US 17 V I S I O N & ACTION PLAN
US 17 Corridor Winter Haven
MOTOR POOL ROAD TO CYPRESS GARDENS BOULEVARD FPID No.: 445497-1-22-01 SEPTEMBER 2020 DISTRICT ONE
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Introduction
5 Table of Contents
Context
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Issues & Opportunities
23 Vision
44 Action Plan
US 17 VISION & ACTION PLAN US 17 WINTER HAVEN I MOTOR POOL ROAD TO CYPRESS GARDENS FPID No.: 445497-1-22-01 September 2020
DISTRICT 1
US 17
vision & action plan
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Regional Context...........................................................................................................................................................6 Figure 2: Context Classification.................................................................................................................................................9 Figure 3: Local Context................................................................................................................................................................9 Figure 4: Typical Section............................................................................................................................................................10 Figure 5: Downtown Grid Network............................................................................................................................................12 Figure 6: Freight Connectivity...................................................................................................................................................12 Figure 7: Trail Network and Community Amenities..............................................................................................................13 Figure 8: Citrus Connection Routes and Stops......................................................................................................................14 Figure 9: High Crash Areas and Crash Stats..........................................................................................................................15 Figure 10: Placemaking Framework........................................................................................................................................27 Figure 11: Blue / Green Framework......................................................................................................................................... 33 Figure 12: Multimodal Safety Framework...............................................................................................................................37 Figure 13: US 17 Corridor Vision................................................................................................................................................41 Figure 14: Urban Overlay District............................................................................................................................................. 45 Figure 15: Block Connection Opportunity Sites.....................................................................................................................47 Figure 16: Proposed Block Connections................................................................................................................................ 48 Figure 17: Potential Character of Improved Intersections within the Urban Overlay District....................................... 50 Figure 18: Priority Intersections for Improvement............................................................................................................... 50 Figure 19: Priority Trail Connections....................................................................................................................................... 52 Figure 20: Pope / Magnolia Avenue Promenades................................................................................................................ 53 Figure 21: Pope Avenue Pedestrian Promenade Vision ...................................................................................................... 54 Figure 22: Visit Central Florida Chain of Lakes Water Trail Map......................................................................................... 56 Figure 23: Proposed Gateway Locations............................................................................................................................... 59
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PREFACE - PLANNING STUDIO The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District One has created a new Planning Studio Department to ensure that its transportation projects and strategies align closely with community visions. The Planning Studio includes early engagement with transportation users, local governments, residents, business owners, and other stakeholders to clarify the land use and transportation vision for communities along state roadways throughout the District. This early understanding of the issues, opportunities and vision serves as the foundation for identifying supportive transportation strategies to move the community forward.
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Pensacola
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§ ¦ ¨ Jacksonville 295
St. Augustine
The culminating product of the Planning Studio process is a Corridor Vision and Action Plan. It includes an integrated land use and transportation vision for the subject corridor and supporting implementation plan of multi-modal transportation strategies and complementary land use policies. This communitybased evaluation determines how best to serve the needs of current and future users of the corridor and establishes a long-term plan to guide evolution of the corridor toward the intended vision.
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Daytona Beach Orlando
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Tampa
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Melbourne
Sarasota
DISTRICT ONE
West Palm Beach
Fort Myers
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This community-based evaluation determines how best to serve the needs of current and future users...
Port St. Lucie
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Miami
...to ensure that its transportation projects and strategies align closely with community vision[s].
PLANNING STUDIO PROCESS
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
1 INTRODUCTION Development of the US 17 Corridor Vision and Action Plan is two-phased. In Phase 1, a Corridor Context Report was developed to define the existing land use, environmental, economic, socio-cultural, and transportation characteristics, conditions and context. This provides the foundation for engagement with partner agencies, community leaders and other stakeholders to confirm the existing context which provides the groundwork for defining the corridor vision.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
In Phase 2, this Corridor Vision and Action Plan was developed to articulate the community vision and identify specific strategies to accomplish the safety, accessibility, connectivity, and land use objectives for the corridor. It includes a phased implementation plan describing the roles for FDOT and its agency partners in carrying out the plan. It includes operational strategies, larger scale strategic investments, as well as land use and other policy recommendations.
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2 CONTEXT WHERE ARE WE NOW?
US 17 runs through the heart of Winter Haven, just west of the downtown core. US 17 originally served downtown Winter Haven more directly, following 3rd Street SW and NW through the center of town. In the early 2000s, the 3rd Street/6th Street connector was constructed to help emphasize the use of 6th Street to disperse through-traffic from the downtown core. Today, US 17 functions as a north-south arterial road that divides east and west Winter Haven.
Downtown Winter Haven US 17 Character
Known as the Chain of Lakes City, Winter Haven’s foundational elements of the 24-canal connected lakes, recreational opportunities and agricultural industry continue to define the City. Most recently the community has been recognized for the diversification of the economy to include the growth of healthcare, technology, professional services, aviation, logistics and manufacturing and, of course, tourism. Since the 2010 opening of LEGOLAND, millions of visitors travel to and through Winter Haven annually. Historic architecture and the many lakes and recreation facilities throughout the City contribute to a well-defined sense of place in several key locations like downtown and older residential neighborhoods. This community character is not strongly reflected in the US 17 corridor, where the landscape is typically dominated by strip-style, auto-centric retail and commercial uses.
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Figure 1: Regional Context
US 17 is a National Highway System (NHS) principal arterial connecting several midsized cities and towns across West Central Florida.
CONTEXT
Regional Context The study corridor is located within the City of Winter Haven, serving both regional and local transportation purposes. Winter Haven, and the US 17 corridor, are in Polk County, part of Central Florida’s fifteen-county economic “Super Region.” Polk County’s development is influenced by its proximity to major metropolitan centers and tourist destinations including Tampa and Orlando and by Interstate 4 – a critical transportation corridor for people and freight. This central location proximate to population, employment, and tourism centers, along
with good access to rail and road infrastructure, and an available work force contributes to Polk County’s growing role as a freight logistics and distribution hub. Recent growth in Polk County has occurred in unincorporated parts of the county, contributing to a pattern of suburban sprawl. These suburban patterns are characterized by lower density residential, autooriented commercial centers, and transportation networks that prioritize car travel, which in turn has contributed to an increase in vehicle miles traveled and congested roadways.
Polk County is growing. This
Age and educational attainment of the
growth is forecast to continue.
area’s industries, including manufacturing, logistics/ distribution, retail trade, and health care.
Highway expansions and infrastructure improvements are planned to support the population
regional workforce supports the
growth and increased traffic.
Regional train service, SunRail, and Brightline, provide alternatives to highway travel for commuters, with likely expansions in service into and through Polk County in the future.
Bus service connects regional employment and residential centers, but infrequent service limits ridership potential.
Several critical transportation
routes and connections serve freight needs and facilitate commuter travel.
The regional economy is growing, and this growth is expected to continue, particularly in the industries of manufacturing and logistics/distribution. A “business
friendly” environment attracts employers.
the region at a glance...
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
CONTEXT
Winter Haven by the Facts »
The City of Winter Haven is home to 6.6 percent of Polk County’s total population and 6.4 percent of total County households.
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Nearly one-quarter of Winter Haven residents live within one half-mile of the US 17 corridor.
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Within the half-mile buffer surrounding US 17, there are more minority residents, fewer vehicles available by household, lower incomes, and more limited English proficient residents.
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Winter Haven will continue targeting the industries of healthcare, technology and innovation, freight transportation and logistics, business logistics, tourism and hospitality, and agribusiness, taking advantage of its location and other natural assets.
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Within the last several years, downtown Winter Haven has welcomed new businesses, new jobs, and numerous development projects.
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I ncreasing property values in downtown reflect continued growth and the desirability of the area.
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Vacant and underused parcels along the corridor present opportunities for adaptive reuse or development.
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New development is already occurring at the southern end of the corridor including the nearly complete Chain O’ Lakes Complex – a regional sports and entertainment attraction and the proposed Winter Haven Town Center development.
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Winter Haven is defined by its natural assets, recreation opportunities, the Florida citrus industry, and tourism, which remains a prime economic driver for the City.
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The City’s historic architecture contributes to a well-defined (and award winning) sense of place in several key locations like downtown and older residential neighborhoods. This sense of place is not strongly reflected in the US 17 corridor which acts as a physical and psychological barrier dividing the city.
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The study corridor is characterized as an urban town center place type, surrounded by urban neighborhoods, with suburban neighborhoods on the fringes.
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Pockets of regional and community retail and industrial place types surround the major intersections north and south of downtown.
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There is multimodal travel demand, which could expand if retail and industrial place types transform.
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Walking is more feasible in the downtown core.
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Transit is feasible but not convenient or frequent.
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Opportunities exist to improve multimodal safety and quality of service both along, and across, US 17.
PEOPLE
ECONOMY
SENSE OF PLACE
TRANSPORTATION
CONTEXT Figure 2: Local Context
Winter Haven Downtown Core
Suburban Commercial C3C
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Figure 3: Context Classification
Mostly non-residential uses with large building footprints and large parking lots within large blocks and a disconnected or sparse roadway network. Urban General C4 Mix of uses set within small blocks with a well-connected roadway network. May extend long distances. The roadway network usually extends to residential neighborhoods immediately along the corridor or behind the use fronting the
Local Context The study corridor is a three-mile section of US 17 running through the Central Urban Core of the City of Winter Haven between Motor Pool Road on the north and Cypress Gardens Boulevard on the south. The existing roadway is a four (4) lane urban principal arterial with a posted speed of 40 miles per hour (MPH), curb and gutter drainage, and a center running two-way left-turn lane present within most of the corridor (a raised traffic separator is present between Avenue S NW and Avenue W NW). The corridor’s character is urban with commercial uses, lodging, and retail properties fronting the corridor. US 17 serves as the primary artery of Winter Haven’s urban street grid. The existing roadway context classification is mostly Urban General (C4). C4 is a mix of uses within small blocks and a well-connected roadway network. The roadway network in the C4 environment usually connects to residential neighborhoods immediately along the corridor or behind the uses fronting the roadway. The need to balance both through and local traffic is not unusual in mid-size towns, but this challenge is heightened along US 17 by both the natural and built environments. Winter Haven is known for its Chain of Lakes, a series of lakes connected by canals providing both environmental and recreational benefits. These lakes, most notably Lakes Hartridge and Conine to the north and Lakes Shipp and Lulu to the south, are part of the region’s waterway system, but they also create barriers to the distribution of traffic on the surface transportation network, placing more pressure on US 17 to serve north-south travel.
CONTEXT
US 17: Form Should Follow Function US 17 serves three key functions – it is an access corridor for local employment, commercial, retail, and activity destinations; it is a freight corridor for regional freight movements; and it is a commuter corridor for intracity commutes. The study segment runs from Motor Pool Road in the north to Cypress Gardens Boulevard in the south.
The corridor is classified as a Principal-Arterial (Other Urban). It is a high-traffic roadway used by multiple transportation modes. US 17 carries most of the trips entering and leaving Winter Haven, traffic looking to bypass the City’s downtown district, and provides access to the City’s major activity centers.
The roadway typical section generally consists of a four-lane, undivided roadway with a center turn lane; from Avenue V NW to Avenue T NW, the roadway is four-lane and divided. The posted roadway speed limit is 40 MPH. The project corridor is classified as Access Class 7, meaning signals are located at quarter mile (1,320- foot) intervals and median openings are every 330-660 feet. Access Class 7 is typically assigned to roadways where there is little intent or opportunity to provide high speed travel due to adjacent land uses.
Most property along the US 17 corridor in the City of Winter Haven is zoned for commercial uses and the 2025 Future Land Use Map indicates that this character of development is expected to continue. Specific zoning districts along the corridor include neighborhood, heavy commercial, light industrial, public recreation, planned unit development, and multifamily housing at a range of densities.
Figure 4: Typical Section
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CONTEXT
US 17 Existing Conditions - On the Ground 1
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
CONTEXT ROAD NETWORK Winter Haven features an urban, gridded street pattern. Constraints in the roadway network exist due to natural water features and regional traffic flows. There is notable congestion at the signalized intersections at both the northern and southern ends of the corridor. Traffic flow is constrained by the confluence of north-south traffic with east-west traffic seeking passage between the lakes and across the rail line. Within town, local traffic disperses throughout the grid, resulting in less congestion. Opportunities exist to improve the safety and quality of service both along, and across US 17. Figure 6: Freight Connectivity
FREIGHT SERVICE
US 17 crosses an active CSX rail line on a viaduct at the corridor’s southern end; that line provides freight service to the Central Florida Intermodal Logistics Center and Amtrak service to Winter Haven via the Silver Star and Silver Meteor trains running between Miami and New York. While US 17 serves north-south freight transport through the study area, it also provides regional east-west connectivity between US 92 and US 27 via Havendale Boulevard (SR-544) northwest towards Lakeland and via Cypress Gardens Boulevard (SR-540) southeast towards Lake Wales.
ON THE GROUND CONDITIONS
Figure 5: Downtown Grid Network
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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Corridor character is predominantly strip commercial, with parking or access fronting the street. There are some instances of unique community character such as murals, heritage architecture, and local flare like Andy’s and Rick’s BBQ.
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In most segments of US 17, the four-foot sidewalk is directly adjacent to traffic, creating an uncomfortable pedestrian experience.
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There are no bike lanes on US 17.
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Signage consists of mostly FDOT wayfinding.
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Some segments of US 17 adjacent to commercial plazas have landscape beautification. Otherwise, landscaping is sparse or nonexistent.
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CONTEXT
KEY
Existing trail Recreation hub Civic hub
TRAILS AND PARKS The corridor has several key multimodal assets including the Chain of Lakes Trail, but robust connections to and between trails are lacking. Walkability and bikeability potential are highest in the downtown core due to the combination of land use density and diversity and the robust street grid. Multimodal accessibility analysis results suggest that walking is the preferred nonmotorized work trip travel mode into the downtown core; cycling is the preferred non-motorized travel mode for longer trips.
Transportation hub
Chain O’ Lakes Sports Complex
Chain of Lakes Trail Lake Howard 13
Figure 7: Trail Network and Community Amenities
Figure 7 illustrates the gaps in the existing trail network connecting recreational amenities like Lake Howard, Lake Shipp, and Chain O’ Lakes Sports Complex; transit hubs; as well as job centers.
Trail Head Park Chain O’ Lakes Cycling Classic US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
CONTEXT
TRANSIT Transit service in Polk County and Winter Haven is provided by Lakeland Area Mass Transit District, operating as Citrus Connection. Citrus Connection provides service in Winter Haven as Winter Haven Area Transit (WHAT), including on-demand paratransit service and fixed route bus service. Most bus stops lack amenities such as shelters, seating, or lighting and typically consist of a sign near the sidewalk identifying the route. One or two stops do have shelters and the Winter Haven Terminal has comfort facilities for riders.
WINTER HAVEN TERMINAL
BUS
RAIL
intermodal transit connections Winter Haven Amtrak Station- daily service between Miami and New York City
Winter Haven Terminal - bus connections
transit key statistics
WINTER HAVEN AMTRAK STATION
Figure 8: Citrus Connection Routes and Stops
60-90
minutes average bus frequency
6,700
monthly riders (Route 30,Legoland)
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bus stops along the US 17 corridor
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bus routes serving Winter Haven 14
CONTEXT SAFETY The US 17 study segment is a high crash area, with multiple fatalities and severe injuries occurring during the five-year period of analysis. Pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicle operators are all impacted by operational and infrastructural deficiencies such as long block lengths, a lack of mid-block crossings, unpredictable pedestrian crossing signals, a lack of protected or designated bike lanes, and several dangerous intersections. Figure 9: High Crash Areas and Crash Stats
#injuries #crashes
544
Havendale Blvd NW
34 150
549
Mirror Terr NW
5 17
crash by type
Ave M NW
12 46
Ave L NW
6 28
US 17 CRASH STATISTICS Ave D NW
992
10 65
15
17
BIKE/PEDESTRIAN CRASHES
4 FATALITIES
Avenue K SW
9 49
Avenue O SW
26 58
540
Cypress Garden Blvd
31 137
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TOTAL CRASHES
2014-2018
41%
OF CRASHES RESULTED IN INJURY OR DEATH US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
3 ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES Several issues related to safe travel conditions, multimodal access and connectivity, land use patterns and placemaking in the US 17 corridor were identified through field observation, planning analyses of the existing context, and engagement with community stakeholders. The identified issues provide an understanding what is most valued by the Winter Haven community and serve as a foundation for defining a corridor vision and action plan. A strong analytical base of the existing multimodal transportation system, land use form, community demographics, and base industries supporting the local economy helped to identify regional and local strengths and challenges that are relevant to the US 17 corridor and how it may evolve. The regional and local context for the US 17 corridor is characterized in the Corridor Context Report, a supporting reference to this Corridor Vision and Action Plan.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES A community engagement process revealed key insights from residents, stakeholders, and staff and helped define the wants and needs of the community related to the US 17 corridor. Focus group meetings with local and regional agency partners, one-onone meetings with key community, economic, and freight interests, and a community visioning workshop brought clarity to the challenges facing US 17 and broader community. These discussions also identified opportunities for how the corridor could transition to strengthen its function in serving the Winter Haven community and also serve regional needs for commuters and freight transport.
stakeholder workshop
PARTICIPANTS GATHER AT A COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDER MEETING
“The Spring Lake Towers Condos are close to US 17. Residents are over age 55. Residents walk to Publix on a regular basis.” “Havendale Blvd/US 17 is usually one of the highest crash locations.” “US 17 north of Central Ave, it becomes very uncomfortable. Trying to stay in your lane is tough due to alignment changes and inlets.”
“The southern half of US 17 is very comfortable to drive. There are several right turns for accessing businesses.” “The Lake Howard boat dock is a short walk to US 17. Boaters sometimes dock and walk to McDonald’s to get hamburgers. The City has created a nice park setting at the boat dock. “
“After fire station and Lowes, that section of US 17 is very unattractive. It’s great for cars. I can drive fast down there in spite of the occasional right turn but the area is visually awful.” Examples of the challenges, opportunities, and assets voiced by the stakeholders.
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
community stakeholders • CITY OF WINTER HAVEN • GREATER WINTER HAVEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • WINTER HAVEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL • WINTER HAVEN POLICE DEPARTMENT • POLK COUNTY TOURISM AND SPORTS MARKETING • MAIN STREET WINTER HAVEN INC • ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL • SPRING LAKE TOWERS APARTMENTS •
• PRIVATE CITIZENS » » » » » » » » » » » » » » »
MAL BOLAND MURIEL GAUVIN RAY CROWELL BASTIAN MCKITTRICK JOE BOGDAHN • LOCAL BUSINESSES STEVE VAUGHAN JULIE WATKINS PAULINE CROWELL MATT JOELENE DAVID NICHOLSON JOHN & GINNY METCALF LOIS BISHOP M.J. CARAVALE KRISTEN VAUGHAN BOB GERNERI
» » » » » » » »
Sixteen LLC V3 capital TECO CEI John Wood Realty Crosby & Associates Six /Ten Jarrett Gordon Ford
BORDEN DAIRY
A field review of the study corridor provided a “feet-on-the-ground look” at conditions and operations. These observations identified challenges with multimodal connectivity, pedestrian and bicyclists safety, transit accessibility, local business access, mobility for persons with disabilities, and vehicular operations.
FIELD REVIEW
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MULTIMODAL SAFETY Issue: High vehicle crash rates and unsafe conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists including sparse and unprotected crossings on US 17. Unsafe intersection Safe crossing needed High crash area
Issue:
High travel speeds along US 17 corridor contribute to unsafe conditions for all roadway users.
Issue: Sparse and unprotected pedestrian and bicyclist crossings create unsafe conditions for nonmotorized mobility.
Opportunities:
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Enhance pedestrian crossings and provide infrastructure supporting multimodal travel to promote walkability and non-auto travel along and across the corridor.
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Design the roadway to slow speeds. Install gateway features to calm traffic and build community character. Provide legible information on iconic wayfinding signage such as parking locations for downtown visitors to limit distracted driving.
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Enhance the community’s sense of place through landscape and hardscape treatments, human scale lighting, and connected multimodal infrastructure.
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES
MULTIMODAL ACCESS Issue: A lack of TP
Community point of interest
infrastructure and crossing facilities, safety interventions, and amenities make the US 17 corridor unappealing for multimodal travel.
Parks Bus stop Transit route
Issue: Infrequent transit
Winter Haven Terminal
WHS Winter Haven Amtrak Station
Trail
Winter Haven is served by several Citrus Connection bus routes connecting to trails and many community assets, but the long headways and poor transit amenities detract from intermodal and multimodal travel.
service and a lack of comfort amenities (shade; shelter; sidewalk accessibility) discourage transit ridership.
Issue: A lack of shared mobility options, such as bike share programs, discourages residents and visitors from exploring multimodal travel options.
Opportunities: »
Many communities are exploring shared mobility options such as bike share and/or scooter rentals. Dockless shared mobility options allow for more flexibility than earlier generations of docked bikes/scooters and the addition of electric bicycles to many programs has extended the travel range of these mobility options. Shared mobility options encourage more people to avoid personal vehicle use for short trips. Explore shared mobility options, such as bike share and scooter rentals, as well as for the city’s water linkages.
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Work with the area’s transit providers to deliver more frequent service along well-traveled routes and the provision of premium transit amenities. Create enhanced crossings at bus stops to enhance safety for transit riders.
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Implement interventions such as landscaped medians (in lieu of a shared middle turn lane), streetscape improvements, lane reconfigurations, pedestrian crossings, refuge islands, and amenities (bus shelters, bike racks) to calm traffic, enhance safety, and contribute to a more appealing physical environment.
IDENTITY Issue: Development patterns along the US 17 corridor are autocentric and non-human scale including large building lots, parking oriented to the street, and extensive building setbacks.
Issue: The US 17 corridor does not reflect Winter Haven’s history, culture, and character. This stands in contrast to other parts of the city that have a very identifiable character, enhanced through architecture and public art.
Issue: Travel conditions and land use patterns along US 17 create a barrier between downtown Winter Haven and other community assets/ investments such as the town dock and Lake Howard.
Opportunities:
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Enhance visual and physical connections across US 17 and between key community assets to better leverage city investments like the town dock and draw more visitors to downtown.
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Implement streetscape treatments, wayfinding signage, and gateway treatments to enhance the US 17 street character. Wayfinding, art, and gateways have the added advantage of welcoming visitors and marketing the city’s history and attractions.
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Update land use and development policies related to mixed-use zoning, parking maximums, reduced setbacks, building orientation, and building scale to support a more human-scaled, multimodal-friendly built environment.
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES
GREEN CONNECTIVITY Issue: Bicycle and pedestrian connectivity is inadequate, both across and along the US 17 corridor and with other parts of the community.
Issue: Excessive impervious surface along the US 17 corridor contributes to increased stormwater runoff and increased temperatures.
Opportunities: »
Enhance and expand land and water trails connecting neighborhoods and key community assets.
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Identify ways to connect green space.
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Incorporate landscape strategies that promote stormwater management and native materials.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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4 VISION:
THE GATEWAY TO WINTER HAVEN
CHO ICE
ITY BIL MO
23
core planning principles
SAF ETY
The vision for the US 17 corridor integrates a set of foundational planning principles which, when considered together, support safe, multimodal and equitable road design in the community.
ECONOM IC V ITA LIT Y
ENT ONM VIR EN
LIVAB ILIT Y
H ALT HE
Y UIT EQ
The US 17 Corridor Vision is an expression of the community’s values and desires for the future development, character and function of the US 17 corridor. It was developed through an iterative process of community engagement and planning analysis of the issues, needs and possibilities for the corridor.
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
VISION
VISION WORKSHOP SAFE TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS: The corridor vision supports equity and safety by enabling everyone to move safely, regardless of their travel mode, age, physical ability, and other characteristics. This might include narrower lanes, sidewalks, bike lanes, accessible and comfortable transit stops, and safe and frequent crossings.
ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL OPTIONS: The US 17 Vision enhances mobility and supports a healthy community by making modes other than driving viable. A well-designed street creates more and healthier transportation choices by enhancing the safety and convenience of walking, biking, and taking transit.
CONNECTIVITY: The US 17 Vision creates stronger multimodal connections to overcome the physical and psychological barrier, and to ensure that residential areas, employment centers, recreational assets, community services, and transit facilities are accessible.
ECONOMIC VITALITY: The corridor vision sets the stage for economic vitality. A healthy accessible community provides the environment where people want to live, recreate, and start businesses. A transportation system that provides a high level of multimodal accessibility can spur development and redevelopment and more sustainable land use patterns.
SENSE OF PLACE: The US 17 Vision supports livability by ensuring work, retail, recreational, and school locations are within easy access of multiple transportation modes. Visual cues like wayfinding signage, corridor gateways, and public art visually and psychologically connect community assets and cultivate character. A street that encourages walking and biking enhances the community’s sense of place by turning travel into an enjoyable, healthy experience. The increased use of alternative travel modes allows people to travel without a car more often, helping the environment by reducing emissions.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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VISION
VISION WORKSHOP: WINTER HAVEN DECIDES
On November 14, 2019 a US 17 Corridor Visioning Workshop was held in Downtown Winter Haven. Through a series of activity stations, the public was invited to share their ideas about how they envision Winter Haven’s future.
STATION 1 – WELCOME
US 17 CORRIDOR
VISION WORKSHOP
JOIN US!
Community Workshop Thursday, November 14th, 2019 4:30 to 6:30 PM
Nora Mayo Hall | 500 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven Help plan the future of the US 17 corridor in Winter Haven DROP IN ANYTIME AND SHARE YOUR IDEAS! DEVELOP VISION
Attendees were welcomed to the workshop with a video presentation that explained the US 17 project and process.
STATION 2 – CONTEXT Attendees explored the existing context of the project via boards showing the following: » Regional Context showing how the US 17 project fits into the surrounding transportation network » Corridor Context showing the existing and proposed bicycle and pedestrian facilities » Corridor Context showing the crash history of US 17
STATION 3 – ENVISION Attendees expressed what was important to them on US 17 as well as how they envision US 17 in the future. This was done via a series of four activities.
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GUIDE DECISIONS
COORDINATE
ESTABLISH PLAN
District 1 of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is supporting the development of a Corridor Vision and Action Plan for a three-mile stretch of US 17, through the City of Winter Haven. Your expertise, feedback, and ideas will help shape and inform the design and development of an integrated land use and transportation vision for the project corridor, guiding future multi-modal transportation investments and complementary land use policies.
Attendees suggested newspaper headlines about Winter Haven as if it were 20 years into the future.
“Winter Haven Safest City to Reside and Travel” “Most Walkable City in Florida!” “Winter Haven is a Car-Free City” Attendees prioritized investment in the corridor, placing “money” in an envelope that corresponds to the theme most meaningful to them. The following themes ranked below were identified community priorities: 1) Multimodal Safety 2) Connectivity Attendees identified any other areas of concern on a “freestyle map.” This was an aerial map of the corridor where attendees used sticky notes and markers to pin-point those areas along the corridor where they would like to see change.
3) Identity/Character 4) Multimodal Access
Conversations, focus groups, and meetings with key community stakeholders, city staff, and residents revealed several recurring themes forming the foundation of the vision for US 17. These include multimodal transportation, safety, connectivity, land use, and community character. These themes evolved into three vision framework plans that are illustrated and described in this plan:
1 2
Placemaking Blue/Green Connections
3
Multimodal Safety
The three framework plans are integrated into a master, composite plan called US 17 Vision: The Gateway to Winter Haven. The composite vision illustrates key components of each framework plan such as major community gateways, key US 17 crossings and connections, and land and water-based trails. 26
Figure 10: Placemaking Framework
North Gateway District
Medical District
Downtown
Medical District Chain O’ Lakes District 27
VISION
PLACEMAKING FRAMEWORK
1
Gateway treatments » Announce key entry points to districts » Signal a sense of arrival and introduce a “new place” using physical structures, signage, and / or landscaping » Strongly reflect community character »
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Create pedestrian / bicycle connections to overcome physical and psychological barrier of US 17
Streetscape improvements » Enhance community character with context appropriate design elements such as on-street parking, intersection paving, street trees, landscaping, bicycle / pedestrian amenities, and lighting » Calm traffic, increase safety, and provide human-scale infrastructure to support walkability and multimodal travel
3 4
Wayfinding » Enhance corridor users’ understanding and experience of places through visual cues and points of reference » Reflect community character through gateways, wayfinding signage, and experiential public art that connect significant points of interest »
Support enhanced safety, security, and sense of well-being
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Provide practical information to visitors like parking locations, public restrooms, and amenities
Public art » Enhance the unique image and identity of districts and communities » Establish connections and attachments to community identity » Cultivate and validate local artists and “Arts Districts” » Provide a platform for social cohesion and cultural / historical understanding »
Promote economic growth and sustainability through cultural identity
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Reduce stress, create a sense of belonging, and slow the public down to enjoy their community
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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PLACEMAKING:
Defining a distinct district identity through unique sense of place. Placemaking strategies such as unique wayfinding signage, corridor gateways, and public art visually and psychologically connect the US 17 corridor with activity centers like downtown and enhance the community’s existing character. Supportive land use policies cultivate a physical environment conducive to multimodal travel and promote humanscaled development along the corridor. Placemaking initiatives integrate primary uses and roadway context while reimagining the roadway’s potential to be a visually compelling, multimodal connector of community assets.
KEY ELEMENTS Gateway treatments: Gateway treatments are signs and other physical structures that border a community or downtown district and introduce and welcome visitors. Gateways also help calm traffic. Unlike downtown Winter Haven, the US 17 corridor does not strongly reflect the community’s character and thus feels disconnected from the community. Gateway treatments at key entry points along the US 17 corridor provide visual and psychological cues that the roadway user is crossing a boundary and entering a well-defined space. The types of signage and/or structures used at gateways provide hints about the community’s unique character. For example, Winter Haven could consider gateways that incorporate imagery of the City’s unique chain of lakes. 29
IDENTITY VISUAL PREFERENCE BOARD Attendees ranked pedestrian bridge gateways. landscaping, and public art categories.
GATEWAYS
VISION
Wayfinding Signage: Wayfinding is a system guiding people through the physical environment. Wayfinding can be purely locational, or it can be used to enhance a user’s understanding and experience of a place. Elements of wayfinding systems typically include visual cues such as maps, icons, and directions and can be targeted to a variety of users including pedestrians, drivers, cyclists, and more. In addition to providing clarity about the “what” and “where,” wayfinding supports enhanced safety, security, and sense of well-being. Wayfinding signage can be designed and installed to reflect the community character. Wayfinding signage can be used along US 17 to connect the corridor with other areas or points of interest in Winter Haven (lakes, downtown, LEGOLAND), provide practical information to visitors (food, parking, etc.), and enhance the City’s character (branded signage for distinct districts, historical information, etc.).
WAYFINDING & BRANDING
30 WAYFINDING
VISION
Public Art: Public art is valued by the City of Winter Haven and can be found in numerous places throughout the community. Little to none of this art is found on or along the US 17 corridor. This contributes to the corridor’s overall lack of character and disconnection from the greater community. Public art in key locations along US 17, such as gateways and connections to downtown, add character, humanize the built environment, and celebrate Winter Haven’s unique heritage, history, culture, and assets.
Streetscape Improvements: Streetscape improvements enhance community character, provide human-scale infrastructure, and support multimodal travel on the US 17 corridor. On- and off-roadway landscaping (such as street trees and landscaped medians) and human-scale lighting can calm traffic, enhance safety, and support multimodal travel. Innovative and context-appropriate lighting and landscaping schemes can build character along what is currently a nondescript roadway, enticing users and supporting economic development.
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PUBLIC ART
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
VISION
Land Use & Development Policies: Transforming underutilized pockets of retail and industrial uses into more active uses through supportive land use policies can increase density, promote affordability, support accessibility, and enhance economic opportunity. Land use policy can direct and support complementary development near identified growth centers, resulting in more predictable and manageable growth. Land use and development codes can also support a more human-centric environment by requiring buildings to be built closer to the street, moving parking to the rear of buildings, eliminating excessive curb cuts and driveways, and providing infrastructure supporting safe, accessible, and enjoyable multimodal travel.
STREETSCAPE
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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Figure 11: Blue / Green Framework
VISION
BLUE / GREEN FRAMEWORK
1
Trail and Lake Network » Connect lake recreation, parks, Downtown, and Chain O’ Lakes sports complex using greenways » Provide safe and viable multimodal travel options and improved community access » Promote ecotourism, healthy lifestyles, and access to recreation and social destinations
2 3
»
Leverage parallel facilities for pedestrian emphasis (such as off-road trail facilities)
»
Enhance opportunity for economic development around recreational amenities
»
Support low-impact development and green infrastructure opportunities like storm water gardens, bioswales, and pervious paving
Crossings and Connections » Provide safe connections across US 17 through new bicycle and pedestrian treatments such as raised and delineated crosswalks, landscaped safety islands, high-visibility signage, actuated beacons, or full signalization » Create safe, unimpeded connection to Chain O’ Lakes sports complex and new development opportunities by constructing a new pedestrian bridge »
Create links from Lake Howard public boat ramp and dock to downtown, and redevelopment opportunities for shopping, food, and entertainment by creating pedestrian promenades on Pope Avenue and Magnolia Avenue
»
Integrate multimodal amenities on future complete streets projects with connections to the trail network
Walkable Destinations »
Support a comfortable environment that promotes walking and biking to destinations through green streets and enhanced pedestrian amenities
»
Enhance community connections between residential neighborhoods and key employment centers and transportation hubs
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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BLUE/GREEN CONNECTIONS: Connecting community through land and water trails. Strategies to improve connectivity in Winter Haven extend beyond traditional transportation options. Linking the US 17 corridor (physically and visually) to the community’s lakes, recreation, parks, downtown, and Chain O’ Lakes Sports Complex can be accomplished using greenways and water trails. In addition to enhancing safe and viable multimodal travel options and improved community access, the City’s unique water features and multiuse land trails support tourism, healthy living, and improved connections along and across the US 17 corridor.
KEY ELEMENTS: Lakes & Trails: Since the days of water skiing at Cypress Gardens, Winter Haven has been recognized for its unique geography and water features. This asset provides a unique opportunity for innovative transportation options like water trails connecting key community destinations and promoting ecotourism. Land trails like greenways support healthy lifestyles and improved multimodal access to recreation and social destinations. Lakes and trails also enhance opportunity for economic development around recreational amenities and can improve the environment through lowimpact development and green infrastructure opportunities like storm water gardens, bioswales, and pervious paving.
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CONNECTIVITY VISUAL PREFERENCE BOARD Vision Workshop participants ranked trails, green streets, and rain garden categories.
LAKE LINKS
BLUEWAY / TRAIL CONNECTIONS
VISION Crossings & Connections: The barriers posed by the region’s many lakes and the US 17 corridor contribute to connectivity challenges and a challenging environment for multimodal travel. Crossings and connections in the southern part of the corridor could be enhanced by creating safe, unimpeded access to important community destinations like the Chain O’ Lakes sports complex and nearby development opportunities via a new pedestrian bridge. Links can be created between Lake Howard and Downtown with pedestrian promenades on Pope Avenue and Magnolia Avenue that will also provide redevelopment opportunities for shopping, food, and entertainment offerings. Multimodal amenities can be integrated with future complete streets projects by providing connections to the City’s blue and green trails network. And connections across US 17 can be strengthened through enhanced bicycle and pedestrian treatments such as raised and delineated crosswalks, landscaped safety islands, high visibility signage, actuated beacons, or full signalization of intersections.
CROSSINGS Walkable Destinations: Walkability stimulates the economy, supports equity, and promotes social interactions. Blue/ Green Connections promotes a comfortable environment for cyclists and pedestrians and supports walking and biking to destinations using green streets and enhanced pedestrian amenities such as adequate lighting, shade trees, safe distances from vehicles, calmed traffic, accessible sidewalks and more. The framework also cultivates walkable destinations by enhancing community connections between residential neighborhoods, key employment centers, and transportation hubs.
WALKABLE VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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Figure 12: Multimodal Safety Framework
VISION
MULTIMODAL SAFETY FRAMEWORK
1
2 3
Street Network »
Prioritize safety
»
Accommodate multiple transportation modes and a diverse population
»
Create new roadway and pedestrian connections to complete a grid network
Street Activation »
Activate the street by creating safe intersections with strong east/west connections across US 17
»
Provide multimodal transportation options for local access, commuter trips, and regional travel
»
Provide accessible and connected transportation options
»
Manage and create safe vehicular access to corridor destinations
»
Improve the walking environment of US 17
Amenities »
Provide comfortable, accessible transit service and shelters
»
Incorporate bike share and other creative multimodal options
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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MULTIMODAL SAFETY: a safe, inclusive, multimodal network.
Non-auto transportation options such as bicycling, walking, and transit support environmental, economic, health, and congestion-mitigating community benefits. To ensure that roadway users can exercise the full range of transportation options, the US 17 Corridor Vision includes safe accommodations of multiple transportation modes used by a diverse population. The vision for enhancing multimodal safety along US 17 in Winter Haven includes maintaining a productive network of streets, activating the street by encouraging walking and biking and creating safe intersections with strong east/west connections across US 17. It also includes providing amenities such as transit shelters, shade trees, and adequate lighting.
KEY ELEMENTS: Street Network: The Multimodal Safety framework cultivates a productive network of streets by balancing the needs of multiple users and maintaining the existing gridded network of downtown streets. A high-functioning street network makes travel more efficient by providing mode choice and direct paths. Design and operational improvements enhance travel conditions for freight haulers, commuters, and local travelers. Safety is prioritized for all roadway users in both infrastructure and operational improvements. Roadway lane configurations are adjusted to accommodate multiple transportation modes. A strong street network also supports transit ridership. With a complete, connected network of multimodal options, visitors and residents may opt to reach their destination entirely without driving on US 17, or will instead walk, bike, or take public transportation. 39
MULTIMODAL SAFETY BOARD Vision Workshop participants ranked improved cross walks, access management, and mid-block crossings.
ACCESSIBLE
VISION
SAFE
Street Activation: Key elements of the Multimodal Safety framework are safe intersections and strong east-west connections across US 17. Currently, the traffic speed and lack of safe pedestrian and bicycle crossings on US 17 discourages connections between Winter Haven’s primary destinations such as downtown and the public dock and lakefronts. Multimodal accessibility strategies and improvements can activate the corridor and support more biking, walking, and transit use along US 17. The Multimodal Safety framework envisions protected pedestrian crossings spanning US 17 and bringing together the east and west sides of the roadway. This improves access between community assets and connects residential communities with needed services, businesses, and transit options. The vision also includes enhanced access management for properties abutting US 17 (reducing the number of active driveways entering and exiting the corridor) improving safety for all roadway users.
MULTIMODAL Amenities: Another feature of the Multimodal Safety framework is enhanced public transit service and amenities. This includes shelters or shade structures at all bus stops, more robust signage and information for riders, bicycle racks at stops or stations, and other comfort features desired by transit users. Transit service is also better supported in this vision framework through capital investments like wider sidewalks and safer roadway configurations like narrower travel lanes. The vision provides improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities (especially at our near stops and stations and on-board vehicles) and stronger, safer connections across US 17. VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
40
Figure 13: US 17 Corridor Vision
VISION
US 17 CORRIDOR VISION:
THE GATEWAY TO WINTER HAVEN
1
Calmed traffic and safe pedestrian and bicycle crossings on US 17 remove physical and psychological barriers and create multimodal connections to downtown, employment hubs, recreation, and entertainment destinations on both sides of the street.
2
Gateways announce sense of arrival and support community character transitions through the corridor .
3
Sense of place and community identity are emphasized in defined districts with wayfinding, public art, streetscaping, landscaping, and building orientation.
4 5
Enhanced bicycle and pedestrian amenities and infrastructure connect to the Winter Haven Chain O’ Lakes and recreational opportunities, providing a robust blue / green network.
Transit corridors with frequent service and premium amenities connect to the multimodal network.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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US 17 VISION:
THE GATEWAY TO WINTER HAVEN The vision for US 17 provides guiding principles to inform investment decisions for the corridor. It provides a road map for actionable strategies and policies to move the community forward to its desired character and function, with a focus on multimodal connections, safety and community character.
Placemaking: » » » »
Welcoming gateway treatments Iconic wayfinding signage Unique public art Transformative land use and development policies » Strategic streetscape improvements
Multimodal Safety: » » » » »
Balanced and productive street network Activated streets Ample amenities Enhanced crossings and connections Walkable destinations
Blue/Green Connections: » Innovative land and water trails » Enhanced crossings and connections » Walkable destinations
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
5
US 17
ACTION PLAN:
IMPLEMENTING THE FRAMEWORKS The Vision Frameworks and overall US 17 Corridor Vision propose an aspirational vision for the corridor. This section presents detailed projects, strategies, and solutions for achieving the objectives of the US 17 Corridor Vision developed by the Winter Haven community. The strategies provide decision makers with the information needed to make informed choices about investment in the corridor, based on the community’s expressed goals, needs, and desires.
Eleven projects or strategies are included in the action plan:
Action strategies incorporate a combination of policies, programs, public investment, and private property improvements. Strategies can be implemented on a stand-alone basis or – more efficiently – in combination with ongoing and planned improvements. Implementation by both the public and private sector is needed to fully realize the community’s vision.
• Form Based Code Overlay District
Each action strategy or project in the plan includes:
• “Complete” Intersections
»
A summary description (WHAT)
»
A summary of the project or action’s significance and importance to the community’s vision (WHY)
• Corridor Connectivity and Access Management Study
• Trail Extensions and Connections
»
Action steps and illustrative graphics or renderings (HOW)
• Pope Avenue Pedestrian Promenade
»
Roles and responsibilities (WHO)
»
• Blueways
Implementation timeline (WHEN).
The implementation timeline shows a series of steps and actions to implement each project or strategy. These range from “immediate” (implement within one year of plan publication) to “long term” (actions requiring 10 years or more for implementation). Other categories include “short term” (1-4 years) and “midterm” (5-10 years). This phasing reflects the spectrum of actions from easy-to-implement small projects to redevelopment and corridor evolution requiring years of policy change and capital investment. Necessary for all strategies, though not explicitly stated, is the need to coordinate project budget, implementation, and maintenance considerations.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
• Enhanced Transit Service and Amenities • Shared Active Transportation Program • Corridor Gateways • Wayfinding Signage • Public Art
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ACTION PLAN
Form Based Code Overlay District WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? Traditional zoning focuses on the type of land use allowed on a specific parcel of land. In contrast, form-based zoning focuses on building form as it relates to the streetscape and adjacent uses, encouraging the development of a specific community character and feel. Form-based codes typically encourage a mix of uses and walkable communities, both of which contribute to the development of a lively public streetscape. Form-based codes usually include a set of design guidelines, which work in conjunction with more typical zoning codes and are often applied to a designated district in the form of an overlay zone. An overlay zone is a zoning district which is applied over one or more previously established zoning districts, establishing additional or stricter standards and criteria for covered properties in addition to those of the underlying zoning district. In this way form-based codes are a useful tool for the creation of a more humancentric environment by buildings to be built closer to the street, moving parking to the rear of buildings, eliminating excessive curb cuts and driveways, and providing infrastructure supporting safe, accessible, and enjoyable multimodal travel.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? Urban overlay extent (includes one block east / west of US 17)
Figure 14: Urban Overlay District
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»
Results in a more predictable built environment
»
Influences user behavior by altering perception and understanding of streets (traffic calming)
»
Improves aesthetics, mix of uses, and enhanced community character
»
Cultivates vibrant and walkable public spaces
»
Enhances safety and accessibility for all travel modes
»
Increases foot traffic to local businesses
»
Attracts new residents and visitors
»
Streamlines development review and approval process
»
Overlay allows base zoning districts to remain while establishing additional standards to achieve the community’s vision for US 17
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Investigate feasibility of reducing the speed limit on US 17 (30 MPH in the FBC overlay district and 30-35 in the study corridor) and implement • Develop and adopt FBC overlay elements including*:
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Roll out design guidelines – consider open houses and/ or webinars for local developers and property owners in the overlay district*
MIDTERM (5-10 years) • Evaluate early outcomes of overlay district and amend overlay district as needed to achieve vision
ǂ Regulating plan (map identifying the FBC overlay boundaries and building form standard areas) ǂ Public standards (describe regulated elements in public realm, ex. sidewalks, travel lanes, on-street parking, street trees and furniture, etc.) ǂ Building standards (Regulations controlling features, configurations, and functions of buildings)
* Step requiring outreach and public engagement
ǂ Administration (define application and project review process) ǂ Definitions (glossary of terms)
Evolution of US 17 in the form based code district
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN
Figure 15: US 17 Street Section Evolution with Urban Overlay Guidance
EXISTING
PHASE 1
Phase One: Create landscape buffer between street and sidewalk for pedestrian comfort. Widen sidewalks where right of way allows.
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
PHASE 2
Phase Two: Transition dual turn lane into a divided landscaped median where access management allows.
PHASE 3
Phase Three: As redevelopment occurs, the pedestrian envelope becomes defined by consistent building facades oriented to the street which reflect the character of Winter Haven. Wide sidewalks, landscape, lighting, and other amenities create a comfortable and engaging pedestrian experience.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN
Corridor Connectivity and Access Management Plan Havendale at US 17
WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT?
Ave. G SW at US 17 Ave. K SW at US 17 Ave. O SW at US 17 Existing Trails
Multimodal access, and circulation can be enhanced by a robust interconnected grid of streets and by well-organized access points along US 17. The combination of access management and a supportive street grid create opportunities to insert median treatments into the primarily five-lane undivided typical section, improving both safety and placemaking. Opportunities to extend the local grid of streets are strongest where large commercial properties are facing redevelopment opportunities, generally found at each end of the study corridor. Justification for converting a center two-way left-turn-lane into a median requires consideration of property access and the feasibility of replacing leftturn access and egress directly from US 17 with either interparcel access, alleys or the local street grid. The justification for medians is highest where alternative means of property access exist, pedestrian flows suggest the need for a median refuge (such as at a midblock bus stop) and where landscaping can contribute to a sense of place.
Figure 16: Block Connection Opportunity Sites
Implementing both local street grid connections and medians requires consideration of upstream and downstream effects. Both treatments can be complementary tools if evaluated in coordination. For instance, between C Street SW and Cypress Gardens Boulevard, creating a street grid would be a preferable approach to access management, yet if the grid is found not to be feasible, then selected midblock pedestrian crossings with median refuges would then be desirable. A corridor-wide connectivity and access management study would create a specific plan to guide implementation. This plan could be conducted in two separate sections, a southern element south of C Street SW and a northern element north of Avenue E NW.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? Future redevelopment will allow the opportunity for more street network connectivity.
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»
Maintains a high-functioning street network
»
Increases efficiency of overall road network by offering alternative routes to common destinations
»
Increases modal choices
»
Distributes traffic across the street network
»
Creates better experiences for drivers and pedestrians
»
Enhances walkability
»
Increases safety for all modes of travel
»
Contributes to sense of place and humancentric design US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN Figure 17: Proposed Block Connections
Ave. G SW to Ave. K SW at US 17
Havendale Blvd. at US 17
Ave. K SW to Ave. O SW at US 17
Ave. O SW to Cypress Gardens Blvd. at US 17
Existing street connections Proposed connections Proposed trail connections
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Develop Corridor Connectivity and Access Management Plan for the US 17 study corridor and evaluate the street connectivity opportunities defined within the Block Connection Opportunity Sites*
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Prepare concepts of new street connections and evaluate potential impacts and merits • Refine street connection concepts based on plan and stakeholder input* • Refine initial median closure locations based on plan and stakeholder input* • Prepare design and landscape plans for median closures • Implement median closure plan
* Step requiring outreach and public engagement
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN
“Complete” Intersections WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? Intersections are a critical part of the transportation network for both drivers and pedestrians often accounting for the most serious and frequent conflicts between all types of roadway users. Traffic volume and vehicular speed on US 17 is a barrier to east-west pedestrian and bicycle travel in the City of Winter Haven, and intersection improvements are a key component of achieving the corridor’s multimodal vision. “Complete intersections” balance the needs of drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, emergency responders and goods movement based on local context. Complete intersections (like complete streets) create safe multimodal access to destinations along and near the corridor. Connections across US 17 are strengthened using treatments such as raised and delineated crosswalks, landscaped safety islands, curb extensions, curb ramps, crossing islands, raised crossings and bike lanes and boxes, high visibility signage, actuated beacons, and/or full signalization of intersections. These facilities can be integrated with complete streets projects and provide connections to the City’s blue and green trails network. Prioritization of intersections is based on public input; safety/crash data; proximity to downtown core (where there is more multi-modal activity); relationship to other strategies such as connectivity and access management; proposed pedestrian promenades, and proposed gateway locations.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Increases safety, reduces crashes, improves mobility, and enhances public space
»
Strengthens multimodal connections near points of high use and encourages walkability through predictable and safe crossing patterns
»
Calms traffic and encourage speed reduction
»
Reduces likelihood of crashes
»
Facilitates visible and predictable interactions between roadway users
SHORT TERM (1-4 years)
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Confirm priority intersections for complete intersection improvements* • PHASE 1 INTERSECTIONS: ǂ Havendale Blvd./Martin Luther King Blvd. ǂ Avenue G SW ǂ Central Avenue
• PHASE 2 INTERSECTIONS: ǂ Avenue D NW ǂ Pope Avenue / Avenue B NW / Magnolia Avenue ǂ Cypress Gardens Blvd.*
MIDTERM (5-10 years) • PHASE 3 INTERSECTIONS:
• PHASE 4 INTERSECTIONS:
ǂ Avenue L NW
ǂ Avenue S NW
ǂ Avenue M NW
ǂ Avenue K SW
ǂ Avenue C SW
ǂ Avenue O SW
* Integrate complete intersection concept with operational improvements included in the FDOT Work Program Project ID #444050
ALL PHASED INTERSECTIONS: • Prepare concepts of intersection treatments • Engage residents, businesses and property owners to describe project and garner public input*
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LONG TERM (10+ years)
• Refine intersection treatments based on stakeholder input
* Step requiring outreach and public engagement
• Design and construct intersection treatments
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
3 2
5
1
4
1
8’ wide sidewalks with 4’ wide landscape buffer where feasible
2
ADA compliant treatments
3
Wide area for queuing with landscape and pedestrian amenities
4
Continuation of paver and crosswalk materials to extend Downtown character
5
Crosswalk technology for safer crossings
Figure 19: Priority Intersections for Improvement
PHASE ONE PHASE TWO PHASE THREE PHASE FOUR Urban overlay district
Figure 18: Potential Character of Improved Intersections within the Urban Overlay District
Strengthen connectivity across US 17 with safe, enhanced intersections that promote walkable, engaging public spaces
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN
Trail Extensions and Connections WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? The barriers posed by the region’s lakes and the US 17 corridor contribute to connectivity challenges and a challenging environment for multimodal travel. Linking the US 17 corridor (physically and visually) to the community’s lakes, recreation, parks, downtown, and Chain O’ Lakes Sports Complex can be accomplished with enhancements to existing trails and greenways. Crossings and connections in the southern part of the corridor can be enhanced creating safe, unimpeded access to important community destinations like the Chain O’ Lakes sports complex and nearby planned development. Phased prioritization of trails is based on proximity to funded/planned trails, proximity to downtown, and proximity to activities, recreation, and planned development.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Provides safe and viable multimodal travel options and improved access to destinations and amenities
»
Improves connections along and across the US 17 corridor
»
Leverages existing and planned parallel facilities for pedestrian emphasis (such as off-road trail facilities)
»
Enhances opportunities for economic development around recreational amenities and increases foot traffic around local businesses
»
Provides safe connections from areas where there are high concentrations of senior housing to public amenities and retail opportunities
»
Supports low-impact development and green infrastructure opportunities like stormwater gardens, bio-swales, and pervious paving
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Confirm feasibility of recommended trail extensions and connections*
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Confirm location and placement for trail wayfinding signage and create trails map • Work with local agencies and organizations to market the City’s trail network
MIDTERM (5-10 years) • PHASE TWO PRIORITY TRAIL EXTENSIONS: Lake Elbert (west side), Lake Shipp, Lake Howard (east side), Lake Howard (west side)
• PHASE ONE PRIORITY TRAIL EXTENSIONS: Lake Howard (south side), Chain O’Lakes southern extension
ALL PHASED PRIORITY TRAILS: • Identify trail extension elements requiring additional review and/or approvals • Identify potential funding sources for trails • Finalize trail design and implement*
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* Step requiring outreach and public engagement
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN Figure 20: Priority Trail Connections
PHASE ONE PHASE TWO Pope/Magnolia Ave. Pedestrian Promenades
Build on the existing trail network with strategic investments that connect community assets and support multimodal transportation options
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN
Pope / Magnolia Ave. Pedestrian Promenade WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT?
Figure 21: Pope / Magnolia Avenue Promenades
The barrier to pedestrian accessibility and safety posed by US 17 challenges connectivity and multimodal travel along and across the corridor. In the US 17 Corridor Vision, Lake Howard (and proposed blueways connecting to the lake) and historic downtown Winter Haven are linked by a series of proposed pedestrian promenades on Pope Avenue and Magnolia Avenue. This phased project leverages existing public amenities such as Lake Howard’s public dock and the City’s linear Central Park, physically, visually, and psychologically connecting these key community assets. Closing these streets to through-traffic allows pedestrian life to flourish, drawing people into downtown for social and economic activities and creating redevelopment opportunities for shopping, food, and entertainment offerings. The added public space also serves as a venue for concerts and festivals, outdoor cafes, and farmers markets. This amenity attracts tourists as they search for enjoyable public spaces in which to relax, have lunch, and shop.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Promotes a comfortable environment for cyclists and pedestrians
»
Supports walking and biking to destinations
»
Integrates enhanced pedestrian amenities such as adequate lighting, shade trees, safe distances from vehicles, calmed traffic, accessible sidewalks and more
»
Increases foot traffic to local shops and restaurants
»
Provides new public space for outdoor activities, festivals, and markets
»
Links community assets including the Lake Howard public boat ramp and downtown
»
Creates redevelopment opportunities
»
Attracts visitors and residents to downtown
»
Enhances connections between residential neighborhoods, key employment centers, and transportation hubs
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
Figure 22: Pope Avenue Pedestrian Promenade Vision
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Engage property owners along and in the vicinity of Pope Avenue to explain project, cultivate support, and gather feedback * • Identify pedestrian promenade elements requiring additional review and/or approvals (Pope Avenue)
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Confirm feasibility of recommended road closures/realignments (Pope Avenue)* • Develop design plans for repurposed Pope Avenue • Construct pedestrian promenade on Pope Avenue
• Engage property owners along Magnolia Avenue to explain project, cultivate support, and gather feedback * • Identify pedestrian promenade elements requiring additional review and/or approvals (Magnolia Avenue) • Prepare traffic operational plan and property access plan for closing roads to through traffic on Magnolia Avenue
• Prepare traffic operational plan and property access plan for closing roads to through traffic on Pope Avenue
VISION & ACTION PLAN
MIDTERM (5-10 years)
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US 17
LONG TERM (10+ years) • Confirm feasibility of recommended road closures/realignments (Magnolia Avenue)* • Develop design plans for repurposed Magnolia Avenue • Construct pedestrian promenade on Magnolia Avenue * Step requiring outreach and public engagement
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Blueways WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? Winter Haven has long been recognized for its unique geography and water features. This asset provides a unique opportunity for innovative transportation options connecting key community destinations and promoting ecotourism. Blueways, also known as water trails, are designated recreational water routes that provide the public a chance to explore and travel along local rivers and lakes. Successful blueways require not just proximity to water, but also strategic placement of shore facilities to create accessible areas for boat launches and opportunities for on-shore shopping, eating, and entertainment. Blueways are recommended to facilitate alternative connections between recreational amenities, tourist attractions (ex. LEGOLand), and the historic downtown.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Strengthens connections between downtown Winter Haven, recreational amenities (such as the Lake Howard public dock, Chain of Lakes Sports Complex), and tourist destinations (like LEGOLand)
»
Creates opportunities for ecotourism, supports healthy lifestyles, and improves access to recreation and social destinations
»
Promotes stewardship of natural resources and environmental awareness
»
Encourages new and unique alternative travel modes
»
Bolsters the City’s “Chain of Lakes” identity
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Identify potential blueway trails routes (starting, ending, and other points of interest) for various blueway travelers (ex. motorized vs. non-motorized watercraft)*
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Confirm feasibility of proposed blueway routes • Identify blueway elements requiring additional review and/or approvals (including potential ADA considerations) • Establish stewardship goals and a sustainability plan to minimize impacts to natural resources • Investigate feasibility/desirability of implementing a City-operated, nonmotorized boat rental program • Work with local businesses and organizations to implement an “Adopt a Blueway” or “Adopt a BlueStop” program to support blueway program* • Develop signage and wayfinding system including routes (and naming scheme, if needed), points of interest, publicly accessible lands along/ near blueway(s), existing infrastructure (launches, docks, etc.), amenities (restrooms, etc.); and known/potential hazards. Ensure signage designates mileage between points. • Celebrate opening with ribbon cutting/grand opening • Pursue blueway designation (ex. RTCA National Water Trail Designation) • Assess usage and determine feasibility/necessity of new/enhanced routes * Step requiring outreach and public engagement
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN Figure 23: Visit Central Florida Chain of Lakes Water Trail Map
Continue to invest in an established and thriving lake culture to promote recreation, ecotourism, and lake stewardship.
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN
Enhanced Transit Service & Amenities WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? The US 17 Corridor Vision includes safe accommodation of multiple transportation modes used by a diverse population including public transit. Enhanced public transit service includes more frequent service (decreased headways) at high ridership routes and stops and improved transit stops and amenities. Transit service is supported by other projects and actions in this plan such as capital investments like wider sidewalks and safer roadway configurations like narrower travel lanes. Improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities (at or near stops/stations and on-board vehicles) and stronger, safer connections across US 17. WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Encourages public transit usage and improves access for transit-dependent populations
»
Increases transit ridership through consistent and frequent service
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Makes public transit more attractive and reliable
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Decreases wait time, supports seamless transfers and connections, enhances accessibility to stops and stations
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Identify highest ridership transit routes and stops • Engage transit riders to determine needed/desired transit amenities* • Prioritize transit stop enhancements (higher ridership stops/routes have higher priority) • Work with developers to ensure transit improvements and access are integrated into new projects
Citrus Connection bus shelter and amenities
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Work with Chamber of Commerce and/or local organizations to implement an “Adopt a Stop” program • Integrate public art and wayfinding signage into transit station projects* • Identify priority routes for improved service frequency • Implement improved service frequency as funding permits and in consideration of enhanced service for the broader system
MIDTERM (5-10 years) • Re-evaluate and refine transit system service based on service needs and funding availability * Step requiring outreach and public engagement
Inter-agency coordination will reinforce a safe, accessible, reliable transit network
• Implement priority transit stop enhancements
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US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
Shared Active Transportation Program WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? Shared active transportation refers to transportation services and resources that are available to multiple users, usually for a fee. Shared mobility services are typically provided by either private companies or by public agencies. Examples of popular shared mobility services include bike sharing (electric and/or manual) and electric scooters. A shared mobility option such as bikeshare is recommended to strengthen multimodal connections between key destinations in Winter Haven. For example, visitors traveling from LEGOLand to the Lake Howard public dock (via the City’s new blueways) can then rent a bicycle to travel to downtown for dining and shopping via the proposed Pope Avenue promenade. WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Creates a more flexible transportation network
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Expands travel options for residents and visitors
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Reduces traffic congestion and decreases pollution
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Increases accessibility to transit
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Encourages sustainable transportation practices
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Creates opportunities for spontaneous trips
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Strengthens connections across US 17
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Increases accessibility to the community’s assets and attractions
IMMEDIATE (<1 year)
• Assess demand for shared mobility options* • Draft and adopt a Shared Active Transportation ordinance and fee schedule for permitting* • Research and identify preferred system technologies and/or private partners/contractors • Evaluate potential locations for shared-mobility hubs (including equity considerations for locations and mobility types)* • Develop preliminary system plan (working with shared mobility providers)
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Develop communication/marketing/ branding plan • Develop launch plan and educational materials • Partner with local active transportation advocacy groups to offer programming including bike trainings, safety workshops, bike to work day, etc. * Step requiring outreach and public engagement
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ACTION PLAN
Corridor gateways WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? Proposed gateways are visual cues that physically and symbolically indicate entry into specific and unique places. Along and near the US 17 corridor, primary and secondary gateways are recommended to define community character and cue transitions from higher to lower travel speeds. The US 17 vision identifies land and water gateways at major entry and transition points. Gateway features will vary in scale and form but should always support a cohesive sense of place. This is accomplished by using elements such as repeated design motifs and common materials, providing continuity across different parts of the city. Primary gateways are larger and more visible elements at key corridor locations (ex. Chain O’ Lakes District). Secondary gateways support placemaking and the introduction of the community’s character districts (ex. Downtown District). Gateways may be integrated with other strategic initiatives such as public art and traffic calming. Figure 24: Proposed Gateway Locations
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Introduces and welcomes visitors
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Builds the city’s visual identity through repeated use of materials and motifs
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Creates opportunities to showcase local artists
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Alerts drivers to areas of increased pedestrian activity
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Confirm gateway site feasibility* • Identify elements requiring additional review and/or approvals
Primary Gateway Secondary Gateway
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Select and refine design concept* * • Implement gateway treatments*
• Develop outreach and engagement strategy • Solicit designs (local artist priority)* • Identify potential outside funding sources (ex. National Endowment for the Arts grant funding)
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* Step requiring outreach and public engagement * Integrate into complete streets concepts and intersection improvement prioritization when feasible
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
Wayfinding signage WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT?
Winter Haven is home to a unique downtown district, numerous public facilities, and interesting tourist destinations. However, travelers on US 17 remain largely unaware of these attractions and offerings, and the corridor is not tied well (physically, visually, or psychologically) to other parts of the City. While there is some limited signage on the roadway, it is hard to read and does not capture the character of Winter Haven. Wayfinding signage is an essential element of multimodal streets, facilitating navigation of the physical environment and enhancing sense-of-place. Wayfinding systems typically include visual cues such as maps, icons, and directional signage for a variety of users including pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists. Wayfinding signage can be used along US 17 to connect the corridor with amenities and points of interest in Winter Haven (lakes, downtown, LEGOLAND), provide practical information to visitors (food, parking, etc.) and enhance the City’s character (branded signage for distinct districts, historical information, etc.). It is important to ensure that wayfinding signage is scaled for various travelers (i.e. smaller signs for active transportation, larger signs with larger text for vehicular traffic). WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Communicates practical information like locations of parking, public restrooms, and amenities
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Markets the City’s history, attractions, and cultural resources
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Reinforces community character
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Limits distracted driving by providing clear directions to common destinations
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Encourages walking and biking (especially if distances to points of interest are added to signage)
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Welcomes visitors
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Enhances safety, security, and sense of well-being
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Supports the local economy
IMMEDIATE (<1 year)
• Conduct wayfinding audit – key points of interest, navigation conditions, and problem areas for vehicular traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, residents, and visitors * • Crowdsource ideas for a branding scheme – logo, colors, icons, etc.*
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Implement and market wayfinding system • Assess locations and signage; update design and placement as needed * Step requiring outreach and public engagement
• Finalize design and develop sign standards guidelines • Confirm location and placement for wayfinding signage and create complementary wayfinding map
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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ACTION PLAN Wayfinding and public art examples that fit Winter Haven community character
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Wayfinding and public art encourage enjoyment of public spaces and promotes quality of life and economic development
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
ACTIONVISION PLAN
Public art WHAT IS THE ACTION/PROJECT? Public art takes a variety of forms and creates opportunities for communities to celebrate shared experiences and histories and cultivate social cohesion and understanding. Winter Haven is already an art-friendly community. When traveling through downtown or along roadways paralleling US 17, one is treated to a variety of public art installations such as murals and sculptures. Unfortunately, there is not much art to be found along US 17. This contributes to the corridor’s overall lack of character and disconnection from the greater community. Public art in key locations along US 17, such as gateways and connections to downtown, will add character, humanize the built environment, and celebrate Winter Haven’s unique heritage, history, culture, and assets.
WHY (IMPORTANCE/IMPACT)? »
Showcases the City’s artistic character and strengthens community identity
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Establishes continuity between the US 17 corridor and other parts of the City using consistent materials and/or motifs
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Builds shared community understanding and social cohesion; creates a sense of belonging
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Cultivates and validates local artists
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Promotes economic growth and sustainability
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Encourages the enjoyment and appreciation of public space
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Integrates into other projects (gateways, wayfinding, streetscape, pedestrian crossings, etc.)
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Supports wayfinding, traffic calming, and accessibility
IMMEDIATE (<1 year) • Identify existing public art and communitybased arts resources* • Investigate potential funding opportunities to support public art projects • Develop guidelines and update municipal ordinances and policies to include standards and guidelines for permanent and temporary public art * • Consider incentives for business and private community to partner on art projects
SHORT TERM (1-4 years) • Develop evaluation criteria to judge submissions and solicit arts programming concepts and public art designs and ideas from local artists* • Develop public art or cultural resources master plan including goals for a variety of community (site-specific, temporary, community-wide, etc.)* ǂ Identify potential locations and types of art appropriate for each site (mural, sculpture, interactive) • Celebrate and market new public art projects with ribbon cuttings and public events* * Step requiring outreach and public engagement
VISION & ACTION PLAN
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US 17
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US 17 Corridor Vision and Action Plan: Implementation Schedule Immediate <1 Year
ACTION STRATEGY
Short-Term 1-4 Years
Mid-Term 5-10 Years
Long-Term 10+ Years
AGENCY PARTNERS
FORM BASED CODE OVERLAY DISTRICT
WH
D1
CORRIDOR CONNECTIVITY AND ACCESS MANAGEMENT PLAN
WH
D1
“COMPLETE” INTERSECTIONS
WH
D1
WH
D1
WH
D1
BLUEWAYS
WH
D1
ENHANCED TRANSIT SERVICE & AMENITIES
WH
D1
WH AT
CC
PHASE ONE: Havendale Blvd.,Martin Luther King Blvd., Avenue G SW, Central Avenue PHASE TWO: Avenue D NW, Pope Avenue, Avenue B NW, Magnolia Avenue, Cypress Gardens Blvd.* PHASE THREE: Avenue L NW, Avenue M NW, Avenue C SW PHASE FOUR: Avenue S NW, Avenue K SW, Avenue O SW
TRAIL EXTENSIONS AND CONNECTIONS
TPO
PHASE ONE: Lake Howard (south side), Chain O’Lakes southern extension PHASE TWO: Lake Elbert (west side), Lake Shipp, Lake Howard (east side), Lake Howard (west side)
POPE AVENUE AND MAGNOLIA AVENUE PEDESTRIAN PROMENADES PHASE ONE: Pope Avenue Promenade and Avenue B SW Intersection at US 17 PHASE TWO: Magnolia Avenue Promenade
SHARED ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
WH
CORRIDOR GATEWAYS*
WH
D1
WAYFINDING SIGNAGE
WH
MS
PUBLIC ART
WH
MS
WH
City of Winter Haven
D1
FDOT District One
TPO
Polk Transportation Planning Organization
MS
Main Street
AA
Area Attractions
WH AT
Winter Haven Area Transit
CC
Citrus Connection
LA
Local Artists
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AA
LA
* Integrate complete intersection concept with operational improvements included in the FDOT Work Program Project ID #444050 * Integrate into complete streets concepts and intersection improvement prioritization when feasible
US 17 | VISION & ACTION PLAN
US 17 V I S I O N & ACTION PLAN
US 17 Corridor Winter Haven
MOTOR POOL ROAD TO CYPRESS GARDENS BOULEVARD FPID No.: 445497-1-22-01 SEPTEMBER 2020
DISTRICT ONE