Redmond CentRal ConneCtoR masteR Plan | the desIgn - 2016
life/safety, utilities and other services While beyond the scope of this master plan effort, this design process, especially with regard to adjacent developments and an evolving Downtown Redmond, identified many operational questions and challenges for the City to consider. Fire lanes and access Life safety services are critical, and the Connector master plan recognizes their importance to both the Connector and adjacent developments. It is accepted that these services require a 20-foot clear lane, though there is interest in providing different, yet equally effective means of delineating and preserving fire lane corridors in an urban setting. Fire lanes might be delineated with specialty paving and 20-foot clearances could be provided by “planting voids” or other non-structural elements providing visual interest and “softening” to urban fire lanes while maintaining their critical functions. Garbage and recycle As Redmond continues to densify and new efforts are put into creating a pedestrian-friendly Downtown, waste management providers and building operators will likely need to adapt and change their typical services similar to those in other high density neighborhoods in the region. Location of trash and recycle enclosures should be encouraged to be within buildings and not along valued pedestrian connections adjacent to new retail spaces or abutting new residential units. These new practices may include physical storage of trash and recycle enclosures within buildings to be temporarily placed in pick up areas by building management or waste management companies. Electrical: The location of transformers often increases in complexity with high density developments as contrasted with low density development where transformers can often be placed in landscaping. This often means transformers are located in sunken vaults under garage entry ramps or other spaces, freeing up valuable urban façades to become retail or other uses that enliven the streetscape. Careful consideration should be given to the location of electrical meters in relation to buildings edges, façades and desired pedestrian routes. Gas: Careful consideration should be given to the location of gas meters in relation to building edges, façades and desired pedestrian routes. Next Steps: These development recommendations and incentives have been supported through the master plan process and are critical to realizing vision for the corridor. A logical next step is to refine these recommendations and incorporate them into adopted City policy, possibly the development/modification of design guidelines for the Connector and potentially broader Downtown area. 98