pedestrian and bicycle network for all residents of Ada County.These pedestrian o - and bicycle projects are known as Community Programs. ,,- ACHD currently offers a Community Programs application for o ` pedestrian and traffic calming projects which gives citizens, neighborhood associations, and land use agencies the ability � to apply for projects. A target of 5% of the annual Integrated E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Five Year Work Plan capital funds are typically dedicated to U Above:Five Mile Creek Trail Hub on Ten Mile Road. Community Programs,which equates to approximately$1.5 - $2 Below:A Harvest Transit vehicle. million per year. In addition, half of the local vehicle registration N fee money goes toward Community Programs each year. o Through public outreach programs, the community has °a previously highlighted the need for more quality parks, recreation o- programs, pathways, and other public amenities. The City's c Unified Development Code requires sidewalks and micro- I '�'� h ACHD's be installed with new subdivisions.Through pathways g 268, 314 Community Programs, a group of select community members U DWI - have identified gaps in the pedestrian pathway and sidewalk system. These gaps now await improvement. N ST309 .x o w Transit Valley Regional Transit(VRT) is the regional public transportation authority for Ada and Canyon counties. Annually, the City :�i contributes to an inter-county transit service that runs between o Nampa-Caldwell and Meridian-Boise. Park-and-ride lots serve ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan � AV~ , -}wry q_ E ■ r 6g he Bois north-e y bus. r'era a Co erid ' npo service i Ada o ce i - o late 2016, a demand-response service geared towards getting Commuteride program provides ride matching services that 0�1 seniors and persons with disabilities to services and activities connect commuters with similar home and work locations c has been in operation.This Lifestyle Service shuttles individuals and schedules. Similarly, Commuteride helps businesses around Meridian and is operated by Harvest Transit, with plan a customized vanpool service for businesses and their C oversight by VRT(Go-Ride).The City is currently working with employees. Commuteride Carpool and Vanpool Service is o VRT to design and then implement a fixed-line bus system. U a cooperative effort between ACHD, VRT, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). N VRT has an approved plan to develop a regional public X transportation system in the Treasure Valley. The plan, called LU park-and-Ride Lots ValleyConnect 2.0, calls for bus services in all cities in Ada and Canyon counties.The Meridian City Council appoints two Park-and-ride lots are a service provided by ACHD. The lots persons to serve on the VRT Board which establishes policy offer a place for commuters to park and collectively ride to and guides the strategic priorities and planning for public work in a prearranged carpool orvanpool. Existing park-and- o transportation. ride lots are located at Gem Street between Main Street and ftZ >_ U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Meridian Road; Overland Road and SH 69 (Country Terrace); an airport. However,the Boise Airport(BOI) provides passenger Overland Road and Eagle Road (Rackham Way); Overland and freight service to the citizens and local businesses. BOI is Road and Ten Mile Road; and at St. Luke's Regional Medical the only public, general aviation and commercial airport located Center (Eagle Road/1-84). To assist potential users, these lots within Ada County. The airport is located approximately ten are marked with green and white directional signs. The City miles east of Meridian off 1-84. It is also home to the Idaho anticipates that additional park-and-ride lots will be necessary Air National Guard and the National Interagency Fire Center. in the future and will coordinate with ACHD on siting these There are also airports just west of Meridian, including the future lots as development demands. Nampa Airport (MAN) and Caldwell Industrial Airport (EUL), providing professional pilots, businessmen, corporate, industrial Q) Public Airport Facilities and recreational aircraft owners aviation options. E Q The City of Meridian does not have an airport within the City limits or Area of City Impact, nor does it plan to site or develop Rail o The Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) owned Boise Cutoff spur rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . line runs east—west and bisects the City between Cherry Lane Below:Looking across the pone at Settlers Park. and Franklin Road. In 2009, the Boise Valley Railroad began E operation along the spur line to provide freight movement to 0 industrial customers.Today,WATCO Companies has a long-term U lease with UPRR to operate the Cutoff in Meridian. — r�. In 2009, a preliminary study was completed by the region's CD planning organization (COMPASS)to determine the feasibility o of a regional high-capacity mass transit line.The High Priority Corridor Study identified the Boise Cutoff as the primary candidate for a future transit line.A future multi-use pathway o (rail with trail) is also in the planning stages along the rail line. Meridian's current Comprehensive Plan and the land uses o along this corridor reflect the anticipated multi-modal uses U along the rail corridor. } N X LU C - - O ;. O ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Community Design Community design tends to focus on elements of the natural and built environment that contribute value to living, working and playing in the community. One could make an argument that all of the components in this report should be analyzed in this section. It is true that most all of the other components (land use,transportation, housing, etc.) factor into community 1 design. However, for the purposes of this report, community WA . design includes analysis primarily on design review,sustainability, livability, and healthy initiatives.These terms are all inter-related ® MOM� o and are very subjective;the terms often mean different things and/or are more or less important to different people and a') groups.The goal of this section of the report is to explain how - o the community has come together to define what community design means and frame how it works in Meridian. 1 E The inherent goal of community design is to improve on the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • • • • • • • U livability and quality of life for not only current, but also future Above:Office Building in Silverstone business park,looking north-west. Below:Scentsy office building,looking west. N generations of Meridian residents. As such, the City has a C., design review process that applies design review procedures, CD guidelines, and standards for the review of outdoor projects o and physical development. Design review examines the physical Q) and functional relationships of the various components of � development and works in tandem with adopted zoning codes o and use standards. _ _ t c 0 Community design also involves preserving and enhancing ;' U unique and extraordinarily valuable areas of the City. Basically, _ _ community design provides a means to maintain the unique . BENXI! WA im U" N characteristics of the City,and to improve the built environment -"" '-�"' `_ - "'° c for today and tomorrow. ^' "` �'�"$'� � z QC) L 0 ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Administrative Design Review quality-built environments that contribute to the progression In 2007,the City Council determined it was in the best interest of Meridian as a livable community. of the City to discuss implementing citywide design review. This was further refined in 2016 with implementation of the Standards vs. Guidelines Architectural Standards Manual. Standards vary in the amount of detail and specificity that a community employs. Some communities provide general Administrative design review is intended to promote and guidelines for design that allow some autonomy both by the establish community character and economic stability by designer and the application reviewer. The City of Meridian's ensuring that urban design and architectural principles adhere to ASM provides standards to limit subjectivity and streamline Q) community established goals. Design review is also intended to the review process, but there is some inherent flexibility and o protect the general health, safety and welfare of the citizens by a method for alternatives through a process called Design a) enhancing property values; protecting the natural environment; Standards Exceptions.This process provides flexibility,supports promoting community pride; protecting historical resources; innovation, and promotes creativity within the community, but preserving the aesthetic qualities which contribute to a City's maintains the baseline level of effort to both protect private character;and promoting the economic vitality of the community investment and the community vision. by preserving and creating well-designed commercial and E residential developments. Entryway Corridors U Meridian has designated several arterial roadways as entryway The Architectural Standards Manual corridors or gateways into the City.Generally, entryway corridors o The Architectural Standards Manual (ASM) and administrative require wider landscape buffers with increased design interest } design review process establish development standards to along major arterial roadways that lead into and out of Meridian. a encourage quality building design. In combination with the These gateways have a significant effect on visitors first 0 Unified Development code and the Comprehensive Plan, the impression of the City, making them especially important for c City has established a set of guiding principles and standards not only landscaping but also building, parking lot, and public ° that encourage and allow for creativity while maintaining a space designs. t baseline level of effort. The ASM establishes expectations for U proposed development based on the type of structure and Signs zoning designation in which it will be located, and is heavily Signs are necessary not only for wayfinding, but also for N influenced by visibility from larger roadways, public or quasi- advertising, marketing and community character purposes. w public open space, and residential areas Like landscaping in entryway corridors, signs can impress upon visitors a community's character. Signs should not be a In addition to providing the City with a planning tool that uses distraction to motorists or pedestrians, or otherwise present � standards to address the functional and aesthetic qualities and a safety hazard b interfering with line-of-sight, blocking characteristics of development, the ASM lays the foundation y y g g g 0 traffic control devices, or hampering traffic flow. Likewise, for growth and development to create attractive, lasting, and v www.meridiancity.org/comppIan E 0 _ E E 0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . U Above:The Meridian Senior Center in Kleiner Park,looking south-east over the pond. — N N signs should enhance the aesthetics of the community by o complimenting building designs and landscaping. Signs , o should provide ass.i in locating businesses, gathering places, roadways and other full of character. A few key factors that primarily contribute V) attractions. Meridian has strived to ensure there is balance to livability within a community are: health, personal security, o between safety, advertising, communication, architectural overall cleanliness, quality and quantity of social interaction elements, aesthetics, and free speech. opportunities, entertainment, aesthetics,transportation coice, o and existing unique cultural and natural resources. Livability U Livability and Quality of Life is largely affected by conditions in the public realm—places } Livability and quality of life are hard terms to explain and where people naturally interact with each other and their w measure. Benchmarks, or metrics for measuring livability, community—like parks, streets and sidewalks, pathways, and C are difficult to describe. Often places that are livable have other community gathering places. Livability is important ° the "it" factor. They are the most sought after places to live because it can maintain or increase property values and and visit, often where retail, services, and opportunities for business activity, and it can improve public health and safety. � leisure seamlessly exist together. For the purposes of this ,o, report, livability and quality of life refer to the environmental U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I Although there are no statistical data on Meridian's livability neighborhoods that accommodate different lifestyles and today, one could argue that Meridian's popularity indicates stages which contribute to sustainable communities. The that many of the livability factors are present in most areas of City encourages a mix of not only housing options, but also Meridian.This is not to imply that the City should not explore amenities and opportunities for interaction across generations. ways to improve our neighborhoods and make them even The City has also joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network, and more livable. partnered on an Action Plan. Through better understanding physical and social needs, building consensus, and developing Healthy Initiatives new shared strategies that link the generations and build more The impact of the built environment on public health continues inclusive and sustainable communities,the City can facilitate the Q) to be explored by many organizations.A report by the Urban creation of neighborhoods that are truly vibrant and healthy. Q Land Institute (ULI) states, "that physical features, social relationships, and available services and opportunities within The Central District Health Department (CDHD) reviews a') neighborhoods influence health in important ways, including development applications and sends comments and conditions o by shaping choices and behaviors. Community wellness and back to the City, related to any potential public health issues. »- safety are influenced by neighborhood factors, such as access CDHD has adopted a policy to further smart growth and to transportation, the condition of buildings, the presence sustainable development in southwest Idaho. Not surprisingly, E and quality of sidewalks and places to play or exercise, and the objective of the policy is to support land development U the density of convenience stores, liquor stores, and fast-food and building decisions that promote improved public health. restaurants relative to grocery stores that sell fresh foods."'The CDHD recognizes that the built environment has an impact on N City realizes that it is at the local level where it is imperative public health, with links to obesity, diabetes, and asthma, to 0 to take a proactive approach in addressing the link between name a few.This cooperative partnership between the City of o Meridian and CDHD is not new, but what is relatively new are a the built environment and health. N some of the policies and principles these agencies are jointly 0�1 As communities across the U.S.age, and especially in Meridian trying to implement. o where more than 40%of the population is already either under the age or 20 or over the age of 65,the livable and sustainable Safe Walking Routes o community of the future must have physical and social features A healthy community is one that has good connectivity between U that benefit people of all ages.When a wide range of needs is residential areas and community gathering places, like schools. °' } addressed,family and individuals have the opportunity to stay As part of the development review process,the City regularly X LU and thrive in their communities as they age. Multi-generational requires developers to install sidewalk, micro-pathways and planning also builds community. Rather than creating and multi-use pathways that connect to school sites, public spaces, ° encouraging social, income, or age-segregating neighborhoods and nearby neighborhood serving uses.The West Ada School (D of the past,the City hopes to foster diverse multi-generational District has walk zone maps for their schools which can be ]�i found on their websites. o 4*Urban Land Institute.Intersections:'Health and the Built Environment. Z Washington, D.C.: Urban Land Institute,2013 5'http://www.westada.org/Page/l3875 U www.meridiancity.org/compplan The City and the School District annually partner to compile a Day Cares list of high priority pedestrian projects for ACHD's Community Essential to a livable community is access to affordable child Programs. The list of priority projects is based on concerns care and early development programs.A robust local system of City staff and School District employees hear from parents and child care and early education programs has social, economic others in the community. Efforts to improve safety, like the and environmental benefits for children, families and the YMCA's Safe Routes to School program, have been around for community as a whole. In 2020 71.2%of mothers with children years.The City supports the YMCA,through COMPASS dues and under the age of 18 held jobs, and 63.3% of mothers with programming. Safe Routes coordinators go to elementary and children under 2 year old held jobs6. By providing child care middle schools in Meridian and educate children on things like service that is affordable and close (or within) residential areas, Q) bicycle and pedestrian safety.This fun, interactive, educational child care can contribute to the local economy by supporting o program has been well received throughout the community. parents and local employers.Since 1997,the American Planning a) Association (APA) has recognized that child care is a critical component of livable communities'. As such, APA advocates for including child care policies within local planning. Creating Below:Sparklight Movie Night,in Settlers Park.View looking north-west. policies, identifying local resources and working with developers E and community partners, the City hopes to have a more o proactive and positive influence on the child care programs U being provided in the future. — N N Youth Programs - � - = Meridian prides itself on being a unique city with an abundance a of choices that support a commitment to maintaining a safe and caring community and strive to be a place young people = feel accepted, respected, and connected. To keep youth - active and engaged in the community, the City has developed and maintains several initiatives and organizations focused U specifically on youth. c } N The Mayor's Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) is a teen organization w provides teens with opportunities to shape the City's future. b*Department of Labor"Mothers and Families." U.S. Department of Labor.Women's Bureau,2020.Retrieved on April 19,2022 from https:// D www.dol.gov/wb/stats/mother_families. 7 American Planning Association. "APA Policy Guide on the Provision of 0 Child Care."APA Policy Guides.APA,July 1997.Retrieved on April 19,2022 ftZ from https://www.planning.org/policy/guides/adopted/childcare. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Youth Council members, in grades 9 through 12, meet with the District, to promote the well-being of youth during lapses in Mayor and other advisors twice a month to discuss issues and school year programs. ideas of interest to the youth of Meridian. They are actively involved in many community service projects and events, Apart from programs and organizations offered through the and with several volunteer and advocacy activities they plan City of Meridian, local children and teens have access to the themselves. Events they have planned and participated in have Meridian Boys and Girls Club.The Meridian Boys and Girls Club focused on issues important to them as diverse as suicide offers several programs, including after school and summer prevention, seatbelt use, texting while driving, smoking and sessions for school-aged children. The Boys and Girls Club nicotine use, and hunger. operates their center in downtown Meridian at Meridian Road Q) and Pine Avenue. In South Meridian,the Treasure Valley YMCA E Through the City of Meridian's Youth on Commissions Program, operates a facility with youth program near Eagle Road and o high school students apply and are appointed to seats on Amity Road. City commissions, committees, coalitions, and task forces o which serve in an advisory capacity to the Mayor and City Senior Programs Council.These include the Parks and Recreation Commission, On the other end of the age spectrum, older adults must Transportation Commission, Mayor's Anti-Drug Coalition, interact with the built environment in ways that reflect their E Meridian Arts Commission, Historical Preservation Commission, physical capabilities and lifestyle.Although they may have more U and the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. time after retirement to enjoy parks and other recreational activities, conditions such as chronic diseases and limited N To promote advanced education, the City annually offers vision may limit the mobility of some. Providing accessible o scholarships to graduating seniors who will be attending and suitable housing options that are easily accessible to 0 accredited colleges or vocational programs.These scholarships community destinations are key to allowing older adults to 0 are awarded to successful applicants who demonstrate evidence remain independent, active and engaged with the community. of leadership potential through their community involvement, Housing for seniors that is integrated into the fabric of the o as well as volunteerism, school activities, or work experience. community is becoming increasingly important as the Baby t Additional consideration is given to applicants who have Boomer Generation adapts to retirement. o completed the Meridian Police Department's Alive at 25 safe U driving courses (see Chapter 4 for more information). The Mayor's Senior Advisory Board, established in April 2015, helps to enhance the lives of Meridian's senior community X Meridian's Parks and Recreation Department maintains parks (aged 50 and older) by meeting regularly with the Mayor and "' across the City with a huge diversity of child-friendly amenities. providing advice and recommendations on various topics The department also offers a variety of enrichment programs, concerning Meridian's senior population, including community classes, and day camps for children and teens,and their families. service, health,education,employment, housing,transportation, The Parks and Recreation Department also partners with other recreation, and safety. o agencies and service providers, such as the West Ada School ftZ www.meridiancity.org/comppIan 1 � r � 1 C E t a T • t r E E • . . . .. . U Mhll - t s ,c--bating,a6 ;pror6bting: r ;rclm o L The Meridian Senior Center is n r)r It or tio;ta _ y�`a'n'c� yibrant�gc rp rj rh;ty.}S e } sgyarp-foot Center _ these succes ams anapt �i o at the Park" in Meridian at Julius M. Kleiner Park. The Center incorporate things like sharing of resources (e.g.—vehicles and was made possible by a generous land and building donation parking lots), cooperatives where local goods, services and V) from the Julius M. Kleiner Family Trust.The facility offers a wide wares can be sold or traded, branch libraries, and additional o array of programming and activities,from games to health and policies that encourage socially and environmentally conscious t wellness.The new center includes a main dining area for daily design and construction projects. The City strives to better o lunches with two state-of-the-art kitchens, complete with the understand the impact of neighborhood design on residents' U latest equipment, an arts and crafts room, a cards and game ability to be physically active, the impacts of development } room, a health screening room, an indoor walking track, office on natural systems, and the effects of community design on X LU space, and other specialized activities. overall community health. By taking actions that promote and preserve good health, Meridian should be a community that Success Stories sustains well into the future. (D Healthy behavior is a combination of knowledge, practices � and attitudes that together contribute to motivate actions >_ regarding health. The City of Meridian can learn from other U www.meridiancity.org/compplan SERVICES PROVIDED Public Services The City itself has several departments, each responsible for This chapter discusses the characteristics of public services, providing specific services.This chapter not only characterizes utilities, and facilities provided in the Meridian area.As required general services, but also summarizes which services each by State Statute, schools, recreation, and other public services, City Department provides and some of those provided by facilities and utility components of the Comprehensive Plan other agencies or service providers. A current inventory of are analyzed here. As part of the public services section, the infrastructure like parks and pathways, fire stations, schools, report also outlines the way the City is governed, including and other public services are explained. ID its various boards and commissions. Q) This chapter also reports how non-private service and utility providers are meeting needs today and how they plan on o • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • meeting future demand for services. Other services, like � Below:Meridian City Hall,2o2t transportation, youth programs, and senior activities (see U Chapter 3) were explained previously in this report and are not duplicated here. J Municipal Government, City Hall o CN Meridian City Hall is a three-story 100,000 square-foot building o located in downtown that serves as the hub of Meridian's municipal government. City Hall currently houses most City departments serving as a convenient "one-stop-shop" for o citizens seeking services including: � � c -— 0 City Clerk's Department v The City Clerk's Department maintains official records of the } City, including City Code. Staff in the department respond w a 4�T to public records requests received from citizens, as well as interested parties across the United States. Staff maintain the City's Records Repository-a public facing records portal that -- houses many public records of general interest and historic documents. ° - - - U www.meridiancity.org/compplan The City Clerk's Department documents proceedings of many Division is divided into two sections: Current Planning and of the city's commissions and the Meridian City Council, as Comprehensive Planning. Current Planning is primarily well as provides legal noticing as required by law. responsible for processing development applications and assisting property owners and developers through the land Many Licenses and Permits are issued by the City Clerk's use permitting and entitlement process, and over-the-counter Department—including licenses for door to door sales persons, inquiries. Comprehensive Planning is involved with long-range special event and temporary use permits, alcohol licenses and and specific area plans, transportation planning, community alcohol catering permits,fireworks permits, and dog licenses, development and coordination with City agency partners. vehicle immobilization, pawnbroker and precious metal dealer licenses. Public Works Department Municipal City Elections are managed by the City Clerk's The Public Works Department consists of a number of divisions D Department in conjunction with Ada Count Elections. The including: Administration, Engineering, Business Operations, p y y Water, and Wastewater. The mission of Public Works is to receive campaign filings and provide information to candidates, anticipate, plan and provide exemplary public services and CL elected officials, and the general public. V) facilities that support the needs of a growing community in an Q) As all official documents begin, end, or pass through the office, efficient, customer-focused and financially responsible manner. the City Clerk's Department provides the formal link between Public Works cooperates with other agencies such as the Ada the citizens of Meridian, and their government. Staff take pride County Highway District to coordinate efforts on utility work N in the transparency and accuracy of the City's records and and transportation services. More discussion on the Public o their strong customer-service focus. When a citizen doesn't Works Department occurs later in this chapter. N i know where to find assistance, the City Clerk's Department is a the place to start. Finance Department � The Finance Department, including Purchasing and Billing, is the c Community Development Department general business management arm of city government, providing ° The Communit Development Department is comprised of specific financial and accounting services for elected officials, three divisions, including: Building Services, Land Development City employees, and the citizens of Meridian. Basic services of U Services, and Planning. Building Services is responsible for the Finance Department include: budgeting,financial analysis 0) activities associated with structural, fire, electrical, mechanical and reporting, utility billing, accounts payable, purchasing N and plumbing permits for residential, commercial and industrial and payroll, monitoring state and city rules and regulations, „U projects. Land Development Services is responsible for plan and maintenance of sound internal controls. The mission of Purchasing is to provide contract management,and procurement review and coordination with the Public Works Department, � to ensure that new developments are properly serviced by services through competitive public bidding to obtain maximum � water, sewer, and streetlights, and in conformance with the value for the tax dollar and to provide service to all City of o flood damage prevention chapter of city code. The Planning Meridian departments and the public in a timely, courteous ftZ and ethical manner. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Parks and Recreation Department The Parks and Recreation Department's mission is to enhance the community's quality of life by providing well-designed and properly maintained parks and recreational opportunities for all citizens. More discussion on the Parks and Recreation `" Department occurs later in this chapter. IF - TIR Fire Department The Fire Departments mission is to protect and enhance the JI _ t community through professionalism and compassion. More discussion on the Fire Department and the services it provides ti p p a) �, +ti �� occurs later in this chapter. 0 • --. o Human Resources Department GL_ Human Resources assists all City departments in determining • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • staffing needs and coordinates recruitment to fill those needs. a) Above:construction around Meridian city Hall. Recruitment efforts include working closely with the Directors Below:Generations Plaza,on Main street. of each department within the City to post and advertise open N positions, processing and reviewing applications,scheduling and CD o conducting interviews, tracking the process of all applicants, o and providing information on the progress to interested parties. 0 r City Attorney's Office 0 0 The City Attorney's Office provides in-house legal services to a == c' the City of Meridian.The City Attorney also serves as the City's U Risk Manager and has leadership responsibility for the Risk U - Management program.Attorneys in the City Attorney's Office } work on a wide range of topics,such as code enforcement issues, Lx -x,- _ — -� contracts, land use regulation, personnel issues, procurement, c public records, public works issues, real estate transactions, and matters related to economic development. The City Attorney serves as legal advisor to the Mayor, City Council, ` City commissions and committees, and City departments. o f The City Attorney's Office pursues or defends civil litigation; ftZ T.. . _ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan prepares and reviews City Council agenda items, contracts, and various educational opportunities. Culture, unique business, interagency agreements; assesses compliance with statutes, venture, and an abundant choice of jobs make Meridian not regulations, and rules; recommends and drafts changes to the just a destination, but a lifestyle. Meridian City Code; and advises staff on a variety of City issues. Information Technology Department There is a strong correlation between the City's legal needs The Information Technology Department team is responsible and City growth. The City Attorney's Office reviews most for developing city-wide strategies that align the Mayor planning applications,for example,and provides legal guidance and City Council's strategic focus areas with appropriate to the City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission, and technology to reduce the cost of government,create efficiencies Community Development Department concerning land use for employees, enhance services to our citizens, and make issues. In addition, the City Attorney's Office provides legal government services more accessible in today's connected 1D guidance relative to large-scale public works projects needed world.This is done by ensuring our investment in technology to facilitate growth, such as water and wastewater projects. and resources is collaborative, reflects the City's CARE values, .o Mayor's Office and is operationally sustainable today and into the future. CL Q) The Mayor's Office focus is on becoming the Star of the The rapid rate of change in technology requires the department C New West, transforming Meridian into a 21st century city. to continually adapt and change services offered and equipment a; Meridian is uniquely conducive to supporting a broad array of utilized. Drastic shifts such as increased remote work and — business activities while maintaining the high-quality lifestyle Software as a Service (SAAS) demand staff to go above and N and focus on family so greatly valued. Fulfilling the needs of beyond the"business as usual"approach. Because of this,a great o businesses and families begins with having a safe and caring deal of what the department now offers is recommendations on o community that provides quality education, family-wage jobs, the right technology that meets needs currently but incorporates cutting-edge health care, diverse housing options, a trained potential trends and changes—with the understanding that the workforce, and an abundance of recreation, shopping, dining, technology that will be utilized 10 years from now doesn't exist o and entertainment opportunities. Meridian seeks to be a vibrant yet. On top of rapidly changing technology, the Department t community whose vision is to be the premier city to live, work has been tasked with providing software tools and hardware o and raise a family. The Mayor's Offices' main commitment is sufficient to transition Meridian from a town to a City with a U to help neighbors realize this vision. population of over 130,000, the second largest in the State } of Idaho. This increased size and publicity makes the City X LU The City of Meridian's mission is: "We love Meridian; it's our an increasing target of cyber criminals — requiring a major town and our mission is to cultivate a vibrant community by increase in security checks and practices. It also has required ° delivering superior service through committed, equipped a shift from obsolete processes and workflows to paperless employees dedicated to the stewardship of our community's processes that are more efficient and consistent for customers. resources." Meridian delivers quality service, planning, and o fiscal responsibility with open spaces, strong partnerships, and ftz U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan City Council and Mayor Commissions, Committees and Boards Meridian uses the Mayor-Council form of local government. Citizen involvement is an essential ingredient for strong local In Meridian, the Council, which includes the Mayor, possesses government.The City of Meridian promotes citizen involvement both legislative and executive authority.The City Council adopts by inviting residents to serve on a variety of boards, commissions, codes that govern the City in addition to applicable state and and committees designed to assist City leaders in information federal law. The Council also deals with property acquisition, gathering and deliberative processes. Many commissions also serves on regional commissions and boards, and must approve include a youth member,typically a high school student. Some of mayoral nominations. The Council also exercises primary of the volunteer boards and commission in Meridian are: control over the municipal budget. • Parks & Recreation Commission: This commission The Mayor and a representative from each of the six council focuses its efforts on park planning, capital ID seats are elected by the citizens, each term consisting of four improvements, pathways, policies, recreation years. Elections for City Council are held every two years with programs, and budget. The Parks & Recreation .o three of the six seats up for election. Mayoral elections are Commission makes policy recommendations to the CL held every four years. City Council as they relate to the parks system. The Q) Commission is composed of at least five, and up C� to nine members that are appointed by the Mayor a; Below:Mayor and City Council as of June 2022..Left to right,Jessica Perreault,Luke' Cavener,Brad and confirmed by the Council. Each member serves — Hoaglun,Robert Simison (Mayor),Treg Bernt,Joe Borton,and Liz Strader. N a three-year term with no maximum on number of c., years of service. CD } • Planning &Zoning Commission: This commission oQ advises the City Council on planning policies and � r goals, development projects and issues related to land use, zoning, transportation, and housing ° issues, as framed by Meridian's Comprehensive Plan. There are five members of the Planning & Zoning ° U Commission. Each member is appointed by the Mayor, with confirmation by the Council. Terms for N Commissioner are six years, with no maximum. „X /i • Meridian Arts Commission: This commission a works on arts/cultural policy and promotes public awareness and participation in the arts. The purpose of this advisory commission is to highlight o the City's rich cultural resources, enhance the U www.meridiancity.org/compplan City's aesthetic environment, and promote the Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor and City development of economic, educational, recreation, Council by resolution. and tourism opportunities within the city through Impact Fee Advisory Committee: This Committee the advancement of publicly accessible arts. The Arts reviews and makes recommendations to the City Commission currently consists of nine members. Each Council regarding existing and proposed impact fees commissioner serves a term of three years, except for and fee structures to help ensure that growth pays the youth member that serves a one-year term. its own way. This is an ad-hoc committee established • Historical Preservation Commission: The Historic by the Mayor and City Council and administered by Preservation Commission (HPC) works to preserve the City's Chief Financial Officer. the character and fabric of historically significant Solid Waste Advisory Commission: This Commission's areas and structures within the City of Meridian purpose is to propose and recommend to the D to honor and preserve its rich heritage for future Mayor and the City Council any new or amended generations. The HPC is advisory to the City rules, regulations, policies, and fees relating to the o Council and submits an annual report regarding the CL orderly and efficient administration of the City's N Commission's activities and accomplishments. There Q) fully-automated solid waste collection system. The U are currently seven volunteer members on the HPC, Commission consists of a minimum of five members appointed by the Mayor with confirmation from the but not more than nine members serving a term of City Council. Terms of office for the HPC are 3-years. 3 years. Appointed members are selected from: one • Transportation Commission: The Transportation Utilities Billing Manager or designee, one Director o Commission researches and makes recommendations of Public Works or designee, one City Attorney or } to the City Council related to traffic safety issues, designee, and at least three but not more than five °Q pedestrian and bicyclist concerns, speed limits, local citizens. public transportation, and priority transportation c projects. The Commission provides a forum for In addition to the groups listed above, other organizations like o cooperation, coordination, and communication the Mayor's Senior Advisory Board, Mayor's Youth Advisory between the City, other governmental agencies, and Council,the Mayor's Faith Ambassador Council,and the Mayor's U citizens and organizations concerned with the safe Anti-Drug Coalition allow citizens to be actively involved in 0) and efficient movement of vehicular and pedestrian serving various needs throughout the community. N traffic. This Commission is made up of nine voting „� and six ex-officio members which include the: West Ada School District, ACHD, COMPASS, ITD, VRT and a City Councilor. Transportation Commission members are comprised of four citizens, three business o owners/employees, and two members with some >, ftZ technical/educational expertise in transportation. O www.meridiancity.org/comppIan 0 - o CL iv U •:L king over the primary darifie at the Meridian WRRF. N blic Works pipe installation by removing the need to restor ent o ter and Sewer pay for all traffic control. This also minimize enie the travelling public. Public Works doe o The City of Meridian owns and operates a domestic water over pressurized irrigation systems or irrigation canals. system, sewage collection system, and a wastewater resource recovery facility(WRRF) serving the residents of Meridian.The Water Division o Water Division provides customer service and operates and maintains public wells, the distribution system, and reservoirs. Supply and Distribution o The Wastewater Division provides customer service and The Meridian water system consists of a network of wells, U operates and maintains the collection system, lift stations, booster pump stations, reservoirs and over 650 miles of water and the wastewater treatment plant. main ranging in size from six-inch to 16-inch.Twenty-five wells, X ranging in capacity from 500 to 2,500 gallons per minute U Unlike most communities outside of Ada County, the City of (gpm), are located throughout the City with a combined a Meridian Public Works Department does not have jurisdiction capacity of about 53 million gallons per day (mgd). Water over roads and highways within the City. City staff works in storage consists of two two-million gallon reservoirs- one near conjunction with ACHD projects to design improvements in Meridian and Ustick Roads, and one near Locust Grove and o coordination with road construction.The City saves money on Victory Roads.Wells and reservoirs are linked via a telemetric ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4A. Meridian Water Consumption - Potable Water Irrigation Impacts Supervisory Controls and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to Description Impact a central computer at the Water Division.This system controls Winter Average 223 million gal/month reservoir levels, well on-off cycles, and pressure set points. summer Average 530 million gal/month The supply system meets or exceeds all state regulatory Summer Irrigation Activity(ground water): requirements found in the Idaho Rules for Public Drinking Inceased Demand (over winter) 307 million gal/month Water Systems including backup power. Based on 2021 water use records, Meridian used 4.1 billion gallons of drinking water Potential Conservation 1.5 billion gal/year for approximately 40,000 residential and commercial service Source:Meridian Public Works Department,May2022 connections (estimated 118,000 service area population), shown in Table 4A, winter water demand in the City is about which is approximately 11.2 million gallons of water each day. While all subdivisions constructed after 1993 were required 223 million gallons/month while summertime demand is 530 million gallons/month. Summer irrigation activity increases 1D to install pressurized irrigation systems using non-potable demand by 307 million gallons/month. In order to keep up water, significant irrigation demands exist from residential 3neighborhoods that were constructed prior to that time. As with water demand, the City includes new well construction CL in capital improvement plans. Expansion of the City water . . ' . . . . . . . . . . . . . system is largely dictated by growth patterns. °' Belo . . .w:Inside the well pumphouse on Locust Grove U The City maintains a simulation for modeling water impacts. � ) The computer simulation allows Public Works to conduct water N modeling as new development applications are proposed.The o model also helps staff to identify priority areas for both new } development in the City as well as segments of the existing water 0 distribution system that do not meet regulatory requirements 0 for supply. Capital improvements can then be prioritized to .44 a correct any deficient areas. g Water main replacements are necessary to replace aging 0 infrastructure in the Water Distribution system. Replacement U projects are identified in a variety of methods, most commonly } ' through modeling or tracking maintenance and repairs. The w Water Division and Public Works staff work cooperatively to c identify areas in need of improvement and replacement. Capital funds are utilized to design and construct water infrastructure a, replacements identified throughout the City. 0 ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan t Wastewater Division Sewer Collection .'' The first sewer mains for the City's collection system were ` constructed nearly 100 years ago. Much of the initial sewer ,w installed in the prior to the 1980's was constructed of concrete is and clay pipe. However, the majority of the collection system expansion occurred after PVC became the preferred pipe material. The current system is comprised of approximately fi 3: 540 miles of gravity sewer mains and 9 miles of force mains. This infrastructure currently serves a service area population of approximately 118,000 people and includes about 40,000 residential and commercial service connections (Fiscal Year > : . . 2021). The collection system includes nine lift stations. 2 The City maintains a simulation for modeling sewer impacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The computer simulation allows Public Works to conduct sewer Above:RV Dumping Station,and Admin Building,at the wRRF. modeling as new development applications are proposed "' Below:Aeration basin at thewRRE and are built. The model helps staff identify priority areas for N development in the City as well as segments of the existing o sewage collection system that are approaching capacity. } Capital improvements can then be prioritized to upgrade the a lines that are projected to reach capacity. N - Sewer main replacements are necessary to replace aging 0 infrastructure in the sewer collection system. Replacement i projects are identified in a variety of methods, most commonly 0 Ij through the sewer TV and cleaning program and thorough analysis of the collection system by the Wastewater Division N and Public Works technical staff. Capital funds are utilized ;,X ' to design and construct sewer infrastructure replacements identified throughout the City, including replacements of the sewer collection system infrastructure in the downtown sewer corridor. ,. 0 IL � U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 413. Historical Sewer Service Accounts Sewer Treatment Year Total Accounts Annual Increase The present wastewater resource recovery facility (WRRF) 2006 23,245 14.55% began operation in 1979 with a rated capacity of 2.8 mgd.The 2007 24,287 4.48% WRRF consists of primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment 2008 24,857 2.35% followed by disinfection. Treated effluent is discharged to 2009 25,364 2.04% Five Mile Creek. The City continues to upgrade the facility 2010 26,054 2.72% following its Facility Plan and 5 year Capital Improvement 2011 26,620 2.17% Plan. The estimated design capacity at the plant today is approximately 10.2 mgd as approved by the Department of 201 2 ,3 . Environmental Quality.The City is in the process of completing 2013 28,357 3.64% % a major upgrade to the wastewater resource recovery facility 2014 29,279 3.25% ID which will increase the treatment capacity to 15 million gallons 2015 30,628 4.61% per day. This project is expected to be completed in 2026. An 2016 31,922 4.22% o update to the wastewater resource recovery facility plan was 2017 33,124 3.77% completed in 2018. The results of the facility plan were used Q) to develop the capital improvement Ian for the WRRF and 2018 34,925 5.44% U guide thefuture studies,improvements, and expansions at 2019 37,052 6.09% the plant for the next several years. 2020 39,123 5.59% — 2021 41,066 4.97% N The City received a reissued NPDES Wastewater discharge Source:City of Meridian Public Works,April 2022 0 permit in June of 2017. This permit includes very low nutrient o limits on phosphorus and ammonia which will precipitate significant capital investment into upgrades at the wastewater The demand for new sewer service accounts has continued to resource recovery facility. Numerous sampling and monitoring increase every year since 2006, as shown in Table 4B. o requirements for the effluent, Five Mile Creek, and the Boise River are also mandated. Industrial Pretreatment o U All proposed septic systems in the Meridian area are reviewed The Industrial Pretreatment Program is responsible for execution and approved b Central District Health. Approval is based of an industrial pretreatment program which monitors and } on characteristics such as distance to groundwater and soil regulates industrial and commercial wastewater discharges inLU suitability.Today, there are relatively few active septic systems the public sanitary sewer system.The pretreatment program is within the corporate boundaries of the City.Virtually all dwellings an integral part of the wastewater treatment process providing aprotection from potentially hazardous discharges. The City in Meridian are connected to the City s sewer system. currently has minor industrial users such as restaurants and o car washes.The City does not have any significant categorical ,, ftZ industrial users. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Class A Recycled Water involvement, illicit discharge, post construction runoff control, The City of Meridian maintains its Class A Recycled Water construction site runoff control, and pollution prevention. program to produce and distribute recycled water for a variety of uses. Recycled water is a highly treated water resource City-owned and operated properties keep stormwater runoff generated at the City's municipal wastewater resource recovery onsite through retention and infiltration facilities — thus facility that meets standards for Class A reuse, as established preventing stormwater discharges to our local waterways. by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Because of this, Meridian currently does not currently qualify The City has been producing Class A recycled water since for coverage under an MS4 NPDES Permit. 2009 for uses such as irrigating landscaping at the Ten Mile Meridian's Design Standards Grading and Drainage section Interchange, some City facilities, and the treatment plant site, contains requirements for the design of grading, drainage and toilet flushing, as well as a commercial car wash. stormwater retention for a development project. In general, Q) all stormwater generated on development projects must be 3 Support Services retained and infiltrated within the development. The Public Works Department is also composed of support CL services including Engineering, Business Operations, U Environmental Programs, Solid Waste, Asset Management, and Capital Construction Inspection. These services support The storm drain system (MS4) in the City of Meridian operation of the water and wastewater facilities, and utility N Is owned and operated by the Ada County Highway planning guidance.Additionally, they provide administration, o rate analysis, engineering and utility coordination, floodplain District (ACHD), who own and maintain the roads and } administration, solid waste program management, sustainability 0 initiatives and other special projects as assigned by the Mayor associated drainage system and City Council. iAvl c 0 Stormwater Under the IDEQ IPDES Construction General Permit (CGP), The storm drain system (MS4) in the City of Meridian is owned Meridian has the regulatory responsibility to ensure that all U and operated by the Ada County Highway District(ACHD),who City owned projects which disturb one (1) acre or more of 0) own and maintain the roads and associated drainage system. land satisfy CGP coverage requirements. Further, Meridian N ACHD has been issued a Phase II National Pollutant Discharge requires that all City owned projects, regardless of size, meet w Elimination System (NPDES) MS4 Permit (No. IDS-028185) minimum erosion and sediment control provisions including a for the cities of Eagle, Meridian, and urbanized Ada County. utilization of Best Management Practices (BMPs), monitoring 2 ACHD's Phase II MS4 permit stormwater management program dewatering operations, and construction site management consists of control measures in six areas: public education, public in order to ensure that pollution prevention is effectively o occurring on all Cityjob sites. ftZ www.meridiancity.org/comppIan e° fi i' ir Or - �I �`"' - ) 0 0 U . j ent vehicles F. in front of the Police Station on Watertower Street. li Y. —_._ .. _ N (V Public Safety In 2021,the Meridian Police Department received 62,192 calls o f- r er ice. Thi is- n incre se of 17.0% from 2020, when calls Police Department _IM�_ �3 o ice were , 4. e calls for service and the city's 0 With the large influx of people and businesses moving to population continue to have large increases. The Meridian the Treasure Valley and Meridian in particular, Meridian has Police Department wants to continue to ensure we have o remained focused on addressing the small things, which can enough sworn officers to ensure a safe, secure,vibrant, livable affect a city's quality of life. Because of this focus the City of and connected community. o Meridian has both maintained a low violent crime rate and U has remained a destination for those wanting to relocate and A Staffing and Resource Analysis review was completed for a destination for those within the Treasure Valley to recreate. the Police Department's patrol and traffic services.The review N included the development of a police allocation model to w The rate of criminal offenses has remained lower than the determine the number of officers required to deliver patrol a national and state averages for several years. The Estimated and traffic services, and to forecast future needs based on Crimes Table and Crime in Idaho Reports provide a breakdown anticipated change in population and housing. The analysis of crime rates at the local,state,and national level by crime type suggests the addition of officers, school resource officers(SROs), o in 2020.The rate of violent and property crimes in Meridian is community service officers, and professional staff.These new remaining low despite the increasing population of the City. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4C. Meridian Police Department Calls for Service Description moo= Hosting these types of classes is a cost savings for the Police Department and reduces out-of-state travel. Calls for 53,935 57,632 53,134 62,192 17.0% Service The Police Department also administers and supports several Source:City of Meridian Police Department,CAD,ITS/RMS,ECR. special programs including: officers assist the Meridian Police Department in maintaining • MADC— Meridian Anti-Drug Coalition is overseen respectable crime rates as well as impressive clearance rates by the Meridian Police Department's Substance despite the growth of the City. Abuse Prevention Coordinator. Established in 2004, the MADC works in partnership with a wide variety Hiring new officers also requires training and with the Nampa/ of community partners and dedicated volunteers to Meridian Joint Patrol Academy, Public Safety Training Center and prevent substance abuse using a comprehensive set recent addition of the Scenario Village the Police Department of data driven prevention strategies. The coalition .o is able to provide local on-site training for officers.Additionally, meets the 3rd Thursday of the month and everyone CL this facility allows the Police Department to host a variety of is welcome. V) trainings which include ongoing internal department training, . Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) - The Meridian Police Rescue Task Force Training (ASHER — Active Shooter Hostile Department's Crisis Intervention Team is comprised Event Response), and Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving of two police officers and a licensed mental health Enforcement training.These courses provided low cost trainings clinician who co-respond to calls for service involving C14 for the department members and are attended by those from individuals who may be suffering from mental health o various Public Safety Agencies throughout the Treasure Valley. crises. When CIT responds to these calls, the focus is o placed on coordinating with available mental health 0 resources in the community to assist the individual � Table 4D. Crime Estimation in Idaho Report:Year 2020 rather than placing them in the justice system. o In addition, the CIT Team regularly collaborates Violent Crime Property with other local law enforcement agencies and o Population Incidents Rate per Incidents Rate per community mental health providers to ensure U 100K 100K community members receive available resources. United 329,484,123 1,313,105 398.53 6,452,038 1,958.22 State } * National Night Out - This event builds community w State of policing for the City of Meridian, while collaborating Idaho* 1,826,913 4,432 242.E 20,313 1,111.88 with local homeowners and businesses to ensure that City of we continue to be a safe place to live, work, and raise Meridian 119,203 178 149.33 1,029 863.23 a family. Our Officers along with Meridian Fire and � ** elected officials attend over 30 National Night Out 0 Source:*FBI,Crime Data Explorer(CDE)and**1SP Crime in Idaho Report. events each year meeting with over 2,500 citizens. ftZ Provided by City of Meridian Police Department,April 2022. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4E. Prescription Drugs Recovered: 2018 to 2021 This is an opportunity for Our Officers to visit our Description woo= neighborhoods In a fun, educational way. Pounds of • Public Safety Academy—The City of Meridian's Public Prescription Safety Academy provides community members Drugs 3,137 3,707 3,158 3,669 16.2/0 with a behind the scenes, in-depth look at Meridian Recovered public safety. During the academy, attendees learn Total Pounds of Prescription Drugs Collected, 31,511 about police and fire procedures, communications, since October 2009 aIL and specialty units in an engaging and interactive Source:City of Meridian Police Department,CAD,ITS/RMS,ECR. way. Community members experience different components of our agencies to further build Police pathways, special events and subdivisions The team and Fire advocacy in the City of Meridian. responds to calls occurring throughout the summer D • Youth Safety Academy— Designed to give Meridian months to enhance the image and resources of the youth the opportunity to learn about the Meridian police department through increased accessibility o Police Department, its operations, functions and the of the officer to the public, and to reduce crime by CL responsibilities of providing law enforcement services enforcing laws through proactive policing. U in Meridian. During the academy, students learn Neighborhood Watch —This program is a a) about policies and procedures, communications, cooperative effort between the police department the Ada County correctional system, specialty and and the community. An organized program is N investigative units, and careers in law enforcement. an invaluable tool and is designed to increase o Academy classes are taught by Meridian Police sworn i officers and support staff. They are encouraged neighborhood livability by reducing crime through 0 active citizen participation and diligence. Programs 0- to ask questions and be actively involved in each � provide a vessel for communication between the presentation. police department and neighborhoods. C o • Alive at 25 —This program is a defensive driving . Prescription Drug Drop Off—This program has course taught by Law enforcement officers and provided Meridian residents a safe and responsible o targets young drivers ages 15 to 24. This helps method for proper disposal of unused and/or expired U curb the problem of young people dying or being medications (including over-the-counter), since seriously injured because of car crashes. Statistics 2009. The Police Department collected 3,669 pounds w show that young drivers are over represented in in 2021 and 31,511 pounds since October 2009. c car crashes. Since the program started in 2012, the Safe disposal drop boxes are located in the Police Meridian Police Department has taught over 300 Department lobby. classes reaching over 7,000 young drivers. I�i • Bike Patrol —This four (4) to six (6) officer team covers 0 many areas throughout the City to include city parks, U www.meridiancity.org/compplan J l 1 h U N 04 e - N } o The MFD is managed by a team of professionals that includes Rural Fire District was organized in the early 1950s. The two a Fire Chief, Deputy Chief of Prevention, Deputy Chief of departments decided in the 1970s to combine forces and Operations, Division Chief of Training, Division Chief of Planning, o house their fire equipment in one station located in the center Division Chief of EMS, three Battalion Chiefs, two Training of town.The Meridian Fire Department hired its first full-time Captains,three Fire Inspectors,two specialists in Public Safety o employee in 1977 serving as a Fire Marshall for the two districts. & Education, a Public Safety PIO, and four Administrative U The Fire Marshall was the only full-time employee until 1991 Support Staff. when the first paid firefighter was hired. The Meridian Fire N Department has quickly transformed from a primarily all- The MFD currently services the citizens in the City of MeridianLU volunteer department, to a combination department, and and the Meridian Rural Fire Protection District from six fire ° finally to a career department with 93 employees in 2022. stations (two additional stations, number 7 and 8, are being The mission statement of the MFD is:To protect and enhance constructed), a training tower, a Fire Safety Education Center, � our community through professionalism and compassion. the Public Safety Training Center, and Scenario Village. Each >_ The department's vision statement is:A premier organization apparatus is fully staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4F. Meridian Fire Department Apparatus Response Description % Change % Change Apparatus Response 8,405 8,418 9,010 9,224 10,717 16.2% 27.5% Note:Appartatus response varies from service calls.Approximately 15%of our calls for service are multiple apparatus responses-between 2 to 6 apparatus responding to the same call. Source:Apportus response from the Meridian Fire Department,May 2022. The complement of Meridian Fire Department fire apparatus Program is designed to not only provide advanced includes five first response engines, two ladder trucks, one education to these children but also give them the command vehicle, one water tender, two wildland fire brush tools to make better choices in difficult situations. engines and three reserve fire engines. The program is confidential and attempts to build a strong bond with the child, family and community. ID The MFD responded to 9,148 calls for service in 2021. This Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialists receive constituted an 2% increase over the call volume in of 2019. 59% specialized training to work with children who 2 of the calls were for emergency medical incidents including are between 2 and 17 years of age with a specific CL vehicle collisions. The remaining 41% of the calls comprised incident of fire setting. The educational screenings U of calls to fires, fire alarms, services calls, gas leaks and other help identify any potential crisis firesetters and emergencies. provide them with the necessary resources to have a positive outcome and get the assistance needed. The Meridian Fire Department provides the delivery of day-to- HeartSAFE Meridian —Community CPR o day emergency and non-emergency services to the citizens we serve. Services provided by the Meridian Fire Department (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is an emergency o include: Fire Suppression, Advanced Life Support Emergency lifesaving procedure performed when the heart 0 Medical Service, Bike Patrol, Technical Rescue, Hazardous stops beating. CPR, especially if administered Materials Response, Fire Prevention Education, Fire and Life immediately after cardiac arrest, can double or triple o a person's chance of survival. The Meridian Fire Safety Inspections, and Plans Review for new developments a Department provides hands-only CPR instruction c and construction. o to the community in a program called HeartSAFE U The Meridian Fire Department also administers and provides Meridian. This program is an important step in the following special services: our goal to becoming a HeartSAFE community. X Through education, system design, and compassion w • Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention the department's goal is to make Meridian a safer Program —The primary objective and focus of the community in which to live, work, and play. a� Youth Fire Setting program is to eradicate fires • Smoke Alarm Program — It is a known fact that early started by children by educating children and alerting of a fire saves lives. Project SAFE (Smoke o parents about the dangers of fire play activity. The Alarms for Everyone) is an on-going program of the ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 4A. Meridian Fire District and Service Areas department. The goal of the program is to ensure L that every home has working smoke alarms, and it State ywy,aa— .. has grown to become a staple of customer service within the community. This program allows for - continued maintenance of smoke alarms throughout the community, and reduces the risk of falls from ladders for older adults who, due to many factors, '✓ Chinden ` r should not be climbing ladders. N Station • Older Adult Safety- Older adults are important McMillan in our educational efforts. We seek to ensure that a Station our older adults have access to essential services Ustck d and resources that will assist them in meeting their 7 LSt individual needs and enhance their safety and quality -'o the r O#2 of life. Throughout the year we provide speakers toCL- v Fairwew present information designed for our older residents. Fme These specialized programs provided awareness and Franklin information about fire and injury prevention in and StatNion� _ gm/ # r around the home. Additionally, we provided free — smoke alarms, batteries, and minor maintenance for N _� --- CD Overland St - ation _ station - smoke alarms to our older residents by request free N a a Area of City 6 Q _+ of charge. The department performs monthly blood- a • Impact VlctorY pressure screenings at the Meridian Senior Center �, City Limits �� - h r and in our fire stations on a walk-in basis. V, Fire District r a� -Amity_ Fire Prevention Month -The shining star and most ° Existing Fire 0 recognizable program is National Fire Prevention Station � Week. In Meridian, we take this annual event to ° Future Fire Lake Hazel . 0) Station a higher level. With the size of our school district,vt Service Areas W and day care system we schedule events for the N 1 Columbia ' entire month of October. Our firefighters and public „U 0 o.s 2 �� ; - - - ; 9 educators reach out to all of our elementary schools Miles m Hubbard o� and the majority of our day care centers with annual March2022 fire safety messages and classes. This educational ° opportunity has been played out with the assistance o of the West Ada School District for decades and >_ ftZ Source:City of Meridian,2022. the results, although noticeable, are sometimes not U www.meridiancity.org/compplan quantifiable, however, the National Fire Protection as community advocates for Meridian public safety Agency states it has resulted in a dramatic change in entities. Meridian Fire Department also holds an residential fire loss of life and property throughout annual open house. The event is designed to educate the nation. the community on many safety aspects such as • Public Safety Academy and Public Safety Day—The home escape planning, smoke and carbon monoxide Academy is a collaborative program that gives alarms, calling 9-1-1, get low under smoke, close participants an in-depth hands-on experience your door before you doze, emergency planning of both the Meridian Fire and Meridian Police and much more. The event also includes many Departments. Participants receive certification in demonstrations such as a vehicle extrication, live CPR, learn hose handling, extinguisher use, ladder, fire and ladder truck demonstration. This is a much- engine companies, protective equipment use, search anticipated event each year. ID and rescue techniques, live fire, vehicle extrication Sparky The Fire Dog and Smokey Bear—Two and much more. Upon graduation, participants serve important safety mascots for structural and wildland o fire prevention promote safe practices in the CL • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • community. The mascots can be seen in parades, at Below:Meridian Fire Station #6 on Overland Road. local parks, schools or libraries celebrating all things safety. I) • Child Passenger Seats—The Meridian Fire Department is a leader in the state for their o commitment to child passenger seat safety. Motor } vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of injury and °Q death for our nation's children and MFD staff are °1 on the front lines preventing such tragedies. The =- department hosts car seat check-up events at city fire stations and all firefighters maintain Child Passenger - Safety certification to conduct the checks. With the U help of grants the department is able to provide 0) free car seats for families in need. We also serve as a N year-round resource for educating families who have ,L questions regarding child passenger safety. C� O F'. Z U www.meridiancity.org/compplan i - r' 7Zm_ > QL -- ter 3'• ...f - - - _- /QCO cess.etcbl n C Recr on Hai urea.___ N Parks and Recreati r Master,P(an-provides' : o =The City of Meridian, Parks and Recreation Department a guideline for development of new facilities and recreation is responsible for maintaining public open spaces and for programming to meet changing community needs. After V) providing a quality system of parks and recreation facilities analyzing the Findings that resulted from the master planning o and positive leisure opportunities available to all persons in process, including the Key Issues Matrix, a summary of all the community. The Department is also responsible for the research,the qualitative and quantitative data,the GRASP® Level 0 development and maintenance of the pathways system and the of Service analyses, and input assembled for the Master Plan, urban forest.This parks and recreation system consists of 334 a variety of recommendations emerged to provide guidance in acres of developed parks, and 132 acres of undeveloped land. consideration of how to improve parks, recreation,and pathway w The system is made up of 21 parks (not including Lakeview Golf opportunities in the City of Meridian. The recommendations c Course): two undeveloped sites, over 50 miles of pathways, describe ways to enhance the level of service and the quality the Homecourt facility, and a community center.Additionally, of life with improvement through organizational efficiencies, Parks and Recreation offers a variety of recreational, arts, and financial opportunities, cost recovery, improved programming ro rammin history programs, adult sports leagues, special events, and and service delivery, and maintenance and improvements to 0 handles shelter/field reservations and temporary permits.p Y use p facilities and amenities. U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan Table 4G. City of Meridian, Public Park Acreage The 2015 Parks and Recreation Master Plan included a one- chapter update to the Meridian Pathways Master Plan (Adopted Existing Park 257.9 274.3 283.9 334.0 334.0 in 2007, later amended in January of 2010) and serves as a tool Acres to further aid in the implementation of that plan.This update Added Park 16.4 9.5 50.1 0.0 0.0 established guidelines for what portion of the pathway system Acres it is sustainable and appropriate for the City to maintain, given Total Park y Acres 274.3 283.9 334.0 334.0 334.0 that ultimate buildout involved more pathway miles than the s Cityhad capacity to adequately maintain. Current) the CityMeridian ca p y q y y Population 98,300 106,410 114,680 117,635 127,890 maintains 15.5 miles of pathway within City Parks and throughout the city, along waterways and roadways. New pathways added cres to the system, when required as a condition of development, People ID are maintained by homeowners associations. Source:City of Meridian Parks and Recreation Department,May2022. 3 O i Cl- • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • To achieve a more contiguous system, the plan focused Q) Below:Discovery Park,Dog Park,on Lake Hazel Road. implementation efforts on three priority pathways: the Five C� ' Mile Pathway, the Ten Mile Pathway, and a regional Rail with a; w 5 .► ��,' .; �-�' , ��` Trail pathway effort. Most staff-led pathway infill projects have — served to connect segments of the Five Mile Pathway, which o Y , now runs almost five miles through the City, with signaled N i pedestrian crossings provided at major roadways. The City o also constructed a trailhead,the Ten Mile Trail hub at Five Mile O Creek, which is intended as a gateway to Meridian's pathway - system. It is the first facility of this type in Meridian. o Having established a framework for pathway development, O -' - routes for future pathways within the City Area of Impact U are depicted on a pathways GIS layer which is updated by '� • staff on an ongoing basis. These updates note any pathways X LU - constructed since the last update and also propose needed new routes in areas of high growth. Changes are presented to Council every 18 months or so, for formal adoption. The City of Meridian currently has an adopted Level of Service o -- that is three acres of developed park land per 1,000 persons ftz U www.meridioncity.org/compplan with a goal of increasing to a Level of Service Standard of four acres/1,000 persons by 2040. With recent rapid population growth,the current(2017) Level of Service is 2.6 acres per 1,000 persons, based on the most recent population estimates of 98,300. However,the department has 150 acres of undeveloped _ park land that once developed will raise the Level of Service toward the goal.Current park construction projects are projecteda -�- to raise the Level of Service back to the three acres/1,000 level over the next two years.The Parks and Recreation Department - - -1=- _ - - intends to work with the development community and other ;+; ;r;v.::;~ organizations whenever possible to create partnerships and f bring additional parks to reality. • ) Arts, Culture, and Historic PreservationCL - The Parks and Recreation Department also works to further Q) public accessibility to the arts,as well as historic preservation in C� Meridian by providing staff dedicated to supporting the Meridian • • ° Arts Commission (MAC)and Historical Preservation Commission Above:Pickleball at Reta Huskey Park. Below:Initial Point Gallery at Meridian City Hall,Third Floor. cN (HPC) and the various cultural and historic programming CN activities they sponsor. _ o_ o The City's Arts and Culture Coordinator administers and provides - - � (D the following cultural and historic programming: ) 0 • Initial Point Gallery-On the third floor of City Hall is a dedicated area for art exhibitions. The Meridian - ----- - _ o Arts Commission juries monthly rotating art exhibits U in Initial Point Gallery, featuring the work of local, regional, and national artists, as well as an annual - X exhibit of work by West Ada School District students. - U The gallery hosts an opening reception for each show, many of which include performances by local i= musicians. • Public Art Projects- Public art pieces continue to - ° be installed downtown and in City Parks, giving the U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan parks identity and a sense of place. Public-private concert series on the steps of City Hall. MAC also partnerships for murals have been installed at various encourages the performing arts, and coordinates locations in the downtown area. One of the most with other organizations such as the Treasure Valley beloved programs is the traffic box wrap program, Children's Theater, a Meridian company. many of which are sponsored by the Meridian Art Week— In September, Meridian coordinates a Development Corporation. The traffic box program is week of various small-scale activities showcasing the an opportunity for a number of both profession artist arts with free visual, literary, and performing arts and West Ada School District students to have their classes, chalk art competitions, and a Community Art 2D work featured on vinyl wraps throughout the city. Party, and partnerships with various local businesses The City's public art collection can be found through and organizations. the virtual tour on the website. • Supporting Historic Preservation activities in the City ID Performing Arts — In the summer, the City presents is also important—While many historic sites and Concerts on Broadway, a popular free outdoor structures have been lost to time, the City has been o actively trying to raise awareness through research CL Below: 140 E Idaho,on.the Meridian.Historical Walking Tour.• . . . . . . . . . • . . and additions to the National Historic Registry, a U Virtual Sites Tour, and its Historical Walking Tour. This tour includes information on existing and past sites in the downtown area. HPC also raises awareness C14 ... _- through activities during Preservation Month each o `►r: `�` year. See also Chapter 4, Commissions, Committees } .M�d�- and Boards, and Chapter 5, Historic Resources, for a _ other preservation entitles and activities. Western Ada Recreation District o .�_ — #�, There is a public park in Meridian that is not owned by the City.At 22 acres, Fuller Park,which is maintained and operated U by the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department, contains amenities, such as baseball fields, a fishing pond, playground } areas, picnic shelters, restrooms, an open play area, a walking WA, w �TF - path, and off-street parking. Residents of Meridian also have c ��- --: 4 ��•tl access to a pool during the summer located in Storey Park. The pool facility is owned by the Western Ada Recreation a, � = District but operated by the Meridian Parks and Recreation - Department. ° ftZ —_ -, U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Solid Waste Republic Services.This agreement outlines the specific services The City of Meridian's solid waste program' encompasses provided,the individual service rates, and a listing of donated managing the franchise agreement with Republic Services for services from Republic Services. the hauling of solid waste, overseeing the types of residential and commercial disposal services, and developing new avenues Single Family Residential Collection Services to divert materials from the Ada County Landfill. Within the City of Meridian, single family residential households must have curbside trash service;which is automatically paired Per City ordinance, all residents and commercial entities must with commingle recycling. Residents are able to place in have trash and recycling service.The City of Meridian contracts their commingle recycling cart: cardboard, mix paper, metal all trash and recycling hauling services through an exclusive containers, and plastic containers with resin numbers 1 & 2. franchise agreement with Republic Services.This means that all Glass jars and bottles are collected separately. For an additional ID residential and commercial customers receive service through fee, residents can add a glass cart service. � 3 . . . . . o 1 For more information about theCity of Meridian's solid waste program, AS the City's residential population has increased, so has the CL visit the City's Trash&Recycling webpage at:https://meridiancity.org/ amount of trash and recycling produced. Since 2017 the City's V) solidwaste. y g p y Q) trash has increased 13% and the recycling diversion rate, the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Below:Republic.services.glass.recycle,and trash carts (left to right). rate of material that has be divert from the landfill, has been I) f between 8% to 10%. — CN CN CD At the end of year 2021, there were 39,318 trash accounts with 38,402 of those participating in the commingle recycling o 1 - program.This translates into a 98% recycling participation rate. l Over the next five years,the City's Solid Waste Coordinator will 0�1 * * - be working on increasing this participation rate. Collectively, o Meridian residents threw away 48,985 tons of trash in 2021,with ' the average household disposing of 208 pounds of trash per o month. The recycling program captured 5,685 tons, with the U ' average Meridian household recycling 25 pounds of materials -- per month.The 2021 curbside recycling diversion rate was 10%. X W In addition to trash and commingle recycling services, residents have the option for an additional fee to sign up for subscription f based curbside glass recycling and grass composting collection �•• �� .y. services. In September of 2018,the City partnered with Republic o Services to offer the glass collection option. In the first year, www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 41H. Solid Waste Collection (Tons) • . . Residential:Curbside Trash 43,500 47,338 54,050 59,222 48,985 Commingle Recycling 4,830 4,594 ■ 5,115 ■ 5,685 Commingle Recycling Diversion Rate 10% 9% 8% 8% 10% Glass Bottles and Jars Not Offered 19 39 Grass Clippings 596 1 644 661 269 300 I-Inusehnld Hazardous Waste Site Household Hazardous Waste 119 123 110 99 125 919-Tmercial&Industrial Trash 53,593 61,971 69,863 76,064 44,839 N Commingle Recycling 3,260 3,069 3,337 EVIIN4 4,101 Commingle Recycling Diversion Rate 6% 5% 5% 5% 8% Note:Table outlines different types of material collected in tonnage from years 2077 to 2021. The recycling diversion rate is calculated by:total tons recycled/(total tons land filled+ total tons recycled).Source:City of Meridian Public Works Department,2022. U N N there were 148 households who signed up and 15 tons of Meridian businesses registered in 2021, 690 have active recycle o glass was collected. For grass collection,this service allows the containers on site. This is a 48% recycling participation rate. resident to fill their cart with grass from April through October Over the next five years, the City's Solid Waste Coordinator a and then October through December cart can be filled with will be working with businesses who do not have recycling to � leaves and then from December through March utilized as help them start service. o an additional trash cart. From 2018 to 2021, curbside glass accounts have decreased by 6%. However, from 2017 to 2021, From 2017 to 2020,there has been a steady increase in disposal curbside grass accounts have increased by 94%. of trash; however, the 2021 year saw a sharp decline is trash U tonnage. Conversely, business recycling through the 2017 to Commercial and Industrial Collection Services 2021 years saw a steady increase in tonnage. The recycling } N Similar to the residential collection program, commercial and tonnage increased by 26% from year 2017 to 2021. Focusing U industrial companies must have trash and recycling service; on the year 2021, businesses landfilled 44,839 tons of trash and o however, commingle recycling Is not automatically aired. recycled 4,101 tons. This translates into a recycling diversion g y g y p rate of 8%. aD Commingle recycling is charged separately. Items that can be � recycled in the commercial and industrial recycling program o are identical to the materials residents recycle. Of the 1,439 ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Special Event Collection Services items; Freon appliances; cooking oil; and caustic cleaners, Republic Services offers special collection events for residents paints, and pesticides. throughout the year.These comprise curbside collection and drop-off services. The curbside services include a spring and winter clean up where residents for free can place extra trash and bulky items out to be collected,fall leaf collection, Rake-Up At the MTS recycling area, residents can drop-off: Meridian where Republic connects residents in need of help raking their leaves with residential volunteers, and Christmas scrap metal, metal containers, mix paper, large pieces tree pickup. During the fall leaf collection event, Republic offers of cardboard, glass containers, and squishy water residents the opportunity to drop-off leaves at several City bottles. Park locations and at the Meridian Transfer Stations. ID a) Meridian Transfer Station Collection .o 2 CL Located at 2130 W. Franklin Road, Republic Services' Meridian Donated Services transfer station (MTS) accepts waste from both commercial Donated services and contributions from Republic Services is U and residential customers.The waste collected at the transfer part of the City's franchise agreement. During 2021, Republic a; station is consolidated and taken to the Ada County Landfill Services gave the equivalent $203,556 in a variety of donated — for disposal. services.These services entailed providing containers,collection, N In addition to accepting trash, the MTS has a permanent hauling of material, outreach support, and cash contributions. o residential recycling drop-off area.At the MTS recycling area, Donated service values are based on contracted Meridian a residents can drop-off:scrap metal; metal containers; mix paper; commercial rates plus any additional temporary services. � larger pieces of cardboard;and glass containers.What's more, Commercial rates include; cost of removal, disposal, and in fiscal year 2021,the City's Solid Waste Advisory Commission, container rental. In addition to services, the Meridian Parks o a commission comprised of Meridian residential volunteers, and Recreation Department has free access to the MTS and partnered with Republic Services to introduce a pilot project Meridian Code Enforcement is authorized to call in to have o removed abandoned items on public land, such as appliances, U at the MTS to collect for recycling squishy water bottles. furniture, and other bulky waste. } N In addition to the MTS being a hub to collect trash and LU recyclables, the station also hosts the City's mobile residential household hazardous waste (HHW) collection site. In 2021,the site saw 5,910 vehicles drop-off 125 tons of HHW.The cost of this program is included in the monthly residential trash rates. Items that are collected include: electronic waste (e-waste), ° such as TVs and rechargeable batteries; mercury containing U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan i i - '� A ersity ri ea p t a�cl iho fo egP,Qf Igh �'' i �►! 1' 'I i .. . N a } r o C(yT N 7i i O Public school facilities in the City of Meridian are operated by the West Ada School District (formally Joint School District 13,236 high school students enrolled in West Ada School No. 2). West Ada School District serves the cities of Meridian, District. Virtual School House is also available through West o Star and Eagle, western and southwestern portions of Boise, Ada School District for online schooling grades K-12. Student part of Garden City and the unincorporated areas of Ada enrollment increased on average about 1.1/o per year between o County that lie between these municipalities. In total, there 2012 and 2021. U are 34 elementary schools, 12 middle schools (2 of which are Land acquisition for future school sites within West Ada School alternative middle schools and one a magnet middle school), District are based upon the following acreage standards: X LU 6 comprehensive high schools, 4 alternative high schools, 2 charter high schools, and 2 magnet high schools throughout . Elementary Schools 8-10acres; the district. Enrollment data about the school district are for the entire district, an area larger than the City of Meridian and Middle Schools 28-30 acres; and its Area of City Impact. High Schools 55-60 acres. o ftz www.meridiancity.org/compplan Enrollment Highlights Bus Transportation School bus transportation in West Ada School District is a The following charts reference enrollment in Table 41. cooperative effort involving transportation staff, schools, Figure 4B. Change in Enrollment parents, and students. The West Ada School District contracts Groups with Cascade Transportation Company to operate and shuttle '% students. The District bus facility is located on Franklin Road, �, _ _ _ _ between Linder and Ten Mile Roads in Meridian.To reduce the • need for safety busing, the district works with ACHD and City 0% staff to develop safe routes to school.Through this collaborative �, _ effort, projects are identified with school boundaries, walk zones and safety busing in mind. _0 '' Q) ra 0, Elementary Schools o _ _ Traditional elementary schools include kindergarten through � grade five. The district operates 34 elementary schools, each Middlestrategically located through the 384 square mile district.These schools typically range in size from 350 to 750 students. The Enrollment Population buildings vary in age, with the oldest being 59 years old and Figure 4C. the newest having opened in 2020. o �„ 120,000 Middle Schools Q 100,000 Middle schools include 6th through 8th graders.The district's 000 '"" 12 middle schools serve as a bridge for pre-adolescents as they o • 20,000 , , •"" EL move from elementary to high school. Academic emphasis LU ••• • is placed on refinement of basic skills through instruction "" 000 in traditional subjects such as language arts, social studies, U mathematics, and science. The curriculum in middle school is expanded to include more opportunities to pursue the fine x arts and other elective choices. w Enrollment 0 Population � O Note: ' •. School District enrollment largerof •ian (which further emphasizes 0 O shifts • demographic groups). *For more information on busing see the West Ada School District's FAQ } at https://www.westada.org/Page/13866. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 41. Historical Fall Enrollment,West Ada School District =0 Ed 2011-2012 35,188 235 2,661 2,746 2,778 2,834 2,765 2,769 2,809 2,816 2,718 2,743 2,603 2,404 2,307 2012-2013 35,939 244 2,787 2,787 2,798 2,851 2,836 2,775 2,819 2,858 2,842 2,889 2,510 2,610 2,333 2013-2014 36,111 221 2,730 2,893 2,794 2,857 2,848 2,854 2,801 2,805 2,869 3,014 2,616 2,406 2,403 2014-2015 36,471 248 2,616 2,796 2,949 2,836 2,881 2,862 2,858 2,812 2,855 3,104 2,741 2,559 2,354 2015-2016 37,366 280 2,565 2,779 2,917 3,032 2,920 2,949 2,922 2,995 2,900 3,010 2,875 2,720 2,502 2016-2017 38,097 290 2,752 2,672 2,852 2,951 3,073 2,989 2,986 3,033 3,090 2,914 2,837 2,882 2,776 2017-2018 38,907 335 2,583 2,884 2,744 2,969 3,036 3,208 3,110 3,108 3,130 3,184 2,981 2,766 2,869 2018-2019 39,507 390 2,641 2,726 2,937 2,834 3,055 3,135 3,255 3,234 3,187 3,186 3,222 2,936 2,769 i� 2019-2020 40,326 439 2,626 2,792 2,848 3,072 2,928 3,130 3,251 3,362 3,274 3,265 3,233 3,182 2,924 Q) 2020 2021 37,729 383 2,271 2,441 2,497 2,591 2,812 2,705 2,910 3,153 3,224 3,238 3,211 3,099 3,194 0 2021-2022 39,073 373 2,417 2,559 2,669 2,686 2,789 2,988 2,932 3,115 3,309 3,462 3,367 3,248 3,159 CL -- - - N Notes:For the purpose of analysis in the Existing Conditions Report,Elementary School is defined as grades 1 through 5,Middle School is grades 6 through 8,and High School is grades U 9 through 72. This is not a hard and fast standard,and some schools have changed over time.Source:Public School Finance. 'Attendance&Enrollment."Idaho State Department of Education.Public School Finance Department,n.d. <https://wwwsde.idaho.gov/finance/#attendance> (2 February 2022). Q) N N 0 High Schools Charter and School of Choice Programs } All of the district's 14 high schools offer a full academic In addition to traditional scholastic opportunities, West Ada a program with courses in basic skills and college-preparatory School District offers a variety of School of Choice and Charter skills. Meridian, Centennial, Eagle, Mountain View, Owyhee options to accommodate, encourage, and challenge all students. o and Rocky Mountain High Schools are all 5-A classification Schools of Choice are available at all levels and include: for athletic competition and other competitive programs such o as music, drama, and debate. Renaissance High School and • The Arts -Chief Joseph School of the Arts, Christine U Idaho Fine Arts Academy are both Schools of Choice. Central Donnell School of the Arts, and Pioneer School of the Academy, Meridian Academy and Eagle Academy,the district's Arts. N alternative high schools, provide opportunities for at-risk Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics U students. Rebound School of Opportunity offers students an (STEM) Education -Galileo, Summerwind STEM a opportunity to earn credits and a high school diploma through Academy, Eliza Hart Spalding STEM Academy, and 2 an online curriculum with on campus support. Barbara Morgan STEM Academy. STEM programs � have also been expanded at all middle and high o schools. ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 4D. West Ada School Enrollment Boundaries, 2021-2022 • Other Schools of Choice— Renaissance High School utilizes a lottery application system, and Renaissance Star `State y 4 EHgse has a fully recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) Eagle Seven• Eagle Oaks♦ program. Students are provided the opportunity to Andrus complete their Associates degrees while completing ® their high school diplomas. Strong partnerships with ♦' Paramount Idaho State University and the College of Western Chinden r Idaho formed the foundation of this program. The Pleasant Star Prospector view willow Lowell Idaho Fine Arts Academy is a School of Choice Creek Discovery SCOtt McMillan I for grades 6 through 12 with acceptance based <: Sawtooth jam: Heritages Joplin s q on an audition application. Virtual School House ` Hunter Frontier i,5i;�k I .4 is a Kindergarten through grade 12 online school � with both synchronous and asynchronous learning o Ponderosa River Valley offered by the district. 2 Cherry Fairview ' • Meridian Medical Arts and Meridian Technical Meridian Pine Meridian Charter schools are both high schools run by Franklin 0. Ust ; independent boards with shared service partnerships R Chaparral Peregrine ! with the West Ada School District. — 3 LewisClark N overland — — — - Public Charter Schools o Legend Pep Ridger In addition to the West Ada School District there are also several a Mary McPherson Victory public charter schools.Charter schools function as both public iv + + Area of City 0�1 • Impact Siena schools and independent not-for profit organizations. In Idaho, N Hillsdale a public charter school is organized and managed under the _o City Limits emit — Y • • mctoly - L— Idaho Nonprofit Corporation Act. All charter schools must ® High School Hazel p p Middle • comply with federal and state laws, as well as local ordinances. o ® ke School Lake•Hazel La Some of the charter school options in 2022 included: Compass U Hazel p P ❑ Elementary m Public Charter School, Doral Academy of Idaho, Gem Prep: } School \ Columbia ' W Meridian, Gem Prep: Meridian North, and North Star Charter w 0 0.5 1 2 School. There are also several smaller and/or online charter Miles .o c � u � � � � � � O school options. 7C) 0 March 2022 ' i Hubbard- O ftZ Note:Map shows overlapping school boundaries to illustrate,generally,feeder schools from U elementary to middle,and middle to high school.Source:City of Meridian,2022. www.meridiancity.org/compplan Private Education Opportunities main library branch on Cherry Lane. A third branch is under In addition to the public school system, Meridian has several construction at Orchard Park, in North meridian along Chinden private schools opportunities.These facilities cater to all children Boulevard and Linder Road.The library also operates unBound, of all ages, from pre-school through high school. Some of the a technology lab in Downtown Meridian. In an ongoing larger private schools in Meridian are: Cole Valley Christian, commitment to offer services to the entire community, Meridian Challenger School, and The Ambrose School.There are several Library operates its bookmobile 7 days a week at locations other, smaller private schools in Meridian as well. throughout the District. Continuing Education Public Utilities The City has a solid partnership with the education institutions Electricity' in Meridian, primarily West Ada School District, and Idaho State Idaho Power is an electric utility engaged in the generation, University(ISU)who opened the doors to ISU-Meridian in the transmission, distribution, sale and purchase of electric energy. 3 fall of 2009. Students at ISU specialize in Law and Leadership, Idaho Power provides electrical services throughout the city of CL Research and Medical Arts,and International Studies. In addition Meridian and the area of city impact. Idaho Power is regulated � to ISU, the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) is by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (IPUC), the Public U also located in Meridian. ICOM partners with ISU, and other Utility Commission of Oregon (OPUC) and the Federal Energy schools and medical providers in the area. Regulatory Commission (FERC). The largest power source is the company's system of 17 hydropower projects on the N Other colleges and universities in the Meridian area include Snake River and its tributaries. Power is also supplied through o (main campus location in parenthesis): Boise State University company-owned resources and energy purchased through o (Boise), University of Idaho Extension (Boise), College of long-term contracts with wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and 0 Western Idaho (Nampa),College of Idaho(Caldwell), Northwest small-scale hydro generators. Additionally, power is supplied Nazarene University(Nampa), Stevens-Henager College (Boise), through shared ownership of two coal-fired generation plants in o Carrington College (Boise), and Treasure Valley Community Wyoming and Nevada, along with Idaho Power's three natural College (Ontario, OR). t gas-fired generation plants. Idaho Power was one of the first 0 investor-owned utilities to establish a clean energy goal without U Libraries; a government requirement to do so and is making significant Separate from the City, is the Meridian Library District. The progress toward providing 100%clean energy by 2045. Idaho X mission of the Meridian Library District is to support the Power's corporate headquarters are in Boise, Idaho.They have u community by enriching lives, igniting curiosity, and cultivating an employee base of approximately 2,000. connections.The Library District currently has two traditional i libraries, one in the Silverstone Business Campus and the 0 VFor more information,seeVeVeridian Library District's website at http:// 4�Paris G.�Dickerson,Idaho Power"RE:Idaho Power information for the ftZ www.mld.org/. Existing Conditions Report 2022 1 Idaho Power."April 29,2022.E-mail. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 4J. Idaho Power Substations in Meridian Substation Substation Location substations may be necessary in the future to service Meridian's Name growing needs. Black Cat West Franklin Road and North Black Cat Road Columbia West Columbia Road and South Meridian Road The company develops a system-wide 20-year Integrated Hillsdale East Amity Road and South Eagle Road Resource Plan (IRP) every two years to identify sufficient Locust East McMillan Road and North Locust Grove Road resources to reliably serve the growing demand for energy and flexible capacity within Idaho Power's service area. This Meridian East Franklin Road and North Main Street process also involves the public in the planning process in a Stoddard West Overland Road and South Stoddard Road meaningful way.The company employs a three-part strategy: Ten Mile West Ustick Road and North Ten Mile Road 1) responsible planning, 2) responsible development and 3) Source:Paris G.Dickerson,Idaho Power. "RE:Idaho Power information for the protection of resources and responsible energy use, which Existing Conditions Report2022 1 Idaho Power."April 29,2022.E-mail. ensures a thoughtful approach to current and future demand. Q) Wise use of energy helps ensure fair-priced and reliably 3 electricity today and tomorrow. 2 Today, Idaho Power serves a 24,000 square-mile service area V) and roughly 1.3 million people in southern Idaho and eastern Communications U Oregon.As of 2021, Idaho Power serviced approximately 57,000 Centurylink provides basic telephone service and Sparklight residential and business customers within the city of Meridian provides cable T.V. service, within the City of Meridian and — boundaries.With the company's low-cost hydroelectric power its Area of City Impact. Both companies provide internet N plants as the core of its generation portfolio, Idaho Power's and expanded phone services. Several telecommunications o provides more than 600,000 residential, business and agricultural companies offer wireless and cellular phone service and other o customers for some of the nation's lowest electricity prices. providers offer internet and T.V. service through other wireless means. Much of the City has been equipped with fiber-optics. � Idaho Power facilities located in Meridian city limits include o overhead transmission lines, along public streets and road Gas rights-of-way (ROW), and substations. The transmission lines connect and bring bulk electricity into the substations. From Intermountain Gas Company is the sole provider of natural U the substations, Idaho Power serves customers with both gas in southern Idaho, including Meridian. There are dual, overhead or underground distribution lines to their residences high-pressure, natural gas pipelines that bisect the southwest N and businesses. The seven substations which serve Meridian part of the Area of City Impact. w are listed in Table 4J. These pipelines and the associated easement are discussed Figure 4E depicts the general location of electric transmission in Chapter 5, Hazardous Areas. lines,with a voltage of 69,000 volts (V) or greater along public o streets and utility corridors.Additional transmission lines and ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 4E. Existing Idaho Power Infrastructure I :r I Spurer nq l I . Cn uplry Banbury r. Gal Club 1 Gary Joplin ' �i r it. C, Cartwright n g Hewlett Packard I Locust AbA 0' I - CANYON Ten Mile State Ustick TMr✓'!Ie Cre4k Hill Norco /•� I.lr i11.:�i� 0}� Boise 4 Can-Ada Grove Karcher dpla� ..,,i• Black Cat Meridian Cloverdale Bethel Court &AY IL ;N Wye Vnwxs H Zilog Nampa N ampa YS r�m� Courn Murxcrpal Stoddard Ckrb Butler Arrpprt' (n YYut Victory Midrose Park 20, N kt4r�r110 N gnu 31r MIA 0O Crete C—n rWI4 t Chestnut Hillsdale - - army N homl i . Gd Curer A.r Q Happy Valley N M+ot. Columbia ` = C: Idaho Power Infrastructure - Meridian, ID Vicinity v NORTH J (30i5@ Idaho Power Substations Idaho Power Transmission Lines Boundaries 0 1 2 3 4 } Miles y Transmission — 230 kV Meridian City Limits I�IMM'47V w W Distribution — 138 kV 69 kV ON POWER. s= ...... Map Location March 231 2 U e C� Source:Paris G.Dickerson,Idaho Power. "RE:Idaho Power information for the Existing Conditions Report 2022 Idaho Power."April 29,2022.E-mail. O U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Irrigation Irrigation water in Meridian is supplied by a series of irrigation canals and laterals diverted from the Boise River. Three main canals serve the City and its Area of City Impact: New York Canal, Ridenbaugh Canal, and Settlers'Canal. Maintenance and operation of the New York Canal and its laterals is performed by the Boise Project Board of Control, under contract with the Bureau of Reclamation. Both the Board of Control and the Bureau of Reclamation review rights-of-way, easements, road crossings, relocation of facilities, utility crossings, and other related matters for the New York Canal. Water rights 1D associated with the New York Canal are administered by the Nampa and Meridian Irrigation District(NMID).The NMID is also 'o responsible for maintenance and operation of the Ridenbaugh CL Canal and its laterals and administration of associated water Q) rights. Settlers' Canal is operated and maintained by Settlers' Irrigation District,while its laterals are maintained by the water a; users.Settlers' Irrigation District is responsible for administration — of water rights associated with Settlers' Canal. o N } O Q N N O C- O U c } N X LU C O C� L O ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL FEATURES As required by Idaho State Statute, this section of the report This section includes information on the City's climate, air includes a discussion of Natural Resources, Hazardous Areas, quality, geology, hydrology, soils, and vegetation. Special sites, National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors, Agriculture, including community landmarks and natural features that are and Special Sites and Historic Resources. These physical, important to the community are then identified. Agriculture N cultural, historical and natural resources (and obstacles) form has both natural/physical and social/cultural impacts on the the basis of the community and affect growth and development. community and is addressed next,followed by Historic resources Interrelated with most of these topics are sustainability and representing Meridian's heritage. Critical to our environment preservation. and heritage is the relationship with sustainability. Finally,the section concludes with information on hazardous areas,those elements that could pose a threat or danger to the community U if not properly administered. 06 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 U Above:Hoar frost at Meridian City Hall. _. Natural, Special, Historic, & Agricultural A T �. Resources Community Values N CD 110 . - Meridian residents tend to value their natural resources and are interested in preserving and protecting them while o i '1 recognizing a need for growth and development.Water quality/ 0 ollution, canal tiling and piping of ditches, noise pollution,P g Pip 9 P c air quality, floodplains, connectivity, density, neighborhood o '#` - �• ��r"= , Ak services, natural habitat, agricultural preservation, and open r I space reservation have continual) been areas of expressed o � ,, p p Y p �s. interest b the community. 0 � F h .�.•r.i, P LU As growth continues, increased pressures are placed on natural X x '�. _ ;•.x r _ +w �A, 'r. r;., resources. Productive agricultural soils,vegetation,and waterways ill + ° are all valuable resources that the residents of Meridian enjoy ° r :, � , ` .�, and want to preserve. While development is expected within rt `9 "� • the Area of City Impact, a maze of monotonous development :�i r is not desired, either. City leaders and citizens focus on trying o to balance open spaces and Meridian's agricultural heritage At www.meridiancity.org/compplan with development and growth. Development in Meridian standards for carbon monoxide (CO) and Particulate Matter which expresses concerns and appreciation for the aesthetic (PM10).As a result,the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) qualities of the physical environment should be encouraged. designated the area as nonattainment for these two pollutants Meridian has seen much of its natural resources change over in 19901. Ada County, however, has not experienced any the years from agricultural open spaces to a growing city. violations of the national standards for CO since 1986. In 1999, Growth projected for Meridian emphasizes the need for the EPA removed Ada County's designation of nonattainment attention to Meridian's character, specifically its natural and for PM10. In 2011 IDEQ submitted Maintenance Plans for PM10 historic resources. Providing and protecting unique sites and and in 2011 a Maintenance Plan for CO. In 2022 and thanks to resources will assure continuance of the quality of life that the improvements in air quality, the Idaho Legislature moved to residents have come to know and expect. repeal Idaho code requiring emission testing in the Treasure Valley starting in July 2023. Natural Resources Automobile and area source emissions are the two major Climate sources of CO. The main sources of PM10 are fugitive dust The City of Meridian and surrounding area is favored by a and agriculture.As wildfires continue to increase in frequency 5 mild, arid climate.While summer hot periods rarely last longer and magnitude, smoke from fires within Idaho and across the ��—, than a few days,temperatures of 100° F or higher occur nearly Western U.S.travel to our region leaving us with unhealthy air ii every year.July is the average warmest month,with the average quality during summer months. Wildfire smoke contains tiny _ temperature of 77.1° F. January is the average coolest month particles or PM2.5 that are harmful to health when inhaled. In c14 with an average temperature of 31.3° F.The normal precipitation winter months, inversions can be a cause of poor air quality o pattern in the Meridian area shows a January winter average when a layer of warm air traps cooler more dense air below. o of 1.45 inches of precipitation and a very pronounced summer Because inversions cause air stagnation, pollutants such as wood 0 low of about 0.35 inches in July. The average yearly rainfall smoke and vehicle exhaust become trapped near the surface is 12.13 inches. Meridian has a United States Department of leading to potential unhealthy air quality days. The City has Agriculture Hardiness Zone designation of 7a,with some areas enacted a Clean Air Ordinance prohibiting open burning and of 6bl. Meridian's elevation is approximately 2,600 feet above wood burning fireplaces when DEQ forecasts air stagnation o sea level. conditions and air quality index reaches certain unhealthy U levels described in Meridian City Code 5-3-5. Air Quality } N The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality(IDEA) regularly For more information on Air Quality, see the Idaho Department w monitors air pollutant levels in Ada County. During the 1970s and of Environmental Quality website^. early 1980s the County experienced violations of the national (D 1 US Department of Commerce,N&A,National Weather Service.n.d. 3�Idaho Department of�Environmental Quality.n.d. "Priority Areas." "Boise Climatology and Unique Local Data. "Accessed March 15,2022. Accessed March 16,2022, https://www.deq.idaho.gov/air-quality/ p https://www.weather.gov/boi/climate. improving-air-quality/priority-areas/. >. ftz 2 US Department of Agriculture.n.d. "USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map", 4 Idaho Department of Environmental Air Quality:https://www.deq. U Accessed March 15,2022.https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/. idaho.gov/air-quality/ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5A. Soils in the Meridian Area Geology The Meridian area lies within the Snake River and Boise River Legenastate--�— ywy.aa Plains.Geology consists of a series of volcanic lava flows inter- — / ' bedded with soil layers. Most outcrops within a few miles of :+ Imrpa t City Meridian expose black basalt lava flows on the Snake River city Limits Plain. Significant geologic areas include the Snake River and its tributary, the Boise River, plus the Idaho Batholith. • . . . . . _ChOden r Generally, geology-related issues in the region involve the basalts of the Snake River Plain or the windblown silt and sand :. McMillan that covers the basalt. The windblown material on the plain . .: in the Meridian area supports some of the best farmland in . . . �\ southwest Idaho, but its properties can create problems for Prime Soil Type U construction. Large structures placed directly on this material ❑Abo silt loam C45 Cherry Fairview rather than on engineered foundations may settle because of AgaicTorriorthents r o compaction or the spreading of the unconsolidated material. NElijahsrbar c in ®Elijah-Urban complex ' ion � �� Franklin The nearest active fault zone are the Squaw Creek Big Flat zi Moulton-Notus .. complex t............. T ....,,_. m and Jake Creek faults near Emmett, about 25 miles north of Moulton-Phyllis o N Meridian.With a relatively low probability,a 7.0 earthquake from ®complex :. _ CN o ®Pipeline silt loam °i the Squaw Creek fault was analyzed as part of the 2022 Ada F Q 0 Power silt loam County Hazard Mitigation Planning process yielding a medium ❑Purdamsiltloam victory risk. Various earthquake scenario shake maps are included in Purdam-Power silt CII the Meridian annex of Ada County Hazard Mitigation plan. '°ams ; o Recent earthquakes felt in Meridian have been centered in ❑Xeric Haplargids Amity n Xeric Haplocalcids •o the much more active Central Idaho fault zones. Not Prime Soil Type O Lake Hazel U oalrrhorp cobbly Hydrology °' Colthorp silt loam N The hydrology of the area is affected by local agricultural Notus-LesBois 1 Columbia LL and development practices. Surface water within the Area complex 0 0.5 Y, 2 of City Impact includes the Boise River and several perennial Other Types Miles and intermittent creeks, plus an extensive network of canals, Pits and Dumps March 2022 bbard aD laterals and drains.These surface water features contribute to a � complex and robustly recharged aquifer system. Groundwater 5 2002 City of Meridian eh Comprensive Plan. Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5B. Agricultural Tax Exempt Land in Meridian is currently the only source of potable water for the City. Water meeting EPA safe drinking water standards is readily w accessible, however, aesthetic contaminants, such as ironstate—�— ywy.aa� and manganese are present and must be avoided or treated. The primary regulated contaminant of concern for Meridian is uranium, which occurs naturally in shallow aquifer units. ' Although treatment is possible, the City's primary strategy . . ... • . . {hinden� i for dealing with this contaminant is to avoid it by drilling test wells and completing production wells at other depths. —McMillan v Sods 5 An understanding of soil properties makes it possible to Ustick predict suitability or limitations for present and future uses. U In some cases, limited soil absorption for a domestic septic ' I 06 tank, combined with a high seasonable water table, limits Cherry Fairview the capacity of the soil to absorb and filter additional liquid je being discharged by a drainfield.The probable result is usually Franklin contamination of groundwater supplies. Soils that are shallow or water-saturated do not have adequate volume to absorb ' `14 Legend :Overland �� O and filter sewage effluent. Figure 5A shows common soil types , v N + + Area of City W in the Meridian area. • + Impact OL Victo/ -- Vegetation City Limits Dry Grazing Trees provide shade and wildlife habitat, reduce heat island Land r-•� _lit W - Amity— effects, reduce soil erosion, and improve air quality.Throughout Meadow ••� the Meridian area are natural tree and shrub corridors, usually Land o along the creeks and drains. Not only do these vegetation Irrigated Ag Lake.HazelPIZ Land resources provide aesthetic values and recreation opportunities, N No Exemption they are also critical for wildlife, allowing for the migration 1 --4Columbia! X LU of species between developed areas. Without these riparian o 0.5 , 2 �Y zone corridors and the ability to move through them, many Miles m Hubbard species would not have habitat areas large enough to support March 2022 5 them. Protection and preservation of natural vegetation along all creeks and drains within the Meridian area assures that ° residents are able to continue viewing wildlife and natural Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Table 5A. Agricultural Land by Exemption TotalPrime scenery, while preserving a valuable natural resource. There AcreageFarmland if Agency Exemption are no forests in Meridian, but outside of the riparian zones Irrigated previously mentioned, portions of the City are heavily planted Prime Farmland County Exempt 5,008 with trees and shrubs. Parks and subdivisions contribute to Not Exempt 3,958 the recreational and aesthetic values of Meridian, and enhance Meridian Exempt 1,267 the appearance of urban areas as they are typically densely Not Exempt 16,587 landscaped. N FarPrimel County Exempt 3,820 Agriculture Not Exempt 2,720 Meridian has a rich agricultural history and the City would like Meridian Exempt I 1,148 to preserve some of its agricultural heritage. Much farmland in Not Exempt 4,573 the Meridian area has, or is being converted into residential, p 39,08M commercial, and civic uses. However,there are still some prime U agricultural lands in production within Meridian's Area of City 06 Note:Data generalized based on soil types,Ada County zoning,and State Impact. For the purposes of this report, prime farmland is defined O agricultral tax exemptions. Unburdened properties are those outside of city U limits with agricultural exemptions.Source:City of Meridian,2022. as land that has a good combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food and other agricultural crops ii with minimum inputs of fossil fuels, fertilizer, pesticides, and Table 5B. Agricultural Land by% Overall Area N labor and with minimal soil erosion, while also having access o Prime Total %of Overall to irrigation water. Most of the remaining agricultural land in N Farmland if Agency Acreage Area Meridian is not prime farmland, but may still be productive o Irrigated 0- agriculture. Figure 5B shows farmland with State tax exemptions. Prime Farmland Ada County 8,967 22.9% Figure 5A shows soils, organized by whether they are prime City of o farmland (if irrigated) or not. o Meridian 17,854 45.7/0 Not Prime Ada County 6,540 16.7% Today, the City today occupies approximately 23,500 acres of o Farmland _ land. Of the remaining 15,000 acres in the Area of City Impact, U City of 8,800 acres receives agricultural tax exemptions, most of which Meridian 5,721 14.6% } is irrigated; 5,000 of this is prime agricultural (if irrigated, and X LU 100. which may change seasonally), and 3,800 is agricultural but Note:Data generalized based on soil types,Ada County zoning,and State not prime. agricultral tax exemptions. Unburdened properties are those outside of city limits with agricultural exemptions.Source:City of Meridian,2022. � O ftZ www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5C. Prime Farmland by Jurisdiction Table 5C. National Register-Listed Historical Resources Register Resource Name Address Status ■ Prime Farmland ■ Not Prime Farmland Number 05001599 Bell, R.H.and Jessie, 137 E. Pine St. Exists FarmlandPrime Not Prime House Farmland 05001600 Hill,Clara, House 1123 N. Main St. Exists 82000210 Hunt, E. F., House 49 E. State St. Exists Ada County, 6,540 82000223 Meridian Exchange Bank 109 E. 2nd St. Resource Removed N N Ada Mittleider Farmstead Resource City of Meridi 03000122 575 Rumpel Ln. � Historic District Removed Meridian,City of 5,721 an Mountain States _P 08000905 Telephone and Telegraph 815 N. Main St. Exists Note:See table 5A and 58. Co. Neal, Halbert F.and U 82000227 Grace, House 101 W. Pine St. Exists 06 Special Sites and Historic Resources 96001506 Tolleth House 134 E.State Ave. Exists U .N Historic Resources Note:Registered sites listed are in Meridian.Source:National Park Service, Z- National Register of Historic Places, "Database and Research."Retreived on Meridian has a unique, storied history. Preservation of that March 29,2022 from https.//wwwnps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/database- — history is important because of the richness and meaning research.htm. o that it adds to the lives of its residents and the link it provides } between the past and future.As development has increased, o however, rural historic resources throughout the region have is also reflected in the many private historic residences that OL disappeared. have been recorded. N c 0 Ada County has identified a number of architectural resources Lastly,the Meridian Library District contains a large volume of and sites found within Meridian's Area of City Impact.' Historic historic maps, photos,and other historic resources. No Geological o commercial buildings recorded within the City reflect its sites or monuments have been identified in Meridian, nor are U important agricultural heritage. They include grain elevators, there any Native American sites recorded within Meridian's Area a feed mill, a wagon shop, a cheese factory, and a number of City Impact. See also Chapter 4, Commissions, Committees X of shops. Historic public buildings include a public library, and Boards, and Arts and Historic Preservation, under the U Meridian Rural High School, and a municipal pumping station, Parks and Recreation Department, for other preservation and all constructed prior to 1923. The history of town settlement activities. 0 b Ada County,Idaho Wcl. "Historic Sites." Accessed March 15,2022. ftz https://adacounty.id.gov/historicpreservation/historic-sites/. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Sustainability which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar The fundamentals of sustainability within local government Energy Technologies Office,to recognize cities and counties for center on creating balanced solutions; solutions that deliver removing unnecessary obstacles to solar energy development. services at levels citizens expect in an environmentally and Meridian received the SolSmart Bronze designation in April socially responsible way; and ensuring the best economic of 2022 for its efforts to streamline green energy permitting choice in the long term. These fundamentals interact in the activities. process of balancing the needs of protecting and enhancing Air Quality the economy, the natural environment and the community's � built environment today and for future generations. Meridian can't resolve the huge flows of traffic commuting through the City, but in addition working to address integrated a' Over the last decade, the City of Meridian has incorporated land use and transportation planning for its residents, the sustainability concepts in a variety of projects including City is also working to reduce impacts by its employees and energy conservation projects; maintaining a state-of-the-art customers.The following are some of the actions the City has U wastewater treatment and reclamation facility; and creating been involved in, or is currently implementing: 06 Environmental Programs within the Public Works Department. 5 1. Remote work - The City has adopted a remote work Land Use and Transportation Planning policy that allows city workers to telecommute. This As part of its planning process, the City promotes areas of policy allows certain employees to perform their work — mixed-use development that bring shopping, services and from home or other locations. Every trip eliminated from o recreation opportunities within walking distance of dwellings. the City s roadways improves its overall air quality by } Mixed-use developments are envisioned to provide the necessary eliminating vehicle emissions. a density of homes to support bus and transit programs.Through � this type of planning, automobile trips will be reduced along 2. On-line Business - The City of Meridian has expanded c with their emissions. the amount of business that can be conducted with o the City on its website.As an example, all development Because bicycling and walking do not pollute, require no external applications submitted to the Community Development o energy source, and use land efficiently, they effectively move department is done electronically. Further,a vast majority U people from one place to another without adverse environmental of utility bills are paid online instead of in person. The c impacts—they are sustainable forms of transportation. City recognizes that every transaction that can be done online is a potential trip off the road and saves paper. LU Energy ° 3. Radio Read Meters -The City of Meridian's Public Works In 2021 the City approved a Clean Energy Resolution supporting Department staff utilizes radio read meter technology Idaho Powers goal of reaching 100% clean energy by 2045.To and in-vehicle mounted computers to transmit and access o further this pledge,the City worked with the SolSmart program, information in an effort to reduce trips to and from the U www.meridiancity.org/comppIan field and office. This technology not only reduces fuel City has held and continues to support conversations on how costs but also pollutant emissions. to better educate the general public about the importance of these waterways for natural conservation, regulatory needs, Wastewater Treatment, Reclamation and Reuse and for the history of the irrigation districts that support The Public Works Department Wastewater Division operates agricultural industry. Meridian code requires development and maintains a centralized wastewater resource recovery to keep open and improve natural and naturalized corridors facility.This facility is located in northwest Meridian, near the through the City, such as the 5-mile and 10-mile creeks. N Ustick and Ten Mile intersection.With a vision for sustainability, 2? Meridian became the first city in Idaho to be issued a Citywide Hazardous Areas Class A Recycled Water Permit in 2009.This permit signified a A natural hazards risk assessment is conducted every 5 years L_ change in how the City uses existing and finite water resources as part of the Ada County Hazard Mitigation Plan. An overall available in the Treasure Valley Aquifer System.The City is now risk assessment in the Meridian annex of the 2022 plan ranks using highly treated,or recycled water, instead of irrigation water extreme weather, flood and earthquakes as medium risk and U at select City parks, the Ten Mile Interchange Landscaping, a drought, dam/canal failure, landslide and wildfire as low risks. 06 commercial car wash, and other open spaces. This conserves Hazardous area maps by risk type are available in the Hazard 75 ground water and reduces discharge flows into the Boise Mitigation Plan on the Ada County Emergency Management River.As Meridian is located in an arid climate, recycled water & Community Resilience website'. Besides natural hazards is a "drought-proof" water supply that reduces demand on listed above, some heavy industry located primarily near municipal supply, frees up agricultural water for agricultural the rail corridor, and gas stations scattered throughout the o uses, and lowers effluent flow to the Boise River. The City of community,there are few other hazards or hazardous areas that } Meridian Wastewater Division regularly investigates areas for are noteworthy in the Meridian area.Without large industrial a resource recovery and sustainability. complexes, an airport, petroleum tank farms and other uses (D which tend to generate safety and pollution concerns,the City Preservation and Restoration of Natural Resources of Meridian is relatively free of hazardous areas which plague ° A vast majority of Meridian's natural watercourses have been larger metropolitan areas.As more development occurs however, altered by irrigation users. Many residents no longer recognize safety and hazardous areas will likely increase from more U these creeks and watercourses as natural resources. While service stations, increased traffic, storage and conveyance of Meridian residents and visitors are often denied access and hazardous chemicals associated with certain businesses, heavy N potential benefits from these watercourses and associated industrial such as gravel operations or concrete production, ;,X floodplains, these same water courses do provide critical and the attractive demand for housing near to these facilities. a irrigation water delivery. While federal regulations provide protection to a degree, as development increases, so will the potential for spills, accidents, In recent years, there have been renewed efforts to study fires, and conflicts created between disparate uses. additional restoration opportunities to improve and reestablish ,°, ftZ some of the historical and natural conditions of waterways.The Vhttps://adacounty.id.gov/emergencymanagement/mitigation/ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5D. Gas Transmission in Meridian Natural Gas Pipeline and Storage As shown in Figure 5D, there is a high-pressure natural gas -m-State yw,,44 pipeline that runs through the north-west and south-west areas of Meridian. This pipeline which is operated by the Williams Pipeline Company, carries pressurized natural gas. There is typically a 75-foot wide easement that is associated with the pipeline. Coupled with the gas transmission pipeline, there is ¢hinden , an existing Intermountain Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plant located in the northwest part of the Area of City Impact, at 4014 N.Can-Ada Road.The storage tank which was constructed McMillan a� in 1974 and underwent maintenance in 2022 has a capacity of 7.35 million gallons. The facility continues to operate at ustick design capacity. U LNG is primarily methane in liquid form and is considered a Cherry Fairview cryogenic fluid. LNG is not flammable in liquid form and begins Pine to rapidly return to its natural state as a gas (methane) upon Franklin o exposure to the atmosphere.As the LNG warms a "vapor cloud" — is created and the methane will rise due to it is lighter than air o N and will begin to mix with the air. Should there be a sudden Gas Transmission Overland + CD escape of LNG from the tank, the concern would be the outer Infrastructure W o edge of the vapor cloud with the right mixture of air/gas that + + Area of City victory could be ignited by an irrigation water pump, vehicle, power Impact o) line or other spark or flame.One of the safety features around City Limits o the LNG tank is a containment dyke that will contain all LNG Amity Q Intermountain - - - , in the event of a catastrophic failure at the tank. LNG Tank o ® ff BUG yank Lake Hazel ' U Federal oversight for the LNG Plant is under the U.S. Department Williams } of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety ® Pipeline X Columbia LU Administration.The two most relevant standards for the LNG 1 x - - - - a 0 0.5 1 Plant include: Miles March 2022 ' H jbbard 13 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 49, Part ]�i 193, Liquified Natural Gas Facilities; Federal Safety o Standards; and ftZ Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan 0 National Fire Protection Association 59A (NFPA 59A), burning activities that can inadvertently set off alarms and/ Utility LP-Gas Plant Code (this is referenced in CFR 49 or shutdown operations. Lastly and related, another safety Part 193). feature with offsite impacts is the outdoor lighting. Due to the inherent risk of fire and per the referenced CFR Part As part of a site impact study, a Fire Study and Prevention Plan 193 and NFPA 59A, LNG facilities are equipped with many safety (FSPP)was conducted by SEA Consultants in 2005 to perform features located throughout the entire LNG Plant and include and determine fire protection requirements and comply with 1) ultra-violet(UV) detectors to detect fires, 2)fire suppression Federal requirements. In addition, the FSPP was also used to equipment, 3) combustible gas sensors to detect leaks and 4) evaluate thermal radiation and vapor dispersion in the event local and remote automatic shutdowns of certain operations. of a catastrophic failure of the LNG tank. The FSPP utilized a Both the UV detectors and gas sensors in all buildings are tied computer model to determine a vapor dispersion distance from " to audible outdoor speaker alarms that are very loud, disruptive the LNG tank based on certain weather standards (wind speed, and unpleasant to be near. In addition, the UV detectors are ambient temperature & relative humidity)which resulted in a U very sensitive and can pick up outside welding or agricultural distance of 1,520 feet to obtain a safe mixture(non-hazardous) U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . of air/methane from the LNG tank. Meaning an LNG tank spill 5 Above:Intermountain Liquified Natural Gas Tank on Star Road,north of ustick. resulting in the tank being completely emptied, the vapor cloud from the warming LNG would travel a distance of 1,520 feet from the LNG tank before becoming a safe mixture in air, which is considered 2.5% methane by volume in air. N 0 m Residential dwellings should not be permitted within 1,500 feet } of the LNG tank to address the worst-case scenario evaluated °Q in the 2005 Fire Study and Prevention Plan. � N C State Highways ° State Highways are typically posted for higher-speeds and are o considered by many in the community to be hazardous.There U f are four ITD roadways that currently traverse through Meridian: Interstate 84, SH 55 (Eagle Road), U.S.20/26(Chinden Boulevard), X and SH 69 (Meridian Road). In the very near future, SH 16 will U also traverse through Meridian, near the County Line. Many of a the accidents that occur in Meridian are along State Highways. The City has worked, and will continue to work with ITD,ACHD ]�i and COMPASS on improving safety along State Highways for o motorists and pedestrians. Some additional safety projects ftZ U www.meridiancity.org/compplan I . •r — r - - O •i' - - - - —_— is WA. �s U N N O N } O Q Air Quality is also worse near highways,with disproportionate Idaho when it is considered to be injurious 9to public health, amounts of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and oxides agriculture, recreation, wildlife, or property'to Noxious weeds o overwhelm native plant communities and disturbed areas, of nitrogen discharged into the air from vehicle exhaust spreading steadily year by year. Prevention and inspection are systems, evaporative emissions, and debris. Infants, elderly, the most economical management system for reducing the U and those with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease and lower rate of noxious weed spread.The State of Idaho has laws and socioeconomic status are at higher risk without mitigation'. administrative rules regarding invasive species and noxious N weeds, which can be found in the footnote below. w c a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 EPA,Office of Transportation and Air Quality.n.d."Near Roadway Air � Pollution and Health:Frequently Asked Questions".Accessed March 15, 0 2022.https://www.epa.gov/air-research/research-near-roadway-and- 9 Invasive Species of Idaho.n.d."Noxious Weeds."Accessed march 16, other-near-source-air-pollution. 2022.https:Hinvasivespecies.idaho.gov/plants. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan Figure 5E. Floodplains in Meridian Floodplains State — 44 \ The City of Meridian is a member of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and regulates development in flood prone 1.�'•_ areas. Although located in the high desert, over 24 miles of intermittent and year-round streams are found within Meridian's - - - - - - - , d -,� Area of City Impact. These streams are unique because they , _ also serve an irrigation purpose.These dual-purpose waterways Qhin en have been channelized and widened to allow them to carry large flows in the event of a canal failure. Even though the McMillan streams have been modified four streams have associated Special Flood Hazard Areas. Flood events have occurred in the ` ustick -: _ early spring when rain and rapid snowmelt combine. Meridian I ; has experienced such flooding events in 1963 and 1982. U Cherry Fairview : 75 As a participating community in the NFIP, Meridian establishes Pine I Floodplain Overlay Districts and regulates all development in Franklin P ; the Districts through permits. Development includes activities Im v �� such as grading, filling, building structures, and even storage 1 • i of materials. The purpose of floodplain management is to N Overland % I p Legend 1 v protect life-safety, guide development in the flood-prone areas N I that is consistent with the requirements for the conveyance of o ip a Area of City I Q Impact --- victot> flood flows, and minimize the expense and inconveniences to (y City Limits ' the individual property owners and the general public caused V) Flood Map � Amity by flooding. O Floodway y I Meridian currently maintains good standing in the NFIP by O ■ 100Year T Lake Hazel ' I meeting or exceeding minimum floodplain development U Flood Flo Year standards.Additionally, Meridian is a member of the Community Flood Rating System (CRS). This is an NFIP program that rewards w Columbia - communities that adopt standards above minimum requirements. 0100001�o.s 1 2Miles ' - - ' - ' v The CRS also provides residents discounts on flood insurance ..9 March2022 Hubbard premiums. O ftZ Source:City of Meridian,2022. U www.meridiancity.org/compplan National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors During the 2007 Idaho State legislative session,the Local Land Use Planning Act was amended to require that Comprehensive Plans incorporate an additional element to address National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors.The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has been tasked with identifying national corridors. N L Designating a National Corridor does not constitute a recommendation or a proposal to build additional transmission Q) facilities;it simply serves to spotlight the congestion or constraints adversely affecting consumers in an area.The DOE issued two draft National Corridor designations; one in the Northeastern U States and one in the Southwestern States. The State of 06 Idaho is indirectly affected as several transmission facilities 5 either cross the state or emanate from the state toward the congested area. Idaho Power has provided maps illustrating their current and proposed facilities within the Meridian Area — of City Impact and the Treasure Valley. Should the Idaho State N Public Utilities Commission notify the County of other federally o mandated corridors, the Comprehensive Plan and this report o will need to be updated. N 0 C- 0 U c } N X LU C 0 C� L 0 ftz www.meridiancity.org/comppIan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan SUMMARY This report is an integral part of the City's Comprehensive Report is not only a valuable planning and decision-making Plan, last adopted in December of 2019. By separating relevant tool, but a means to measure progress. information about the City's history, present day conditions, trends, and current strategic plan for its future, the Existing The source documentation for this report is largely composed Conditions Report 2022 allows the Comprehensive Plan to of material which, with time, changes. Given that, the Existing be a clear and concise vision document. By understanding Conditions Report is a living document, and as sufficient time what Meridian's resources are, some of its history, and some has passed or significant changes occur within the City, updates of its recent initiatives, this document serves to identify will be made to retain its relevance as a companion document. planning, policy, and services which should be addressed in As data becomes more readily generated and easily accessible, the Comprehensive Plan. In this regard,the Existing Conditions it's possible that future updates and versions of this document may become increasingly interactive. 0 E Looking north,from owntown eri ian. N N 0 N } O Q N N O C_ O U c } N - - - X LU _ O O ft Fka� U www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— www.meridiancity.org/compplan This page left intentionally blank— (:NM' IENIDLIAN�-- IHJ