25.97.045 Block standards.
The intent of urban block standards is to ensure that block sizes and layouts promote efficient connectivity. The interconnected and gridded layout of streets and smaller blocks shall provide increased accessibility and a pedestrian-friendly environment.
(1) Blocks shall be designed and subdivided to create a network of circulation as illustrated below:
| Step 1: Large lots (5 acres or more) shall be subdivided further or developed with an internal road network as required by the City to create a highly connected, accessible development. |
| Step 2: Additional streets are required in the subdivided blocks. |
| Step 3: Blocks are further subdivided; alleys, or private roads, and/or mid-block connections shall be introduced according to the zoning code. |
| Step 4: Lots shall be introduced based on the land use types and zoning’s lot size requirements. |
| Step 5: As developments take place, building placement shall be according to the land use regulations. |
(2) Block Dimensions and Street Connectivity Standards.
Spacing Guidelines | Principal Arterials | Minor Arterials | Collectors | Neighborhood Collectors | Local Access Streets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Block Length (Public Street to Public Street) | 660 feet | 660 feet | 660 feet | 660 feet | 660 feet |
Minimum Block Size (Public Street to Public Street) | 300 feet | 250 feet | 200 feet | 150 feet | 125 feet |
Maximum Block Perimeter |
2,000 feet | ||||
Maximum Distance Between Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities | 330 feet | 330 feet | 330 feet | 330 feet | 330 feet |
(a) In cases when block length exceeds 660 feet, or the block perimeter exceeds 2,000 feet, mid-block pedestrian connections shall be provided. Exceptions are allowed when proposed buildings exceed the block length. In such cases, mid-block connections can be provided through the site or building as appropriate.
(3) Residential Blocks.
(a) The width of the block shall be sufficient to allow two tiers of lots with easements. Block length shall be measured along the street centerline of intersecting streets.
(i) Exceptions of block length may be allowed for the protection of natural sources, steep slopes, or where lots front the shoreline.
(4) Commercial and Mixed-Use Blocks.
(a) Block lengths in the commercial, or mixed residential and commercial, may be permitted an increase in the block dimension standards of subsection (2) of this section if the block includes mid-block connections for public or civic spaces, pedestrian walkways, alleys, or open spaces, to create alternative forms of connections. Block lengths shall not exceed one and one-half times the length allowed of subsection (2) of this section.
(i) Exceptions of block length may be allowed for the protection of natural sources, steep slopes, or where lots front the shoreline. [Ord. 4659 § 2, 2023.]