UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE
Sustainable Urban Design SITE PLANNING
By Raline Baracoso
INTRODUCTION
This paper will examine the site located at 2301 Harris Ave, Key West, FL 33040, detailing its current conditions, zoning, and potential for new development. A proposed design brief for a new development will also be provided, along with resilience considerations to mitigate climate change effects.
Current Conditions and Surroundings
Site Description
● Location: 2301 Harris Ave, Key West, FL 33040
● Property Type: Private property, undeveloped
● Owner: Trustees-Fifth St Baptist Church
Surrounding Land Uses
● The property is an empty lot with these surrounding adjacencies.
● The area is characterized by a mix of institutional (church), residential, and commercial properties This mix supports the potential for both community services and commercial activities.
Climate Impact, Topography and Zoning
● Key West has a generally flat topography, with low elevation making it susceptible to flooding and storm surge. BFE 7.0 for this site
● Flood Zone AE is an area designated as a high-risk flood zone by FEMA because of its proximity to floodplains, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. Zone AE is one of the many Special Flood Hazard Areas defined by the FEMA.
● Zoning ID: SF(Single Family) which means that the lots can contain one single-family home and the lots are of a prescribed minimum area, width, and depth
● Quality of Air: Good
● The site features tropical vegetation, including palm trees, coconut trees and red swamp oak. This vegetation is typical of Key West's coastal environment and contributes to the local aesthetic.
Access to Transit and Infrastructure
● The site is accessible by local roadways and is likely served by Key West Transit. The presence of nearby roads and transit options provides good connectivity for the new development.
● The original modern developers of the City of Key West designated certain routes in the City as public "Rights-of-Way" to allow commerce to exist Businesses and residents need to have avenues to transport goods and move around the island. The City was granted designated Right-of-Ways, which are required to be maintained for the purpose of allowing people the right of passage. FAQs • Engineering-Rights-of-Way and Sidewalks (cityofkeywest-fl.gov)
Presence of Sidewalks
● Sidewalks are present, promoting pedestrian access to the facility. This is crucial for accessibility, particularly of the new project.
● Bike paths are also accessible
Traffic Counts
Traffic data from local transportation departments would be necessary to assess peak traffic times and potential congestion This data helps in planning access points and parking for the project.
Process for Zoning Classification Change
Zoning change is necessary in this site to support the new development since it is in a SF zone classification. Here are the steps:
● Step 1: Submit a zoning change application to the local planning department
● Step 2: Attend public hearings and gather community input.
● Step 3: Review by the planning commission, which will make recommendations.
● Step 4: City council approval, which may involve further public meetings
● Step 5: Implement zoning change, followed by site plan approval.
Design Brief for Proposed Development in Key West, FL
Project Name: Key West Health and Urgent Care Center
Location: 2301 Harris Ave, Key West, FL 33040
Project Type: Commercial Development
Justification for Location
1 Elderly Population: Key West has a significant population of snowbirds, retirees and elderly residents who may require more frequent medical attention A Health and urgent care facility can cater to their needs for minor injuries, illnesses, and routine health issues. Monroe County, Florida - Census Bureau Profile
2. Proximity to Residential Areas: The site's location near residential neighborhoods ensures easy access for the local population, making it convenient for community members to utilize the health and urgent care services.
3. Convenience and Accessibility: Providing a convenient healthcare option for residents and visitors enhances the overall quality of life and ensures that medical care is accessible when needed.
4. Adjacent Baptist Church: The proximity to a church enhances the community aspect of the development, potentially allowing for partnerships in community health initiatives and events.
5. Weather-Related Incidents: The region is prone to hurricanes and severe weather conditions An urgent care facility can provide necessary medical attention during and after such events when hospitals might be overwhelmed or inaccessible.
Key Features and Design Consideration
● Preventive Health Services
○ Health Screenings: Blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer screenings.
● Expanded urgent care facility and additional medical services
○ Services: General urgent care, minor emergency services, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory services.
○ Design Considerations: Modern medical equipment, efficient patient flow, and a welcoming environment
● Accessibility and Inclusivity
○ ADA Compliance: Ensuring the facility is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
○ Culturally Sensitive Care: Providing care that respects and accommodates cultural differences
● Green spaces and Garden
○ Features: Rain gardens, walking paths, and relaxation areas.
○ Design Considerations: Native vegetation for bioswales and shaded seating areas
Resilience and Sustainability Considerations
Flood-Resistant Design
● Elevated building structures above the base flood elevation (BFE)
● Flood barriers and waterproofing measures
Stormwater Management
● Green infrastructure (rain gardens, bioswales)
● Permeable pavements
Energy Efficiency
● Solar panels and renewable energy sources (optional)
● High-efficiency HVAC systems (ERV for rooms that have non operable windows)
● Passive solar design and natural ventilation
Heat Mitigation
● Reflective and cool roofing materials
● Shaded walkways and outdoor areas
● Increased green spaces and urban greening
Wind-Resistant Construction
● Reinforced concrete and steel framing
● Impact-resistant windows and doors
Backup Power Systems
● Generators and battery storage integrated with renewable energy systems
Conclusion
The Key West Health and Urgent Care Center at 2301 Harris Ave is a strategically justified and thoughtfully designed development that addresses critical community health needs while ensuring resilience against climate change impacts. By expanding healthcare services and incorporating additional medical services and green spaces, this project will significantly benefit the local population, enhance the area ' s sustainability, and contribute to the overall well-being of Key West residents.
References and Tools
For site and surrounding area analysis
● Google Earth
● Google Maps and Street View
● Buses | Key West Travel Guide - Visitor Information for Key West, FL in the Florida Keys
● Florida Traffic Online (state.fl.us)
● Traffic Data (state.fl.us)
● Traffic Data (state.fl.us)
For zoning and topographic data
● Key West Land Use - Public (arcgis.com)
For zoning and development guidelines
● https://library municode com/fl/key west/codes/comprehensive plan
For demographic information.
● Monroe County, Florida - Census Bureau Profile
For climate impact projections.
● AirNow.gov
● FEMA Flood Map Service Center (MSC)
● CMRA - Climate Mapping For Resilience and Adaptation (arcgis.com)
