Detailed Case Study - Zoning and Planning
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Denton_Plan_2030.pdf
ABBIE SQUIER • ABRAHAM BENAVIDES • ACHARA TANADROP • ADAM BRIGGLE • ADAM WILEY
• ADMINA TCGAGNES • AGNES KLYMIUK • AGNES STEVENSON • AL HOFFMAN • ALAN SCHIEGG
• ALANA PRESLEY • ALEX INTRAVIA • ALEX LIEBAN • ALEX MORAN • ALEXANDRA SOSA • ALI
ALKADEM • ALICE VARGHESE • ALMA CLARK • ALURINA THOMAS • AMANDA SHEARER • AMBER
BRIGGLE • AMBER RODGERS • AMY O’KEEFE • AMY SPARKS • ANDRE MILBITZ • ANDREW HARRIS •
ANDRIETTA JACKSON • ANDY KNAPIK • ANDY NELSON • ANDY ODOM • ANIA MARTINEZ-STRICKLAND
• ANNA MOSQUEDA • ANNY MILBITZ • ANYAH MARTINEZ • ARIELLE COWART • AURORA DAWSON
• AYAL FEINBERG • BAILEY GILLREATH • BARBARA ROSS • BARBARA RUSSELL • BEN ESELY •
BERDY TJANDRAMULIA • BETH CAUDILL • BETH HOWARD • BETSY WARREN • BETTY KRUILLE •
BHANDARI TEKU • BILL GIES • BILL KOZEK • BLACK JACKSON • BLAKE BURLESON • BLAKE JACKSON
• BOB CARROTHERS • BOB MOSES • BOBBY HARRISON • BONITA WHITE • BONNIE BRISENDINE •
BRANDON BUBBITT • BRANDON BURTON • BRANDON BUTLER • BREGG REEDY • BRIAN COLLINS •
BRIAN LISTER • BROOKE MOORE • BRUCE MACKIMMIE • BUDDY ARNOLD • C MUIRHEAD • CALEB
O’REAR • CAMERON COATES • CANDICE WYDNEW • CARI MATHES • CARINNE CEPEDA • CARL
CARUSO • CARL PARTIN • CARLOS QUIROGA • CARMEN GRANT • CAROL ROWLEY • CAROLINA
ALCARAZ • CARRIE FRAZIER • CASSIE WATERS • CATHY MADDUX • CHAD RUSSELL • CHARLES
RENFRO • CHARLOTTE CARUSO • CHELSEA BLACK • CHELSEY HAYES • CHEN MOORHEAD • CHERI
SOILEAU • CHEYLON BROWN • CHRIS BOHEN • CHRIS GILLIAM • CHRIS GRAHAM • CHRIS SAUNIER
• CHRIS SMITH • CHRISTOPHER FAIR • CHRISTY PENTECOST • CHUCK CARPENTER • CINDY STRAUSS
• CINDY TYSINGER • CLARE SPAULDING • CLARRISA REDWINE • CLAUDIA LYNCH • CLAY ROZELL •
CLAYTON MILLS • CLINT DEBUSK • CODY SMITHERS • CODY YATES • COLEEN AHERN • COURTNEY
KENNEDY • CRYSTAL HOLLIS • CYN QOAAD • DALE TAMPKE • DALTON ALLEN • DALTON GREGORY
• DAN DAWSON • DAN GLAZIER • DAN HAWORTH • DAN MCGINN • DANA LODGE • DANA WAGNER
• DARNELL GREEN • DASHANA HATTEN • DAVID GRAGERT • DAVID HAND • DAVID HOENIG • DAVID
LYNN • DAVID MCELROY • DAVID MOLLEN • DAVID PARKER • DAVID SWEETEN • DAVIT LAMBERT
• DEBBIE BERRY • DEBBIE HENKES • DEBBIE THEOBARD • DEE LEGGETT • DENNY ALDRIDGE •
DEVIN TAYLOR • DEVONA GREEN • DIANA ROBLYER • DIANE WEISSERT • DIANNA ORENDER •
DOMINIQUE MILES • DONISHA ODOMS • DONNA EMMANUEL • DOROTHY BLAND • DOROTHY
MARTINEZ • DOROTHY MINTER • DUSTY CLIMAR • ED WOLSKI • EDISON COOK • ELISE RIDENOUR
• ELLEN LEVINGS • EMERSON VOREL • EMILY HUDSON • ENZO BAIGORRIA • ERICA EGNER • ETHEN
BARTLETT • FRAN WITTE • FRANK PARKS • FRED GIBBS • FU NA • GARY COOK • GARY VICKERY •
GARY WINTERHALTER • GAYLE LIEBAN • GAYLE STRANGE • GERARD HUDSPETH • GLEN BISSET •
GRACE CHALON • HAILEY GLASS • HAROLD JOHNSON • HARRISON WICKS • HEATHER GREGORY
• HEIDI LAMBERT • HEIRE LOVEWELL • HELLEN REIKOFSKI • HERB NEWTOWN • HUGH COLEMAN
• HUTCH ICE • IAN HARBER • J.V. STRANGE • JAMES DAVIS • JAMES GRIFFITH • JAMES MAJOR
• JAMIE WEBSTER • JAN JOHSON • JAN ROBERTS • JANELLE BURCH • JANELLE DAVIS • JANET
SHELTON • JASON AGUIRRE • JASON BODOR • JASON SIMON • JAYE MOSIER • JCHON PARADISE
• JEAN GREENLAW • JEAN MILLER • JEFF REECER • JENNIFER MILLER • JENNY CORREA • JEREMY
PEACOCK • JERRY CHEATHAM • JERRY CLARK • JERYL SAJUMAN • JESSICA BURCHFIELD • JESSICA
PHILLIPS • JIM BIGGERSTAFF • JIM CLARK • JIM CLEMENT • JIM ENGELBRECHT • JIM FYKES •
ADOPTED PLAN
FEBRUARY 3, 2015
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1) PLAN FRAMEWORK
Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan 3 Denton: Past and Present 4 Plan Development Process 8
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4 Phase 5
The Denton Community Vision Statement 14-15 Plan Themes 26 How to Use this Plan 28
2) LAND USE
Land Use Overview 33
Existing Land Use 35 Growth Capacity
Grow Compactly 37 Future Land Use Map and Future Land Use Designations Plan and Policy Coordination
Grow with Purpose 39 Downtown Investment University Collaboration Encouraging Compact Growth at Centers and Corridors
Grow our Assets 42 Infill in Residential Areas Infill in Commercial and Employment Areas
Grow Resourcefully 44 Growth and Annexation Impact of Gas Wells Managing Growth at the Edge Surrounding Municipality and Local Agency Coordination Development in the ETJ
Grow with Character 52 Maintaining Character
Grow with Balance 53 Future Land Use Map and Land Use Designations Definitions
DENTON PLAN 2030
ELEMENTS:
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3) FISCAL & ECONOMIC VITALITY
Overview 69 Economic Vitality 71
Economic Development and Land Use Economic Development and Partnerships Workforce Development Tourism and Entertainment in Denton
Fiscal Vitality 78 Fiscal Impact Analysis Local Revenue Structure Budget and Financing Sources of Revenue Fiscal Impact Analysis Results Revenue Enhancement Factors Influencing the Fiscal Sustainability of Land Use Infrastructure Investment – Levels of Service Infrastructure Investment – Planning and Financing Future Fiscal Impact Analyses Infill Development/Redevelopment Residential Diversity
Development Partnerships and Coordination Standards for Future Development Impact Fee
4) COMMUNITY CHARACTER & URBAN DESIGN
Community Character and Urban Design Overview 95 Character Areas in Denton 97 Distinctive Places in Denton Historic Resources Denton Main Street Program Identification of Historic Resources Placemaking and Urban Vitality in Denton
Preservation and Maintenance 104 Preservation of Historic Resources Financial Incentives Property Maintenance
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Arts, Culture and Community Character 107 Public Art in De Arts and Music Venues Arts and Music in the Economy Heritage Tourism Community Gathering Places
Urban Design and Community Character 114 Urban Design in Future Development, Infill and Focus Areas Design of the Public Realm Guidelines for Specific Future Land Use Designations Guidelines for Focus Areas
5) PARKS, CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENT
Parks, Conservation and Environment Review 135 Parks and Recreations 138 Provisions of Parks Integrated Park Planning and Design Cost-Efficient Parks
Natural Areas, Natural Resources, and Conservation 144 Green Infrastructure Network Preserving Tree Canopy Habitat and Ecosystems Protection Air Quality Water Quality
Sustainability Framework 156 Green Building Design Low-Impact Development Renewable Energy Solid Waste and Recycling Local Food Production
6) MOBILITY
Mobility Overview 161 Motor Vehicles 163
Mobility Plan Connectivity Mobility and Land Use Level of Service Access Management Context-Sensitive Street Design Road Financing Intelligent Transportation Systems
DENTON PLAN 2030
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Travel Demand Management Parking Transportation Impacts on Air Quality Mobility as Sustainability Framework Freight 178
Freight
Bicycle and Pedestrian Circulation 180 Mobility Plan Designing for Complete, Green Streets Coordination with New Development Financing the Pedestrian and Bicycle Network
Transit Circulation 185
Transit and Land Use Transit and Urban Design Planning for Transit Regional Coordination
7) HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS Housing and Neighborhoods Overview 191 Housing and Neighborhoods in Denton 193 Housing Choice 195
Downtown and University Housing Affordable Housing Homelessness Senior Housing Expanding Homeownership Housing Variety Improved Quality of Housing and Neighborhoods
Neighborhood Conservation 202 Neighborhood Conservation
Schools and Community Facilities 204
Schools Community Facilities New and Upgraded Facilities Efficient Co-location of Facilities Community Facilities Design
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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8) COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, & SERVICES
Community Health, Safety and Services Overview 213 Planning for Healthy Communities 215
Healthy Communities Planning Community Health Education Plan and Policy Coordination
Hazard Mitigation 222 Hazard Protection and Gas Well Drilling and Production
Emergency Services 224 Emergency Services
Social Services and Programs 227 Addressing Communities of Need Volunteer Programs
9) INFRASTRUCTURE & UTILITIES
Infrastructure and Utilities Overview 231 Energy 233 Cost-Effective Service Cost-Effective Renewable Energy Lighting Standards Communications Infrastructure Undergrounding Utilities
Water 238 Water Supply Water Infrastructure
Wastewater 241 Wastewater Service Resource Recovery
Stormwater 244 Water Quality Green Infrastructure Low-Impact Development Flood Protection
Solid Waste and Recycling 250 Waste Minimization and Resource Recovery Efficient Solid Waste & Recycling Collections Environmental Protection and Disposal Capabilities
DENTON PLAN 2030
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10) IMPLEMENTATION & MONITORING
Implementation and Monitoring Overview 255 Legal Authority 256 Principle 1: 256 Plan Hierarchy – Consistency of All City Plans with Denton Plan 2030
Principle 2: 257 Consistency of zoning and related development regulations and ordinances with Denton Plan 2030
Principle 3: 257 Consistency of re-zonings and development approvals with Denton Plan 2030
Principle 4: 258 The City Council shall consider consistency with the Denton Plan 2030 as a factor in making decisions on proposed programs, projects, and initiatives
Amendments, Monitoring and Updating 258 Plan Amendments Plan Monitoring and Updating
Guidelines for Small Area Plans and Mixed-use Development 260 Criteria for Determining Priorities for Small Area Planning Small Area Planning Guidelines Small Area Planning Process Mixed-use Development Guidelines
APPENDICES
A. Glossary
B. Community Forum Results
C. Methodologies Growth Trend Scenario Methodology Alternative Scenario Methodology Preferred Growth Concept Methodology
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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DENTON PLAN 2030
TABLE OF TABLES & FIGURES
1) PLAN FRAMEWORK
Figure 1.1: Historical Boundaries 7 Figure 1.2: Key Process Points 9 Figure 1.3: Growth Trend Scenario 20 Figure 1.4: Corridors Growth Scenario 20 Figure 1.5: Centers Growth Scenario 20 Figure 1.6: Compact Growth Scenario 20 Figure 1.7: Preferred Growth Concept 24 Figure 1.8: Plan Hierarchy 31
Table 1.1: Historical Population Growth, 1970-2011 6 Table 1.2: Population and Housing Growth 17 Table 1.3: Residential Demand by Type 17 Table 1.4: Land Consumption 18 Table 1.5: Residential Land Uses Demand Per Scenario 21 Table 1.6: Comprehensive Plan Components 29
2) LAND USE
Figure 2.1: Existing Land Use 36 Figure 2.2: Conventional Large Lot v. Conservation Development Alternative 48 Figure 2.3: Denton City Limits & ETJ 51 Figure 2.4: Future Land Use Map 66
Table 2.1: Existing Land Use 36
3) FISCAL & ECONOMIC VITALITY
Figure 3.1: City of Denton Industry Employment 71 Figure 3.2: FY12-13 Summary of Revenues 78 Figure 3.3: FY12-13 General Fund Revenues and Expenditure 79 Figure 3.4: Annual Net Fiscal Impact Results - Preferred Growth Concept 83
Table 3.1: City of Denton Employment Profile 75 Table 3.2: Established Levels of Service for Growth-Related Capital Facilities 86
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TABLE OF TABLES & FIGURES
4) COMMUNITY CHARACTER & URBAN DESIGN
Figure 4.1: Focus Areas Concept 118
Table 4.1: Urban Design Principles 124 Table 4.2: NCTCOG Mixed-use Development Criteria (based on NCTCOG’s Vision North Texas) 129
5) PARKS, CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENT
Figure 5.1: Parks 141 Figure 5.2: Environmentally Sensitive Areas 147
Table 5.1: Types of Parks and Existing Acreage 138
6) MOBILITY
Figure 6.1: Roadway Network 165 Figure 6.2: Connectivity Diagram 168 Figure 6.3: Urban/Mixed-use Context Avenue 172 Figure 6.4: Higher Speed Context Boulevard 172 Figure 6.5: Suburban Context Boulevard 172
Table 6.1: Relationship Between Thoroughfare Type and Access 170
7) HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Figure 7.1: DISD and Surrounding School Districts 206
8) COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, & SERVICES
Table 8.1: Denton Police Department Activity, 2008-2012 226 Table 8.2: Denton Fire Department Activity, 2008-2012 226
10) IMPLEMENTATION & MONITORING
Table 10.1: Mixed-use Development Potential Land Use Mix 264 Table 10.2: Action Plan 266
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DENTON PLAN 2030
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special Recognition to the
Citizens of Denton
and
Mayor and City Council
Mayor Chris Watts
Kevin Roden, District 1
John Ryan, District 2
Jim Engelbrecht, Mayor Pro Tem, District 3
Joey Hawkins, District 4
Dalton Gregory, At Large Place 5
Greg Johnson, At Large Place 6
Past City Council Mayor Mark Burroughs
Pete Kamp (Mayor Pro-Tem)
James King
Current Planning and Zoning Commission Thom Reece (Chair)
Frank Conner (Vice Chair) Brian Bentley Amber Briggle
Frank Dudowicz Devin Taylor Jim Strange
Past Planning and Zoning Commission Jean Schaake (Chair)
Jay Thomas (Chair)
Patrice Lyke (Vice Chair)
Jessica King
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David Mollen
Joshua Mollen
Jim Owen
Dawn Paradise
Michelle Reeves
Jordon Ricks
Gordon Sallas-Mensah
Agnes Stevenson
Fran Witte
Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Paul Andress, Director of Operations, Denton Independent
School District
Jason Boder, City Council District 4 Representative
Kristina Brevard, DCTA Vice President of Strategic Planning
& Development
Adam Briggle, Assistant Professor, UNT
Bob Brown, UNT Finance Chief
Wally Campbell, Traffic Safety Commission Member
James Davis, UNT Associate Vice Chancellor for Facilities
Planning and Development
Bob Eames, Airport Board
Don Frazier, Owner, Frazier Commercial Real Estate Service
Bill Giese, Denton Housing Authority Board
Pati Haworth, Historic Landmark Commission
Gerard Hudspeth, Zoning Board of Adjustment Member
Harold Johnson, TWU Associate Vice President of Facilities
Management
Jan Johnson, City Council District 3 Representative
Patrice Lyke, At - Large Representative
Michelle Tangora Lynn, Historic Landmark Commission
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Brandon Martino, Investor, The Martino Group
Tara Mills, District 2 Representative
Alan Nelson, Nelson + Morgan Architects, Inc.
Larry Parker, President of Denton Main Street Association
Alex Payne, Owner/Broker Axis Realty Group
Lee Ramsey, Owner, Links Construction, LCC
Marty Rivers, Vice President First State Bank
Emily Rozell, City Council District 1 Representative
Barbara Russell, Public Utilities Board
Jean Schaake, Former Planning and Zoning Commission
Chair
Michael Seman, Ph.D. Graduate in Urban Planning and
Public Policy
Darren Smitherman, Bicycle/Pedestrian Interest
Virgil Strange, Economic Development Partnership Board
Member (Chair)
Russ Stukel, Park Board Member
Dr. Yong Tao, Department Chair UNT Mechanical & Energy
Engineering
Michael Tubiolo, Denton County Construction Manager
Denton Plan Ambassadors (DPA) Christopher Bohen
Jerry Clark
Jean Greenlaw
James Griffith
Lance Hoffmeyer
Jeanne Jacobs
Corey Kidder
Nancy Kidder
Thomas Kyereboah
Rhonda Love
Project Lead Brian Lockley, Director of Planning and Development
Ron Menguita, Development Review Committee
Administrator
Abra Nusser, Planning Supervisor
Mike Bell, Associate Planner
Leo Mantey, Former Planning Intern
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DENTON PLAN 2030
City Staff George Campbell, City Manager
John Jr. Cabrales, Assistant City Manager
Jon Fortune, Assistant City Manager
Bryan Langley, Assistant City Manager
Howard Martin, Assistant City Manager
Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Nana Appiah – Planning and Development
PS Arora – Wastewater Administration
Kenneth E. Banks - Water/Utilities
Katherine S. Barnett – Water/Utilities
Lancine Bentley – Community Improvement Services
Aimee Bissett – Economic Development
Katia D. Boykin – Planning and Development
Bill Bunselmeyer – Denton Municipal Electric
Patrick Carreno - Airport
Lynn Carter - Police Operations
Jimmy D. Coulter- Water/Utilities
Michelle B. Cunningham – Economic Development
Brian Daskam – Denton Municipal Electric
John Davis - Engineering
Kiersten L. Dieterle – Public Communications
Alma Espino – Community Development
Tim Fisher – Water Administration
Keith Gabbard – Wastewater/Drainage
Luisa Garcia – Community Development
Terri L. Gibbs - Library
Darren Groth – Gas Well Division
Dean Hartley – Facilities Management
Kenneth Hedges – Fire Operations
Quentin D. Hix - Airport
Lee Howell – Police Operations
David Hunter – Watershed Protection
Vance A. Kemler – Solid Waste
Aaron Leal - Legal
Lisa Lemons – Denton Municipal Electric
Jim Mays – Parks and Recreation
Kevin D. McGinnis – Public Communications
Mark A. Nelson - Transportation
Michael A. Penaluna – Fire Operations
WyLaina Polk – Library
Tony Puente - Budget
Barbara L. Ross – Community Development
Danielle Shaw – Community Development
Shirlene E. Sitton – Solid Waste/Recycling
Deborah S. Viera – Watershed Protection
Emerson M. Vorel - Parks and Recreation
Paul Williamson – Real Estate
Phil Williams – Denton Municipal Electric
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Public Involvement and General Assistance Munal Mauladad, Assistant Director of Planning and Development
Erica Marohnic, Former Planning Supervisor
Cindy Jackson, Senior Planner
Michele Berry, Former Associate Planner
Julie Wyatt, Assistant Planner
Sophie Huemer, Assistant Planner
Renae Seely, GIS Analyst
Nona Muncie, Landscape Administrator
Haywood Morgan, Urban Forester
Nikole Chew-Jones, Administrative Assistant
Sandy Lawson, Administrative Assistant
Athenia Green, Administrative Assistant
Consultant Team
Wallace Roberts and Todd, LLC | Lead Consultant John Fernsler, AIA, Principal-in-Charge
Julie T. Donofrio, AICP, LEED AP, Project Manager
Brian Traylor, AICP, Project Planner, GIS Specialist
Gresham Smith and Partners | Infrastructure and Mobility Kevin Tilbury, AICP, Principal
Lauren Seydewitz, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Environmental Scientist
TischlerBise | Fiscal Impact Analysis Carson Bise, AICP, President
Julie Herlands, AICP, Principal
Meredith Hill, Senior Fiscal/Economic Analyst
The Wolf Group | Communications Mark Ryan, Partner/ Project Director
Mark Smith, Senior Art Director
1 ) PLAN FRAMEWORK Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan 3
Denton: Past and Present 4
Plan Development Process 8 Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4 Phase 5
Plan Themes 26
How to Use this Plan 28
PURPOSE OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Setting a Course for the Future
Denton Plan 2030 sets a course to manage growth, promote reinvestment, and improve quality of
life for the next two decades, inspired and motivated by the citizen values and aspirations expressed
in the Community Vision Statement. While many of the policies contained herein originated in the
1999 Denton Plan, Denton Plan 2030 establishes an optimal pattern of growth identified in a Preferred
Growth Concept, based on fiscal, economic, environmental, and quality of life factors. Denton Plan
2030 also addresses new challenges and opportunities, including the influence of gas wells, shifting
demographics, changing lifestyle and housing preferences, the interface with two major universities,
and the opportunity to encourage long-term sustainability by promoting compact, purposeful growth in
centers and along corridors.
Since the 1999 Denton Plan’s adoption, Denton, as well as the
entire DFW Metroplex, has experienced tremendous growth.
Additionally, themes such as sustainability, climate awareness,
and Smart Growth have emerged as important considerations
affecting economic resilience and community health, along
with a better understanding of their connection with land use.
Denton and the DFW Metroplex will continue to lead the nation
in growth in the coming decades, thus underscoring the need
to put in place a framework that will ensure that the inevitable
growth and change that will occur will strengthen the economy,
enhance quality of life and livability, and positively affect the lives
of the next generation to make Denton home. This Plan identifies
a detailed Vision of what Denton should become by 2030 and
proposes policies and actions that can be carried out in a rigorous
implementation program to make the Vision a reality.
Denton Plan 2030 provides a guide for Denton to retain its
character, define its identity, improve the quality of life, and
enhance the economy. In addition to addressing the opportunities
and challenges of the future, Denton Plan 2030 addresses
present issues identified by stakeholders and the community.
The community would like to retain its best and brightest youth,
attract rewarding employment, and embrace growing diversity, all
while balancing new development with reinvestment in its urban
core and established neighborhoods. The Denton community
has not always agreed on priorities, nor has it been unified by a
shared Vision or a common sense of direction. Denton Plan 2030
provides a Vision created by the community that will allow Denton
to face the future with confidence and optimism. Denton’s future
will be profoundly influenced by the degree to which this Plan is
successful.
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
To more fully appreciate the significance of the
challenge, it is appropriate to begin by considering
the intent of Denton Plan 2030, the steps that led to
its development, and how it will be used to achieve
Denton’s shared Vision for the future.
Denton: Past and Present The City of Denton is located approximately 40
miles northwest of Dallas, 38 miles northeast of Fort
Worth, and 165 miles south of Oklahoma City. It lies
on the northern edge of the DFW Metroplex, and is
considered the pinnacle of the “Golden Triangle of
North Texas” (Dallas and Fort Worth form the other
two points). Denton’s location on Interstate 35 and
within the DFW Metroplex accounts for much of its
prosperity, and it has benefited from regional growth
extending outward from Dallas and Fort Worth over
the past decades.
A B r i e f H i s t o r y o f D e n t o n Denton was founded in 1857 as the county
seat of Denton County, which was established
in 1846 when Texas became the twenty-eighth
state. Denton’s location was chosen due to its
centrality and its access to Hickory Creek and
Murphy Spring. Both the county and the city were
named for John B. Denton, a preacher and lawyer.
Denton’s development began centered on the area
surrounding the Downtown Square, and at the time
of its incorporation in 1866, totaled 100 acres of land
with 361 residents. Growth initially came to Denton
based on its role as an agricultural trade center, and
later as a result of the arrival of the Texas and Pacific
Railway in 1881. Denton was a primary north-south
connection along the Texas and Pacific Railway, yet
because it was not also an east-west connection for
the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe lines built in 1887,
the city remained focused on light industry, such as
mills and cottage industries, rather than attracting
manufacturing and wholesale businesses like other
industrializing cities in the area. The city continued
to grow nonetheless, reaching a population of 2,558
by 1890.
Denton continued to flourish throughout the late
nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, reaching
11,192 residents by 1940. Residential development
began west of Downtown, where wealthy merchants
built estates in what are now the Oak-Hickory
1857 1866 1881 1890 1945
Foundation of Denton as the county seat of
Denton County
Incorporation: Total land 100 acres
Foundation of North Texas
Normal College
Arrival of Texas and Pacific
Railway
City encompassed 2,051 acres
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
and West Oak Area Historic Districts. Important
commercial areas such as Fry Street emerged and
institutions of higher education were established,
first with North Texas Normal College (now the
University of North Texas) founded in 1890, followed
by the Girls’ Industrial College (now Texas Woman’s
University) established in 1903. Growth during
this era remained centered around Downtown,
continuing the grid street system with buildings
built to the street and a mix of uses. Denton kept
this pattern through the next several decades, with
growth extending north-south and east-west along
corridors framing long, rectangular blocks. In 1945,
the city encompassed 2,051 acres (3.2 square miles),
the footprint of which is roughly equivalent to
Denton’s urban core.
The 1960s marked the beginning of a substantial
boom for Denton. The completion of Interstate 35
connected Denton to Dallas, Fort Worth, and other
communities, helping to create a true regional
economy, in which Denton captured its share of the
region’s growth. While Denton’s agricultural sector
remained steady, its manufacturing sector grew
enormously, with heavy manufacturing companies
like Victor Equipment Company and Peterbilt arriving
in the 1970s. The arrival of these major employers
brought about a substantial demand for housing for
the city’s expanding workforce. Adding to the boom
was exponential enrollment growth at Denton’s two
universities, along with the opening of the Dallas-
Fort Worth International Airport in 1974. Many airline
employees and executives who traveled for major
companies built homes in the southeastern portion
of the city during this time. The opening of the
Golden Triangle Shopping Mall in 1980 established
Denton as a regional shopping destination, drawing
shoppers from surrounding areas and strengthening
the tax base.
During this latter growth period, the streets and block
pattern began to deviate from the historic grid form.
Development east of the railroad in particular started
to take on a more suburban form during the 1960s,
with single-use developments, corridors oriented
to the car, and larger lots and setbacks. The City’s
land area more than tripled between 1960 and 1970
(from 5,901 acres to 18,749 acres) and added another
3,000 acres by 1980, reaching a total of 21,991 acres.
1960 1970 1974 1980
Completion of Interstate 35
Arrival of Victor Equipment Company
& Peterbilt
Opening of Dallas - Fort Worth
International Airport
Historic Landmark Commission Established
2010
Population reaches 113,383
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
Oak Hickory Historic District - Denton
Quakertown Park - Denton
The City annexed large areas of land away from
the Downtown core during this period, taking in
newly-developed areas and those anticipated for
future growth, precipitated by Interstate 35. This
more suburban form of development has continued
to the present day, and much of the land brought
within the city’s corporate boundary in the late
twentieth century remains undeveloped today.
The progression of Denton’s footprint over time is
illustrated in Figure 1.1: Historical Boundaries.
In the late-twentieth century, Denton began
experiencing both redevelopment and
conservation of its older areas, especially those
near the Downtown and the two universities.
Fearing the loss of significant historic resources,
preservation advocates from Denton’s West Oak
Street neighborhood helped establish the city’s
Historic Landmark Commission in 1980, leading
to the designation of the Denton’s three protected
neighborhoods: the Oak-Hickory Historic District, the
West Oak Area Historic District, and the Bell Avenue
Historic Conservation District.
D e n t o n To d a y At the present day, Downtown continues to be the
heart of Denton, functioning as the city’s cultural,
social, and historic center. Denton continues to take
pride in its prominent institutions: the University of
T A B L E 1 . 1 H i s t o r i ca l P o p u l a t i o n G r o w t h , 1 9 7 0 -2 0 1 1
Y E A R C I T Y O F D E N T O N D E N T O N C O U N T Y
TOTAL POPULATION PERCENT CHANGE TOTAL POPULATION PERCENT CHANGE
1970 39,874 - 75,633 - 1980 48,063 20.5 143,126 89.2 1990 66,270 37.9 273,525 91.1 2000 80,537 21.5 432,976 58.3 2010 113,383 40.8 662,614 53.0 2011 117,187 3.4 686,406 3.6
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1 F I G U R E 1 . 1 : H i s t o r i ca l B o u n d a r i e s
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University
(TWU), its large employers, its environmental
resources, and its distinct character. Due to
the variety of factors supporting its growth, the
population of Denton has grown to 113,383, as of
2010, and is expected to nearly double by 2030. (See
Table 1.1: Historical Population Growth). The DFW
Metroplex, of which Denton is a part, is the fourth
largest and fastest growing population center in the
United States with nearly 6.5 million people. UNT,
with an enrollment of nearly 40,000, is the fourth
largest university in the state of Texas.
Due to the many factors that will impact Denton in
the future, substantial growth is inevitable. Impacts
of this growth on the local economy, community
character, and livability will be seen through and
beyond the Plan horizon. It is the need to anticipate,
prepare for, and guide this growth that makes the
Denton Plan 2030 so crucial. As a framework for
sensible development, necessary infrastructure
investments, and for purposeful re-investment in
established areas of the community, Denton Plan
2030 helps maintain the Denton that is cherished
today, while ensuring its livability, functionality, and
economic competitiveness in the future.
Plan Development Process Denton Plan 2030 was initiated in early 2012, drafted
and reviewed in 2014, and completed and presented
in final draft for review and adoption in late 2014.
Denton Plan 2030 was developed in five phases,
each of which included significant community
involvement. The phases are illustrated graphically
in Figure 1.2: Key Process Points.
A number of outreach activities were conducted
to solicit input from the community throughout
the planning process. Outreach was staged to
occur at key decision milestones to establish policy
direction. Much of the initial outreach was focused
on informing the Community Vision Statement and
the Preferred Growth Concept. The various outreach
methods that occurred during each phase are
described below. The primary source of input was
through the three series of Community Forums.
Denton Plan 2030 builds upon the foundation
established by the 1999 Denton Plan by updating
the challenges of managing growth and change over
the next two decades, taking the new dynamics and
sentiment of the community into consideration.
During the Plan’s development input was gathered
and analysis was conducted in phases to logically
progress from feedback, to Vision, to goals, policies,
and actions, to the actual Plan document.
The Plan process began with mobilization
activities and the setting of key milestones for the
development of Denton Plan 2030. At the outset, key
groups were formed to provide guidance during Plan
development. These groups included the Citizens
Advisory Committee (CAC), Technical Advisory
Committee (TAC), and Denton Plan Ambassadors
(DPA), who served as the Voices of the Plan and are described below.
V o i c e s o f t h e P l a n • Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)
The CAC consisted of 32 members appointed by City Council to represent a variety of community interest groups and constituencies. The CAC was established to advise the policy direction of the comprehensive plan from the perspective of key stakeholder groups within the community, building consensus among diverse constituencies throughout the planning process. The CAC met regularly to work with City staff and consultants to provide feedback and direction.
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1 F I G U R E 1 . 2 : Ke y P r o ce s s P o i n t s
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
• Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)
The TAC consisted of a group of approximately 20 senior staff of City of Denton departments, the services of which are affected by the comprehensive plan. These staff members provided technical advice throughout the planning process. City staff and consultants met with the TAC at key milestones and the TAC also reviewed all deliverables created throughout the plan development to ensure accuracy and feasibility.
• Denton Plan 2030 Ambassadors (DPA)
To give all community members the opportunity to serve as leaders and advocates for Denton Plan 2030, and to engage more neighborhood and interest groups, the Denton Plan Ambassador (DPA) program was established at the beginning of the planning process and was open to all community members as long as they agreed to attend the DPA meetings regularly. The group met every other month throughout the Plan’s development to provide input and share information with the community groups they represented.
P h a s e 1 The community outreach process began by initiating
the Denton Plan 2030 website and associated social
media, followed by the Kickoff Open House to
generate community awareness and interest in the
planning process. Key community outreach events
of Phase 1 are described below.
W e b s i t e a n d S o c i a l M e d i a
The Denton Plan 2030 website was created
to serve as a primary source of information
regarding the status, activities, and products of
the planning process. The website was updated
frequently throughout the planning process and
will continue to document progress through
implementation of Denton Plan 2030. In addition
to the website, EngageDenton.com was created
to initiate conversation about Denton’s strengths
and weaknesses, and solicit creative ideas to move
the community forward. The City also created a
Facebook page specifically for Denton Plan 2030 and
utilized the City’s Twitter account to spread the word
about Denton Plan 2030. The City also relied on
email blast updates to keep the community informed
and engaged throughout the planning process.
K i c k o f f O p e n H o u s e On August 9, 2012, approximately 160 citizens
participated in a public open house to formally start
the update process. While the primary purpose
was to raise public awareness of the importance of
Denton Plan 2030 and the various opportunities for
citizens to participate and provide input, participants
were encouraged to express their likes and dislikes
about Denton on notes attached to display boards.
The input received at the Kick-off Open House set
the framework for the more formalized prioritization
of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and
challenges during Community Forum 1, and this
initial input was used as a reference throughout the
planning process and posted at subsequent events.
I n f o r m a t i o n a l / M o b i l e M e e t i n g s Prior to the plan kickoff and continuing through
Phase 1, city staff conducted several Informational
Community Meetings and Mobile Meetings to
provide information and answer questions about
the Denton Plan 2030, and to get initial feedback on
issues facing Denton’s community members. These
initial meetings were important for reaching out to
key interest groups and establishing awareness and
encouraging participation in the planning process for
its duration.
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
Kick-off Open House
Kick-off Open House
Kick-off Open House
P h a s e 2 The second phase of the plan development process
focused on two parallel tracks: the analysis of
existing conditions and trends and the surveying
of community values and aspirations during
Community Forum 1, which would inform the
development of the Community Vision Statement.
The analysis of existing conditions and trends,
along with stakeholder and staff interviews, sought
to portray “Where are we now and where we are
headed?” The elements of Phase 2 are described in
detail below.
S t a k e h o l d e r E n g a g e m e n t Stakeholder interviews were conducted with
community groups, City departments and leaders,
major employers, and civic organizations, capturing
a broad a cross-section of the community and key
decision-makers. Other groups partnered with
through the stakeholder feedback process were
developers, real estate professionals, chambers
of commerce, Denton Independent School District
(DISD), Denton County, UNT, TWU, North Central
Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG),
Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA),
North Central Texas College (NCTC), non-profit
organizations, health care facilities, and surrounding
municipalities. The interviews provided insight into
the range of perspectives regarding key issues
prior to Community Forum 1. The interviews laid
the groundwork for involving partners in the
planning process and, ultimately, furthering Plan
implementation.
C o m m u n i t y F o r u m 1 : I s s u e s a n d A s p i r a t i o n s Community Forum 1, held in 2012 and 2013,
consisted of facilitated small group discussions
in which citizens were challenged to express their
aspirations and concerns about the present and
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
future of Denton. With the help of facilitators and
scribes, participants were asked to share their ideas
about the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and
challenges in the city. These were recorded and
summarized to identify consensus themes. To ensure
maximum participation, forums were conducted over
several months at multiple locations, days of the
week, and times:
• November 1, 2, & 3, 2012
• February 7 & 9, 2013
• February 2, 2013 (For Spanish-Speakers)
• March 21 & 27, 2013 (at UNT)
• April 1, 2013 (at TWU)
The public input received from citizens who
participated in the nine forums was the primary
source for the creating the Community Vision
Statement. After Community Forum 1, two
community surveys were conducted to validate
the input and confirm that the forum input was
consistent with a broader spectrum of public
opinion.
C o m m u n i t y S u r v e y A survey was conducted to validate and expand
upon the initial input received from Community
Forum 1. Statistically valid telephone survey was
conducted among 300 residents, identified randomly,
to validate the input received from Community
Forum 1. The Survey was also administered
1. The Character of Denton 2. University, Medical, and Educational
Communities 3. The People of Denton 4. Downtown and Local Shopping 5. Location in DFW Metroplex, I-35 Corridor, and the
Airport
TOP WEAKNESSES:
1. Traffic, Streets, and Mobility Options 2. Community Facilities and Infrastructure (Lack
of/ Obsolete) 3. Government Regulation (Both Too Great and
Too Little) 4. Lack of Diversity in Business Community/
Commercial Market 5. Need for More Housing Options and Social
Services
TOP CHALLENGES:
1. Poor Development/ Lack of Managed Growth/ Loss of Character
2. Failure to Keep Up with Growth (through Planning, Funding, etc.)
3. Lack of Representative and Realistic Vision 4. Transportation and Mobility Improvement Needs 5. Competing for Business Recruitment and
Retention, Innovation and Balance of Business Types
TOP OPPORTUNITIES: 1. University, Medical, and Educational
Communities 2. Attract Desired Development 3. Industrial Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and
Job Growth 4. Mobility Options including Transit, Walkable
Sidewalks, and Bicycle Infrastructure 5. Promote Image of the City to Encourage
Residents, Businesses, and Events
TOP STRENGTHS:
This is what we heard from the people who participated in Community Forum 1.
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
online, hosted on the Denton Plan 2030 website,
and 175 people completed it. Both forms of the
Survey went through Issues and Aspirations in
which participants ranked the importance of factors
considered community strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities, and challenges, similar to the
discussion had at Community Forum 1. While the
relative rankings varied slightly, the Survey generally
confirmed the input expressed during Community
Forum 1. Among all sources of input, consensus
strengths included the universities, Downtown,
the arts and music scene, and the character of the
community. Consensus weaknesses included traffic,
infrastructure, and unbalanced growth. Consensus
opportunities included greater leveraging of higher
education and the medical community, encouraging
entrepreneurship, and improved mobility choices.
Consensus challenges included an absence of vision
and planning for growth, with poor development and
a potential loss of character.
P h a s e 3 Phase three of the planning process focused on
setting the stage for creating the direction of plan
policies and strategies. The first key process point in
Phase 3 was the refinement of the Community Vision
Statement, as the mandate and the “destination”
for Denton Plan 2030. Next came the development
of land use scenarios including a Growth Trend
Scenario that illustrated the “business as usual”
form of development over the next two decades, and
Alternative Growth Scenarios that depicted how
growth might occur in patterns distinct from the
Trend. At Community Forum 2, citizens provided
input in comparing these alternatives, as well as
gauging preferences for development priorities
and community character. Citizen “votes” for their
preferences produced a Preferred Growth Concept,
which became the driver of the Future Land Use
Map (FLUM). A Fiscal Impact Analysis was also
Community Forum 1
Community Forum 1
Community Forum 1
Building on the foundation of the 1999 Denton Plan, our Vision of Denton in the year 2030 is one in which we are recognized as a vibrant community of choice. Denton is characterized by its two growing state universities, its friendly, small-town character coupled with its big-city dynamism, its commitment to sustainability, and its culture of innovation, creativity, and authenticity. Our exceptional livability, the diversity of choices available to our people in employment, lifestyle, and neighborhood settings; and our North Texas values and culture define what Denton is and what we have to offer. We have realized our vision by respecting and building on our heritage, leveraging our assets, and making wise choices in guiding sound growth and investment, while balancing priorities for our four Strategic Directions:
The Character of Denton • Denton is authentic. Our small-town charm and, North
Texas heritage are proudly embraced along with positive change, smart and balanced growth, and high-quality development.
• Denton is consciously green. We are a leader in our commitment to sustainability and we have a significant tree canopy, a network of parks and greenways, stream corridors, and urban forests.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • We retain our sense of community and shared values,
while welcoming new arrivals and celebrating growing diversity.
• We are committed to fairness and equitable access to opportunity in education, community services, jobs, and government representation.
• All generations, of both natives and newcomers, are deeply rooted in the community and are actively engaged in its betterment through volunteer participation with faith-based, civic, and/ or neighborhood organizations and service on local government boards and commissions.
• We cherish our artists and musicians and celebrate our community in local events and festivals that reflect the uniqueness of the community.
• The City of Denton is a healthy, family-friendly community which sees its youth as its most valuable resource; a resource worthy of investment in
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• Denton is safe and livable, a hospitable community of friends and neighbors.
• Denton is fertile territory for creativity and innovation in our vibrant music and arts scene, technology, business, and education.
education, healthful recreation, and opportunities for challenging and rewarding employment and engagement in civic affairs.
• The City of Denton’s institutions of higher learning, UNT and TWU, are partners with government, civic organizations, and local employers in initiatives to foster creativity in the arts, innovation, a strong economy, life-long learning, and the retention of the best and brightest.
• The City of Denton government is customer-friendly and prides itself on its transparency and open communication, utilizing modern technology, its efficient provision of public services and facilities, and through its leadership in seeking to realize the Vision of Denton’s future.
• The City of Denton has integrated, reconciled, and streamlined its plans, processes, policies, and regulations for consistency, clarity, and effectiveness.
• The Character of Denton • Our People, Institutions, and Government • The Strength of Our Economy • Sound Growth: Our Form and Function
The Denton
COMMUNITY VISION
The Strength of Our Economy • We leverage our strategic location, universities,
and medical institutions, as a national leader in technological and knowledge-based innovation, allowing us to attract and retain a highly educated and motivated workforce.
• We leverage our strategic location and multi-modal accessibility in the Metroplex and capitalize on key assets such as the Denton Enterprise Airport.
• We value and support our major manufacturing employers and other responsible corporate citizens to ensure their stability, encourage their commitment to Denton, facilitate their expansion, and leverage their presence by accommodating their suppliers, supporting businesses, and workers.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with
new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment, supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
• Established neighborhoods where revitalization and compatible infill development contributes to stable, livable, and historic character, and fosters neighborhood pride and homeownership.
• Thriving universities where coordinated planning and collaborations between the City and the academic communities creates mutually beneficial, stable, and healthy neighborhood edges and where the non-academic community benefits from the vast educational and cultural resources in close proximity.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Contiguous, staged growth which is fiscally and
environmentally sound, reduces fragmentation and sprawl, discourages premature development, and conserves the City’s future growing room.
• Conservation development which retains rural character, protects open space and greenways, enhances development value, and provides greater choices to land owners.
• Potential safety and compatibility impacts presented by hazardous activities, such as gas well drilling and production, mitigated to protect neighboring persons and property.
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• We support and encourage our entrepreneurs and small businesses with a business-friendly attitude and efficient regulations and permitting.
• We market our Denton “brand,” our unique, creative atmosphere and small town quality of life, which attracts a highly educated and motivated workforce and gives Denton a competitive advantage in attracting new investment, entities, and well-paying jobs.
• We attract corporations and businesses which have a strong sense of corporate responsibility to the environment, the community, and their governance and who take active roles as being excellent corporate citizens.
Throughout Denton we see… • Managed, balanced, and sustainable growth in high-
quality, livable urban, suburban, and rural places which offer diverse choices among neighborhood settings while respecting private property rights.
• A compact development pattern which includes expanded areas of mixed use, a broad array of housing and retail choices responding to changing demographics and market preferences, and re- investment and infill in underutilized areas of the city.
• An efficient transportation system with a safe and well-connected road network which accommodates a wide array of mobility options, including local and commuter rail transit, as well as accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Special attention paid to our major travel corridors (ex. I-35, US 380, and Loop 288), both aesthetically and functionally, representing Denton’s character, brand, and excellence.
• Infrastructure systems which have undergone well- planned, staged expansion to serve and manage the city’s growth.
• Parks, greenways, stream corridors, tree canopy, and other natural resources integrating into the fabric of the community and contributing to healthy lifestyles.
• Environmental stewardship through water conservation, positive contributions to regional air quality, sustainable development practices, green infrastructure, and renewable energy.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
STATEMENT
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
prepared alongside these scenarios to provide a
snapshot of the fiscal functioning of the city under
each and informed the creation of policies impacting
fiscal policy. The Community Vision Statement and
Preferred Growth Concept were presented to and
approved by City Council at the finalization of this
phase. The elements of Phase 3 are described in
detail below.
D e v e l o p m e n t o f t h e C o m m u n i t y V i s i o n S t a t e m e n t The Community Vision Statement is an expression
of the community’s collective values and aspirations
and a description of what the community wants
to become in the future, answering the question
“What do we want Denton to be in 2030?” As
the “final destination” for Denton Plan 2030, the
Community Vision Statement was developed early
in the planning process in order to provide the
central framework for guiding the development
of policies and strategies. The Vision Statement
was developed using the results of Community
Forum 1 and information derived from supporting
outreach activities (Kick-off Open House, stakeholder
interviews, informational community meetings,
mobile meetings, website, social media, and
community surveys).
The Community Vision Statement is organized
around four Strategic Directions, and is based on
clear areas of citizen consensus. In each of the
elements of the Denton Plan 2030, the phrases of the
Vision Statement that specifically impact the policies
of that element are restated in the introduction. It
is important to note that throughout the Denton
Plan 2030 document, each of the policies has its
foundation in the Vision Statement, and by proxy, the
voice of the community.
F u t u r e G r o w t h S c e n a r i o s Growth Trend Scenario
A key element of the existing conditions and
trends phase was the development of the Growth
Trend Scenario, a conceptual representation of
the consequences of continuing down the path of
“business as usual.” Using baseline population
projections, the model was prepared to depict
what the city could look like in 2030, in terms of
development, if the City and community does not
change course. The Growth Trend Scenario illustrated
how and where growth would likely occur in the
absence of new directions from a comprehensive
plan update and its respective implementation.
The purpose of the Growth Trend Scenario was to
illustrate the need for intervention and make the
case for the new directions embraced in Denton Plan
2030. Several highlights that drove the development
of this scenario were:
• Denton’s population increased by 41 percent between 2000 and 2010, growing from 80,537 to 113,383 people. This was its most intense decade of growth since the 1960s.
• New projections forecast an additional 93,951 residents by 2030.
• Denton has a higher proportion of single-person households than Denton County and Texas as a whole. Thirteen percent of these were residents aged 65 or older. In the same year (2010), only 22 percent of Denton County’s households and 25 percent of all households in the state of Texas were single-person households.
• The population of Denton is fairly young. The 18 to 24 age cohort comprised one quarter of the city’s population in 2000 and 2010. However, the city’s adult population has seen an increase in the number of older residents, generally due to the aging of the baby boomer generation.
• These demographic shifts involve changes in housing preferences that Denton’s housing
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
T A B L E 1 . 3 R e s i d e n t i a l D e m a n d b y Ty p e
2011 Units (1)
% O f 2 0 1 1
U n i t s
E x i s t i n g D e v .
R e s i d e n t i a l A r e a ( A c )
(2)
E x i s t i n g D e n s i t y
(3)
A c r e s P e r
U n i t (4)
2 0 3 0 N e w
U n i t s (5)
N e w R e s i d e n t i a l
A r e a ( A c ) (6)
1 unit detached (Residential Single-family)
23,548 53.818% 8,134 2.90 .35 20,064 8,663
1 unit attached, 2-4 units, other (Residential Other)
5,826 13.315% 1,024 5.69 .18 4,964 1,091
5+ units (Residential Multi- Family)
14,381 32.867% 963 14.94 .07 12,254 1,025
TOTAL: 43,755 - 10,121 - - 37,282 10,779
(1) Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimates (2) Source: City of Denton GIS (3) 2011 units / existing dev. residential acres (4) Existing residential acres / 2011 units (5) 2030 housing demand x percent of total units (6) Acres per unit x 2030 new units) + 25 percent of land area for roads and infrastructure
T A B L E 1 . 2 P o p u l a t i o n a n d H o u s i n g G r o w t h
P O P U L A T I O N H O U S I N G G R O W T H
2010 Population (1) 113,383
2010 Household Size (2) 2.52 2011 Total Housing Units (3) 43,755
2030 Population Projection (4) 207,334 2011-2030 Population Change (5) 93,951
2030 Housing Demand (6) 37,282 Total Projected 2030 Housing Units (7) 81,037
(1) Source: US Census Bureau (2) Source: 2010 US Census (3) Source: American Community Survey 2007-2011 5-year estimates (4) Percent Annual Growth Source: University of North Texas Center for
Economic Development and Research (5) 2030 population projection - 2010 population (6) 2011 -2030 population change / household size (7) 2030 housing demand + 2011 total housing units
Note: Population projections were derived from the report “Economic and Demographic Projections for the City of Denton: An Update,” Prepared by Center for Economic Development and Research; University of North Texas. April 2011. Existing population and housing were based on the U.S. Census Bu- reau’s American Community Survey, 2010.
By 2030, Denton will add approximately 94,000 people, requiring 37,000
additional new housing units...
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
by 93,951 to 207,334 by 2030, creating a demand
for 37,282 additional housing units. In total, the
developable area needed by the city by 2030 would
be 10,779 acres of net new residential development
(see Table 1.3: Residential Demand by Type) and 5,282
acres of net new non-residential development (see
Table 1.4: Land Consumption).
The next step in building the Growth Trend
Scenario was to consider the city’s present capacity
to accommodate this growth and where new
development was likely to take place. At present,
Denton has a considerable amount of “growing
room,” totaling approximately 20,000 acres of vacant
land zoned and approved for residential use. Much
of this acreage is located in areas zoned as Master
Planned Communities, and is more than twice what
is needed to accommodate the 8,663 acres of new
single-family homes needed to house the additional
population. This is largely due to the “aggressive
annexation” policy recommended in the 1999 Denton
Plan, the result of which gave the city more than
enough room to grow for the next 40-50 years. A
shift to a more conservative annexation mode is
necessary to prevent additional adverse impacts
to Denton’s growth and development. Likewise,
market does not meet today, such as more multi-family housing and units for singles, young families, and retired baby boomers.
The starting point for the development of land
use concepts was the depiction of the Growth
Trend Scenario – the likely pattern of growth and
development in 15 to 20 years if there were no
changes in policy to alter present trends. The
method of developing the Growth Trend Scenario
began with the projected future population
growth, which was then translated into residential
households (dwelling units) and further translated
into the acreage footprint of new residential and
non-residential development, including commercial,
employment, and institutional land uses. Finally, the
projected development footprint was “allocated” to
the city’s land area based on factors such as zoning,
proximity to roads, schools, and infrastructure and
constraints such as floodplains. This process—the
“Susceptibility to Change” analysis— is described in
greater detail below.
Understanding population growth was the first
step in developing the Growth Trend Scenario.
As depicted in Table 1.2: Population and Housing
Growth, the city’s population is expected to increase
T A B L E 1 . 4 L a n d Co n s u m p t i o n
Total Acreage (1) 60,900
Dev. Residential Area (AC) (2) 10,121 Total Units (2011) (3) 43,755
Avg. Acres Per Unit (4) 0.23 New Projected DUs (5) 37,282
New Residential (AC) (6) 10,779 New Non-Residential (AC) (7) 5,282
(1)Total Municipal Acreage (2) Existing residential acres (3) Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimates (4) Average acres per unit (developed residential area / total units) (5) Projected new dwelling units (2011 -2030 population change / household size) (6) New residential area = (average acres per unit x new dwelling units) (7) New non-residential acreage estimated at 69 percent of new residential area
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
because much of the land within approved Master
Planned Communities (MPCs) will likely not build-
out in the next 20 years, or under present market
conditions, the MPCs should be redesigned to adjust
to changing real estate market conditions, consumer
preferences, up-to-date planning practices, and, most
importantly, what is contained in the updated Plan.
Understanding that Denton has more than enough
acreage to accommodate necessary growth, where
growth would likely go first was identified by
applying the Susceptibility to Change Analysis.
This analysis consisted of layering factors together
that tend to attract development, . As a result,
the Susceptibility to Change analysis allocated
16,061 acres (sum of New Residential and New
Non-residential Development, Table 1.4) of new
development in the areas that were most suitable
based on the factors below:
• Existing land use
• Context evaluation using aerial maps
• Existing zoning
• Approved subdivisions
• Environmentally-sensitive areas
• Vacant or underutilized areas
• Areas adjacent to I-35 that could be affected by its widening
• Areas adjacent to corridors currently being upgraded (i.e. Teasley and Mayhill)
• Areas of gas well proliferation
• Areas otherwise likely to redevelop
The Growth Trend Scenario, informed by the
Susceptibility to Change Analysis, illustrated a future
Denton that located new development in a widely
dispersed pattern, with the majority of residential
development occurring at the periphery of the
city in sprawling patterns. (see Figure 1.3: Growth
Trend Scenario) This depiction was a powerful
tool in asking the question: “Is that what we want
Denton to look like in 2030? Is it consistent with
our vision?” The Community Vision Statement,
which was finalized in Phase 3, based on the
input collected at Community Forum 1, helped to
compare and evaluate this Growth Trend Scenario
to what the Community Vision Statement expresses
about desirable development patterns, namely a
preference for more compact growth, mixed use,
and revitalization in the urban core. The Growth
Trend Scenario was presented at Community Forum
2, alongside the Alternative Growth Scenarios
developed during in Phase 3, to identify a direction
for Denton’s growth that was more closely aligned
with the aspirations of the community.
A l t e r n a t i v e G r o w t h S c e n a r i o s Using input from Community Forum 1, conceptual
approaches were developed to illustrate land use
and development that reflected the values expressed
in the Community Vision Statement with more
compact patterns of growth. These alternatives were
meant to contrast with the Growth Trend Scenario
and provide the basis for guiding decisions at
Community Forum 2. The city staff and consultants
worked collaboratively to create three distinct
scenarios: Centers, Corridors, and Compact, which
were reviewed and approved by the CAC. These
scenarios were developed to conceptually illustrate
three discernible options that could reshape future
patterns of development and investment.
Applying the baseline land use projections from
the Growth Trend Scenario, it was ensured that the
alternative scenarios had the adequate capacity
to accommodate projected growth. However,
the proportion of residential development types
was adjusted to reflect changing preferences for
housing types and for a more compact, walkable,
development pattern. For example, each of
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030 F I G U R E 1 . 3 G r o w t h Tr e n d S ce n a r i o F I G U R E 1 . 4 Co r r i d o r s G r o w t h S ce n a r i o
F I G U R E 1 . 6 Co m p a c t G r o w t h S ce n a r i oF I G U R E 1 . 5 Ce n t e r s G r o w t h S ce n a r i o
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
Scenarios were illustrated to depict where growth
and intensity would occur, using consistent graphic
vocabulary so that the scenarios could be easily
compared against one another and the Growth Trend
Scenario.
Land uses were grouped to show a range of density
and “land use mixing” (meaning that as density
increases, so does the amount of mixed use
development) and to illustrate a range of potential
uses. As an example, low-density residential areas
could include single-family residential in addition
to schools and parks. Similarly, commercial areas
could include a range of retail types, offices, and
employment locations. Land uses were illustrated
generally so that the overall development footprint
and intended patterns of development could be
easily understood and distinguished. The scenarios
and associated land uses are shown in Figures 1.3 –
1.6 and in Table 1.5.
the alternative scenarios included an increased
proportion of multi-family development relative to
single-family development. The Compact Alternative
added an additional higher-density land use in order
to accommodate projected number of housing units
within the most compact development form. These
ratios are shown in Table 1.5: Residential Land Uses
Demand per Scenario. Commercial, industrial, and
institutional development proportions are unchanged
from the Growth Trend Scenario, as the same
amount would be needed to support the projected
population among all scenarios. The development
capacity studies for each scenario placed growth in
the areas where it was most likely to occur based
on factors such as land use, surrounding context,
zoning, and environmental constraints used the
Susceptibility to Change Analysis. Growth was
placed first in vacant or undeveloped areas, and only
then in land in the periphery of the city.
T A B L E 1 . 5 R e s i d e n t i a l L a n d U s e s D e m a n d P e r S ce n a r i o
E x i s t i n g D e n s i t y
G r o w t h T r e n d C e n t e r s & C o r r i d o r s
A l t e r n a t i v e s * C o m p a c t
A l t e r n a t i v e
Units per Acre
Acres per Unit
2030 new Units
%0f Total Acres Yield
2030 new Units
%0f Total Acres Yield
2030 new
Units %0f Total
Acres Yield
Single-family (Total) 2.90 0.35 20,064 53.82% 8,663 16,777 40% 6,439 7,456 20% 3,219
Other Resi- dential, (1 unit attached, 2-4 units)
5.69 0.18 4,964 13.32% 1,091 5,592 20% 1,639 7,456 20% 1,639
Multifamily (5+ Units) 14.94 0.07 12,254 32.87% 1,025 14,913 40% 1,248 14,912 40% 1,248
Multi-Family High Density 30 .03 0 0% 0 0 0% 0 7,456 20% 311
Total Units 37,282 100% 37,282 100% 37,282 100% Total Acres 10,779 9,325 6,417
* Note: Assumptions identical for Centers and Corridors Alternative Growth Scenarios.
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C o m m u n i t y F o r u m 2 : S e l e c t i n g Yo u r F u t u r e ! Community Forum 2 gave the community an
opportunity to vote on their preferred scenario for
accommodating growth, development priorities,
and for preferences regarding community character.
Approximately 100 participants attended Community
Forum 2 on the dates and at the locations listed
below:
• Thursday, October 17, 2013 – Denton Civic Center
• Tuesday, October 29, 2013 - McConnell Hall, University of North Texas
• Wednesday, October 30, 2013 - Student Union Room #207, Texas Woman’s University
• Saturday, November 9, 2013 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center
At this event, the Growth Trend Scenario and the
three Alternative Growth Scenarios were presented
with explanatory text and a table of indicators (ex.
percentage of jobs within ¼ mile of existing transit
service) at a sequence of informative stations.
Indicators included comparisons of environmental
and fiscal impact that helped inform participants’
decisions in voting for their preferred scenario.
Participants were given background information
on how to understand the scenarios, and the
implications of their votes. The station concluded
with a summary table of findings and an evaluation
of each against the Community Vision Statement.
Community members were asked to vote for their
first and second choices for their future Denton.
In addition to the growth scenarios, citizens voted
on Development Priorities such as preferences for
walkability, mixed use development, and proximity
of jobs to housing. These provided additional
context for the land use scenario votes, allowing
a deeper understanding of the priorities of the
community. Finally, potential Community Character
Considerations were presented to accompany
Community Forum 2
Community Forum 2
Community Forum 2
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
Scenario clearly indicated a preference for more
compact and purposeful pattern of growth clustered
around distinct locations.
The Preferred Growth Concept also reflected
priorities for development including increased
walkability and trails, more mixed use, and
jobs close to home and accessible by walking
and transit. As a result, the Preferred Growth
Concept encourages a shift towards more mixed
use development, bringing together compatible
residential, commercial, office, institutional, or other
uses for increased pedestrian activity, reduced car
trips, and expanded housing choices.
Community Character preferences further refined
the Preferred Growth Concept, including in order of
priority, placemaking and urban vitality, multi-modal
access, green Infrastructure, and conservation. This
underscores the importance of an appreciation for
areas for community gathering to be distributed
throughout Denton, a diversity of building types,
and a sensitivity to the environment. Locations of
existing and potential areas of urban vitality also
help to refine the location and character of potential
development areas illustrated within the Preferred
Growth Concept as well as potential areas for multi-
modal access, green infrastructure network, and
conservation. As an overarching framework for
development, the Preferred Growth Concept serves
as the basis for the FLUM that is central to Denton
Plan 2030.
F i s c a l I m p a c t A n a l y s i s The formation of the Preferred Growth Concept
was additionally informed by a Fiscal Impact
Analysis (FIA) that was conducted concurrently
with the scenario development process. The intent
of the FIA is to guide policy decisions regarding
levels of service and revenue enhancements by
examining the costs to the city associated with the
the land use scenarios at Community Forum 2.
These community character considerations were
elements impacting the urban environment that
would go beyond density and land use and could
be implemented in any growth scenario. These
included: Green Infrastructure, Multi-Modal Access,
Placemaking and Urban Vitality, and Conservation.
Community Character Considerations were voted on
in the same manner as the Growth Scenarios. These
votes helped to inform the creation of the Preferred
Growth Concept, which would be the basis for the
FLUM, as well as policies for Community Character
and Urban Design, Mobility, and Parks, Conservation
and Environment.
P r e f e r r e d G r o w t h C o n c e p t The Preferred Growth Concept was developed to
present a conceptual vision for the form, character,
and general location of development for Denton
that reflected the input and expressed preferences
of the community. The general location of new
development and areas for intensification was the
basis for the development of the FLUM as shown
in Figure 1.7. The Preferred Growth Concept was
created by combining the most important aspects
of each of the scenarios, development priorities and
community character considerations that received
the highest number of votes during Community
Forum 2. The raw results of the votes from
Community Forum 2 are contained in Appendix B:
Community Forum Results and the overall voting
trends are described below.
The Compact Scenario received the highest number
of votes during Community Forum 2. As a result,
this scenario provided a starting point for the
development of the Preferred Growth Concept,
incorporating elements of the Centers and Corridors
Scenarios which were close behind in the public
voting. The lowest voting for the Growth Trend
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030 F I G U R E 1 . 7 P r e f e r r e d G r o w t h Co n ce p t
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
and balances the results. Over the plan horizon,
dedicated capital revenue generated by new
development is not sufficient to cover the necessary
capital expansions to maintain levels of service for
new development, as the only dedicated revenue for
capital needs in Denton is a portion of the property
tax. Regardless of the deficit for capital needs, the
cumulative fiscal impact of the Preferred Growth
Concept is a surplus. See the Fiscal Impact Analysis
report provided as a supplement to the Denton Plan
2030 for a complete understanding of the FIA results
summarized below.
The following major conclusions were drawn from
the FIA:
• Local Revenue Structure. The Preferred Growth Concept assumes that in the plan horizon period the city would add 93,951 new residents, which equates to 75 percent of its existing population, and would more than double the square footage of nonresidential development. This significant growth generates positive cumulative net fiscal results.
• Levels of Service. Capital expenditures are modeled based on maintaining citywide levels of service thresholds per capital investment, and levels of service by sub-area of the city. If excess capacity exists in an area, the analysis assumes the excess will serve some new growth before additional capital investments are made to meet growth demands.
• Demographic and Market Characteristics of New Growth. The results identify cost savings of increasing development densities. Cumulative operating and capital expenditures decrease as development density increases.
provision of public services and facilities to serve
new development. The FIA assessed all direct
costs to the General Fund, General Debt Service
Fund, Recreation Fund, and Street Improvements
Fund associated with the new development defined
through growth scenarios. Only revenues in these
Funds increase due to growth The FIA analyzed the
potential fiscal impacts of the projected housing
units, population, nonresidential building area, and
jobs added during the plan horizon period based
on their variation by type and location among the
scenarios. The variations yielded differences in the
costs necessary to provide service and facilities to
new development at maintained levels of service. In
general, the more compact the development, the less
the costs of extending facilities and service coverage.
Based on preliminary review of the FIA, order of
magnitude costs were shared with the community
at Community Forum 2, corresponding to each
scenario, providing additional information for
scenario evaluation. The fiscal impact findings
helped determine the scenario(s) that were most
fiscally responsible, which served as an additional
means of defining and directing the location of
development and the Preferred Growth Concept.
Following the identification of land uses according
to the Preferred Growth Concept and the creation
of the FLUM, the locations of these land uses and
associated numerical values were incorporated into
the final FIA, resulting in a picture of the City’s fiscal
profile for the plan horizon. Recommendations
related to the major conclusions of the FIA listed
below are included in the Fiscal and Economic
Vitality Element (Element 3) of the Denton Plan 2030.
The Preferred Growth Concept yielded a cumulative
net surplus to the City, when comparing available
resources to projected costs over the plan horizon.
This takes into consideration operating revenues
and costs as well as capital revenues and costs,
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
P h a s e 4 The fourth phase of the planning process involved
developing and refining the plan document,
consisting of goals, policies, and actions for
each of eight topical Elements in addition to an
Implementation and Monitoring Element providing
protocols for plan compliance, monitoring progress,
and for future plan revisions to ensure that the
policies would be adhered to for the duration of the
plan timeframe. This phase also included multiple
meetings with the CAC and TAC, as well as several
of the city’s boards and commissions, to gather
input and advisement on the goals, policies and
actions. Finally, during Community Forum 3, the
draft document was presented to the community to
receive input and feedback.
C o m m u n i t y F o r u m 3 : R e v i e w i n g t h e D r a f t C o m p r e h e n s i v e P l a n The purpose of Community Forum 3 (CF3) was to
unveil the Draft Denton Plan 2030 document and
ensure that the policies affirm the direction for the
city as directed by the citizens of Denton. The forum
included a presentation of a synopsis of Denton
Plan 2030, and provided a variety of opportunities
for participation and input.
P h a s e 5 The fifth and final phase of the planning process
involved incorporating input and feedback received
from the community at Community Forum 3, as
well as final refinements from city staff, the CAC,
TAC, and DPA, Boards and Commissions, and City
Council. The final Denton Plan 2030 document
was then presented to the Planning and Zoning
Commission and to City Council for final adoption.
P l a n n i n g a n d Z o n i n g C o m m i s s i o n a n d C i t y C o u n c i l At key decision milestones throughout the planning
process the Planning and Zoning Commission
and City Council were given the opportunity to
review progress to date, to ensure that the process
remained on track, and that there was a comfort
level with the planning process before and during
its development. These key milestones included
the review and approval of the Community Vision
Statement, Preferred Growth Concept and the Draft
Denton Plan 2030 document. The Denton Plan 2030
was adopted by ordinance by City Council following
a public hearing, and a recommendation from the
Planning and Zoning Commission.
Plan Themes Denton Plan 2030 contains eight Elements that
include the goals, policies, and actions that will
implement the visions of the Denton Community.
Within the Plan Elements are themes that should not
be “siloed” into individual Elements, because they
Denton Plan 2030 | Community Forum 31
MOBILITY COMMUNITY CHARACTER
SUSTAINABILITY COMMUNITY
HEALTH
» The Denton 2030 plan contains nine topical elements including Land Use; Fiscal and Economic Vitality; Community Character; Parks, Conservation and Environment; Mobility; Housing and Neighborhoods; Community Health and Safety; Infrastructure and Utilities; and Implementation. Within the elements are themes that should not be “siloed” into individual elements, because they impact a variety of policies and actions throughout Denton Plan 2030. These themes represent top priorities of the Denton community as well as City of Denton decision makers. Several of these occur as individual elements, but are themes because they touch on topics throughout all elements. These themes include Sustainability, Community Health, Mobility, and Community Character. Each element contains policies and actions that accomplish the promotion of these big ideas as Denton grows into the future.
» Under each of the themes are examples of the policies and actions from several Plan elements to show how these concepts are put into action in the Denton Plan 2030.
DENTON PLAN THEMES OVERVIEW
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
Sustainability Theme
Community Healthy Theme
Mobility Theme
impact a variety of policies and actions throughout
Denton Plan 2030. These themes represent top
priorities of the Denton community as well as City
of Denton decision makers. Several of these occur
as individual Elements, but are themes because they
touch on topics throughout all Elements. Themes
include: Sustainability, Community Health, Mobility,
and Community Character.
The Denton Plan 2030 themes are described below.
• The Sustainability Theme
Sustainability is a topic that touches many of the policy elements throughout Denton Plan 2030. For that reason, it is not a stand-alone element, but rather a “theme.” Sustainability, by definition, is addressed in three “prongs”: social, environmental, and economic. As such, sustainability is addressed within elements focused on these topics, as well as alongside Mobility, Land Use, and Community Character. Sustainability is important to the Denton community and government, and the City proudly adopted its sustainability plan—“Simply Sustainable, A Strategic Plan for Denton's Future"—in 2012, which has served as a guiding document in the creation of Denton Plan 2030
• The Community Health Theme
Similar to sustainability, policies and actions influencing community health occur throughout Denton Plan 2030. For that reason, it is also a “theme.” Community Health includes policies that contribute to the physical health of the people of Denton, including access to healthy foods, recreation, and pedestrian and bicycle mobility and land use patterns that promote physical activity. Many communities are comprehensively addressing community health in the development of planning policy.
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
Community health is addressed throughout the Plan, particularly in Mobility, Land Use, and in Community Health and Safety.
• The Mobility Theme
Mobility is a very important subject for Denton as it looks forward to 2030. While there is a dedicated element for Mobility, which contains goals and policies specific to streets, the bicycle and pedestrian network, and transit—among others—mobility is important to address throughout the Plan. For that reason, it is also a “theme.” Mobility considerations and modal choice affects land use, community character, community health, and fiscal and economic vitality as it relates to the physical development of the city, physical activity, and the network to build a functional and healthy economy.
• The Community Character Theme
Denton is a city built on character and the preservation of that character, in addition to creating new complementary development is central to the community’s goals as it moves forward. The Community Character and Urban Design element addresses specific goals and policies related to community character, yet the preservation, celebration, and creation character of Denton is an underlying theme in all of the Plan elements. Through the successful implementation of the Plan, Denton’s future will be realized as a community known for its charm and unique sense of place.
How to Use this Plan The Denton Plan 2030 is organized to present the
background information and goals, policies, and
actions of the Plan Elements, in a streamlined,
strategic, and user-friendly fashion. The Elements
are grouped to contain categories of goals, policies,
and actions organized by similar topics and
according to the departments that will be responsible
for their implementation. The Implementation and
Monitoring Element brings all the Elements together
to ensure recommended actions are followed.
Table 1.6 illustrates the components of the
comprehensive plan and how the goals, polices, and
actions relate to one another. There are numerous
additional plans and studies called for throughout
the actions of the Elements, including updates to
many existing plans, studies, and manuals. While
many of these themselves are large plans, they all
fall under the framework, and guidance, of Denton
Plan 2030, which acts as the voice of the community
and the coordinated path forward until 2030. Each
Community Character Theme
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
G o a l s P o l i c i e s A c t i o n s
D e
fi n
it io
n Sets a general direction; an ideal future; long-range and comprehensive in nature; and used to describe a desired result or outcome
A specific statement that guides decision- makers; a commitment to a particular course of action; describe context and rationale of desired outcome, and are more specific than goals.
Actions or procedures that carry out a policy. Specific step to actually achieve the goals and policies identified in the comprehensive plan.
E x
a m
p le
Goal LU-5: Grow with Character: Promote Development which Enhances Community Character and Functionality
2.16 Revise development regulations and development review processes to facilitate and support desired forms of development and improved standards for urban design and place-making.
2.16.1 Adopt citywide design and development standards and guidelines specific to individual land uses and thoroughfares to improve development quality and functionality. (CC 4.9, M 6.1.1)
Ta b l e 1 . 6 Co m p r e h e n s i v e P l a n Co m p o n e n t s
of these plans will look towards the comprehensive
plans for policy direction and concepts.
As many policies and actions are reoccurring
and reinforced in many of the Elements, polices
and actions that overlap are cross-referenced
in parentheses so that implementation policies
and actions that address multiple goals may be
accomplished through a single measure, e.g. (LU
2.6.1). Additionally, policies and actions that are
being referenced as continuations of the 1999 Denton
Plan are noted parenthetically, citing the page
number of the previous Denton Plan, e.g. (DP p.122).
This is to reinforce that the Denton Plan 2030 is an
update of the 1999 Denton Plan.
D e n t o n P l a n 2 0 3 0 E l e m e n t s The Denton 2030 Plan is comprised of the following
Elements:
1 – Plan Framework begins with a summary of Denton’s history and where the City is today. It
then describes the purpose of and process used
to develop Denton Plan 2030. This includes the
Community Vision Statement and an overview of the
steps involved in analyzing the conditions that would
drive the policy Elements of Denton Plan 2030.
2 – Land Use Element includes goals and policies necessary to ensure that the City will direct growth
according to sound principles and to ensure that the
balance of land uses matches the City’s needs for the
future.
3 – Fiscal and Economic Vitality Element contains goals and policies related to the economic strength
of the city and principles for growing in a fiscally
healthy manner.
4 – Community Character and Urban Design Element includes goals and policies for maintaining the
unique character of Denton and building upon its
distinguishing characteristics. This element includes
policies for placemaking, arts and culture, and
historic preservation.
5 – Parks, Conservation, and Environment Element includes the policy framework for parks and open
space, as well as policies to ensure protection
of Denton’s unique environmental and natural
resources.
6 – Mobility Element includes goals and policies for vehicular circulation and for the pedestrian, bicycle,
and public transportation network. This element
will serve as a policy framework for coordinating a
comprehensive mobility network aligned with future
land use and community character.
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1 DENTON PLAN 2030
Figure 1.8: Plan Hierarchy illustrates the Elements
of Denton Plan 2030 and their relationship to one
another within the framework of the Plan.
Through the goals and policies of Denton Plan 2030, the City of Denton will continue to develop proactively based on the firm foundation of the 1999 Denton Plan, revised in a manner that will continue and expand Denton’s status as a benchmark community in the Dallas Metroplex and nationally.
7 – Housing and Neighborhoods Element provides the basis for ensuring housing options
for all of Denton’s population in safe and livable
neighborhoods, complete adequate community
facilities to serve them. This element will ensure
the conservation of Denton present neighborhoods,
as well as the development of well-designed
neighborhoods in the future.
8 – Community Health, Safety, and Services Element includes goals and policies for maintaining a safe
and secure environment for Denton residents as well
as an overall healthy population. Goals and policies
focus on environmental justice, social services
programming, community health, resiliency, and
hazard mitigation, as well as emergency services.
9 – Infrastructure and Utilities Element ensures the provision of adequate infrastructure and facilities
that will complement the future growth of Denton.
This includes water, wastewater, stormwater,
solid waste, and electric. In addition to baseline
service, strategies for sustainable practices such
as sustainable energy and green infrastructure are
included in this Element.
10 – Implementation and Monitoring Element sets the framework to ensure that policies and actions
are applied in future development decisions and that
progress in the implementation of Denton Plan 2030
is monitored over the course of the plan timeline.
This Element sets guidance and benchmarks for
measuring progress, protocols for amendments,
internal city governance practices, and describes
how Denton Plan 2030 interacts with other city, state,
and county regulations.
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PLAN FRAMEWORK 1
F i g u r e 1 . 8 P l a n H i e r a r ch y
Denton Plan 2030, Denton’s comprehensive plan, serves as the overarching framework to guide specific actions for the City to undertake within the Plan horizon. This includes a number of plans for further study, and updates to existing plans. Examples of several of these plans are shown below.
The City of Denton’s Strategic Plan, similar to Denton Plan 2030, is an action-oriented document. The Strategic Plan was developed in accordance with the City’s vision, mission, and values statements and is consistent with Denton Plan 2030. The goals and objectives outlined in the Strategic Plan are intended to help achieve the community vision that is articulated in the Community Vision Statement.
Comprehensive Plan
• Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Fiscal Impact Analyses
• Denton Development Code (DDC)
• Small Area Plans • Neighborhood/University
Compatibility Area Small Area Plan
• Urban Design Plan • Citywide Branding and
Placemaking Strategy • Small Area Plans
• Parks, Recreation and Trails Master Plan
• Sustainability Plan
• Mobility Plan • Transportation Criteria
Manual • Special Events integrated
Transportation Plan
• Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan
• Consolidated Plan
• Health Impact Assessment
• Hazard Vulnerability Analysis (HVA)
• Drainage Design Criteria Manual
• Establish Universal Recycling Program
L A N D U S E
F I S C A L & ECO N O M I C V I TA L I TY
COMMUNITY CHARACTER & URBAN DESIGN
M O B I L I TY CO M M U N I TY H E A LT H , SA F E TY, & S E R V I C E S
H O U S I N G & N E I G H B O R H O O DS
I N F R A S T R U C T U R E & U T I L I T I E S
PA R KS , CO N S E R VAT I O N & E N V I R O N M E N T
Elements
Implementation & Monitoring Element
City of Denton’s Strategic Plan
2) LAND USE Land Use Overview 33
Existing Land Use 35 Growth Capacity
Grow Compactly 37 Future Land Use Map and Future Land Use Designations Plan and Policy Coordination
Grow with Purpose 39 Downtown Investment University Collaboration Encouraging Compact Growth at Centers and Corridors
Grow our Assets 42 Infill in Residential Areas Infill in Commercial and Employment Areas
Grow Resourcefully 44 Growth and Annexation Impact of Gas Wells Managing Growth at the Edge Surrounding Municipality and Local Agency Coordination Development in the ETJ
Grow with Character 52 Maintaining Character
Grow with Balance 53 Future Land Use Map and Land Use Designations Definitions
LAND USE OVERVIEW Historically, Denton’s land use pattern has evolved based on incremental growth and annexation, occurring
largely as greenfield development, that is, the development of formerly agricultural lands and open space.
Development has been driven primarily by market forces, with zoning and the construction of roads and
infrastructure responding to, rather than proactively influencing growth and the resulting pattern of land
use. The availability of rural raw land, coupled with an accommodating development approval process,
has facilitated development that outwardly expanded the suburban fringe at a relatively low density and
intensity. This trend has resulted in a land use pattern that has tended to further extend distances between
where people live, work and shop, resulting in a rate of land consumption and “spreading out” which is
faster than the underlying growth of the population, producing an unsustainable trend that is costly for
the city and taxpayers alike. Meanwhile, considerably more vacant land exists within the present city
limits, both unplatted and in already planned and approved Master Planned Communities (MPCs), than
can be absorbed by the city’s projected population growth over the next two decades and beyond. The
consequences of this “spreading out” trend has been experienced in longer auto trip lengths, greater
levels of congestion, strained environmental and fiscal resources, and challenges for public services and
facilities to keep up with the demands of this rapidly enlarging development footprint. Consequently, the
City’s Annexation Plan, guided by the recommendation in the 1999 Denton Plan to adopt an “aggressive
annexation policy,” should be re-considered. By 2030, additional annexations are not necessary to
accommodate growth and in fact may stretch the city’s ability to provide infrastructure and public services.
At the same time that this suburban
expansion has driven public and
private investment into outlying
areas, some more established,
in-town neighborhoods and
commercial areas have suffered
dis-investment and decline and are
in need of renewal. In response
to the public input that led to the
Community Vision Statement, it
is the intention of the Land Use
Element to reverse this trend
by encouraging thoughtful and
resourceful development and
investment where it is needed
for a fully functional and livable
city. This means supporting more
compact and interconnected land
use patterns; placing housing, jobs
and shopping in closer proximity,
and providing greater opportunity
for mixed-use and development
designed for walkability – both
for improved mobility, as well
as for community health and
sustainability.
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
through the exploration of the Alternative Growth
Scenarios and the voting exercises at Community
Forum 2, which led to the Preferred Growth Concept.
The Preferred Growth Concept illustrates a land
use pattern that clusters development around
distinct locations (i.e. centers or corridors) in a
compact pattern, with mixed-use development,
walkable pedestrian networks, jobs and shopping
located closer to homes, and balanced, mixed-use
neighborhoods.
While the Land Use Element does not seek to
impede approved developments in outlying areas,
it does support rational, staged development in the
fringe and discourages approval of additional large
scale planned developments until already approved
developments approach build-out.
The Land Use Element has been developed to
implement the long-range vision of the community
in the comprehensive plan. The goals, policies, and
actions of the Land Use Element focus on the use
of land and future development within the City of
Denton and the Denton urbanizing area.
The basis for the Land Use Element is the Future
Land Use Map (FLUM). The FLUM was developed
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • Managed, balanced, and sustainable growth in high-quality, livable urban, suburban, and rural
places which offer diverse choices among neighborhood settings while respecting private property rights.
• A compact development pattern which includes expanded areas of mixed-use, a broad array of housing and retail choices responding to changing demographics and market preferences, and re- investment and infill in established areas of the city.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment,
supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
• Established neighborhoods where revitalization and compatible infill development contributes to stable, livable, and historic character, and fosters neighborhood pride and homeownership.
• Thriving universities where coordinated planning and collaborations between the City and the academic communities creates mutually beneficial, stable, and healthy neighborhood edges and where the non-academic community benefits from the vast educational and cultural resources in close proximity.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Contiguous, staged growth which is fiscally and environmentally sound, reduces fragmentation
and sprawl, discourages premature development, and conserves the city’s future growing room.
• Conservation development which retains rural character, protects open space and greenways, enhances development value, and provides greater choices to land owners.
Land Use in the CommUnity Vision statement
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LAND USE 2
are typically residential with incidental agricultural
activities. Parks, including recreational areas and
protected open space, make up approximately three
percent of the city’s land area.
Five percent of the city’s land area is devoted to
commercial uses, which include retail, offices,
restaurants, gas stations, hotels, etc. A significant
amount of the city’s commercial uses are located
close to Downtown and along major corridors
such as U.S. 380 and U.S. 377 and Interstates 35,
35E, and 35W. Industrial uses constitute just over
two percent of the city’s land uses. The majority of
industrial uses are located west of I-35 and I-35W,
near Denton Enterprise Airport. Government uses,
including local and other administrative facilities,
occupy just over two percent of the city’s area.
Religious uses, including buildings used for regular
assembly for religious worship, cover a very small
Existing Land Use Overall the city’s distribution of land uses can
be thought of in three broad categories: where
people live (residential uses), where people work
and shop (nonresidential uses), and land which is
undeveloped. Residential is the largest developed
land use category, covering 10,081 acres, or
about 18 percent of the city’s land area. Of this,
approximately 80 percent is single-family residential
development, along with approximately 10 percent
consisting of multi-family structures and another
10 percent consisting of other residential structures
(including townhouses, duplexes, triplexes,
condominiums, mobile homes, and assisted living/
nursing care facilities). The largest segment of
the city’s land area, over 38 percent, consists of
agricultural uses. Approximately five percent of the
land area consists of farm and ranch uses, which
T A B L E 2 . 1 E x i s t i n g L a n d U s e
L a n d U s e A c r e s % o f C i t y ’ s L a n d A r e a
Agriculture 23,181.91 38.07%
Farm/Ranch 3,047.63 5.00%
Park 1,776.65 2.92%
Residential Single-family 8,091.70 13.29%
Residential Multi-Family 954.58 1.57%
Residential Other 1,034.76 1.70%
Government 1,372.08 2.25%
Institutional 1,478.14 2.43%
Religious 311.43 0.51% Commercial 2,716.84 4.46% Industrial 1,304.41 2.14% Infrastructure 742.89 1.22% Transportation 6,973.2 11.45% Undeveloped 7,913.10 12.99% TOTAL ACRES 60,899.32 100%
Source: City of Denton GIS, 2013. Note: Minor discrepancies may exist due to size and location of local roads.
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030 F I G U R E 2 . 1 : E x i s t i n g L a n d U s e M a p
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portion (less than one percent) of the city’s land
area. Land used in the provision of infrastructure
and transportation services accounts for 1.71 percent
of the city’s acreage. Finally, just over 14 percent of
the city’s land area was identified as “Undeveloped”,
that is land with no structures that does not have an
associated use and is generally not protected from
development. Existing land is depicted in Figure 2.1
and listed in Table 2.1.
Immediately apparent from the existing land use
depiction is a clearly defined center of the city,
with major highways radiating in all directions.
Downtown is surrounded by established
neighborhoods with an historic urban street grid,
and the University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas
Woman’s University (TWU) campuses, other
institutions, and some of the city’s original industrial
areas.
Beyond this urban core area, radiating corridors
are less “mixed” in nature with low-density, single-
family residential emerging as the predominant
pattern, surrounding a suburban hierarchy of local
streets and collectors rather than the street grid in
the urban center. The location of commercial uses
has been primarily influenced by highway access
and interchanges, with commercial uses lining older
highway corridors such as University Drive and Loop
288, and clustered in major concentrations such as
the I-35E and I-35W. A similar pattern can be seen
with industrial uses. Original industrial areas are
clustered near the rail corridors east of Downtown,
while newer, larger industrial areas are located
primarily west of I-35 near the airport, reflecting
changes in industrial transportation modes.
G r o w t h C a p a c i t y In considering the pattern and distribution of the
city’s existing land use, it is appropriate to consider
its capacity to accommodate future growth and
to compare it to the aspirations expressed for the
city’s growth summarized in the Community Vision
Statement. As noted in Table 2.1 the city has over
34,000 acres of “growing room,” comprised of
land categorized as Agriculture, Farm/Ranch and
Undeveloped. As shown in Table 1.4, the city’s
projected population growth through the 2030
plan horizon could require the development of
approximately 16,000 acres of new residential
and non-residential land uses. Thus, within the
present city limits is more than twice the land area
needed for growth through 2030. Or put differently,
if the city’s present growth rate were to continue
indefinitely, the vacant land within the present city
limits should be sufficient to meet the growth needs
through 2050.
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2.2.2 Revise zoning districts for consistency
with future land use designations.
2.2.3 Revise the Zoning Map for consistency
with the Future Land Use Map. Involve
the affected property owners and
general public in this effort. Property
owners will be properly notified before
any action is taken.
2.3 Provide expanded flexibility for mixed-use by the creation of mixed-use future land use designations that reflect the priorities of the Denton community and reflect current market conditions.
2.3.1 Create additional mixed-use zoning
districts and/or zoning overlay districts
to achieve consistency with the mixed-
use land use designations on the
FLUM.
2.3.2 Revise the Denton Development Code
and related development standards
consistent with the mixed use land use
designations on the FLUM.
P l a n a n d P o l i c y C o o r d i n a t i o n : Another important citywide land use consideration
is to foster greater coordination between land use
policies and policies for mobility and infrastructure.
Denton Plan 2030 should become the key policy
document to which future revisions of all plans and
programs among all city department plans and
policies should be revised for consistency, to ensure
coordination of land use mobility and infrastructure
planning. Also, other governmental entities should
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s F u t u r e L a n d U s e M a p a n d F u t u r e L a n d U s e D e s i g n a t i o n s : The single most important component of the Land
Use Element is the FLUM (Figure 2.4). By depicting
where broad categories of land use should occur,
the FLUM serves as a guide in making development
and re-zoning decisions. Maintaining the currency of
existing land use is necessary in order to track land
use trends which may influence policies for future
land use. Principal among the new directions for
land use as depicted on the FLUM and described in
the future land use designations that follow, is the
introduction of an array of new mixed-use districts
to promote flexibility in encouraging development
and redevelopment at the centers and corridors
targeted for growth in the Preferred Growth Concept.
These include Downtown Denton, the compatibility
areas surrounding Downtown, and surrounding the
campuses of the UNT and TWU, as well as a Business
Innovation future land use designation.
2.1 Maintain an updated Existing Land Use Map
2.1.1 Using parcel level data, track land use
changes associated with development
and redevelopment and revise the
exiting land use map annually.
2.2 Utilize the FLUM to guide all development review and re-zoning actions within the plan horizon.
2.2.1 Revise procedures for re-zoning
decisions to require consistency with
the FLUM.
G O A L L U - 1 : G r o w C o m p a c t l y : A c h i e v e s o u n d , s u s t a i n a b l e g r o w t h i n c o m p a c t d e v e l o p m e n t p a t t e r n s w i t h b a l a n c e d l a n d u s e s p l a n n e d i n c o o r d i n a t i o n w i t h t r a n s p o r t a t i o n a n d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e s y s t e m s .
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to promote growth and revitalization, most
recently the Downtown Improvement Plan (DTIP)
containing action recommendations to implement
the Downtown Denton Master Plan adopted in 2002.
While certain recommendations have been acted
upon, including drafting a Form-Based Code, solid
waste, wayfinding, modifications to the Mobility
Plan and Transportation Criteria Manual, more direct
initiatives to stimulate redevelopment have not been
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s D o w n t o w n I n v e s t m e n t : A fundamental component of the Preferred Growth
Concept, that was the basis for the FLUM, is to
encourage compact growth in mixed-use centers
and corridors. Principal among the city’s centers
is Downtown Denton. While the Downtown has
been the subject of past planning efforts intended
be requested to address the consistency of their
future plans with the land use policies contained in
Denton Plan 2030. In addition, other entities exert
considerable influence on land use and growth
dynamics in Denton, particularly the school siting
decisions of multiple school districts and transit
operated by Denton County Transportation Authority
(DCTA). Clear procedures are called for to improve
coordination.
2.4 Revise the Denton Mobility Plan and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to coordinate mobility and infrastructure planning to be consistent with the Land Use Element and the Preferred Growth Concept. (FEV 3.9, M 6.1.1, IU 9.10.2)
2.4.1 Revise the Mobility Plan to reflect the
development intensity and areas of
new growth illustrated in the Land Use
Element. (FEV 3.8.2, M 6.1.1)
2.4.2 Update the Capital Improvement Plan
(CIP) to prioritize the implementation of
Denton Plan 2030. (M 6.2.1)
2.4.3 Update the Transportation Criteria Manual to reflect the policies of the Denton Plan 2030. (M 6.2.1)
2.5 Improve coordination with other entities to implement the goals of the Denton Plan 2030.
2.5.1 Jointly create procedures for
communication and coordinated
planning with:
* School Districts concerning school
siting and impact review
* Denton County
* Denton County Transportation
Authority (DCTA)
* Utility providers
* Surrounding municipalities
* Neighborhood groups
* Local providers of higher education
(UNT, TWU, and NCTC)
* Federal agencies (ex. FEMA)
* North Central Texas Council of
Governments (NCTCOG)
* Nonprofit and faith-based
organizations
* Denton State Supported Living Center
G O A L L U - 2 : G r o w w i t h P u r p o s e : A c h i e v e r e - i n v e s t m e n t , r e v i t a l i z a t i o n , a n d r e d e v e l o p m e n t o f k e y g r o w t h C e n t e r s a n d C o r r i d o r s .
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2.6.5 Consider creation of new entities
to promote, market and develop
Downtown Denton, as identified in the
DTIP, such as: (FEV 3.10.2)
* Business Improvement District (BID)
* Downtown Development Corporation
* Downtown Parking Management
Authority
2.6.6 Create development standards for
urban design, streetscape, scale, and
architectural character applicable for
the Downtown Compatibility Area
future land use designation based on
the proposed Downtown Area Small Area Plan, the guidance of the general urban design principles and policies of
the Community Character and Urban
Design Element, and the proposed
citywide Urban Design Plan. (LU 2.7.1; CC 4.11.1)
U n i v e r s i t y C o l l a b o r a t i o n : Downtown Denton, together with the campuses
of UNT and TWU make up Denton’s urban core.
However, the neighborhoods surrounding the
universities have been heavily impacted by student
housing, parking overspills, and by university
property acquisition for campus expansion. To
addresses these issues, Neighborhood/ University
Compatibility Area Small Area Plans are needed,
with implementation through the Neighborhood/
University Compatibility Area future land use
designation. These should be coordinated with the
Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan and any future revisions to the DTIP to address common
issues such as conflicts in scale, use and intensity,
parking and vehicular circulation, blighted properties,
walkability, transit access, and coordination between
city and university planning.
implemented. Consequently, there may be a need
to revisit the DTIP, and create a new set of priorities
with an emphasis on the development of Downtown
housing, both as new development and the adaptive
re-use of underutilized buildings, and upper floors
above commercial uses. Another priority for the
Downtown is to strengthen the older neighborhoods
and commercial areas immediately surrounding it.
To address issues such as parking, connectivity, and
the compatibility of infill, a Downtown Compatibility
Area Small Area Plan is needed, with implementation
through the Downtown Compatibility Area future
land use designation. Zoning for the Downtown
and Downtown Compatibility Area would then be
adjusted through a zoning district amendment or
overlay district.
2.6 Promote further development, diversification, and intensification of Downtown Denton (DP p. 23).
2.6.1 Revise and update the Downtown Implementation Plan (DTIP) as necessary.
2.6.2 Create a Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan that will identify the character and regulations of the
Downtown Compatibility Area future
land use designation.
2.6.3 Coordinate the revised DTIP and
the Downtown Compatibility Area
Small Area Plan to address common
issues, such as preservation of historic
structures and features, that are shared
throughout the urban core.
2.6.4 Create regulatory incentives, such as
density bonuses to expand housing
in and adjacent to Downtown though
adaptive re-use, utilization of upper
stories and infill development.
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* Preservation of historic structures and
features (CC 4.3.9)
2.7.3 Create development standards
for urban design, streetscape,
scale, and architectural character
applicable for the Neighborhood/
University Compatibility Area future
land use designation based on the
proposed Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Area Small Area Plan, the guidance of the general urban
design principles and policies of the
Community Character and Urban
Design Element, and the proposed
citywide Urban Design Plan. (LU 2.7.1; CC 4.11.1)
E n c o u r a g i n g C o m p a c t G r o w t h a t C e n t e r s a n d C o r r i d o r s : A fundamental component of the Preferred Growth
Concept is the encouragement of a compact growth
pattern oriented around mixed-use centers and
corridors. Centers and corridors generally are
proposed to allow mixed-use development that
focus increased density and activity at key locations
with radiating density extending outwards from
the primary intersections or corridors. Centers
2.7 Encourage collaborative planning for development and redevelopment surrounding UNT, TWU, and other major institutions (DP p.23).
2.7.1 Create Neighborhood/University Compatibility Area Small Area Plans with UNT and TWU, and coordinate
them with the Downtown Compatibility Small Area Plan and the updated Downtown Implementation Plan (HN 7.1.4)
2.7.2 Establish agreements for joint city –
university planning, partnership, and
collaboration within the Neighborhood/
University Compatibility Areas,
focusing on issues such as: (HN 7.1.5)
* Creation of redevelopment target
areas surrounding blighted properties
* Regulation of on-street and off street
parking (M 6.10.1)
* Pedestrian and bicycle facility
improvement (M 6.14)
* Hazard mitigation (CHS 8.4)
* Housing
* Wayfinding (CC 4.2.1, M 6.1.10)
Neighborhood/ University Collaboration Corridor Revitalization
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
placemaking strategies. The Implementation and
Monitoring Element contains guidance on how to
create a Small Area Plan and an Overlay District, when
it is determined that these are the chosen methods for
guiding future development in specific areas.
2.8 Create incentives and regulatory tools to promote new development or redevelopment of priority centers and corridors.
2.8.1 Create Small Area Plans for priority
centers and corridors, consistent with
the Focus Areas Concept (Figure 4.1)
(HN 7.1.6, CC 4.12.3)
2.8.2 Establish Overlay Districts or new
zoning districts as a result of Small
Area Plans that apply revised
development standards tailored to
specific centers and corridors. (CC
4.12.5)
2.8.3 Through the city’s Capital Improvement
Program (CIP), prioritize investments
in designated centers and corridors
based on mobility recommendations
and street standards. (M 6.1.2)
and corridors were identified based on the
locations within the city that are currently centers
of activity and those that offer opportunity for
future focus, either in the form of new development
or redevelopment, and have the capacity to
accommodate growth. While these areas have the
capacity to accommodate growth, they must be
closely evaluated in future development proposals
to ensure that development achieves the vision of
creating enhanced character and higher standards
of design and economic vitality throughout the city.
The mechanism through which this is accomplished
is the Small Area Plan, which is identified for key
centers and corridors based on the Focus Areas
Concept (Figure 4.1). The centers and corridors
are consistent with the locations of concentrated
development illustrated on the Preferred Growth
Concept (Figure 1.7).
Once a Small Area Plan is prepared, an Overlay
District may be established to create additional zoning
standards which are applicable to the context of the
proposed center or corridor. Small Area Plans may
also establish specific standards and guidelines
for public and private realm development and
improvement, treatments for gateways, and other
G O A L L U - 3 : G r o w o u r A s s e t s : M a i n t a i n a n d S t r e n g t h e n N e i g h b o r h o o d s , C o m m e r c i a l a n d E m p l o y m e n t A r e a s .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s I n f i l l i n R e s i d e n t i a l A r e a s : As noted in Figure 2.1, single-family residential is the
city’s largest category of developed land use. Single-
family housing and neighborhoods will remain a
valuable resource, which should be protected from
harmful influences, such as abrupt contrasts of
scale and intensity. However, the City should take
every opportunity to ensure that as gaps in the
neighborhood fabric occur, infill development, that
is development of vacant or deteriorated properties
will be encouraged, complimenting the scale and
character of each neighborhood. Infill development
also creates opportunities for more compact forms
of development and affordable housing options.
Types of residential products that could be suitable
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2.9.3 Identify and remove zoning and other
regulatory impediments to compatible
infill and redevelopment. (HN 7.8.4)
2.9.4 Enact standards in the Denton
Development Code to ensure proper
transitions and buffers between
conflicting land use, scale, and
intensities. (HN 7.8.6)
2.9.5 Apply neighborhood conservation
strategies such as targeted code
enforcement, housing rehabilitation,
and clearance of blighted properties.
(HN 7.8.8)
I n f i l l i n C o m m e r c i a l a n d E m p l o y m e n t A r e a s : Similarly, in commercial and employment areas,
change and obsolescence will occur as consumer
preferences for retail change. Instances of
underutilized parking lots and out-dated big box
stores produce gaps in the activity pattern and
may contribute to blight. To address this inevitable
obsolescence, the city should facilitate non-
residential adaptive re-use, infill and redevelopment,
and take advantage of opportunities to apply
infill in single-family neighborhoods include well-
designed townhomes, quad apartments, duplexes,
and other types of low-moderate density housing
which is potentially compatible within single-family
neighborhoods. In addition, accessory dwelling units
such as garage apartments and “granny flats” and
a second small unit on a single-family lot could be
considered. Some existing neighborhoods may tend
to fear or resist the introduction of new housing
types and perceive them as threats to neighborhood
stability. Such concerns must be addressed by
carefully examining how and where such uses
can be introduced carefully within neighborhoods
and in transitional areas, particularly along higher
volume roadway corridors where single-family
homes are no longer desirable. For neighborhoods
that show signs of distress and transition, including
declines in physical upkeep and home ownership,
neighborhood conservation strategies should
be used to target interventions to contribute to
neighborhood revitalization and stability. The
Community Character and Urban Design Element
and Housing and Neighborhood Element contain
corresponding policies for achieving compatible infill
and redevelopment.
2.9 Promote the stability and livability of established neighborhoods through the creation of guidelines for compatible infill and the removal of impediments to redevelopment.
2.9.1 Conduct an inventory to identify areas
of the city with infill potential within
established neighborhoods.
2.9.2 Establish criteria to identify the
characteristics of compatible infill
development, which would include
guidelines to prevent impacts and
encroachments of incompatible uses,
development scales and intensities.
Infill in residential areas
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
innovative development standards as redevelopment
occurs. The Community Character and Urban
Design Element contains corresponding policies for
achieving compatible infill and redevelopment.
2.10 Promote the stability, quality, and functionality of commercial and employment areas through improved development standards and by addressing obsolescence.
2.10.1 Create and maintain an inventory of
underutilized and abandoned “big box”
retail structures as potential adaptive
reuse, infill, and redevelopment sites to
be developed to fill gaps in commercial
and employment areas.
2.10.2 Create and apply design and
development standards to improve
G O A L L U - 4 : G r o w R e s o u r c e f u l l y : M a n a g e g r o w t h f o r w i s e u s e o f l a n d r e s o u r c e s w i t h s t a g e d , c o n t i g u o u s , a n d c o m p a t i b l e d e v e l o p m e n t .
with a widely dispersed development pattern and
population. While developers are expected to cover
much, if not all, of the capital costs to serve growth,
the City and school districts are obligated to cover
the cost to deliver public services to this expanded
service area and to accept much of the maintenance
costs on facilities built and financed privately, at
taxpayer expense. Consequently, the City needs
to slow its rate of annexation and apply strict
annexation criteria based on need and fiscal impacts
by applying adequate public facilities criteria for
future annexations and development approvals.
While additional annexations are not needed to meet
the city’s immediate growth needs, annexations
may be needed in order to prevent development
Infill in commercial areas
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s G r o w t h a n d A n n e x a t i o n : As noted in the description of the Growth Trend
Scenario, the developable acreage within the
present city limits and planned annexation areas is
considerably more than will be needed to meet the
growth needs of Denton through 2030. This situation
is, in part, the result of the policy of “aggressive
annexation” recommended in the 1999 Denton Plan.
Although annexations provide a degree of control
over what develops at the city’s edge, the amount
of unnecessary annexations the city has initiated
has also been made it vulnerable to fragmented,
leap-frog development and the costs associated
development quality and functionality
of commercial and employment areas.
(CC 4.16.10)
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using municipal utility districts, through which the
city would lose influence to manage growth within
its ETJ. However, Denton should continue policies
established in the Denton Plan for proactive growth
management for a contiguous development patterns
at the city’s edge.
Because much of the city’s present excess
development capacity is within large planned
communities build-out will likely take longer than
two decades to complete. Although developments
such as Rayzor Ranch and Robson Ranch are well
underway, other developments have little or no
development activity. As a consequence, much
of this development will occur well into the future
when market conditions, consumer preferences,
and development practices may be much different
from today. At present, some areas zoned as Master
Planned Communities (MPCs) are associated with
development plans that may not reflect present-
day or future needs and preferences. It is in the
mutual best interest of the City and the owners and
developers of the MPCs to anticipate and provide for
flexibility in re-planning these developments. Future
MPC plans should seek to introduce more innovative
mixed-use and walkable development patterns with
greater connectivity to the development pattern
of the city, and alternative mixes and locations of
residential, and centers for commercial development
and employment.
2.11 Promote development of Master Planned Communities (MPCs) that is consistent with the long-term vision of the Preferred Growth Concept.
2.11.1 Establish a process to facilitate
revisions to the land use mix and
design of approved and future MPCs
including:
* Design that furthers the goals and
policies of Denton Plan 2030 and the
Preferred Growth Concept
* A mix of housing types to reflect
changing demographics and housing
preferences
* Appropriate siting of schools, civic
buildings, and community amenities
* Adjacency to existing transportation
infrastructure systems
* Conservation development where
appropriate
* Incorporation of compact, mixed-use,
and walkable development patterns
* The integration of area-wide trails,
greenways, and green infrastructure
elements
* Developable acreage that is in balance
of overall development of the city
2.11.2 Consider adoption of an Adequate
Public Facilities Ordinance to
complement existing tools for growth
management. This would enable
the timing of development approvals
to encourage development in areas
contiguous with the city’s current
footprint and priority development
areas consistent with the Preferred
Growth Concept (DP p.22).
2.11.3 Use Small Area Plans to assess
appropriate redesign of approved
MPCs (LU 2.8.1)
2.12 Expand the city limits through annexations at a rate consistent with the city’s growth rate and the demand for additional land, consistent with the City’s fiscal capacity to expand facilities and services.
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
uses. As a result, residential and protected use development west of I-35 must be adequately sited to ensure property values and use compatibility are taken into account.
• Drilling and production areas and their associated infrastructure and entitlements result in areas of the city that are not available for development. Reducing the areas devoted to and impacted by drilling and production can improve development capacity of the city and provide a more sustainable development pattern.
• A significant number of product pipelines currently exist in Denton and its ETJ, mainly west of I-35. Since vertical construction cannot occur in a pipeline easement, future development potential is severely limited near pipelines. In addition, roadways cannot be constructed above a pipeline unless the line is adequately located for structural stability and the easement allows such improvements. Municipal and franchise utility extensions and associated repairs must be performed at an appropriate depth or spacing to work around existing pipelines or find routes that do not conflict with existing pipelines.
• Future development costs for structures, new roadways, and utility extensions near gas wells, oil wells, and pipelines may incur unforeseen expenses due to the potential need to develop around Drilling and Production Sites or pipelines, relocate or bore utilities around existing pipelines, perform environmental testing if the property is identified as a prior Drilling and Production Site, or clean up and mitigate contaminated, inactive sites.
• The operations performed at Drilling and Production Sites require heavy vehicle traffic to support the various activities. The increase in vehicle traffic can adversely impact associated roadways and traffic patterns around the Drilling and Production Sites. Dirt, dust, and debris associated with drilling and production activities can produce localized adverse effects which could make new development near them undesirable and unlikely.
2.12.1 Revise the City’s Annexation Plan
and associated policies to reflect the
sufficiency of undeveloped land within
the present city limit, the need for a
contiguous development pattern at
the edge, and an assessment of the
feasibility and cost-effectiveness of
the provision of city infrastructure and
services in various portions of the ETJ.
2.12.2 Base future annexations on
considerations of fiscal impact,
covering all public facilities and
services, and on a determination of
adequate public facilities (DP p.20).
G a s W e l l a n d P i p e l i n e I m p a c t a n d C o m p a t i b i l i t y : Natural gas production is increasing, both nationally
and locally, due to new technologies that enable
economic exploration and development of what
once was a hard-to-produce resource. Researchers
continue to identify the costs and benefits associated
with natural gas production. The research continues
to raise new questions and creates a regulatory
environment that is still relatively fluid.
Denton’s regulatory environment is intricately
dependent on state and federal laws, legal
challenges, stakeholders and interest groups, new
research, and seemingly constant updates to best
practices.
From existing conditions, the City can infer
the following regarding future land use and
development:
• There are a significant number of gas wells in Denton and its ETJ, mainly west of I-35. Drilling and Production Sites are inherently industrial uses. Residential and other protected/sensitive uses, such as schools, hospitals, day care facilities, and parks, are not compatible land uses adjacent to industrial
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future and to minimize the impacts
of gas pipelines, a comprehensive
Gas Well and Pipeline Impact and Compatibility Study analyzing such future developments is recommended.
Subjects may include the impacts of
gas well drilling and production on
surface development costs and on
roads and traffic patterns, the future
effects of such activities on the Mobility
Plan, and the fiscal and economic
impacts of gas well development.
2.13.4 Prepare an Energy Exploration Master Plan to establish a long-term vision for energy exploration in
Denton that guides siting, permitting,
maintenance, inspections, reporting,
and transitioning.
2.13.5 Consider the impacts of gas drilling
and production sites and the location
of pipelines in the update of the
Denton Mobility Plan.
M a n a g i n g G r o w t h a t t h e E d g e : The 1999 Denton Plan contained a discussion of
“The Edge” as a manner of managing the boundary
between the developed and undeveloped portion
of the city (DP p.27-30). Denton Plan policies for
proactive, managed growth to develop a well-
defined and contiguous edge, avoiding inefficient
leapfrog development, remain applicable. Specific
means to achieve sound edge conditions include the
Cty’s water and wastewater CNNs (areas designated
by Certificates of Convenience and Necessity), water
bodies and watershed boundaries, and interlocal
agreements with adjacent communities to define
shared boundaries and the use.
2.13 Ensure proper and orderly development of both surface uses and mineral interests within the City’s boundaries and extra-territorial jurisdiction under current conditions. (CHS 8.5.1)
2.13.1 Consider revisions to Denton’s codes
and ordinances as they pertain to gas
well development. Such revisions
should, at a minimum, require or
encourage the co-location or clustering
of gas wells and the reduction in size of
gas well drilling and production sites in
order to minimize impacts on existing
and future surface development.
2.13.2 Address how drilling and production
sites should be identified by size and
location, and how to maintain relevant
and associated data to address impacts
and compatibility.
2.13.3 In order to ensure that Denton is
applying best practices in managing
rapidly changing technologies in
gas drilling and production in the
Impact of Gas Wells
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
private developers. It reduces the costs of public
services with more compact development and
makes available protected open space with habitat,
scenic, and recreational value at no public cost of
acquisition. Conversely, advantages to developers
and property owners include improved development
profitability by lowering development costs for roads
and utilities, along with tax advantages from open
space easements or dedications and higher the sales
values of residential lots which abut permanently
protected scenic open space, comparable to the
premium sales values of lots along golf fairways.
2.14 Protect rural character and scenic open space at the city’s Edge to promote the achievement of the Preferred Growth Concept.
2.14.1 Promote conservation (clustered)
development in rural areas, with
permanently protected open space
in conservation easements, as an
alternative to large lot development.
(PCE 5.4.8)
2.14.2 Revise Rural Residential and
Rural Commercial zoning districts
to explicitly allow conservation
development, including density and/
or lot size incentives for open space
protection.
As much of “The Edge” of Denton is characterized
as rural land that possesses a character of Denton’s
past and natural environment that is cherished,
conservation development is recommended as the
primary means of managing the interface of The
Edge. Conservation development is an approach to
the design of rural residential subdivisions which
is highly suited to agricultural fringe areas where
the retention of rural character and open space
is desired. The concept is applied by permitting
smaller, clustered lots, in return for the preservation
of generous amounts of open space. The present
RD-5 zoning district permits subdivisions consisting
of five-acre residential lots, representing a gross
density of .02 units/lots per acre. A conservation
development alternative, as proposed in the Rural
Area future land use designation, would allow
for the same number of smaller lots at the same
gross density. For example, on a 100-acre tract
zoned RD-5, an owner could develop 20 five-acre
lots, completely subdividing the property. Under
a conservation development alternative, 20 lots
would also be permitted, but as small as one acre,
consuming only 20 of the 100 acres. The remaining
80 acres could remain as a farm, pasture, homestead
estate, or as protected open space, thus more
effectively retaining rural character. This approach
is highly advantageous both to the public and to
F i g u r e 2 . 2 : Co n v e n t i o n a l L a r g e L o t v. Co n s e r v a t i o n D e v e l o p m e n t A l t e r n a t i v e
Conventional large lot rural subdivision Conservation development alternative
Credit: Randall Arendt, Rural By Design
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S u r r o u n d i n g M u n i c i p a l i t y a n d L o c a l A g e n c y C o o r d i n a t i o n : The City of Denton has a well-established,
collaborative relationship with the North Central
Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), the
metropolitan planning organization (MPO) that
coordinates planning in the region. Denton
participates in several regional mobility and
sustainability initiatives as part of NCTCOG,
including the Trinity Trail System, Transit Oriented
Development (TOD) initiatives, school siting
coordination, complete streets standards, achieving
regional air quality standards, and other sustainable
development initiatives. Similar collaborative
relationships should be sought with Denton
County and adjacent municipalities concerning
coordination of development standards, growth
management policies, environmental protection,
and coordinated development review of projects
which impact multiple jurisdictions. The Parks,
Conservation, and Environment and Infrastructure
and Utilities Elements contain corresponding policies
for furthering conservation goals, maintaining rural
character, and the provision of facilities. These
Elements will work in tandem with the Land Use
Element to achieve this goal.
2.15 Support greater intergovernmental coordination to address common issues of growth management and resource conservation and provision of public facilities and services.
2.15.1 Continue and expand coordination
with NCTCOG on issues of sustainable
development, regional mobility, and
stormwater management.
2.15.2 Expand engagement with Denton
County and adjacent municipalities
concerning coordinated planning and
development review for projects with
Managing Growth at the Edge
Conservation development (Credit: Randall Arendt, Rural by Design)
2.14.3 Expand the network of protected rural
open space including floodplains
and stream corridors through open
space in conservation easements and
through land dedications, voluntary
conservation easements, land trusts,
and parks. Develop procedures
for transfers of ownership and
responsibilities for management of
protected open space. (DP p.21)
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
regional impacts and the application
of innovative standards for roads,
infrastructure, and development.
D e v e l o p m e n t i n t h e E T J : Currently, Denton maintains an ETJ, which is
the unincorporated area contiguous to the city’s
corporate boundaries. The ETJ’s distance from the
city limits is determined by the city’s population
and offers an opportunity to manage growth at the
city’s edge. As a population greater than 100,000,
Denton’s ETJ extends five miles beyond the city’s
boundaries in all directions, and the city currently
has the ability to monitor development that occurs
within this area, but does not have substantial
regulatory power. Since the ETJ is not the city
proper, it does not have zoning and therefore not
subject to development controls. In Denton County,
the county has oversight over development in the
ETJ. However, when property owners want to plat
a tract of land or develop a subdivision they have to
plat with the City. Currently Denton has an interlocal
agreement with Denton County in which the City
of Denton is involved in the approval process for
development proposals in its ETJ. However, stronger
tools are needed to ensure that development
conforms to the desired character that the City
prefers to maintain in its rural areas. Similarly,
location of gas wells should be reviewed alongside
any development proposals in the ETJ to ensure that
uses are complementary and infrastructure can be
feasibly expanded. (See Policy 2.13 above)
At present, it is also possible to easily create
Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) for the provision
of services in unincorporated parts of the county in
order to bypass annexation and allow for fast-tracked
development. The proliferation of utility districts
has allowed for a non-contiguous growth in Denton
County that is not overseen by any municipality.
Having greater oversight given to the City of Denton
to monitor the proliferation of MUDs will create
more thoughtful development in the ETJ in the plan
horizon, consistent with the compact manner of
growth envisioned for the city’s future.
2.16 Strengthen City oversight in its Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) to control the extent and character of development in the city’s periphery.
2.16.1 Continue to control growth in the
ETJ by requiring City approval of
subdivision plats and all related
permits in its ETJ through the
established interlocal agreement with
Denton County.
2.16.2 Ensure that proposed development in
the ETJ is consistent with the Preferred
Growth Concept, established future
land use designations and standards,
and preserves rural character and
natural environment.
2.16.3 Discourage the establishment of
Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs)
in Denton’s ETJ without appropriate
development review.
2.16.4 Coordinate with surrounding
municipalities as part of the approval
process for development proposals
in Denton’s ETJ where the proposed
development is in close proximity
or where a municipality shares a
boundary.
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LAND USE 2 F I G U R E 2 . 3 : D e n t o n Ci t y L i m i t s & E T J
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
G O A L L U - 5 : G r o w w i t h C h a r a c t e r : P r o m o t e D e v e l o p m e n t w h i c h E n h a n c e s C o m m u n i t y C h a r a c t e r a n d F u n c t i o n a l i t y .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s M a i n t a i n i n g C h a r a c t e r : An important source of community pride in Denton
is the fact that the city has historically maintained
a separate and distinct identity and character, from
other rapidly growing neighboring communities.
To ensure that this distinct character is retained,
this series of policies and actions proposes a
comprehensive review of the city’s development
standards influencing both development quality
and character, including architectural and landscape
character. In addition, development standards
influencing the city’s functionality should be
reviewed, including “complete streets” design
standards to promote walking, bicycling and transit
use, as well as auto traffic.
In addition, unique areas of the city require a unique
set of standards, applied through new Small Area
Plans. These may include areas that have a unique
character or sensitivity, such as the city’s entrances
and gateways, environmentally sensitive areas, and
uses that pose unique challenges of compatibility,
such as travel centers, which can exert impacts
associated with truck traffic. Finally, while additional
standards would primarily influence private sector
development practice, it is appropriate that the City
models a high standard for the design of public
buildings, parks, and civic spaces. The Community
Character and Urban Design Element contains
general guidelines for the provision of a vibrant
public realm, quality urban design of buildings, and
creation of distinct “places.”
2.17 Revise development regulations and development review processes to facilitate and support desired forms of development and improved standards for urban design and placemaking.
2.17.1 Adopt citywide design and
development standards and
guidelines specific to individual land
uses and thoroughfares to improve
development quality and functionality,
including but limited to guidelines for
urban design, site design, landscaping,
green infrastructure and access
management. (CC 4.16, M 6.1.1)
2.17.2 Create and apply additional Small
Area Plans to address unique character
areas and development conditions. (CC
4.2.7, 4.17.1, 4.17.2, 4.17.3)
2.17.3 Identify procedures to streamline and
reduce time in the approval process
for developments demonstrated to
be consistent with the FLUM and the
policies herein.
2.18 Set a high standard of quality in the design of the public realm to enhance appearance and functionality.
2.18.1 Enhance design standards pertaining
to aesthetics and complete streets for
future construction of public rights-of-
way and thoroughfares. (M 6.1.3)
2.18.2 Coordinate design guidelines with
Mobility goals and policies to achieve a
functional street network for a wide range
of transportation options. (M 6.13.1)
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2.18.3 Establish public realm design guidelines
for buildings, streets, and public spaces
that will achieve an aesthetically-
G O A L L U - 6 : G r o w w i t h B a l a n c e : E s t a b l i s h l a n d u s e d e s i g n a t i o n s t h a t r e s p o n d t o t h e g r o w i n g n e e d s a n d c h a r a c t e r s p e c i f i c a t i o n s o f t h e D e n t o n c o m m u n i t y .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s F u t u r e L a n d U s e M a p a n d L a n d U s e D e s i g n a t i o n s The desired pattern of future land uses is depicted
in Figure 2.4: Future Land Use Map (FLUM). When
compared to the Existing Land Use Map (Figure 2.1),
it becomes evident that the planned land uses reflect
new patterns designed not only to accommodate
the projected growth in population, but also to do
so in creative ways that result in a more sustainable
pattern, including greater use of mixed-use and
targeted re-use and revitalization of designated
centers and corridors.
The purpose of the FLUM is threefold: first, to
depict the intended long-term pattern of residential,
commercial, employment, and other supporting
land uses, as articulated in the Community Vision
Statement and through the land uses goals, policies,
and actions. Second, the FLUM establishes the
basis for adjustments to zoning district changes,
development review procedures and other tools,
to achieve the desired pattern and quality of
development. Finally, the FLUM guides coordinated
transportation and utility planning in order to
ensure that facility capacities are consistent with the
demands from anticipated levels and intensities of
development.
The FLUM, however, does not constitute zoning, nor
does it establish zoning district boundaries. Instead,
the FLUM reflects Denton Plan 2030’s broad policy for
future distribution of land uses to be achieved through
by the year 2030, to be used in guiding future re-zoning
and other development decisions. The goals, policies,
and actions below establish general descriptions
and intent that will aid in development review and
the revision of the Denton Development Code, which
guides development approval.
2.19 Establish residential future land use designations as part of the FLUM to create places for the growth and expansion of places for people to live in Denton.
Three distinct residential future land use
designations are shown on the FLUM.
Characteristics and guiding policies are described as
follows:
R u r a l A r e a s ( 1 u n i t p e r 5 a c r e s ) This category includes farms and ranches as the
predominant use along with rural (very low density)
residential and rural commercial including feed
stores, farm equipment, etc. This land use may allow
lots as small as one acre under the gross density
provision to allow for conservation development
which clusters smaller lots while permanently
protecting scenic rural open space. This land use
may also include single-family homes on large
pleasing interface between the public
and private realm. (CC 4.7, 4.8)
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
e. The largely rural scenic character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
R e s i d e n t i a l – L o w D e n s i t y ( u p t o 4 d w e l l i n g u n i t s p e r a c r e ) This category includes the city’s predominantly
single-family neighborhoods, with lot sizes ranging
from 1 (one) acre or more in rural fringe areas up to
four units per acre gross density throughout many
of the city’s suburban subdivisions. Dwellings in
this land use district are generally one to two stories
with private driveways and open space, consisting of
privately-maintained tree canopy and front, back and
side yards. Building and driveway orientation, the
locations of private garages, building material, and
the presence of sidewalks vary by neighborhood and
the era of neighborhood development. Generally
these types of single-family neighborhoods are
developed as distinct subdivisions that are linked by
internal circulation systems with limited access to
local and connector roads.
2.19.2 Apply the “Low Density” future land
use designation for the development of
lower density residential development.
Development criteria of the Low Density Residential
Land Use:
a. Development may include single-family residential development on up to quarter acre (10,890 square feet) lots.
b. Development should be contiguous with existing developed areas of the city and consistent with the Preferred Growth Concept.
c. A variety of housing styles, types and prices with large, newly developed neighborhoods is encouraged.
lots, which is suited for areas on the periphery of
the city that complement a more suburban type of
development. Development in this future land
use category will continue the present character of
the rural areas of Denton with low-profile homes
of no greater than two stories, generous lots and
setbacks, and materials that complement the natural
surroundings and ranch heritage.
2.19.1 Establish the Rural Areas future land
use designation to allow for low
density residential development.
Development criteria of the Rural Areas Land Use:
a. Development may include single-family homes on large lots as well as farms and ranches.
b. Lots as small as half an acre under the gross density provision may allow for conservation development, which clusters smaller lots while permanently protecting scenic rural open space.
c. Lots as small as one acre may allow for conservation development.
d. Agricultural production, nurseries, and agricultural related structures is allowed by right.
Rural Areas (up to 1 unit per 5 acres)
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LAND USE 2
d. Within established residential areas, new development should respond to existing development patterns, and design standards.
e. New residential development should be organized to promote walkability, access to parks, open space, and recreation amenities and ideally should locate all residences within a five to ten minute walking distance from neighborhood-serving retail and other amenities such as parks and school facilities.
f. Compact developments that include clustered, small lots with substantial retained open space are encouraged.
g. Urban agriculture is encouraged.
h. Places of worship, parks, and open space are allowed by right.
i. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
R e s i d e n t i a l – M o d e r a t e D e n s i t y ( 4 - 1 2 d w e l l i n g u n i t s p e r a c r e ) This category accommodates single-family detached
housing on small lots, typical of Denton’s more
compact, established single-family neighborhoods
and low-rise multi-family dwellings and townhomes.
This land use applies to areas within the central
areas of Denton and transition areas between
established single-family neighborhoods and mixed-
use or commercial areas that can accommodate
greater density, or adjacent to key corridors.
Dwellings in this future land use category vary in
scale and style and may contain a great deal of
diversity by each street and block. Most areas are
characterized by rectilinear lots with modest front
yards. Most streets are lined by sidewalks, but this
is not prevailing throughout. Development is linked
by local streets and is most commonly accessed
by multiple intersections and points of access.
While the land use primarily includes single-family
dwellings, multi-family dwellings, and townhomes
may be located in this land use as well. While the
quality of multi-family dwellings and townhomes
currently varies, in the case of future infill
development, they should maintain a scale, style,
and building orientation in order to complement the
prevailing character of its surroundings.
2.19.3 Establish the “Moderate Density”
future land use designation to allow for
the type of neighborhood development
found in Denton’s established single-
family neighborhoods, compatibility
areas, and adjacent to mixed-use and
commercial areas.
Development criteria of the Moderate Density
Residential Land Use:
a. Development may include single-family residential development on small lots, duplexes, townhomes, and low-density multi- family dwellings.
b. Development should be within and adjacent to Denton’s existing neighborhoods, consistent with the Preferred Growth Concept.
Low Density Residential
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
D o w n t o w n D e n t o n This designation allows for moderate and
high density residential, commercial, office,
entertainment, and other uses except industrial,
tailored to encourage a greater level of activity
in Downtown, while protecting the scale and
strengthening the character of Downtown and
Denton’s historic core. Downtown Denton is
focused on the blocks surrounding the Square and
will include development that complements and is
oriented to this historic grid pattern of this area. As
Downtown Denton is characterized by a particular
scale and character, it is important that this be
maintained in future development. However, as
the cultural heart of Denton, it is also appropriate
to allow for a variety of uses that can help foster
the economic viability and evolution of Downtown
to serve the community’s current preferences and
needs. As significant infill opportunities exist in
Downtown, development is encouraged, and design
review should ensure sensitive design based on the
criteria below.
2.20.1 Establish the Downtown Denton
future land use designation to create
distinction in Denton’s Downtown and
establish a mix of uses to contribute to
its sense of place and vitality.
Development criteria of the Downtown Denton Land
Use:
a. Development should contribute positively to the image of Denton while being sensitive to the scale and character of Downtown and historic resources.
b. Development should preserve historic structures and features wherever possible.
c. Development should build upon and enhance the city’s regional draw and economic base.
c. Residential development with a variety of housing styles, types and prices that is compatible with adjacent development is encouraged.
d. Infill development should respond to existing development with compatible patterns, and design standards.
e. New residential development should be organized to promote walkability, including sidewalks, and ideally should locate all residences a five to ten minute walk from neighborhood-serving retail and other amenities such as parks and school facilities.
f. Urban agriculture is encouraged.
g. Places of worship, parks, and open space are allowed by right.
h. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
2.20 Establish mixed-use future land use designations as part of the FLUM to encourage compact, efficient, and active land use patterns.
Seven distinct mixed-use designations are shown on
the FLUM, and described as follows:
Moderate Density Residential
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LAND USE 2
d. Typical downtown activities may include destination shopping, restaurants, local business, employment, entertainment venues, government and civic uses, schools, parks and open space and high-density residential.
e. Vertical mixed-use that contribute to the prosperity of Downtown Denton’s commercial district are encouraged.
f. Development should address the public realm and contribute to a vibrant environment for pedestrians and bicycles.
g. Urban agriculture is encouraged.
h. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
i. Parking is a key element in Downtown. As parking demand increases, developing parking strategies as outlined in the Downtown Implementation Plan is encouraged.
D o w n t o w n C o m p a t i b i l i t y A r e a This designation applies to residential and
commercial areas adjacent to the Downtown core
that are affected by their proximity to Downtown.
This designation serves to create compatible form
and uses for the areas that serve to strengthen
both the Downtown and adjacent neighborhoods.
Development in this area currently is a mix of
commercial, residential and some industrial uses.
Due to a lack of overriding character, achieving a
distinctive character in this area is a goal rather
than an attribute to maintain. Significant infill
opportunities exist in this area, and development is
encouraged to help fill in and soften this transition
area between Downtown and adjacent residential
neighborhoods.
2.20.2 Establish the Downtown Compatibility
Area future land use designation to
provide compatibility between the
intensity and activity of Downtown
Denton and adjacent residential and
commercial areas.
Development criteria of the Downtown Compatibility
Area Land Use
a. The Downtown Compatibility Area should allow for uses that provide a transition between Downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
b. Typical uses include moderate to high-density residential, neighborhood-serving retail, restaurants, commercial and office.
c. Development should encourage uses that are in close proximity to one another so that all uses are accessible from a single stop or by walking or bicycling.
d. Development should address the public realm and contribute to a vibrant environment for pedestrians and bicycles.
e. Development should preserve historic structures and features wherever possible.
f. Places of worship, schools, parks, and open space, are allowed by right.
g. Urban agriculture is encouraged.
Downtown Denton
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2.20.3 Establish the Regional Mixed-use
future land use designation to
encourage mixed-use development
that serves the entire Denton
community at large as well as draws
from adjacent municipalities and
within the DFW Metroplex.
Development criteria of the Regional Mixed-use Area
Land Use
a. A regional activity center is considerably larger and more diverse in its land uses than any other activity center. It includes vertically integrated uses where different uses may occur on each floor of the building.
b. Allowable uses may include national retailers, employment, restaurants and entertainment venues, and high-density housing.
c. Uses should create destinations and augment the regional draw and image of Denton.
d. Commercial uses should be programmed appropriately to serve a regional market and to be compatible with adjacent land uses.
e. Diverse uses should be located in close proximity to one another so that all uses are accessible from a single stop or by walking or bicycling.
h. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
R e g i o n a l M i x e d - u s e This designation applies to areas that serve as
regional destinations within Denton. Development
may include moderate and high density residential,
commercial, office, entertainment and other uses
except industrial, at the highest levels of scale
and density within the city. Unique development
standards are proposed to create the walkable urban
character and day and nighttime activity of an urban
center. Major medical and health care institutions
and the areas of influence around them are included
in this future land use designation. This designation
is located primarily along I-35 interchanges and
along primary arterials to encourage the greatest
regional accessibility. Future development in
Regional Mixed-use areas will complement and
embrace existing, viable uses, and raise the
standard of design to increase their regional draw,
accommodate greater connectivity and mobility
options, and create a sense of place. Focus areas in
the Regional Mixed-use category may be the subject
of Small Area Plans. (CC 4.12.1)
Downtown Compatibility Area Regional Mixed-use
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LAND USE 2
encourage mixed-use development that
serves the Denton community at large.
Development criteria of the Community Mixed-use
Area Land Use
a. Allowable uses may include shopping, services, recreation, employment, and institutional facilities that are required and supported by the surrounding community. Typical types of development may include a supermarket, drug store, specialty shops, service stations, midsize offices, employers, and high- to moderate density housing.
b. Places of worship, schools, and parks and open space are allowed by right.
c. Diverse uses shall be located in close proximity to one another so that all uses are accessible from a single stop or by walking or bicycling.
d. Vertical and horizontal mixed-use is encouraged.
e. Development should be sited accessible to transit routes.
f. Commercial uses should be programmed appropriately to serve the local Denton community and to be compatible with adjacent land uses.
g. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new
f. Development should be sited accessible to transit routes.
g. Places of worship, schools, and parks and open space are allowed by right.
h. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
i. Proposals should be presented and reviewed according to the degree to which they achieve the goals of the Regional Mixed-use land use and may be the subject of Small Area Plans, when significant developments are proposed.
C o m m u n i t y M i x e d - u s e This designation is intended to promote a mix of
uses, of which various commercial uses remain
predominant, but where residential, service, and
other uses are complementary. This land use applies
to existing and future commercial areas in the city,
where redevelopment to mixed-use is desirable. The
intent is to encourage infill and redevelopment for a
more diverse and attractive mix of uses over time.
Examples include residential units over commercial
uses or a wider array of economically viable uses
to replace obsolete uses such as former car sales
lots and vacated big box stores. Such areas also
may represent opportunities for the introduction of
higher density and mixed housing types, without
impacting, nearby single-family neighborhoods.
Future development in Community Mixed-use
areas will complement and embrace existing, viable
uses, and raise the standard of design to increase
their economic viability, accommodate greater
connectivity and mobility options, and create a sense
of place to serve the local community. Focus areas
in the Community Mixed-use category may be the
subject of Small Area Plans. (CC 4.12.1)
2.20.4 Establish the Community Mixed-
use future land use designation to
Community Mixed-use
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
Development criteria of the Neighborhood Mixed-
use Area Land Use:
a. The focus area of a neighborhood center contains facilities vital to the day-to-day activity of the neighborhood. A neighborhood center might contain a convenience store, small restaurant, personal service shops, daycare, and small offices.
b. Development should be located close to existing or proposed residential development at a scale that can promote walking and bicycling.
c. Vertical and horizontal mixed-use is encouraged.
d. Moderate to high density residential use is allowed.
e. Commercial uses should be programmed appropriately to serve a neighborhood- serving market and to be compatible with adjacent land uses.
f. Development should be sited accessible to transit routes.
g. Places of worship, schools, and parks and open space are allowed by right.
h. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
h. Proposals should be presented and reviewed according to the degree to which they achieve the goals of the Community Mixed-use land use and may be the subject of Small Area Plans, when significant developments are proposed.
N e i g h b o r h o o d M i x e d - u s e This designation applies to neighborhoods or
districts where the predominant use is residential,
but with a mix of compatible housing types and
densities along with local-serving, non-residential
retail and service uses. Such use mixes are typically
found in established neighborhoods in the city’s core
that accommodate local services. This designation
is also applied in areas of future development suited
primarily to single-family development, but where
neighborhood-serving retail and services are critical
to achieving balanced, accessible neighborhoods. At
these locations, a diverse mix of housing types and
densities may also be accommodated. Ensuring that
buildings are of the appropriate scale and intensity
to complement the surrounding neighborhood
and environment is critical. Future development in
Neighborhood Mixed-use areas will complement
and embrace existing, viable uses, and raise the
standard of design to increase connectivity and
mobility options, and create a sense of place to serve
the neighborhood. Focus areas in the Neighborhood
Mixed-use category may be the subject of Small
Area Plans. (CC 4.12.1)
2.20.5 Establish the Neighborhood Mixed-
use future land use designation to
encourage mixed-use development
that serves individual neighborhoods
within Denton.
Neighborhood Mixed-use
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LAND USE 2
encourage locations for traditional and
innovative office developments.
Development criteria of the Business Innovation
Land Use:
a. Typical uses may include office parks and flexible office space to encourage the establishment of research and development enterprises, start-ups, and opportunities for business innovation.
b. Supporting and complementary retail and services are allowed by right.
c. Publicly-accessible parks and greenways and continuity with the pedestrian and bicycle network is encouraged.
d. Development should be sited accessible to transit routes to encourage taking transit to work.
e. Development should be sited nearby to existing residential areas to encourage jobs located close to employment centers.
f. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
N e i g h b o r h o o d / U n i v e r s i t y C o m p a t i b i l i t y A r e a This land use designation applies to residential and
commercial areas adjacent to University of North
Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University (TWU)
that are affected by their proximity to the university.
Currently these areas are characterized by university
buildings abutting, in many cases, single-family
neighborhoods. As the universities are projected to
increase in enrollment, which will require additional
facilities and student housing, this designation is to
create compatible form and land uses for the areas
that serve both the established neighborhoods and
the universities.
i. Proposals should be presented and reviewed according to the degree to which they achieve the goals of the Neighborhood Mixed-use land use and may be the subject of Small Area Plans, where necessary.
B u s i n e s s I n n o v a t i o n This designation is intended for large tracts of land
that are appropriate for well-planned, larger scale
office and employment parks with supporting uses
such as retail, hotels, and residential. Primary uses
include office, research and development, and light
manufacturing. The primary uses should be developed
in a campus-like or corporate park setting that may
include generous, linked open space to maximize
value and to promote visual quality and compatibility
with the surrounding area. This designation is
proposed throughout the city in areas that are in close
proximity to commercial use areas and employment
hubs in the city, so that future development may
build from this proximity and create a critical mass
for economic development. The mixed-use nature of
these areas will ensure that employment areas will
be benefit from complementary retail and services
throughout the day.
2.20.6 Establish the Business Innovation
future land use designation to
Business Innovation
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
2.20.7 Establish the Neighborhood /
University Compatibility Area
future land use designation to allow
for appropriate and high quality
development adjacent to Denton’s
universities.
Development criteria of the Neighborhood /
University Compatibility Area Land Use:
a. The Neighborhood / University Compatibility Area should provide a gradual transition in scale, use, character, and intensity between the universities and surrounding neighborhoods.
b. Typical uses include moderate density residential, neighborhood-serving retail, restaurants, commercial and office, that can serve both students and neighborhood residents and university students.
c. Uses that may result in noise or traffic impacts on residential neighborhoods should be located strategically to minimize conflicts.
d. The university master plans and facilities departments should be consulted for any new development occurring in these areas.
e. Development should encourage uses that are in close proximity to one another to encourage walking and bicycling.
f. Development shall address the public realm and contribute to a vibrant environment for pedestrians and bicycles.
g. Development should preserve historic structures and features wherever possible.
h. Places of worship, schools, and parks and open space are allowed by right.
i. Proposals should trigger coordination between the university entity, City of Denton, and affected community residents in order to ensure that future development is sensitive to the goals of the community, the university, and the overarching goals of Denton Plan 2030.
j. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
k. Development shall adequately address parking needs and mitigate the impact to adjacent neighborhoods.
Neighborhood / University Compatibility Area
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LAND USE 2
2.21 Establish non-residential future land use designations as part of the FLUM to establish non-residential growth in this city.
N o n - R e s i d e n t i a l Four distinct, non-residential future land use
designations are shown on the FLUM, and described
as follows:
C o m m e r c i a l This designation applies to concentrations of
commercial uses, including regional, community,
and neighborhood shopping centers. Such
properties may not be expected to undergo
redevelopment or a change in use over the Plan
horizon, and the immediate areas in which they are
located may not be suitable for the introduction of
mixed-uses. While some new commercial centers
are anticipated, in general new retail and commercial
service uses are encouraged within more diversified
mixed-use centers. Future commercial areas
are maintained to accommodate existing viable
commercial uses, as well as commercial uses that
may not be appropriate to be located in a mixed-use
format, such as auto-oriented uses, and stand-alone
commercial uses to serve outlying areas of the city.
2.21.1 Establish the Commercial future
land use designation to allow for
commercial development.
Development criteria of the Commercial Land Use:
a. The amount of commercial development should be balanced appropriately with existing and proposed residential land use.
b. Commercial development should be compatibly designed with adjacent neighborhoods, or in the case of new development, address the street, and create an active public realm and sensitivity to the natural context.
c. Mixed-use designation with coordinated access management along Denton’s arterial streets, collectors, and highways is encouraged (DP p.42.)
d. Stand-alone big box stores are discouraged.
e. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
G o v e r n m e n t / I n s t i t u t i o n a l This designation applies to government-owned land,
university and college campuses, and similar large-
scale institutional activity centers. Development
in these land use areas is typically subject to
particular guidelines and therefore outside of the
oversight of development review. It is important,
however, that transitions to adjacent land uses
are considered in the development of future
goverment and institutional-related uses. In the
case of universities, these are addressed within
the Neighborhood / University Compatibility Area
future land use district. Coordination on future
development will ensure that these land uses are
appropriately designed. Besides their function
in delivering governmental service, government
Commercial
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030
and institutional use include structure that often
become architectural and visual landmarks which
adds to the community’s sense of place and identity.
Consequently development of future governmental
and institutions uses should recognize principles of
place-making. (LU 2.4.1)
2.21.2 Establish the Government/ Institutional
future land use designation to
include government-owned land and
institutional uses.
Development criteria of the Government/
Institutional Land Use:
a. Development should include buildings and sites meant to serve a particular service need to the City of Denton, such as the City landfill, water and wastewater facilities, Denton Municipal Electric facilities, Denton Enterprise Airport, and entities that are self-governing, such as the universities and the DISD.
b. Development should be organized to enhance key corridors, and create landmarks and a sense of place in Denton.
c. Development should be located to provide shared facilities and the most efficient use of land.
d. Potential nuisance development should be sited to avoid conflicts with sensitive land use.
e. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
I n d u s t r i a l C o m m e r c e This designation applies to areas where the
predominant use include both light and heavy
industrial uses, such as manufacturing, assembly,
fabrication, and wholesaling and distribution may be
introduced to replace underutilized, heavy industrial
uses or house future industrial development. This
designation is located primarily west of I-35W near
the Denton Municipal Airport. It is important in
future development that transitions to adjacent
sensitive land uses are considered.
2.21.3 Establish the Industrial Commerce
future land use designation to allow
for industrial development.
Industrial Commerce
Government/ Institutional
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LAND USE 2
uses, are not illustrated, as they may be included in a
variety of future land use districts as allowable uses.
The Parks, Conservation, and Environment Element
contains guidelines pertaining to parks and open
spaces.
2.21.4 Development in the Parks and Open
Space future land use designation
should be subject to the goals, policies
and actions of the Parks, Conservation,
and Environment Element and the
Parks, Recreation and Trails System Masterplan. (PCE 5.1.2)
Development criteria of the Industrial Commerce
Land Use:
a. Uses may include manufacturing, warehousing and distributing, and a wide range of industrial operations.
b. Complementary and supporting uses such as convenience shopping and child care centers are allowed.
c. Development should be sited to avoid conflicts with sensitive land uses.
d. Future development should include a variety of transportation options for access, including links to transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities.
e. The character of this area should be maintained by ensuring that new development is sensitive to the surrounding built and natural context in scale and form as described above.
P a r k s a n d O p e n S p a c e This designation applies to existing large scale parks
and protected open spaces of citywide significance
which are expected to remain as open space in
perpetuity. These are illustrated on Figure 5.1: Parks.
Potential future large-scale park acquisitions, as well
as smaller neighborhood parks and recreational
Parks and Open Space
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2 DENTON PLAN 2030 F I G U R E 2 . 4 : F u t u re L a n d U s e M a p
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3) FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY
Fiscal and Economic Vitality Overview 69
Economic Vitality 71 Economic Development and Land Use Economic Development and Partnerships Workforce Development Tourism and Entertainment in Denton
Fiscal Vitality 78 Fiscal Impact Analysis Local Revenue Structure Budget and Financing Sources of Revenue Fiscal Impact Analysis Results Revenue Enhancement Factors Influencing the Fiscal Sustainability of Land Use Infrastructure Investment – Levels of Service Infrastructure Investment – Planning and Financing Future Fiscal Impact Analyses Infill Development/Redevelopment Residential Diversity
Development Partnerships and Coordination Standards for Future Development Impact Fee
FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY OVERVIEW The goals, policies, and actions necessary to ensure the sustained vitality of Denton must celebrate Denton’s
strengths, support the community and welcome visitors, grow the economy, and ensure an infrastructure
system capable of evolving with growth. The Fiscal and Economic Vitality Element provides information needed
to address the impacts of new and different development in Denton, and provides a framework for budgeting
for the financial implications of growth.
This Element explores approaches available to Denton to provide fiscally responsible infrastructure and public
facilities necessary to support the community and economic development goals put forth throughout Denton Plan
2030. Results of a Fiscal Impact Analysis (FIA) that was conducted by TischlerBise concurrently with the scenario
development process inform the economic and fiscal policy and action recommendations of this Element. The
methodology used in, and major conclusions of the FIA are best understood in the Fiscal Impact Analysis report
provided as a supplement to the Denton Plan 2030. The FIA used the development assumptions of each
scenario and the Preferred Growth Concept to project a fiscal picture for the City through the Plan
horizon (2030). The FIA evaluated both cumulative fiscal impacts over the Plan horizon,
as well as on an annual basis. Order-of-magnitude fiscal impacts of each growth
scenario were shared with the community at Community Forum 2, and
informed the formation of the Preferred Growth Concept, and
subsequently, the FLUM.
Fiscal impact analyses enable a city to estimate
the difference between the costs of providing
services for new development and the taxes,
user fees, and other revenues generated by new
development. The intent of a FIA is to guide policy
decisions regarding revenue enhancements, and
maintaining community facilities and services in keeping with
population growth, otherwise known as levels of service. Major
conclusions of the FIA inform the Fiscal and Economic Vitality
Element through policy and action recommendations to use on
current strengths to diversify the economy, explore opportunities
for revenue enhancement, and encourage a development pattern
that maximizes existing infrastructure. The Fiscal and Economic
Vitality Element discusses why it is important for Denton to:
• Implement the Denton Plan 2030 policies and actions as a means to spur economic growth.
• Implement policies and actions to ensure the City’s long- term fiscal sustainability.
• Establish and maintain levels of service for infrastructure and public facilities through the annual Capital Improvement Plan.
• Conduct additional fiscal impact analyses and revenue enhancement strategies.
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030 The Character of Denton • Denton is fertile territory for creativity and innovation in our vibrant music and arts scene,
technology, business, and education.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • We cherish our artists and musicians and celebrate our community in local events and festivals that
reflect the uniqueness of the community.
• The City of Denton is a healthy, family-friendly community which sees its youth as its most valuable resource; a resource worthy of investment in education, healthful recreation, and opportunities for challenging and rewarding employment and engagement in civic affairs.
• The City of Denton’s institutions of higher learning, UNT and TWU, are partners with government, civic organizations, and local employers in initiatives to foster creativity in the arts, innovation, a strong economy, life-long learning, and the retention of the best and brightest.
The Strength of Our Economy • We leverage our strategic location, universities, and medical institutions, as a national leader in
technological and knowledge-based innovation, allowing us to attract and retain a highly educated and motivated workforce.
• We leverage our strategic location and multi-modal accessibility in the Metroplex and capitalize on key assets such as the Denton Enterprise Airport.
• We value and support our major manufacturing employers and other responsible corporate citizens to ensure their stability, encourage their commitment to Denton, facilitate their expansion, and leverage their presence by accommodating their suppliers, supporting businesses, and workers.
• We support and encourage our entrepreneurs and small businesses with a business-friendly attitude and efficient regulations and permitting.
• We market our Denton “brand,” our unique, creative atmosphere and small town quality of life, which attracts a highly educated and motivated workforce and gives Denton a competitive advantage in attracting new investment, entities, and well-paying jobs.
• We attract corporations and businesses which have a strong sense of corporate responsibility to the environment, the community, and their governance and who take active roles as being excellent corporate citizens.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • A compact development pattern which includes expanded areas of mixed-use, a broad array of
housing and retail choices responding to changing demographics and market preferences, and re- investment and infill in established areas of the city.
• An efficient transportation system with a safe and well-connected road network which accommodates a wide array of mobility options, including local and commuter rail transit, as well as accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Infrastructure systems which have undergone well-planned, staged expansion to serve and manage the city’s growth.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment,
supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Contiguous, staged growth which is fiscally and environmentally sound, reduces fragmentation
and sprawl, discourages premature development, and conserves the City’s future growing room.
Fiscal and Economic Vitality in thE community Vision statEmEnt
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
Economic Vitality A strong and diverse economy is fundamental to
achieving the Denton Plan 2030 vision. The economic
and workforce development policies and actions
ensure that Denton continues to be a community of
choice, specifically for the new graduates entering the
workforce, and growth-oriented businesses in need
of skilled talent. The economic base envisioned by
the Denton Plan 2030 capitalizes on local competitive
advantages, focuses on the export of products
and services, and the importing of income and
discretionary dollars.
It is through a growing economy that the City of
Denton will drive the private and public investments
necessary to improve the quality of life and place
desired by the community. For example, the two
growing universities are economic engines in their
own right, and the student bodies are a significant
asset for the city. The universities serve as economic
building blocks from which research partnerships can
emerge, employers can staff jobs, and entrepreneurial
start-ups can spin off. According to 2011 data from the
U.S. Census Bureau (the most recent data available),
nearly a quarter (23 percent) of the jobs located in
Denton are in Education Services. These jobs are
disbursed in all levels of education, and demonstrate a
concentrated investment in workforce development. As
the universities evolve their educational programs to
prepare new graduates to fill well-paying jobs offered
by jobs offered by growing industries, the City can
strengthen its position as an education hub.
As a core city, Denton hosts a large share (22 percent)
of the region’s commercial, retail, and personal services
jobs. While not growth-oriented industries, a strong
commercial sector increases vibrancy of the city and
imports dollars from the surrounding region as visitors
shop, dine and enjoy entertainment in the city. Denton
also benefits from a strong Health Care and Social
Assistance industry, hosting 16 percent of 2011 jobs in
Denton. These companies help to increase the quality
of life for Denton’s citizenry and serve as an economic
building block both as employers and by generating
revenue from patients and visitors coming to the city to
access services.
Denton benefits from having a diverse industry base.
Economic diversity creates a stable base, able to
weather the ups and downs of any specific industry
sector with less interruption to the city’s economy. The
remaining 39 percent of existing jobs are distributed
across the other major industry sectors. These jobs
include activity in the industrial zone surrounding the
Denton Enterprise Airport, which is one of Denton’s
most crucial competitive advantages. Denton Plan 2030
protects the airport as an economic asset, by providing
policies and actions designed to recruit growth-
oriented business dependent on a diverse and reliable
transportation network, and provides direction to use
the asset to increase export-oriented industrial activity.
F i g u r e 3 . 1 : Ci t y o f D e n t o n I n d u s t r y E m p l o y m e n t
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, OnTheMap Application and LEHD Origin- Destination 2011 Employment Statistics: Denton Work Area Profile All Jobs, and Home Area Profile All Jobs
2 2 . 4 %
R e t a i l a n d P e r s o n a l S e r v i c e s
1 6 . 2 %
H e a l t h C a r e a n d S o c i a l A s s i s t a n c e
2 3 . 5 %
E d u c a t i o n S e r v i c e s
1 9 %
O f f i c e P r o f e s s i o n a l
1 8 . 9 %
I n d u s t r i a l a n d M a n u f a c t u r i n g
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
G O A L F E V - 1 : E n s u r e t h e l o n g - t e r m f i n a n c i a l s t a b i l i t y o f t h e c i t y w i t h f i s c a l l y r e s p o n s i b l e p o l i c i e s a n d a c t i o n s .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s E co n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t a n d L a n d U s e : Denton hosts two growing universities, a thriving
music scene, a growing high-tech industry
sector, and a high capacity municipal airport
with opportunities for expansion. Denton Plan
2030 identifies strategies to celebrate the unique
character of Denton, by encouraging complementary
development, environmental stewardship, and
economic diversification. It looks to use the built
environment to retain and attract professional,
creative, and entrepreneurial talent looking for
economic success and quality of place. As the
development pattern shifts to more compact
development, land use regulations will be used
to encourage the development/redevelopment of
underutilized areas. These may include, but are
not limited to, reduced parking requirements in
exchange for increased density allowances or multi-
modal infrastructure investments, or scaled impact
fees in core service areas.
3.1 Use the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) to ensure adequate development areas exist to support a self-sustaining economy with a diversity of live/work/play development opportunities.
3.1.1 Ensure adequate land for future
economic growth, particularly in the
Industrial and Business Innovation
future land use categories, providing a
sufficient buffer zone between protected
land uses.
3.1.2 Partner and collaborate with developers
to provide sufficient workforce housing
to meet market demands and diversify
housing choices.
3.1.3 Incentivize the development or
redevelopment of mixed-use projects
that provide flexible space for
commercial, office, and residential use.
3.1.4 Develop a strategy for evaluating zoning
and comprehensive plan amendments
for long-term fiscal impacts.
3.2 Ensure the development of new workplaces that are close to and complement surrounding residential, civic, and recreational land uses. (DP p.50)
3.2.1 Use the FLUM as the guide to all future
development, which as an extension of
the Preferred Growth Concept places
jobs and residences in close proximity
where appropriate. (LU 2.2)
E c o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t a n d P a r t n e r s h i p s : Denton is part of a larger economic region that
radiates out from Dallas and Fort Worth. Denton’s
economic growth depends on the growth of the
larger region. Therefore, it is important for Denton
to be an active member of regional economic
development organizations such as Chambers of
Commerce and Convention and Visitor Bureaus.
Affiliations with these types of organizations can
help the City monitor economic trends, understand
the needs and opportunities associated with target
industries, recruit new businesses, retain or expand
existing companies, and develop targeted workforce
training partnerships.
Target industries are those with high growth
potential. They are identified based on their potential
to provide the greatest number of well-paying
jobs and economic growth. The target industries
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
should include those already identified as important
and growing industries in Denton like arts and
entertainment, and the high-tech sector. In addition,
Denton is a community that values small, locally-
owned businesses, which also add to the economic
vitality of the city. Small businesses are important
for highlighting community character and catering
to millennials and others that wish for a more
urban lifestyle, as well as providing spaces for
entrepreneurialism.
3.3 Update the City’s economic development strategy to identify and recruit target industries.
3.3.1 Conduct a market feasibility study to
identify target industries, and establish
procedures to reevaluate the study
regularly.
3.3.2 Work with the Chambers of Commerce
and Convention and Visitors Bureaus to
increase Denton’s visibility among the
identified target industry employers
and their trade organizations.
3.3.3 Build partnerships between industry,
local K-12, and post-secondary
institutions (specifically TWU and UNT)
to design training programs to provide
the workforce for the identified target
industry employers and entrepreneurs
(DP p.51).
3.3.4 Actively recruit new business to
the Denton Enterprise Airport, ECO-
W.E.R.C.S., and UNT’s Discovery Park
area.
3.3.5 Develop public private partnerships to
ensure adequate space for the growth
of small businesses, entrepreneurs,
and spin-off local businesses of the
target industries’ larger employers. Downtown Denton
Denton Enterprise Airport
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s W o r k f o r c e D e v e l o p m e n t : According to 2011 Census Bureau data (the most
recent data available), the city’s residential labor
force is over 80,000 but only 50,652 city residents
are employed. Economic development programs
specifically designed to attract growth industries
may help raise the city’s jobs-to-population ratio,
and provide more employment opportunity for
city residents. The at-place job/worker ratio is an
indication of how well the residential workforce of
an area meets the needs of the industries present
in the area. Table 3.1 shows an estimate of jobs
located in Denton in 2011, and an estimate of
employed residents of the city. A job/worker ratio
higher than one means there are more local jobs
in a particular industry than there are residents
employed in the industry, suggesting an opportunity
for the city to facilitate conversations with the local
higher education institutions to provide workforce
development programs specific to local industry
demands. For industries like Manufacturing and
Health Care and Social Assistance, which have more
jobs located in the city than there are employed
residents in the industries, Denton should support
workforce development programs designed to train
the needed workers for these important industries.
From an economic development standpoint, ratios
less than one present opportunities for business
recruitment by demonstrating a residential
workforce with specific industry experience. For the
growth-oriented industries including Information,
and Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
Denton can demonstrate a ready workforce to serve
incoming or start-up businesses.
Any strong economic development strategy for the
City must include a workforce training component
to ensure new graduates and all residents have
the skills needed to serve the local industries. A
well-educated labor force is critical for successful
business attraction and retention. Developing an
educated labor force begins with early education
for city youth, and continues on to serve all age and
skill levels of the labor pool. In addition to working
with public and private education institutions to
provide high-quality targeted education programs,
the economic development strategy encourages
regional connections to create opportunities for
local industries to partner directly with the education
institutions to develop workforce training curricula
designed to feed the tiered skill demands of local
employers.
3.4 Improve the workforce opportunities for the resident labor force and local university graduates.
3.3.6 Identify development design standards
for greenfield and infill development
to streamline the development review
process for future applicants.
G O A L F E V - 2 : I m p r o v e t h e C i t y ’ s j o b - t o - w o r k e r r a t i o b y i n c r e a s i n g t h e n u m b e r o f j o b s a v a i l a b l e t o t h e r e s i d e n t w o r k f o r c e a n d l o c a l g r a d u a t e s .
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3 T a b l e 3 . 1 : C i t y o f D e n t o n E m p l o y m e n t P r o f i l e
C o u n t o f J o b s & W o r k e r s f o r e a c h i n d u s t r y p r e s e n t i n D e n t o n
C i t y o f D e n t o n
I n d u s t r y S e c t o r J o b s W o r k e r s J o b / W o r k e r s R a t i o *
A l l J o b s 5 7, 5 2 1 5 0 , 6 5 2 1 . 1 4 Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting 51 138 0.37
Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction 601 455 1.32
Utilities 386 377 1.02
Construction 1,595 2,125 0.75
Manufacturing 5,747 3,885 1.48
Wholesale Trade 1,574 2,540 0.62
Retail Trade 6,094 5,792 1.05
Transportation and Warehousing 915 1,837 0.50
Information 479 1,055 0.45
Finance and Insurance 1,257 2,169 0.58
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 730 912 0.80
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services 2,310 2,930 0.79
Management of Companies and Enterprises 963 552 1.74
Administration & Support, Waste Management and Remediation 1,843 3,150 0.59
Educational Services 13,498 8,334 1.62
Health Care and Social Assistance 9,311 5,838 1.59
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation 203 688 0.30
Accommodation and Food Services 5,368 4,834 1.11
Other Services (excluding Public Administration) 1,240 1,336 0.93
Public Administration 3,356 1,705 1.97
University of North Texas
* A job/worker ratio higher than one means there are more local jobs in a particular industry than there are residents employed in the industry. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, OnTheMap Application and LEHD Origin-Destination, 2011
Employment Statistics: Denton Work Area Profile All Jobs, and Home Area Profile All Jobs
3.4.1 Facilitate partnerships between private industry, the public and private schools, and industry and trade groups to support business recruitment and expansion efforts.
3.4.2 Strengthen partnership and collaboration with the universities to grow workforce development opportunities between the educational programs, the Denton Enterprise Airport, and the aviation/aerospace industry.
3.4.3 Recruit highly skilled talent and high- growth businesses to grow as a high- tech hub.
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P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s To u r i s m a n d E n t e r t a i n m e n t i n D e n t o n : Denton is a growing city with “small town” charm
and hospitality. Organizations like the Denton Main
Street Association (DMSA) have a focused mission
to preserve the historic charm, and to support the
small, often locally owned, businesses that define
Downtown as a destination for shopping, dining,
and entertainment. As the economic and workforce
development goals seek to grow Denton’s population
and economic activity, it is important to support
efforts to preserve the heritage and economic activity
that define the small town character celebrated by
Denton’s citizenry.
As host to two growing universities and a high
capacity municipal airport, Denton has a higher than
average visibility outside its immediate economic
region. The city captures national attention as a
high-tech hotspot, and for a flourishing music
entertainment scene. These are unique assets for the
city. They provide excellent opportunity for the City
to market itself as a tourist destination. As part of a
comprehensive economic development strategy, the
national attention provides an opportunity to grow
the economy.
Tourism is about attraction and retention. Lake Ray
Roberts, Lake Lewisville, the Greenbelt Corridor,
and annual events and festivals play an important
role in attracting visitors to Denton. Every effort
should be made to preserve these amenities, and
to build links between recreation, entertainment,
and economic activity in Denton to attract more
visitors and extend their time spent in the city.
Capitalizing on Denton’s unique assets will require a
well-designed branding and marketing campaign to
attract visitors. Once attracted, it is equally important
for the City to implement a placemaking strategy to
help define and celebrate Denton’s character, while
helping visitors navigate the city and experience
as much as possible. A well-designed placemaking
strategy is one component of a comprehensive
economic development strategy and an external
marketing campaign. It uses the City’s marketing and
branding imagery to celebrate Denton’s amenities
and help visitors navigate the city. It will support
the mission of key organizations by highlighting the
diversity of retail, dining, and service offerings. It
will improve circulation by highlighting the options
for pedestrians and cyclists, which also supports
vibrancy of commercial activity.
As the future land use development pattern evolves
to create multiple district centers in Denton, it will
be important for a well-designed branding and
placemaking strategy to help define districts with
unique character while unifying all of Denton under a
larger marketing campaign.
3.5 Create a Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy. (CC 4.2.1)
3.4.4 Partner and collaborate with UNT, North Central Texas College (NCTC), and TWU to connect employer needs with degrees and programming.
G O A L F E V - 3 : I n c r e a s e D e n t o n ’ s t o u r i s m a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t p o t e n t i a l .
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
marketing efforts among all City
departments and entities.
3.5.6 Identify different communication
and marketing efforts among all
City departments and entities and
determine how they relate to each
other.
3.6 Work with organizations to design, promote, and advertise events for Downtown.
3.6.1 Support efforts to preserve and
promote the history of Downtown.
3.6.2 Work to support the small, local
businesses that create vibrancy in the
Downtown and serve as destinations
within the city.
3.6.3 Actively promote historic preservation
as a means to increase economic,
cultural, and educational diversity (DP
p. 96).
3.5.1 Use innovative placemaking,
wayfinding, and gateway strategies to
define the City and welcome visitors,
with the goal to extend time spent in
the City.
3.5.2 Market, promote, and support the
diversity of industry presence in
Denton and the opportunity for
industry cluster growth.
3.5.3 Market, promote, and support the Arts,
Music, and Recreation industries. (CC
4.7.1, 4.8.5, PCE 5.4.5)
3.5.4 Implement the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan to increase access and visitation to recreation, retail, and entertainment
districts (M 6.14).
3.5.5 Develop and implement a strategy
to centralize and coordinate (not
standardize) communication and
Tourism and entertainment in Denton - Thursday Night Tunes
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
Fiscal impact analyses enable a city to estimate the
difference between the costs of providing services
for new development and the taxes, user fees, and
other revenues generated by new development. The
intent of a FIA is to guide policy decisions regarding
revenue enhancements, and maintaining community
facilities and services in keeping with growth,
otherwise known as levels of service.
The FIA examined revenue generation, and operating
and capital costs to Denton associated with the
provision of public services and facilities to serve
the new residential and nonresidential development
projected by each growth scenario. It includes all
direct revenues and costs associated with each
growth scenario. All General Fund, Debt Service
Fund, Recreation Fund, and Street Improvement
Fund revenues were evaluated. Only revenues
in these funds increase due to growth and were,
therefore, included in this analysis. The FIA showed
direct revenues and costs from new development
only and did not include revenues or costs generated
Fiscal Vitality
F i s c a l I m p a c t A n a l y s i s : The Denton Plan 2030 update included a fiscal
impact analysis which informed the formation of the
Preferred Growth Concept, and the Future Land Use
Map (FLUM), as described in the Plan Framework.
The Fiscal Impact Analysis (FIA) used development
assumptions to project a fiscal picture for the City
through the Plan horizon (2030), and was used to
frame the policies and actions of this Element. The
FIA evaluated both cumulative fiscal impacts over
the Plan horizon, as well as on an annual basis.
Order-of-magnitude fiscal impacts of each growth
scenario were shared with the community at
Community Forum 2, and informed the formation of
the Preferred Growth Concept, and subsequently, the
FLUM.
Source: City of Denton, Fiscal Year 2013 Adopted Budget.
F i g u r e 3 . 2 : F Y 1 2 - 13 S u m m a r y o f R e v e n u e s
Utilities Operating
Miscellaneous
Ad Valorem Taxes
Sales Tax
Franchise Agreement
Service Fees
Return on Investment
Fines and Fees
Other Taxes
License and Permits
Percent of Total City Revenue
2%
1%
0.5%
0.4%
59%
13%
12%
7%
2%
4%
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
L o c a l R e v e n u e S t r u c t u r e : Denton provides and maintains an extensive capital
inventory, including public facilities for government,
parks and recreation, public safety, utilities, and
roads. The ability of the City to continue to maintain
and expand these services and facilities to serve
growth—known as levels of service—depends on
a pattern of development that maximizes efficiency
and revenue available for continued investments.
A diverse revenue structure sufficient to meet
the needs, and flexible enough to advance the
community and economic goals of the City is
important to achieving fiscal vitality.
from existing development. The methodology
used in, and major conclusions of the FIA are best
understood in the Fiscal Impact Analysis report
provided as a supplement to the Denton Plan 2030.
The first step in creating a fiscally sound future
is to understand the existing financial structure
of the City. In order to complete the analysis, the
consultant team gathered information from the City
of Denton’s Annual Budget as well as via meetings
with departmental staff. The understanding of the
City’s revenue sources and financial structure are
described below.
Source: City of Denton, Fiscal Year 2013 Adopted Budget.
F i g u r e 3 . 3 : F Y 1 2 - 13 G e n e r a l F u n d R e v e n u e s a n d E x p e n d i t u r e
C I TY G E N E R A L F U N D $93,655,392 Revenues
C I TY G E N E R A L F U N D $94,320,286 Expenditures
E X P E N D I T U R E S
Property Tax
Sales Tax
Franchise Fees
Fees, Permits, Use of Reserves
34% 15%
15%
8%28% Transfer In
53%
19%
3%
25%
Public Safety
Transportation
Neighborhood Services
Administrative & Community
Services
R E V E N U E S
C i t y S e r v i c e B u d g e t & F u n d i n g
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Property Tax
Collected$2,368,448 (13%)
ACTUAL BUDGET: $18,218,827
All Other Sources
Property Tax
Collected
PUBLIC SAFETY ACTUAL BUDGET: $49,822,639
$17,936,150 (36%)
All Other Sources
All Other Sources
Property Tax
Collected
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
$3,935,803 (17%)
ACTUAL BUDGET: $23,151,783
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
According to 2013 data provided by the Texas
Comptroller of Public Accounts, a quarter of the over
1,200 municipalities tracked by the state office have
higher property tax rates than Denton.
Sales and Use Taxes
Cities may impose a sales and use tax rate of one
(1) percent, which can be used for any purpose
except securing the payment of bonds or other
indebtedness. Most incorporated cities may impose
a sales tax for property tax relief. Revenues are
deposited into a City’s general revenue fund and the
local sales tax must reduce the effective property tax
rates within the City.
Many cities also impose additional sales taxes,
known as “dedicated taxes” in varying amounts of
up to one cent for specific purposes, such as mass
transit, street maintenance, economic development,
and sports venues. However, each municipality is
restricted to a maximum combined sales and use tax
rate of two (2) percent.
Incorporated cities may create special districts and
use sales taxes to fund them. Special districts include
a crime control and prevention district; a fire control,
prevention, and emergency medical services district;
a municipal development district; and a municipal
management district.
Municipal Development District - Municipalities in
Texas, subject to the Texas Local Government Code,
may establish a municipal development district
to plan, acquire, establish, develop, construct,
or renovate one or more development projects
beneficial to the defined district. A district may
perform any act necessary to the full exercise of the
district’s powers; accept grants and loans; acquire,
sell, lease, convey, or otherwise dispose of property
or an interest in property, including a development
project, under terms and conditions determined
B u d g e t a n d F i n a n c i n g : In order to finance all facilities, infrastructure, and
services, the City must budget for all expected
expenditures based on annual revenues and any
fund balances carried over from the previous fiscal
year.
The balance of revenues to expenditures is a
complex process of extensive scope, the details of
which are best reviewed in either the City’s annual
budget or comprehensive financial annual reports.
S o u r c e s o f R e v e n u e : The General Fund is the primary mechanism to
manage operations in the City. Figure 3.3 shows
additional sources of revenue for the General Fund
including building, permit, inspection, and other
service fees assessed to offset the operational costs
of its Neighborhood Services Departments.
Cities in Texas have an array of revenue sources
available to them, the most substantial of which
are usually sales tax, utility revenue, service fees,
and property taxes. When levied and allocated in a
fiscally responsible manner, these and other revenue
streams can help Denton advance the economic and
community development goals identified in Denton
Plan 2030. The balance of tax, fee, and user rates is
a complex process of extensive scope, the details of
which are best reviewed in either the City’s annual
budget or comprehensive financial annual reports. A
brief discussion of the City’s current rates follows.
Property Tax
Home-rule cities, like Denton, with a resident
population of 5,000 or more, have the statutory
authority to levy property tax of up to $2.50 per $100
of assessed value.
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
Utility Fees
Cities may collect utility fees, which are charges
collected for utility service. Denton provides water,
sewer, electricity, and solid waste services for the
City.
Impact Fees
Cities may require new development to make
a one-time payment necessary to fund system
improvements needed to maintain current
levels of service. An impact fee represents new
growth’s fair share of capital facility needs. By
law, impact fees can only be used for capital
expansions, not operating or maintenance costs.
Impact fees are subject to legal standards, which
require fulfillment of three key elements: need,
benefit, and proportionality. First, to justify a fee
for public facilities, it must be demonstrated that
new development will create a need for capital
improvements. Second, new development must
derive a benefit from the payment of the fees (i.e.,
in the form of public facilities constructed within
a reasonable timeframe). Third, the fee paid by a
particular type of development should not exceed
its proportional share of the capital cost for system
improvements.
The City of Denton assesses a parks and recreation
impact fee, and utility impact fees for Water and
Wastewater facilities.
In 2014, the City commissioned a study to explore
the feasibility of establishing a road impact fee
necessary to fund planned expansions of the city-
maintained road network necessary to accommodate
additional vehicle miles of travel (VMT) generated
from new development.
by the district; and employ necessary personnel.
To fund the district, a sales and use tax can be
levied, subject to voter approval and subject to the
limitation that all local taxes may not exceed two
(2) percent. Additionally, a district may issue bonds,
including revenue bonds and refunding bonds, or
other obligations to pay the costs of a development
project.
As Denton evolves towards a compact development
pattern, a municipal development district, or other
special taxing district may be a fiscally responsible
mechanism for raising revenue for necessary capital
expansions to accommodate growth. (FEV-5 3.13.4)
Other Taxes
Cities have authority to levy a tax on a person who
pays for a room at a hotel. These funds may only be
used for specific purposes defined by statute. Other
taxes available to cities include mixed beverage tax,
a cemetery tax, a coin-operated machine tax, and
venue taxes.
Franchise Fees
Cities may collect fees from private utilities and other
industries for the use of city property necessary to
distribute their services. Examples include electric,
gas or water, cable and video, or telecommunications
franchise fees.
User Fees
Cities may collect user fees, which are charges
collected for the use of city services, including city
facilities and building permits.
User Fees are designed to offset the operating
costs associated with providing certain municipal
services like building inspection and permitting,
and recreation programs. They are allocated to the
General Fund.
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
Annual fiscal impacts were also evaluated to reflect
revenues and expenditures each year during the
analysis period. Each year reflects total revenues
generated minus total expenditures incurred
in the same year, including both capital and
operating costs. By showing the results annually,
the magnitude, rate of change, and timeline of
deficits and revenues can be observed over time.
Data points above the $0 line represent annual net
surpluses; points below the $0 line represent annual
net deficits. Each year’s net surplus or deficit is not
carried forward into the following major conclusions
were drawn from the FIA:
• Local Revenue Structure. The Preferred Growth Concept assumes that in the plan horizon, the City would add 93,951 new residents, which equates to 75 percent of its existing population, and would more than double the square footage of nonresidential development. This significant growth generates positive cumulative net fiscal results. Revenue generated by the Preferred Growth Concept includes significant sales tax revenue projected based on the amount of retail square footage.
• Levels of Service. Capital expenditures are modeled based on maintaining citywide levels of service thresholds per capital investment, and levels of service by sub-area of the city. If excess capacity exists in an area, the analysis assumes the excess will serve some new growth before additional capital investments are made to meet population demands. For example, the Preferred Growth Concept takes advantage of existing parkland with the capacity to serve some new development located nearby, therefore requiring fewer new acres for City Park and Community Park development to serve the compact development pattern. Road construction was projected using a marginal approach, based on the average capacity of city- maintained arterial roadways and vehicle miles of travel (VMT) generated from new growth. Road expansion projects represent the largest cumulative capital expense category, but savings are achieved by the compact development pattern, based on the assumption that density will increase the market feasibility of multi-modal options.
F i s c a l I m p a c t A n a l y s i s R e s u l t s : Using the financial assumptions described above,
the FIA evaluated the Alternative Growth Scenarios
(described in Plan Framework) to understand
the potential benefits and costs of different land
use patterns. Each growth scenario evaluated a
consistent projection of housing units, population,
nonresidential building area, and jobs through the
year 2030. The location and types of residential
and nonresidential development were varied by
growth scenario to illustrate the possible future
development pattern for the City and its impact
to fiscal operations. Following the creation of the
Preferred Growth Concept, it was similarly evaluated
to determine its potential fiscal impact. As a
representation of the community’s preferred growth
pattern, and a conceptual depiction of the FLUM,
the Preferred Growth Concept provides a lens into
the actual fiscal implications to the City’s future, and
thus provides a means for determining policies and
actions for fiscal sustainability.
The Preferred Growth Concept yielded a cumulative
net surplus to the City, when comparing available
and projected resources to projected costs over the
plan horizon. This takes into consideration operating
revenues and costs as well as capital revenues
and costs, and balances the results. Over the Plan
horizon, dedicated capital revenue generated by new
development is not sufficient to cover the necessary
capital expansions to maintain levels of service for
new development, as the only dedicated revenue for
capital needs in Denton is a portion of the property
tax. Regardless of the deficit for capital needs, the
cumulative fiscal impact of the Preferred Growth
Concept is a surplus.
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
Source: TischlerBise. Fiscal Impact Analysis City Growth Scenarios City of Denton, Texas. 2014.
• Demographic and Market Characteristics of New Growth. The results identify cost savings of increasing development densities. Cumulative operating and capital expenditures decrease as development density increases. The ability to utilize excess capacity in existing capital facilities before building or acquire new infrastructure results in significant capital savings. Accordingly, some operating expenditures, like additional Personal Services, are not incurred at the same rate as when development expands to the periphery.
The policies and actions of this Element were
informed by the conclusions of the Fiscal Impact
Analysis, which are geared to create a more fiscally
sustainable future for Denton and ongoing fiscal and
economic vitality.
F i g u r e 3 . 4 : A n n u a l N e t F i s ca l I m p a c t R e s u l t s – P r e f e r r e d G r o w t h Co n ce p t
$20,000
$15,000
$10,000
Net Operating Impact
Annual Net Impact
Net Capital Impact
$5,000
-$5,000
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
demonstrates how the land use pattern directly
affects the revenue stream to the City.
3.7 Maintain a balance of revenue sources that supports desired levels of service, while remaining inviting to development.
3.7.1 Charges for services and other city
revenues will be examined annually
during the budget process and
adjusted as deemed necessary by
the governing body to respond to
cost increases or any other changing
circumstances.
3.7.2 The City’s revenue and expenditure
balance will be evaluated annually
during the budget process and set
by City Council considering the
level of services required for the
implementation of plan policies,
actions, and priorities in the
DentonPlan 2030.
G O A L F E V - 4 : E s t a b l i s h a n d m a i n t a i n a f i s c a l l y r e s p o n s i b l e r e v e n u e a n d e x p e n d i t u r e b a l a n c e .
G O A L F E V - 5 : D e s i g n a f i s c a l l y a d v a n t a g e o u s l a n d u s e p a t t e r n p a i r e d w i t h f i s c a l l y r e s p o n s i b l e i n f r a s t r u c t u r e m a n a g e m e n t a n d i n v e s t m e n t .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s R e v e n u e E n h a n c e m e n t : The city is fortunate in that it has three significant
growth-related revenue sources (1) property tax,
(2) sales tax, and (3) franchise fees, from which to
fund services and facilities. The City benefits further
from the generation of sales tax revenue not only
from retail development, but also from office and
industrial space.
According to the FY12-13 budget, sales tax (i.e.,
Other Local Taxes) revenue is 28.1 percent of revenue
directed to the General Fund. The development
pattern of the Preferred Growth Concept is designed
to create vibrant live/work/play districts. As more
residents, workers, and visitors spend time in
the City there will be an increased demand for
commercial establishments including retail, dining,
hotel, arts and entertainment venues. This increase
in potential sales tax revenue, along with the Ad
Valorem property tax revenue potential from new
development, and increases in franchise fees
F a c t o r s I n f l u e n c i n g t h e F i s c a l S u s t a i n a b i l i t y o f L a n d U s e In addition to the local revenues discussed above,
other factors influencing the fiscal results of different
development patterns in the City include:
• Demographic and Market Characteristics of New Growth,
• Fiscal Hierarchy of Land Use,
• Services Provided and Levels of Service, and
• Capacity of Existing Infrastructure.
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
to mitigate the financial implications of each land use
type.
L e v e l s o f S e r v i c e The current or planned levels of service (LOS)
provided to the community for various operations
and infrastructure have a significant fiscal impact on
Denton. Existing levels of service are facility or service
standards currently being maintained and funded
through the budget (e.g., park acres per capita, or lane
miles of roadways per vehicle miles of travel). This is
an important factor since levels of service generally
vary from city to city, by community, and over time,
and can therefore affect development patterns and
fiscal sustainability. Variations in LOS result from both
natural fluctuations in new development and capital
improvement programs, or by direct action to accept
a lower LOS (e.g., municipal staff layoffs) or planned
action to invest in a higher LOS (e.g., adding sufficient
lane miles to raise the system-wide LOS).
Table 3.2 shows a sampling of capital facilities, vehicles
and equipment currently maintained by the City of
Denton, and the level of service for each component.
C a p a c i t y o f E x i s t i n g I n f r a s t r u c t u r e The capacity of existing infrastructure in Denton
has implications for the fiscal sustainability of new
development. While the roads in the developed core
are reaching capacity, those extending out to the
periphery have excess capacity available to serve
new growth. In comparison, there is existing park
acreage available to serve growth in the developed
core, but insufficient land to serve development
in the periphery. In either of these situations, and
others like them, understanding the abilities and
constraints of existing infrastructure is important
to crafting a fiscally sustainable growth plan. For
example, for FY12-13 the City identified $4 million of
maintenance projects for the existing road network,
D e m o g r a p h i c a n d M a r k e t C h a r a c t e r i s t i c s o f N e w G r o w t h Next to a community’s revenue structure, no other
factor has as great an impact on the net fiscal results
as the demographic and market characteristics of
different land uses. Examples of demographic and
market variables for residential development include
average household size, market value of housing units,
trip generation rates, density per acre, and average
household income. Important demographic and market
characteristics for nonresidential development include
square feet per employee, trip generation rates, market
values per square foot, and floor area ratio.
F i s c a l H i e r a r c h y o f L a n d U s e
Examples of the revenue and expenditure balance of
land uses in Denton include:
• The City collects property tax and sales tax from retail establishments, but of the nonresidential land uses, retail typically has the highest operating and capital demands. Retail generates the highest number of vehicle trips, stressing the street infrastructure, and has higher rates of public safety calls compared to other nonresidential land uses.
• Low-density residential generates higher property tax revenues per unit, but requires extension and maintenance of streets, water, and utilities to reach greater distances than higher density clustered development. Sprawling, single-family residential development generates more and longer vehicle trips per housing unit than multi-family residential; and on average has more persons per household than multi-family development, generating more demand for public safety, parks, libraries and other city services.
• A large proportion of current demand for police services is generated from multifamily residential development, which generates the least per unit tax revenue.
On average, no single land use provides a strictly
positive fiscal result. The Preferred Growth Concept
seeks to encourage a balanced development pattern
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
The City maintains 170 lane miles of minor arterial
roadways. Based on vehicle miles of travel (VMT)
generated from existing development, the current
level of service is 0.14 lane miles per 1,000 VMT.
This is the established level of service for the entire
system; however, the City recognizes specific areas
of the City, like the developed core, host a larger
share of VMT per lane mile than roadways along
the periphery. In response to community feedback,
Denton Plan 2030 presents policies and strategies to
provide a better and more uniform level of service
for all city roadways.
but identified an annual demand in excess of $10
million (and up to $13 million as of 2014), necessary
to ensure the system does not degrade below the
current level of service.
During the Denton Plan 2030 community outreach
process, the community expressed concern about
the decreasing level of service of existing roadways
in the development core, meaning vehicle miles of
travel on the existing roadways is increasing faster
than new lane miles of capacity are being added.
T a b l e 3 . 2 : E s t a b l i s h e d L e v e l s o f S e r v i c e f o r G r o w t h - R e l a t e d C a p i t a l F a c i l i t i e s
F a c i l i t y C u r r e n t I n v e n t o r y C u r r e n t L O S General Government Facilities (sf) 175,810 Sq. Ft. 0.92 SF per POP and Job
Sedan/SUV/Truck (unit) 42 Units 0.22 Units per 1,000 Pop and Job
Heavy Truck (unit) 6 Units 0.03 Units per 1,000 Pop and Job
Equipment (unit) 16 Units 0.08 Units per 1,000 Pop and Job
Parks - City Parks (ac) 570 Acres 4.59 Acres per 1,000 Persons
Parks - Community Park (ac) 160 Acres 1.29 Acres per 1,000 Persons
Multi-use Trails (miles) 20 Miles 0.16 Acres per 1,000 Persons
Recreational Center (sf) 56,513 Sq. Ft. 0.46 SF per Person
Service Center/Equipment Yard (sf) 13,800 Sq. Ft. 0.11 SF per Person
Library - Facilities (sf) 86,887 Sq. Ft. 0.70 SF per Person
Library - New Facilities Holdings (sf) 122,830 Units 0.99 Units Per Person
Library -Electronic Holdings (unit) 12 Units 0.10 Units per 1,000 Persons
Library -Vehicles (unit) 2 Units 0.02 Units per 1,000 Persons
Police - Patrol Vehicles (unit) 129 Units 0.85 Car per Officer*
Fire - Stations (sf) 61,930 Sq. Ft. 5.86 SF per calls for Service
Fire - Engines (unit) 6 Units 0.57 Units per 1,000 Calls
Fire - Medic Units (unit) 5 Units 0.47 Units per 1,000 Calls
Fire - Ladder Truck (unit) 1 Units 0.09 Units per 1,000 Calls
Roads - Arterials (lane miles) 170 Ln Mi 0.14 Ln. Mi. per 1,000 VMT
Public Works Facilities (sf) 128,517 Sq. Ft. 0.67 SF per POP and Jobs
Truck (unit) 22 Units 0.07 Units per 1,000 Trips
Heavy Truck (unit) 14 Units 0.67 Units per Field Crewmember
Equipment (unit) 31 Units 0.10 Units per 1,000 Trips
* Includes Captain, Lieutenant, Sergeant; Officer
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
To achieve the built environment envisioned by
the community, the City must be proactive in the
design of new development to ensure the fiscal
sustainability of new growth. For example, the
development pattern proposed by the Preferred
Growth Concept results in some capital savings
as a result of a decrease in vehicle trips as density
increases. Given the location of proposed residential
development in the Preferred Growth Concept, the
City can maximize the use of already developed City
and Community parks, therefore necessitating fewer
new acres than would be required to maintain the
LOS to serve the current growth pattern.
3.8 Integrate land use and infrastructure investment decisions to maximize utilization of existing infrastructure.
3.8.1 Explore adequate public facilities
requirements in coordination with
land use policies and open space
conservation. (LU 2.11.2, DP p.104)
3.8.2 Implement the Mobility Plan to
improve multi-modal circulation as an
alternative to increasingly costly auto-
oriented capital investments. (M 6.1.1)
I n f r a s t r u c t u r e I n v e s t m e n t – L e v e l s o f S e r v i c e : The Preferred Growth Concept depicts the outward
expansion of the city’s development. While this is
necessary to provide the diversity of development
options desired in the community, it requires costly
capital expansion of infrastructure and services.
Denton Plan 2030 identifies financial policies, like
adopting additional development impact fees, to
ensure those requiring the expansions of services
are baring the cost to provide a consistent level of
service to all development in the city. For example,
public safety response times are an important
indicator of service delivery and capital needs.
As development in Denton expands outward, the
Denton Fire Department will require new stations
and capital equipment to maintain levels of service.
Therefore, as development intensities shift, citywide
levels of service must be constantly monitored to
ensure the efficient use and allocation of all capital
infrastructure and equipment.
Sprawling growth patterns require large capital
investments to add new miles of utility and roadway
infrastructure, and additional public safety facilities
and equipment to maintain established response
times. On the other hand, increased intensity of
development in the city core makes use of existing
infrastructure’s excess capacity, and the ability
to share facilities like developing schools next to
parkland. The compact development pattern of the
Preferred Growth Concept balances needs for capital
expansion, maintenance, and service delivery with
the development options desired in the community.
It encourages a development pattern that will
achieve cost savings by maximizing existing capital
facilities, generate revenue from new commercial
activity and a diverse housing stock, and increase the
market feasibility of multi-modal circulation.
Fire ladder trucks are an example of a growth-related capital facility
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
I n f r a s t r u c t u r e I n v e s t m e n t – P l a n n i n g a n d F i n a n c i n g : The continual need to improve the roadway
network remains the largest single capital issue
faced by the City. The City will work with all internal
departments, regional partners, and private parties
to identify the most cost effective balance of system
expansions and maintenance. For example, the
Denton Mobility Plan, updated in 2014, identifies opportunities to create “complete streets”
concepts that if implemented, through the Capital
Improvement Program, can extend the life of existing
transportation infrastructure by providing alternative
circulation options to both existing and new
development. The desired development pattern will
not design away the automobile, but rather provide
an alternative for short distance trips.
3.8.3 Implement the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan to lessen the impact of urban center development on existing street
facilities and to increase access to
existing park and recreational facilities
with capacity to serve new growth. (M
6.14.4)
3.8.4 Use Denton Plan 2030 to inform the
City’s CIP and other infrastructure
master plans regarding adequate levels
of service. (LU 2.4.2)
3.8.5 Encourage more dense development
where water/sewer infrastructure
has existing excess capacity, and
define what level of development
can be served by septic and well
infrastructure. (DP p.23, IU 9.7.1).
Denton Plan Update | Community Forum 2 17
Governmental Services: • Library • Electric Operations • Environmental Services • • Parks & Recreation • • Fire • Police • Solid Waste Operations • Transportation • Airport • Economic Development
What services does the City of Denton provide?
Water/ Wastewater Utilities includes: • Water Operations • Wastewater Operations • Drainage • Streets • Traffic/Street Lighting • Engineering
30 Parks with 1,210 Park Acres 3 Libraries 7 Fire Stations 1 Police Station 6,998 Street Lights 1,249 Lane Miles of Streets 565 Miles of Water Mains 501 Miles of Wastewater Mains 6.8 Billion Gallons of Water Production Solid Waste and Electric Service 1,405 Full-Time Equivalent Employees
iC I TY D E PA RT M E N T S & S E R V I C E S 33 i
Planning & Development Includes: • Building Inspection • Code Enforcement • Community Development • Planning • Gas Well Inspection
Police includes: • Animal Services
The following are services that the City
of Denton provides and maintains:
Solid Waste Includes: • Landfill • Recycling • Residential Collections • Commercial Collections
SOURCES: City of Denton Annual Program of Services, 2012-2103. Tischler Bise.Sources: City of Denton Annual Program of Services, 2012-2013. Tischler Bise.
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
A focus on multi-modal infrastructure and Context
Sensitive Solutions will reduce demand for the
construction of new lane miles, add more and
wider sidewalks, and use landscaping, roadway
marking, textured crosswalks, and dedicated bike
lanes to calm traffic. Planning for multi-modal and
Context Sensitive street design in defined districts
will complement the distinctive character of the
neighborhood while providing easy connections to
other areas of the city (DP p.77). The City will work
with developers to secure necessary rights-of-way
and to construct portions of the network through all
new development according to these standards (DP
p.136).
The City is severely constrained as to the amount
of revenue available for support of capital
improvements needed to serve new development.
The City’s primary funding source for capital
infrastructure is General Obligation bonds, which
are financed over a period of 20 years, and paid
back through property tax revenues. The only other
sizable source of funding for infrastructure needs
is the dedication of franchise fees revenue to the
Street Improvements Fund. However, these funds
go to maintenance services necessary to provide
a safe and reliable existing transportation system.
Because the current revenue sources available to
the City to fund capital improvements to serve new
development are so limited, the City should continue
to consider and move forward with alternative
financing sources such as impact fees for growth-
related infrastructure, particularly for roads, new
facilities, and parks and recreation.
3.9 Update the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) annually to prioritize the implementation of Denton Plan 2030 (LU 2.4.2).
3.9.1 Evaluate existing levels of service for
all capital infrastructure to identify
existing deficiencies and excess
capacities.
3.9.2 Maintain public facilities and services
to provide established levels of service
to new development.
3.9.3 Implement the policies and actions
of the Mobility Plan to transition to a
multi-modal transportation network
as a means to balance demands on
existing infrastructure and extend the
life of transportation infrastructure.
3.9.4 Develop, fund, and implement the
annual CIP consistent with the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan. (PCE 5.1.6, LU 2.4.2)
3.9.5 Regularly evaluate Public Safety
response times to ensure efficient
distribution of necessary public
services. (CHS 8.6.1, 8.6.4)
3.9.6 Use the CIP to prioritize and fund
capital expansions necessary
to accommodate the preferred
development pattern, including
Context Sensitive street design. (LU
2.4.2, M 6.1.2)
3.9.7 Engage the Bond Committee in the
annual CIP update process.
3.9.8 Explore the feasibility of establishing
or increasing impact fees for necessary
public services including roads, public
safety, parks and recreation, libraries,
and general government.
3.9.9 Utilize Denton Plan 2030 to determine
which improvements should take
priority for the CIP.
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3 DENTON PLAN 2030
in commercial districts, and to reinvest and stabilize
certain districts and neighborhoods. This concept is
first and foremost an issue of land use, but elements
of creating infill are found throughout the Plan.
With respect to fiscal impact, infill development
takes advantage of existing public infrastructure
like parks, streets, water, and utilities by focusing
growth in vacant or underutilized property. Infill
absorbs growth in already built districts close to
services and amenities, requiring that fewer facilities
be built in the future. Properly designed infill and
redevelopment projects restore continuity to a
neighborhood, often increasing property values of
adjacent properties and surrounding neighborhoods.
3.11 Adopt land use regulations to support infill development and redevelopment efforts in the developed core.
3.11.1 Reference the Denton Plan 2030 Fiscal
Impact Analysis (FIA) to demonstrate
the fiscal impacts of development as
prescribed by the Preferred Growth
Concept (LU 2.3.1, DP p.122).
3.11.2 Encourage high-quality infill
development and redevelopment in
potential development sites where
infrastructure exists (LU 2.9, 2.10).
R e s i d e n t i a l D i v e r s i t y : The Denton Plan 2030 update process identified
a tolerance for more intensity of development in
identified areas with the capacity to absorb such
growth. Denton Plan 2030 presents strategies to
introduce a more diverse mix of land uses, which
may balance revenue sources, and demands
on necessary public services. For example,
encouraging smaller residential units built closer
to existing services and amenities lessens the
need for costly capital expansion, and provides
a better array of housing options for the growing
F u t u r e F i s c a l I m p a c t A n a l y s e s : Denton Plan 2030 emphasizes the community
benefits achieved from re-investment, revitalization,
and redevelopment of key corridors and centers.
There are structural entities available to help manage
implementation of the City’s vision of a vibrant
developed core, including special taxing districts,
development corporations, and authorities (LU 2.6.5).
However, there are important financial implications
to each type of implementation mechanism. Future
fiscal impact analyses would assist the City in
understanding the fiscal implications of creating
any new entity, and of development in a designated
focus area of the City.
3.10 Utilize fiscal tools that incentivize development while offsetting its cost to the community.
3.10.1 Establish procedures to conduct
fiscal impact analyses to evaluate the
potential short and long-term impacts
of future annexations and other land
use decisions.
3.10.2 Conduct fiscal impact analyses to
ensure the fiscal benefit or neutrality of
future tax abatement agreements and
special districts (LU 2.6.5).
3.10.3 Use the benefits of economic
incentives to direct continued
investments at the Denton Enterprise
Airport and surrounding industrial
district.
I n f i l l D e v e l o p m e n t / R e d e v e l o p m e n t : Denton Plan 2030 identifies a community desire to
encourage infill development and redevelopment as
a means to slow outward growth, to create vibrancy
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
3.12.2 Work with developers to increase
the stock of owner-occupied smaller
residential units.
3.12.3 Make multi-modal infrastructure
investments to lessen the need for
parking facilities and auto-centric
circulation improvements.
3.12.4 Use existing and new public facilities
such as parks, schools, and libraries
as neighborhood anchors and activity
centers (DP p.21).
D e v e l o p m e n t P a r t n e r s h i p s a n d C o o r d i n a t i o n : The Land Use Element describes how the community
could develop over the course of build-out, which
is not expected for several decades. The Land Use
Element describes potential increases in allowable
development densities as reflected in the Preferred
Growth Concept, and the land use districts identified
in the FLUM. The Preferred Growth Concept seeks
to use areas of Denton with the infrastructure
capacity to absorb additional development to
support increased density, potentially creating a
more fiscally balanced or profitable land use mixture.
Given the revenue structure and capital demands
of land uses in the City, the best means to maintain
fiscal sustainability is to diversify and intensify the
developed core.
The Preferred Growth Concept and FLUM seek to
maximize the use of available land in such a way
as to efficiently use non-revenue generating land
uses including federal, state, county, school district,
city facilities, and social and community service
organizations. Even though these land uses do not
produce property taxes, these important entities and
land uses serve the Denton citizenry, and play an
important role in the community and in the economy.
workforce. Increasingly the workforce is looking for
smaller units in live/work/play districts providing
direct access to the cultural amenities of vibrant
communities.
The existing housing stock of Denton is dominated
by single-family units, and aging multi-unit
structures. With two growing universities, Denton’s
housing stock must accommodate a young and
mobile population with affordable housing options
(DP p.123). Increased residential diversity, as
discussed in the Housing and Neighborhoods
Element, will increase residential densities where
appropriate to increase neighborhood vibrancy.
Residential policies seek to increase residential
variety and market range by encouraging
development of smaller single-family houses
and townhomes, and residential areas in mixed-
use structures. Based on a sample of residential
development in the last decade, the housing stock is
already improving. As the Denton Plan 2030 vision
materializes, and the development pattern evolves
to be more compact with multi-modal circulation
options and live/work/play diversity, the FIA assumes
market and assessed values of new development will
increase over existing values. The City must actively
collaborate and partner with developers to provide
market feasible projects that offer the range of
housing, workspace, and community options desired
by the community and workforce, while ensuring at
least fiscal neutrality.
3.12 Encourage more dense development to increase market feasibility and create vibrancy.
3.12.1 Reference the Denton Plan 2030
Fiscal Impact Analysis (FIA) to direct a
residential development pattern that
is at least fiscally neutral (LU 2.2.2,
DP p.122).
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P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s S t a n d a r d s f o r F u t u r e D e v e l o p m e n t : A primary goal of the Denton Plan 2030 is to increase the
standard and quality of future development throughout
the city. While much of this depends on the role of the
public sector and investment in public facilities, a great
deal is influenced by private development. The character
of private development is overseen by the development
regulations and design review process within the City. In
order to ensure that development meets the standards
envisioned, the necessary zoning requirements and
transportation criteria manuals must be updated to
require the provision of facilities that support complete
streets, multi-modal transportation, and public realm
It is important that new development integrates
with the existing community fabric, while helping
to balance the fiscal impacts of all development.
Denton Plan 2030 identifies strategies to improve
coordination with other governmental entities with a
physical presence in the city, and/or with authority to
affect change in the City.
3.13 Improve partnerships and collaboration with other governmental entities to implement the goals of the Denton Plan 2030 (LU 2.5.1).
G O A L F E V - 6 : E n s u r e t h a t n e w d e v e l o p m e n t p a y s i t s f a i r a n d p r o p o r t i o n a t e s h a r e o f t h e c o s t t o m a i n t a i n c u r r e n t l e v e l s o f s e r v i c e s s u c h a s p u b l i c s a f e t y , p a r k s a n d r e c r e a t i o n , s t r e e t s , a n d u t i l i t i e s .
enhancements. Through this mechanism, developers
will help contribute to necessary public service
investments.
3.14 Work with developers to share the cost of necessary public service investments.
3.14.1 Establish multi-modal requirements
for all new development to increase
the share of pedestrian, bicycle, and
transit infrastructure over personal
automobile infrastructure (M 6.14.1, CC
Table 4.1).
3.14.2 Partner with developers to adopt
regulations that implement streetscape
design features like minimal curb
cuts, buffered on-street parking, larger
sidewalks with bump-outs, and on-
street striping of bicycle lanes and
3.13.1 Ensure maximum efficiencies of all
government facilities to minimize the
use of land by non-revenue generating
development (HN 7.13).
3.13.2 Require that plans for new park
facilities are coordinated with planning
for other government facilities, and
vice versa. Identify opportunities for
clustering multiple public facilities
together with parks and recreation
facilities, including libraries, fire
stations, and school sites (PCE 5.3.1,
HN 7.13).
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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC VITALITY 3
cross-walks, to create vibrant and safe
development districts (M 6.10.1, M
6.14.1, CC Table 4.1).
3.14.3 Partner with developers to adopt
regulations that secure parks and
open space in all new residential
and commercial centers to ensure
adequate green space and multi-modal
connections between developments
(PCE 5.2.3).
I m p a c t F e e s : Development impact fees are a land use regulation
mechanism available to municipalities, which allow
municipalities to require new development to make
a one-time payment necessary to fund system
improvements needed to maintain current levels
of service. Impact fees are the tool used to ensure
that new development pays its fair share of capital
facility needs. Currently, Denton has an impact fee
for water and wastewater facilities, and is currently
(2014) studying the feasibility of a road impact fee.
The Denton Plan 2030 recommends the completion
of this study as well as the consideration of future
impact fees.
3.15 Establish dedicated revenues to fund necessary expansions of capital infrastructure to accommodate growth.
3.15.1 Complete and implement the Road
Impact Fee feasibility study. (M 6.7.1)
3.15.2 Explore the feasibility of establishing
additional or more comprehensive
impact fees for necessary public
services including public safety, parks
and recreation, libraries, and general
government.
4) COMMUNITY CHARACTER & URBAN DESIGN
Community Character and Urban Design Overview 95
Character Areas in Denton 97 Distinctive Places in Denton Historic Resources Denton Main Street Program Identification of Historic Resources Placemaking and Urban Vitality in Denton
Preservation and Maintenance 104 Preservation of Historic Resources Financial Incentives Property Maintenance
Arts, Culture and Community Character 107 Public Art in Denton Arts and Music Venues Arts and Music in the Economy Heritage Tourism Community Gathering Places
Urban Design and Community Character 114 Urban Design in Future Development, Infill and Focus Areas Design of the Public Realm Guidelines for Specific Future Land Use Designations Guidelines for Focus Areas
COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN OVERVIEW Denton’s unique community character is what sets it apart from neighboring communities.
Denton prides itself on its iconic courthouse and Square, its welcoming and walkable
Downtown core, its historic areas with turn-of-the-century estates, its diverse
neighborhoods, and its funky, artsy culture in areas such as Fry Street and its arts and
entertainment scene. Due to its history, location, and the influence of its universities,
together with an artistic, musical, and entrepreneurial culture, Denton has become a
destination within the DFW Metroplex and Texas for those in search of an authentic,
diverse, affordable, and livable place. Denton also is home to many special events and
cultural draws that attract thousands to visit the city, providing a thriving economic
engine. Additionally, Denton is surrounded by a scenic rural setting and natural
environment that speaks to the early days of North Texas, where agriculture and access
to natural springs gave rise to the communities of today.
This mix of elements provides the setting that makes Denton a unique place and
is important to both retain and celebrate as Denton grows and moves forward
into the next generation. As future development comes to Denton, it must
be sensitive, adapting to the context of the community. Simultaneously, it
must incorporate into new development the elements that will contribute
to memorable places in the future, providing places for community
gathering and future landmarks. In addition, it must identify opportunities
for redevelopment that will revitalize the economic strength of the
community, while maintaining those areas that are important to
Denton’s past and the character of its people.
The Community Character and Urban Design Element has been
developed to implement the long-range vision of the community with
respect to identifying, preserving, maintaining, and creating character
areas in the city. The intentions of the policies within this Element are
to further the aspirations of the community, expressed throughout
the outreach process and articulated in the Community Vision
Statement. Policies and actions apply to all development
within Denton and its urbanizing area, as well as any future
programming that the City of Denton may undertake as
a result of the implementation of Denton Plan 2030. The
policies of this Element will work in conjunction with all other
Elements of the Plan focusing on:
• Identifying and preserving distinctive neighborhoods, places, and historic resources in the city in order to celebrate their presence and ensure their long-term protection;
• Promoting the character of Denton through expanded arts and culture programs and opportunities for placemaking and community interaction;
• Encouraging high quality development that will respect and enhance the character and pride of Denton.
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The Character of Denton • Denton is authentic. Our small-town charm and, North Texas heritage are proudly embraced
along with positive change, smart and balanced growth, and high-quality development.
• Denton is fertile territory for creativity and innovation in our vibrant music and arts scene, technology, business, and education.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • We cherish our artists and musicians and celebrate our community in local events and festivals
that reflect the uniqueness of the community.
• The City of Denton’s institutions of higher learning, UNT and TWU, are partners with government, civic organizations, and local employers in initiatives to foster creativity in the arts, innovation, a strong economy, life-long learning, and the retention of the best and brightest.
The Strength of Our Economy • We market our Denton “brand,” our unique, creative atmosphere and small town quality of
life, which attracts a highly educated and motivated workforce and gives Denton a competitive advantage in attracting new investment, entities, and well-paying jobs.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • Managed, balanced, and sustainable growth in high-quality, livable urban, suburban, and rural
places which offer diverse choices among neighborhood settings while respecting private property rights.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment,
supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
• Established neighborhoods where revitalization and compatible infill development contributes to stable, livable, and historic character, and fosters neighborhood pride and homeownership.
Community CharaCter and urban design in the Community Vision statement
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
Character Areas in Denton
D i s t i n c t i v e P l a c e s i n D e n t o n
There are a number of vibrant centers, cultural and
shopping destinations, thriving universities and
medical centers, as well as renowned entertainment
events throughout Denton that contribute to the
character of the city. These aspects of urban life add
value to Denton’s sense of place and contribute to
the quality of life enjoyed by residents. As Denton
grows and matures, protecting and enhancing these
important areas, as well as encouraging future
development that will contribute to urban vitality
and create memorable places, is essential to the
continuation of its unique identity. This includes
maintaining the strength of Denton’s universities
and medical centers and establishing focus areas for
their continued expansion sensitive to surrounding
uses.
Distinctive places can take a number of forms. Any
well-known area, landmark, or neighborhood can
constitute a distinctive place or character area. In
many instances, these are associated with historic
areas, but do not have to be. Some character areas
that were identified in the planning process include:
Downtown Denton, the Denton County Courthouse,
the Civic Center area, the Oak-Hickory Historic
District, UNT and TWU, the Morrison’s Corn-Kits
building in Southeast Denton, Unicorn Lake, Robson
Ranch, Rayzor Ranch, Denton Enterprise Airport,
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton, Denton
Regional Medical Center, and MedPark Station,
Golden Triangle Mall, and neighborhoods including
Denia and homes near Teasley.
Identifying character areas is important because
it helps pinpoint the areas that make Denton the
community it is today and aids in understanding
how to make memorable and enduring places for
the future. Denton Plan 2030 recommends several
actions that will help identify and understand the key
distinctive areas in the city.
H i s t o r i c R e s o u r c e s
Historic resources are beloved features of the City of
Denton, prized by the community, and key elements
in Denton’s sense of place. The continuation of the
identification, restoration, and preservation of unique
and distinctive cultural, historical, and architectural
features of Denton remains a priority as Denton grows.
Denton has a multitude of historic resources that are
acknowledged by three mechanisms: the National
Register of Historic Places, the State Register, and the
local register. The Denton County Courthouse and the
Denton County Courthouse Square Historic District
are both on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Courthouse Square Historic District is bounded
by Pecan, Austin, Walnut and Cedar Streets. The
Gregory Road Bridge at Duck Creek, the Rector Road
Bridge at Clear Creek, and 19th Century Pottery Kilns of
Denton County are also on the National Register. At
the state level, the Texas Historical Commission holds
several historic inventories: Recorded Texas Historic
Landmarks, State Antiquities Landmarks, and Historic
Texas Cemeteries. The Texas Historical Commission
Oak-Hickory Historic District - Denton
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
awards Recorded Texas Historic Landmark designation
to buildings at least 50 years old that are judged worthy
of preservation for their architectural character and/or
historical associations. Listing in the National Register
is a prerequisite for State Antiquities Landmark
designation of a building or structure. Denton contains
several of these designations throughout the city and
surrounding county.
Denton contains both historic districts and a
conservation district. Historic districts are areas in
which historic buildings and their settings are protected
by law and a public review process, designed to protect
the most significant buildings and districts in the city.
Inclusion in a historic district signifies that a property
contributes to an ensemble that is worth protecting
by virtue of its historic importance or architectural
quality. Conservation districts are areas containing
groups of buildings that are together architecturally
and historically distinctive. The establishment of
a conservation district recognizes the design and
architectural qualities of key neighborhoods and
encourages their protection and maintenance for the
benefit of the entire city. Guidelines for a conservation
district are less stringent than those for a historic
district. Denton’s three neighborhoods that receive
historic protection are the Oak-Hickory Historic District,
the West Oak Area Historic District, and the Bell Avenue
Historic Conservation District. While these districts
are successful, development pressure adjacent to
Downtown and the universities continues to threaten
historic resources in Downtown and established
residential neighborhoods.
There are many other historic buildings and
neighborhoods that have historic character and
integrity in the city. In order to ensure that these
resources are protected for the future, additional
inventories and protection are required and are
recommended in Denton Plan 2030.
D e n t o n M a i n S t r e e t P r o g r a m
Downtown, one of Denton’s prized historic resources
and distinctive places, is protected and enhanced
through the work of the Denton Main Street Program.
The Main Street Program is a worldwide program to
revitalize downtown areas. The Denton Main Street
Program began in 1989, building from the model of the
program, and since that time, there has been marked
physical and financial improvements in the area, as well
as accolades. Denton received designation as a Texas
Historical Commission Outstanding Urban Main Street
City in 1989 and received the National Trust for Historic
Preservation Great American Main Street Award in 1999.
The Denton Main Street Association (DMSA) was
established as a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization to
lead the program. Denton’s Economic Development
Partnership (DEDP) works in cooperation with the
DMSA, and promotion, advertising and events for
Downtown are funded by the private sector through
sponsorships and DMSA memberships. Denton’s Main
Street Program was made possible through the Texas
legislature-allocated funding for an Urban Main Street
Program, making it possible for cities with populations
of more than 50,000 to participate in the State program.
Since 1989, DMSA membership has increased over
400 percent, demonstrating broad-based community
support. Additionally, the DEDP has a Downtown Task
Force subcommittee, whose primary role is to further
the development goals of Downtown as a whole.
The Denton Main Street Program works to preserve
and market the Downtown, focusing on historic
preservation, continuing reinvestment, and developing
heritage tourism—or tourism oriented towards the
cultural heritage of a location. The DMSA also maintains
an online inventory of destinations and events in
Downtown Denton. The preservation and celebration of
Downtown through the DMSA is a key element of the
identification of the historic character of Denton.
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
Downtown Denton
Denton Courthouse Morrison’s Corn Kits- Southeast Denton
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
classification to enforce and ensure
preservation of structures within the
district. (DP p. 96)
4.1.3 Identify and recommend areas
within the city limits that qualify for
conservation district designation to
protect distinctive character and scale
with overriding, intact, architectural
character. (DP p. 96)
4.1.4 Update the Historic Preservation Plan for Denton to identify historic resources that should receive local
protection and state and national
recognition by 2030.
4.1.5 Work with community and
neighborhood groups to identify
areas that have significant community
support for the formation of historic
and conservation districts, or strong
identification of neighborhood
character to aid in development of
Small Area Plans or local protection.
P l a c e m a k i n g a n d U r b a n V i t a l i t y i n D e n t o n : Placemaking is a key element of implementing
Denton Plan 2030 in terms of harnessing and
celebrating Denton’s sense of place. Placemaking
is oftentimes associated with the design of public
gathering places, with particular attention to the
ways that the community values and uses public
spaces. Placemaking also refers to creating or
highlighting unique places that already exist in
an urban area to enhance the appreciation and
G O A L C C - 1 : I d e n t i f y C h a r a c t e r : P r o t e c t D e n t o n ’ s h i s t o r i c c h a r a c t e r a r e a s t h r o u g h t h o u g h t f u l p r e s e r v a t i o n a n d i n t e g r a t i o n o f n e w d e v e l o p m e n t .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
I d e n t i f i c a t i o n o f H i s t o r i c R e s o u r c e s : Identifying Denton’s historic districts, landmarks, and
character areas is an important step in continuing
to ensure the longevity of the city’s character and
the strength of its economy. Protection of existing
neighborhoods and the promotion of historic
elements throughout the city will also be furthered
by the policies and actions of this Element, the Land
Use Element, and the Housing and Neighborhoods
Element. Historic resources may be preserved
by creating additional historic districts, and
conservation districts as well as providing additional
programs for preserving additional structures within
the community. Historic districts are adopted into
the Denton Development Code as overlay districts,
intended to protect overriding and intact architectural
character and scale. The expansion of historic
resources inventorying is a key component of
Denton Plan 2030.
4.1 Expand Denton’s evaluation of historic landmarks, districts, neighborhoods, and resources.
4.1.1 Continue updating the Historic
Resources Survey to identify
potentially historic resources for
possible zoning protection.
4.1.2 Identify and recommend areas
within the city limits that qualify for
historic districts based on distinctive
character, scale and overriding, intact,
architectural character. Historic
districts will receive appropriate zoning
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
placemaking and urban vitality will be to harness this
energy to enhance the built environment and create
new centers of development, reflecting Denton’s
unique culture and diversity. A key implementation
measure to achieve a coordinated approach to this
strategy is the creation of a Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy. This will identify the key areas that are important within Denton and provide
a coordinated program to link them together.
Creating a clear wayfinding strategy may be a
component of this, which would include establishing
a consistent palette of directional signage to be used
throughout the city, indicating how to navigate to
key destinations in the city from a variety of points
of origin. Wayfinding also reduces visual clutter and
promotes walking, bicycling, and use of mass transit.
Identifying gateways, or those areas influencing first
impressions and the image of Denton, is especially
important to highlight and enhance to welcome
visitors to the city.
encourage use of a space, district, or neighborhood.
In this way, understanding buildings and key areas
as discernible landmarks in the city will help foster
community pride and continue to put Denton on
the map for tourism, events, and as a place where
people choose to live and work, or a community
of choice. In addition to creating and maintaining
these places, the Denton community also wishes
to infuse “urban vitality” throughout. This means
that the places and spaces throughout Denton, no
matter the size, are filled with people, around the
clock and throughout the week, enjoying and taking
pride in the city, and sharing with fellow community
members. This sense of community already exists in
Denton and it is an ambiance that residents want to
sustain and enhance into the future.
Denton has an incredible wealth of cultural draws
and special events that contribute to local character.
The goal of the City in the coming years in regards to
Denton Plan Ambassador (DPA) “Denton in One Word” Exercise
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
During the Plan development process, identifying
branding stations—or areas to highlight Denton’s
character in the physical environment—was a focus
of the Plan advisory committees, including DPA and
the CAC, among others. Community members
worked together to highlight locations in the city
that were suitable to mark Denton’s character, or
provide a welcome, in the form of signage or public
art. Several themes to be incorporated into these
elements included: “arts,” “green,” “education,”
“parks,” “music,” “medical,” “jazz,” “historic
tradition,” “community,” “courthouse,” and “friendly.”
Community members believed these themes
captured the essence of Denton and could be used
in branding and marketing the City, and enhance
the physical environment. This built of the previous
work of the DPA to identify character in the “Denton
in One Word” Exercise.
Gateways and Branding Stations would be further
studied by working with the community and
stakeholders in the formation of a Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy. Potential Gateways and Branding Stations are illustrated on Figure 4.1 and
listed below:
Gateways:
• I-35 and Highway 77
• I-35E at Shady Shores Road
• East University (U.S. 380) at Lake Lewisville
• West University (U.S. 380) at Nail Road
• Robson Ranch Road at I-35W
• Fort Worth Drive (U.S. 77) at Hickory Creek
• Sherman Drive (FM 428) at Warschun Road
Branding Stations:
• Denton Center (University Drive/ U.S. 380 and Carroll Boulevard)
• Denton Enterprise Airport (Airport Road)
• I-35E at Loop 288
• Intersection of I-35W and potential Loop 288 extension
• I-35 at University Drive (U.S. 380)
• University Drive (U.S. 380) and Mayhill Road
Placemaking and urban vitality will further be
aided by coordination with plans that will augment
the public realm and create networks within the
city, such as the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan and coordination with Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA),
which will be crucial not only for providing access
throughout the city, but for helping to promote
the Denton brand. The creation of complete
neighborhoods and centers, and the opportunity for
creating places for community gathering therein, will
also contribute to enhancing Denton’s identity now
and in the future.
4.2 Identify the unique areas within the city that highlight Denton’s sense of place and urban vitality.
4.2.1 Partner and collaborate with the
community and stakeholders to
prepare a Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy that identifies gateways and branding stations and
links together existing character areas
through a wayfinding program by
using a combination of environmental
graphics, print materials, and web-
based information. Coordinate with
mobility planning so that motorists,
bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit
users can easily locate destinations
throughout Denton. (M 6.14.5, 6.21.1,
6.10.5, 6.1.10, FEV 3.5.1)
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
Denton gateway
4.2.2 Map historic resources as part of
Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy to highlight their role in understanding and appreciating
Denton.
4.2.3 Further the policies of the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan by ensuring that existing and future urban centers in Denton are
accessible via walking and bicycling.
(M 6.14)
4.2.4 Work with DCTA and other transit-
oriented organizations to further the
expansion of transit links throughout
Denton and to ensure that existing
and future urban centers in Denton are
accessible via transit. (M 6.19.1)
4.2.5 Encourage mixed-use development
through zoning and land use
regulations that creates complete
neighborhoods and centers, including
ground floor, walkable retail and places
where Denton residents can live, work,
and shop in the same location. (LU
2.3.1)
4.2.6 Establish standards for gateways
and as part of future development to
highlight community points of entry
and promote the Denton brand and its
quality of life: (CC 4.6.3)
* Gateways should provide a sense of transition and arrival, and should be designed to make a strong and positive visual impact.
* Gateways should employ special design treatments for identified gateways as public realm and public art pieces.
* Gateways should be uniquely Denton, drawing upon historic features, precedent, and community character.
* Gateway design should be highlighted in the Urban Design Plan (CC 4.11.1) so that distinctive building features, such as accented corners and open space features as part of private development can augment gateway locations.
* Utilize gateways to market the city as a community of choice and as a tool for economic development and to encourage business attraction. (FEV 3.5.2)
Gateway monument example
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
4.2.7 Establish standards for branding
stations as part of Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy and coordinate with overall marketing
strategy administered by the Public
Communications Office of Denton.
4.2.8 Create a mechanism for community
members to present new ideas for
celebrating Denton’s sense of place
or developing new community-driven
projects by providing a streamlined
and transparent process to propose
projects to the City.
Preservation and Maintenance The preservation of historic resources is a top priority
for the Denton community. As stated historic
resources are recognized on three levels—the National
Register of Historic Places, the State Register, and
the local register—however only one provides true
protection: the local register. The National Register
designation enables these properties to be eligible for
tax credits, but does not provide any direct protection
of the properties unless they undergo alteration, they
must adhere to standards. On the state level, only
State Antiquities Landmarks have legal protection.
Protection from demolition comes from the local
code. Therefore, action on the local level is the most
important for actively preserving resources, in the
form of landmarks and historic districts. Conservation
districts, while important for recognizing character, do
not offer significant architectural protections.
Locally, historic preservation is overseen by the
Historic Landmark Commission. The Historic Landmark
Commission recommends to the Planning & Zoning
Commission and City Council those buildings,
structures, sites, districts, and areas in the city that the
Commission has determined should be preserved and
designated as historic landmarks.
The Commission, along with City staff, regulates
design review for designated properties and districts.
Any exterior or hardscape modifications that are
visible from the public right-of-way to structures
located in any of these districts require a Certificate
of Appropriateness (COA). The Historic Preservation
Officer may administratively approve a COA for work
that is considered ordinary maintenance or minor
alteration. All other COAs are processed and heard
through a public hearing process with the Historic
Landmark Commission.
In addition to providing just protection, or “sticks,” a
successful preservation strategy must also include
incentives or “carrots,” to encourage preservation
or reuse of historic structures and areas. Financial
incentives such as tax credits, façade improvement
grants, and property tax abatements in the form of
Tax Increment Financing Districts (TIFs) are several
options to achieving this goal.
Maintenance of historic resources and other
properties is also a concern of the community and
especially City of Denton decision-makers, including
City Council. Property maintenance is important
because it affects the outward appearance of the
city, and reflects on the community and its identity.
Maintenance refers to both the physical upkeep of
buildings, but also day-to-day maintenance of private
yards and the public realm. Maintenance standards
for the City are currently contained in the Property
Maintenance Code, updated in 2010, and are jointly
handled by the City and individual property owners.
Maintaining a pleasant physical environment
throughout the city is the responsibility of the entire
city and should be addressed in the action of Denton
Plan 2030 for long-term implementation.
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
P o l i c e s a n d A c t i o n s
P r e s e r v a t i o n o f H i s t o r i c R e s o u r c e s : Protecting Denton’s historic districts, landmarks, and
character areas is essential to ensuring the longevity
of the city’s character and the strength of its economy.
Therefore, continued protection and enhancement
of historic resources is a key component of Denton
Plan 2030. Protection of existing neighborhoods and
the promotion of historic elements throughout the
city will also be furthered by the policies and actions
of the Land Use Element, as well as the Housing and
Neighborhoods Element. Historic resources can be
preserved by adopting additional historic districts, and
conservation districts as well as providing additional
programs for preserving additional structures within
the community. Historic resource protection should
be evaluated as part of other plan implementation
actions, as noted herein. In addition to the need to
preserve historic districts, policies and tools to ensure
compatible infill development are needed to protect
the character and scale of neighborhoods which do not
quality for historic district designations. Where present
G O A L C C - 2 : P r e s e r v e a n d m a i n t a i n t h e u n i q u e c h a r a c t e r o f D e n t o n f o r l o n g - t e r m s u s t a i n m e n t o f c o m m u n i t y c h a r a c t e r .
Historic landmark designation Historic district designation
zoning may not ensure compatible infill development,
neighborhood stabilization overlay districts may apply.
These zoning overlays would modify underlying
zoning requirements for such factors as front and side
setbacks, garage placement and building height.
4.3 Actively preserve and maintain Denton’s existing and future identified historic resources.
4.3.1 Implement recommendations for
historic landmark, historic district, and
conservation districts per updated
historic resources survey to ensure
consistent protection.
4.3.2 Encourage voluntary landmark
designation as a vehicle to protect sites
with historical significance. (DP p.96)
4.3.3 Establish the Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan to coordinate preservation within the Downtown and
ensure that the character, aesthetic and
scale of Downtown are maintained.
(DP p.96, LU 2.6.2)
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
4.4 Provide local financial incentives for historic preservation in Denton.
4.4.1 Consider creation of a local program in
which property owners of designated
individual sites or sites within historic
or conservation districts may receive
an incentive in the form of a 50 percent
exemption from City taxes for 15 years.
(DP p.96)
4.4.2 Continue to coordinate with the Denton
Main Street Association (DMSA) to
provide and enable funding of district-
wide improvements and incentives,
such as façade improvement grants, to
encourage preservation. Expand reach
of DMSA beyond existing boundaries if
feasible.
4.4.3 Coordinate with other financial
incentives that may support historic
resource preservation such as the
Downtown TIF. (FEV 3.10.4)
4.4.4 Explore the creation of a local incentive,
tax credit, or grant to encourage the
preservation and reuse of historic
structures.
Property Maintenance: An important element of maintaining community
character is ensuring that the quality of the physical
environment is enhanced and maintained. This is a factor
in all properties, not just historic resources or areas of
distinctive character. It is especially important for historic
resources to be properly maintained, regardless of their
ownership, so that they may last for posterity. The City
must take a lead in setting standards for maintenance to
ensure that Denton’s physical appearance and long-term
viability is held to the highest standards.
4.3.4 Coordinate preservation regulations
to be consistent with the Arts and
Entertainment Overlay District. (CC 4.7.2)
4.3.5 Coordinate preservation regulations to
be consistent with expansion plans for
local institutions, such as UNT, TWU,
DCTA, Denton County, and DISD. (HN
7.11.1)
4.3.6 Work with private landowners with
historic sites to ensure public access to
and preservation of the sites according
to applicable standards.
4.3.7 Establish partnerships among
private interests to support historic
preservation in Denton. (DP p.61)
4.3.8 Encourage adaptive reuse of historic
structures to ensure their long-term
preservation, while allowing for
repurposing and economic diversity.
(HN 7.12.3)
4.3.9 Ensure that historic resource
preservation is incorporated into
Neighborhood/ University Compatibility
Area Small Area Plans. (LU 2.7.1, 2.7.2)
Financial Incentives: As preservation of existing buildings can be financially
challenging, many communities have successfully
encouraged adaptive reuse of historic buildings and
historically-sensitive upgrading of residential structures
by providing local incentives. At present, many of
the historic regulations in Denton are characterized as
protection, rather than incentives. Providing robust local
programs that provide financial incentives to property
owners will help to encourage preservation of historic
resources and character.
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
4.5 Ensure proper and sustained maintenance of Denton’s historic resources, neighborhoods, and community centers.
4.5.1 Update the Property Maintenance Code
every three to five years.
4.5.2 Establish a program to support the
maintenance of areas having historical
or cultural significance.
4.5.3 Continue an anti-graffiti program to
be administered by the City to protect
elements of the public and private
realm from vandalism and detraction of
character requiring that property owners
abate graffiti on property within a set
period of time.
Arts, Culture and Community Character A key feature of Denton’s character is its robust
culture of visual and performing arts, entertainment,
and its distinctive community that is unique within
the Metroplex. Denton boasts an authentic, small-
town charm and North Texas heritage supported by
a community of artists and musicians, businesses
and institutions, and friends and neighbors who
appreciate the high quality of life available in the
city and opportunities for community interaction
and celebration. As Denton grows and develops,
it is essential that this community character is
retained, celebrated, expanded and shared in order
to encourage a widespread appreciation of its
uniqueness and charm.
There are several mechanisms that are proposed to
promote community character throughout the city.
Mini A-Kon - Denton
Denton Community Market
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
people into Denton to live, work, and recreate.
Finally, Denton’s unique brand and character can be
highlighted locally through promoting its sense of
place on a neighborhood and site scale by creating
and highlighting areas for community gathering.
Denton currently has several great community
gathering places, such as the Downtown Square and
Quakertown Park. Other potential types of community
gathering places include city streets, parks, which may
be public or privately managed, and plazas within
private development. As Denton moves towards its
future, it is essential to keep its character alive and
well in each and every neighborhood, in commercial
and institutional areas, and through the preservation
of its built environment and the culture of its people.
The policies and actions of Denton Plan 2030 will
ensure that this goal is met.
This includes a program for public art to celebrate
the Denton community and provide opportunities
for artists to share their work with the public. Public
art also enhances the physical appearance and
beautifies the city. Secondly, the already robust
arts and music scene is a key mechanism for
promoting and expanding community character.
This includes providing additional spaces for both
the visual and performing arts and events in the city,
as well as promoting those events more widely, so
that the region at large is drawn to Denton to take
advantage of these great assets. Denton’s historical
charm also provides a regional draw to the city
and is representative of community character. A
comprehensive approach to heritage tourism is
crucial for ensuring that the preservation of historic
resources is linked to strategies for placemaking,
community branding, and programs that bring
G O A L C C - 3 : P r o m o t e D e n t o n ’ s c h a r a c t e r t h r o u g h p u b l i c a r t , a r t s a n d c u l t u r e , h e r i t a g e t o u r i s m , a n d p l a c e s f o r c o m m u n i t y i n t e r a c t i o n .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
P u b l i c A r t i n D e n t o n : Public art is an excellent tool for the promotion of
community identity. Denton currently has a public art
program that is overseen by the City Council-appointed
Public Art Committee and the Parks and Recreation
Department. Additionally, the City has a combination
of public and private funding sources to fund public art.
A two percent allocation for art dedication is required
as part of all Capital Improvement Projects and 2.4
percent of the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) is allocated
towards public art in the city. Tax abatements are also
offered to developers that include publicly accessible
art as a significant component of a development.
Private funding for public art is also pursued
independently through the Parks and Recreation
Department and through individuals and businesses.
These fund dedications are important for the
establishment of public art, however a coordinated
effort is necessary to expand the program and
highlight the character of Denton. A Public Art Master Plan is recommended in order to identify strategic locations and themes for the inclusion of public art.
Such a plan would also ensure that public art was
coordinated between organizations such as DCTA,
Denton County, and DISD, and placed equitably
throughout the city and in locations that would have
the greatest amount of public benefit.
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
4.6 Promote a sense of urban vitality throughout Denton by providing opportunities for public art.
4.6.1 Encourage the use of public art to
highlight neighborhood identity
in Denton’s existing and future
neighborhoods through a Public Art Master Plan for Denton (DP p.74)
4.6.2 Integrate public art into the planning
and design for City and County-owned
public facilities, parks and trails, and
other publicly-funded projects and
projects on City-owned land (DP p.74,
HN 7.15.3)
4.6.3 Install art at suitable locations that
including community gateways,
branding stations, parks, key corridors,
and other memorable places
throughout Denton. (DP p.61, 74, CC
4.2.7)
4.6.4 Create a program to investigate the
temporary reuse of vacant and/or
underutilized parcels and building
facades for art exhibitions and murals.
(DP p.74, CC 4.7.5)
4.6.5 Create a partnership with local artists,
through schools and institutions, to
employ local artists in the creation of
public art in Denton.
4.6.6 Partner and collaborate with DCTA,
UNT, and TWU to install public art at
transit facilities and on the university
campuses. (M 6.21)
Public art in civic spaces - Denton
Fine Arts Theater - Denton
Center for the Visual Arts - Denton
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
that are desired. To achieve this goal, an Arts and
Entertainment Overlay District is suggested for
Downtown and related areas that are appropriate
for this type of use. This overlay could include
the modification of development regulations
tailored to entertainment uses and establish design
guidelines suited for entertainment use areas, or
a by right allowance of these uses in a new zoning
district. Additional studies, such as a Special Events Integrated Transportation Plan, and coordination with transit and public art programs, could further
enhance the viability and functionality of arts
and entertainment in Denton, contributing to its
economic vitality and sense of place.
4.7 Promote a sense of urban vitality throughout Denton by providing venues for performing and visual arts and music events.
4.7.1 Identify opportunities to incorporate
arts and music venues in future
development, including Downtown
and in Regional Mixed-Use Centers.
4.7.2 Study the viability of an Arts and
Entertainment Overlay District—or
new zoning district—in Downtown
Denton, and other strategically located
4.6.7 Ensure that opportunities for public
art are included in the Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) and revisited
on an annual basis. (LU 2.4.2)
4.6.8 Evaluate opportunities for public
art to be included as part of the I-35
expansion and potential highway
underpasses and overpasses.
4.6.9 Engage the community through a
public involvement process to identify
locations and designs for public art.
A r t s a n d M u s i c Ve n u e s : Denton is well-known for its performing and visual
arts culture, and music scene, and its draw within
the region for special events. Outside of major
events, Denton could enhance its regional role as a
place to go for entertainment on a year-round basis,
however this needs to be planned to ensure that
the appropriate regulations are in place to allow
such development. Certain regulations need to be
adjusted in some areas, such as signage standards,
hours of operation, regulations for building design
and renovation, and parking standards in order to
allow for the types of arts and entertainment uses
Twilight Tunes Tuesday - Denton First Friday Denton
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
of alternative transportation modes. (M
6.21.2)
4.7.9 Create a program to temporarily
rent areas to display art, including,
but not limited to, sculptures in City
facilities, on City property, and in local
businesses and developments, such
as art is storefronts and sculptures on
loan.
4.7.10 Identify opportunities to host
performing arts events in publicly-
owned areas including parks, streets,
and public buildings. (DP p. 61)
A r t s a n d M u s i c i n t h e E c o n o m y : Denton’s rich offering of arts and music is a great
contribution to the character, as well as the economy,
of the city. It is important to retain this important
economic base as development goes forward into
the next generation. To this end, the City should
work with key regional organizations, such as the
Greater Denton Arts Council, to promote the arts
and administer tools, such as tax abatements, for
the establishment of arts-related business and
developments. Additionally, partnership with
local schools and institutions to support vocational
programs and arts education will help keep artists in
Denton and maintain the important impact that this
community has on the city.
4.8 Bolster the role of arts and music in Denton’s economy.
4.8.1 Partner with the Greater Denton Arts
Council on all programs related to
promoting arts in the community.
4.8.2 Create and enhance programs for arts
education through local schools and
institutions that will lead to local job
growth.
areas, with appropriate regulations for
hours, lighting, and design, sensitive to
surrounding uses.
4.7.3 Explore the possibility of requiring a
baseline percentage of ground-floor
retail that should be occupied by
tenants related to the arts and culture
industry within the Downtown or a
future Arts and Entertainment Overlay
District.
4.7.4 Study where opportunities for arts
and music venues could be created in
vacant or underutilized sites, adjacent
to Downtown and the Downtown
Denton Transit Centers, that can be
supported by the A-train.
4.7.5 Work with the public arts programs
to formally demarcate arts and music
venues and event locations through
permanent or temporary public art and
public realm improvements. (CC 4.6.4)
4.7.6 Study the use of tax incentives and
subsidies to attract arts and music
organizations and private investors.
4.7.7 Work with City departments, such as
Parks and Recreation, to ensure that
events do not overly burden City staff
capacity and/or facilities.
4.7.8 Create a Special Events Integrated Transportation Plan that studies opportunities for shared parking, transit,
shuttles, and available parking facilities
to accommodate local and regional
travel to and from events and venues
in Denton, without overly burdening
Denton’s facilities and highlighting use
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
4.8.3 Conduct a study to understand
the current and future economic
development value of music and the
visual and performing arts in Denton.
4.8.4 Administer tools, such as incentives,
start-up loans, live-work dwellings, and
art incubators, to encourage artists and
musicians to live and work in Denton.
4.8.5 Promote the arts and music through
regional Convention and Visitors
Bureaus, Chambers of Commerce,
the universities and schools, and
local promotion groups to highlight
Denton’s role in arts and music in the
DFW Metroplex for both visitors and
residents.
4.8.6 Encourage private funding for arts and
music by reaching out to private sector
organizations in Denton and the DFW
Metroplex.
4.8.7 Explore opportunities for donations
and grants to assist art and music-
related efforts in Denton.
4.8.8 Partner and collaborate with UNT,
TWU, and NCTC to coordinate art and
music-related efforts.
4.8.9 Coordinate City departments, such as
Police, Fire, and Parks and Recreation,
to ensure appropriate and feasible in-
kind donations of services are offered
to facilitate the development of live
events and their associated economic
and fiscal impacts for the city.
H e r i t a g e To u r i s m : As noted previously, the Denton Main Street
Program is a successful program in the city that
currently focuses on preservation, revitalization, and
promotion of the Downtown. Denton’s Main Street
Program began in 1989 and has received broad
community support. It is managed by the Denton
Main Street Association (DMSA).
In addition to its work to preserve and market the
Downtown, focusing on historic preservation and
reinvestment, DMSA also works to develop heritage
tourism in the city. DMSA maintains an online
inventory of destinations and events in Downtown
Denton. The preservation and celebration of
Downtown through the DMSA is a key element of
the promotion of the historic character of Denton.
Downtown Denton
Denton Arts & Jazz Festival
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
The historic character of Denton is one of the
attributes that makes the city unique and contributes
to its economic stature. This should be evaluated
and made public so that it further encourages the
preservation of historic resources and character
and is integrated into plans to celebrate Denton’s
sense of place and urban vitality. To achieve this,
policies and actions for historic preservation go
beyond protection and suggest mechanisms for
integrating historic resources into cultural tourism,
creating centers of community, and contributing to
placemaking and urban vitality.
4.9 Promote the historic identity of Denton as an economic asset and tourism potential.
4.9.1 Promote preservation as a means
to increase economic, cultural, and
educational diversity within the
community. (DP p.96, FEV 3.6.3)
4.9.2 Include the location of historic
landmarks, historic districts,
conservation districts, and a
wayfinding plan within the Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy as a mechanism for heritage tourism
generation. (CC 4.2.1)
4.9.3 Incorporate historic elements into
placemaking and community gathering
spaces where landmarks exist. (CC
4.4.4)
4.9.4 Coordinate with the DMSA for
promotion of heritage tourism.
4.9.5 Partner and collaborate with local
agencies and institutions to engage
the community in education regarding
the historic identity of Denton and the
historic resources Denton has.
C o m m u n i t y G a t h e r i n g P l a c e s : Places for community gathering are a central
element in placemaking and urban vitality and
celebrate the essence of Denton and its community
members. Examples of such spaces, which may
be of public or private ownership, include parks
of various sizes, plazas, and areas within the
public right of way where people gather. Recently,
temporary community gathering places have
become common with the emergence of “pop-up”
parks and events. With the updates to mixed-use
land use designation and the significant amount
of future development that will occur in the form
of Regional, Community, and Neighborhood
Mixed-Use Centers, a great opportunity exists to
provide more places for community gathering in
new development. In addition, as established
neighborhoods and developed areas of the city are
being studied for potential infill and redevelopment,
opportunities for community input and the design of
spaces that reflect existing neighborhood character
and pride are available. Community involvement
and the Parks and Recreation Department should be
central to the design of community gathering spaces,
which should be coordinated into the design process
for future mixed-use and infill development.
4.10 Provide places for community gathering, the expression of individual neighborhood diversity, and Denton’s unique character throughout the city.
4.10.1 Conduct a study of existing community
gathering spaces and their use and
suitability for various activities and
events throughout Denton and
highlight these through Discover
Denton and other online outlets.
4.10.2 Include a zoning requirement to
include public community gathering
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
space within mixed-use developments
and centers. Establish regulations
and procedures for the design,
installation and maintenance of
community gathering spaces, as
well as regulations for noise and
time of use for privately-owned
and operated community gathering
spaces, consistent with underlying and
surrounding land use. (CC 4.7)
4.10.3 Engage with residents in adjacent
neighborhoods to provide input into
the design and function of community
gathering spaces.
4.10.4 Create design standards for the
creation and redesign of community
gathering spaces in Denton in new
and existing centers. Ensure that
gathering spaces are accessible and
defensible through Americans with
Disabilities (ADA) compliant design
and using Crime Prevention through
Environmental Design (CPTED)
principles.
4.10.5 Ensure that provision of shade, water
fountains, appropriate lighting, and
trash receptacles are provided in
community gathering spaces where
feasible.
4.10.6 Coordinate with programming for
mobile food vendors to enliven
community gathering places for special
events.
Urban Design and Community Character Urban design refers to the physical and visual
character of the built environment, as well as the
composite form and function of a city. It is among
the most significant contributors to community
character in the city. Urban design has emerged
to be a very important consideration in planning
throughout the country, as communities have
realized the value of a quality environment in
creating resilient, memorable communities. This is
increasingly important in a city like Denton that has
a lot of growing room and a regulatory system that
allows development to be almost entirely market-
driven. Denton Plan 2030 calls for a framework for
Community Gathering Place example
Better Block Denton
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
guiding and supporting development which makes
it easy to do the “right thing” when it comes to
creating new, enduring development and making
Denton a desirable place to live, work, and play for
the long-term.
High-quality urban design is a fundamental
requirement to attract long-term, high-quality
investment and jobs. The quality of the physical
environment and sense of urban vitality affects
Denton’s image and attractiveness to developers
searching for high quality business and residential
locations. The issue of urban design, including the
design of streets and publicly-visible areas—otherwise
known as the public realm—must be addressed
rigorously if Denton is to achieve the quality of
development that most citizens desire. (DP p. 61)
Denton’s development character is influenced
by the Denton Development Code (DDC) and the
Future Land Use guidelines, and urban design
recommendations of Denton Plan 2030. Denton’s
Site Design Criteria Manual also provides details on
the standards of the DDC for easier interpretation.
This manual functions as an extension of the DDC.
The DDC has the greatest impact on urban design in
the community since it contains requirements that
must be followed. Future land use designations
provide guidance as to the nature of the land use,
and the guidelines of the comprehensive plan
provide general guidance as to the character of
development. Regulations for density of residential
land uses are also found in the DDC.
An update to the DDC has been an ongoing priority
of the City. Concurrently with the Denton Plan 2030,
the City conducted an evaluation of the DDC to
inform its updating. The study made three significant
recommendations for revisions to the DDC:
1. Create a more user-friendly Code,
2. Streamline the development review process,
3. Establish tailored standards for infill and redevelopment projects.
Once the City undertakes the revision of the
DDC, these recommendations, along with the
recommendations for land use and urban design will
be reflected in the DDC and aligned with the goals
and policies of Denton Plan 2030.
Urban design guidelines and recommendations
have been created for Denton and the region that
influence new development. The 1999 Denton
Plan included urban design policies and design
guidelines that remain applicable today. These are
contained in Table 4.1, shown later in this Element.
L a n d U s e v . U r b a n D e s i g n
Land use determines the location, use and function of land, and what is and is not permitted by right.
Urban design refers to the physical form of development and the city as a whole. Regulations and guidelines determine the appearance and shape of development.
Denton Plan 2030 calls for a framework for guiding and supporting development which makes it easy to do the “right thing” when it comes to creating new, enduring development and making Denton a desirable place to live, work, and play for the long-term.
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In addition, regional plans have already established
urban design frameworks for the planning of transit-
oriented development (TOD) and mixed-use centers,
such as Vision North Texas, prepared by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).
This guidance is important for Denton to incorporate
so that new development is not only consistent and
coordinated with regional goals, but economically
competitive with neighboring communities and
contemporary development products. The guidelines
for the development of mixed-use centers as directed
by NCTCOG are illustrated in Table 4.2, shown later
in this Element as guidance for the development of
mixed-use centers.
The policies and actions that follow are intended to
establish general guidance for new development
and for particular land uses. As stated, the Denton
Development Code and Site Criteria Manual
need to be updated in concurrence with these
recommendations, as well as coordinated with
G O A L C C - 4 : C r e a t e C h a r a c t e r : A c h i e v e e x e m p l a r y u r b a n d e s i g n i n f u t u r e a n d e x i s t i n g d e v e l o p m e n t t h r o u g h o u t D e n t o n ’ s n e i g h b o r h o o d s , c e n t e r s , a n d l a n d u s e s .
the land use guidelines, in order to achieve the
highest quality and intended character of design.
The policies and actions that follow provide an
overarching framework for an Urban Design Plan, which would provide land use and area-specific
guidelines for future development, as well as
opportunities to create Small Area Plans for key
areas in the city that may include neighborhoods or
areas ripe for future development or redevelopment.
This mechanism allows for the creation of guidelines
that are specific to each neighborhood and take
into account a finer grain of character. Through
these implementation actions, the type of quality
development imagined for Denton’s future, to create
areas of lasting character throughout the city, can be
realized.
Urban Design Principles, contained in Table 4.1,
provide guidelines that apply to all land uses, and
are adapted from the 1999 Denton Plan.
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
U r b a n D e s i g n i n F u t u r e D e v e l o p m e n t Denton’s identity will be strengthened in the future
by enhancing the aesthetic qualities of its built
environment, public realm, and creating distinction
among places and neighborhoods. The key to
establishing superior urban design throughout
Denton is through the creation of an Urban Design Plan for the city. Denton Plan 2030 provides overarching policies and actions intended to guide
new development and land uses. A focused Urban Design Plan would provide specific design regulations that apply within the city. Such a plan would provide
additional specificity on the design for centers and
corridors that can be applied to Small Area Plans,
overlay districts, infill developments, and the updating
of the DDC. The Plan would identify visually distinct
areas and would include design guidelines for the
public and private realm. Finally, the Plan would also
unite overarching policy created by the NCTCOG and
ensure that future development is consistent with
regional direction and coordinated plans.
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
Key centers and corridors were established in the
creation of the Preferred Growth Concept based on
the location of important community identifiers, a
concentration of employment or community hubs,
or opportunities for densification, public realm
improvements, and infill development. These areas
were further refined in the creation of the Future
Land Use Map (FLUM). Other focus areas include
gateways, branding stations, and travel centers,
which themselves are unique and thus require
specific attention. Due to the differences among
these focus areas, it is recommended that those
that are a priority should be the subject of Small
Area Plans to identify unique recommendations
for land use, urban design, circulation and
public realm improvements, and development
programming, representing the diversity of Denton’s
neighborhoods. Following the preparation of the
Small Area Plans, it may be appropriate to adopt
corresponding Overlay Districts to apply particular
development standards to key centers, corridors
and infill areas that will be administered through
the DDC. The guidelines of this Element will serve
to create consistency and a foundation for the
development of those specific regulations. All Focus
Areas are illustrated on Figure 4.1: Focus Areas
Concept and discussed below.
4.11 Create new guiding policy to integrate urban design objectives with other planning mechanisms, such as land use, zoning and subdivision regulations, historic preservation, economic development, and environmental protection. (DP p. 61).
4.11.1 Prepare an Urban Design Plan for Denton that is consistent with revised
future land use designations and
urban design goals and that provides
a citywide approach to visual quality
and image (DP p. 75). Incorporate
policies from Denton Plan 2030 as the
framework for this Plan.
4.11.2 Revise the Denton Development Code
to be consistent with Denton Plan
2030, the Urban Design Plan, and the recommendations of the Denton
Development Code Assessment
to ensure that new developments
and projects adhere to citywide
urban design policies and that the
development review process is
streamlined.
4.11.3 Include urban design review early
in the development review process.
Ensure that City government will
exert a leadership role in ensuring
adherence to the principles of good
urban design as essential for economic
development. (DP p.61)
4.11.4 Work with DCTA and other transit-
oriented organizations to further the
expansion of transit links throughout
Denton, and for the creation of station
area plans. (M 6.19.2)
4.12 Elevate community character in Denton by creating focused plans for areas undergoing new development, in need of revitalization, and established neighborhoods.
4.12.1 Create Small Area Plans for
established neighborhoods and
future development areas to ensure
adherence to urban design policy and
preserve and enhance the character of
distinct areas.
4.12.2 Create a Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan and Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Area Small
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
Area Plans to ensure that urban design
principles are followed in development
projects within those areas. (DP p.62,
LU 2.6.2, LU 2.7.1)
4.12.3 Partner with and collaborate with the
community in the formulation of Small
Area Plans to ensure their reflection of
neighborhood character and priorities
in future development. (LU 2.8.1, LU
2.17.2, DP p.62)
4.12.4 Create a prioritization of centers,
corridors, and other focus areas to
streamline and direct the process
of creating Small Area Plans.
Prioritization should be based on
ripeness of development potential,
level of community support, existence
of threatened historic resources,
economic development catalysts, and
other sensitive issues.
Focused urban infill and revitalization, Dallas
4.12.5 Adopt Overlay Districts following the
creation of Small Area Plans as needed
to ensure that appropriate guidelines
are followed. (LU 2.8.2)
D e s i g n o f t h e P u b l i c R e a l m :
“ T h e c i t y ’ s u r b a n d e s i g n s t r a t e g i e s w i l l b e g u i d e d b y t h e p r i n c i p l e t h a t t h e s p a c e s b e t w e e n b u i l d i n g s a r e j u s t a s i m p o r t a n t a s t h e b u i l d i n g s t h e m s e l v e s . T h e f o r m o f p u b l i c s p a c e s s h o u l d s u p p o r t t h e i r i n t e n d e d f u n c t i o n s , a n d t h e i r v i s u a l q u a l i t i e s s h o u l d c o m m u n i c a t e t h e v a l u e s w e f e e l a r e i m p o r t a n t . ( D P p . 6 2 ) ”
The community’s development fabric is composed
of two distinct, yet inter-related components: the
“public” realm and the “private” realm. The public
realm consists primarily of the publicly-owned street
rights-of-way and other publicly accessible open
spaces such as parks, squares, plazas, courtyards,
and alleys. The private realm consists of privately-
owned areas, in large part developed with buildings
and associated improvements, and is more limited in
its accessibility to the public.
The public realm plays a critical role in an area’s
character and function, serving overlapping roles,
including circulation and access, development
framework, public open space, and visual interest.
The aforementioned guiding policy documents,
such as the Urban Design Plan, updated DDC, and Small Area Plans will include recommendations
and requirements for the public realm. In addition,
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coordinating with other regulating policy is
important to ensure that urban design guidelines
are consistent and also feasible. The updated
Mobility Plan will put forward concepts for
street design that promote Complete Streets
and Context-sensitive Solutions, as well as
connectivity recommendations for the pedestrian
and bicycle network. This is very important for
ensuring a public realm that is complementary
to the elevated character of urban design that is
envisioned through Denton Plan 2030. Additionally
the Parks, Recreation and Trails System Master Plan contains recommendations for the design of parks and trails, which are also an important
component of the public realm. An update to this
plan should include standards for the design of
parks and open spaces consistent with the Urban Design Plan and the urban design principles of the Community Character and Urban Design
Element. Coordination among these various policy
documents is necessary for achieving a consistent
approach to the design and maintenance of the
public realm within the city.
4.13 Elevate the appearance of the public realm in Denton through high-quality urban design guidelines for the public rights-of-way and spaces.
4.13.1 Update the Mobility Plan to
incorporate Complete Streets and
Context-sensitive Solutions. Refer
to “The Street” discussion of the
1999 Denton Plan where applicable.
(LU 2.4.1, M 6.6.1, DP p.77)
4.13.2 Further the policies of the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the updated Mobility Plan to ensure that existing and future urban
centers in Denton are accessible via
walking and bicycling. (M 6.14.1)
Design of the public realm
Public realm connections - UNT
Design of the public realm
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
between these institutions and public
property. (DP p.61)
G u i d e l i n e s f o r S p e c i f i c F u t u r e L a n d U s e D e s i g n a t i o n s : Creating the type of character in Denton that will
complement the city and create the high-quality
development is an important goal of Denton Plan 2030.
The Plan recommends the creation of several plans to
further the goal of achieving high-quality design. In
addition, Denton Plan 2030 includes recommendations
to achieve desired character to guide all future planning.
Overarching guidelines for all development can be
found in Table 4.1: Urban Design Principles. These
principles are adapted and updated from the 1999
Denton Plan, providing guidance to achieve high
quality design in the future, and as a foundation for
preparing an Urban Design Plan. Further design guidelines may be prepared as part of Small Area
Plans and incorporated as zoning overlay districts. The
following policies and actions provide general guidance
to achieve high-quality development throughout
Denton based no future land use types. When applied
generally, it is important to maintain flexibility in these
recommendations to allow for a diversity of building
types and architectural styles, preserving the distinctive
and diverse quality of Denton.
4.15 Establish Urban Design Principles to guide all future development in Denton.
4.15.1 Ensure that the Urban Design
Principles of Denton Plan 2030 are used
to evaluate all future development
projects in Denton.
4.15.2 Update the DDC and corresponding
Site Design Criteria Manual to include
Urban Design Principles.
4.13.3 Revise the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan to incorporate citywide urban design guidelines
for the public realm and design of
recreational facilities structures. (PCE
5.1.2)
4.13.4 Ensure that trees and landscaping
are included in all roadway standards
and site design criteria to recognize
their aesthetic and environmental
contribution to the city and
enhancement of the tree canopy. (DP
p.61, PCE 5.5, IU 9.5.6)
4.14 Link Denton’s public realm together through a unified network of public spaces.
4.14.1 Provide a mechanism for coordination
between the Parks, Recreation and Trails System Master Plan, revised Mobility Plan, Urban Design Plan, and Small Area Plans to ensure that the
design of the public realm creates a
cohesive network of public spaces in
Denton.
4.14.2 Ensure that new development
addresses established pedestrian and
bicycle networks and provides for
additional connectivity to further foster
pedestrian and bicycle mobility, and
other alternative transportation modes
throughout Denton.
4.14.3 Through partnership and
collaboration with UNT and TWU and
creation of Neighborhood/ University
Compatibility Area Small Area
Plans, encourage more community
interaction with the universities and
the City by linking physical access
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4.15.3 Incorporate Urban Design Principles
into all future plans related to urban
design, including the Urban Design Plan and Small Area Plans.
4.16 Include additional guidelines for specific land uses, in addition to overarching Urban Design Principles (Table 4.1), to ensure desired community character is achieved with variations for use.
4.16.1 Employ the following guidelines in the
design of new Rural Area land uses:
* Development should be low in
profile and use architectural design
and materials that contribute to the
preservation of rural character at the
urban edge.
* Development should comply with
policies for conservation development
where appropriate (LU 2.14.1).
4.16.2 Employ the following guidelines in the
design of new Residential land uses:
* Create architectural guidelines and
requirements for single and multi-family
residential areas to establish unity and
distinctive architecture with respect to
massing, facade details, materials, and
roof pitch, although many variations
would be possible. (DP p.69, HN 7.7.1,
7.7.2)
4.16.3 Employ the following design principles
in the design of new development in
the Downtown Denton land use:
* Street design and architectural standards
created as part of the Downtown
Implementation Plan (DTIP) and any
updates to that plan preside in future
Downtown Denton
Residential land use
Residential land use
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
development review within the Denton
Central Business District. (LU 2.6.2)
* Development should echo and
complement the historic character
of Downtown, including materials,
fenestration, scale, height, roof pitch, and
street orientation.
* Development should contribute to the
energy and character of Downtown
through encouraging development
types that contribute to a vibrant district
throughout the day.
4.16.4 Employ the following guidelines in
the design of new development in the
Downtown Compatibility Area land use:
* Future developments proposed in
areas of the Downtown Compatibility
Area, that are located within the
Denton Central Business District,
should abide by the street design and
architectural standards of the Downtown
Implementation Plan (DTIP) and any
updates to that Plan. (LU 2.6.1, LU 2.6.2)
* Development should echo and
complement the historic character
of Downtown, including materials,
fenestration, scale, height, roof pitch, and
street orientation.
* Future development that is adjacent
to other land use districts should be
sensitive to the scale, massing, and
character of existing development
in adjacent land use districts (e.g.
residential, institutional).
4.16.5 Employ the following design principles
in the design of Regional, Community,
and Neighborhood Mixed-use land
uses:
Regional Mixed-use Center
Community Mixed-use Center
Neighborhood Mixed-use Center
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The following principles are a guide for all future development in Denton, including new site development as well as infill and adaptive reuse. The goals and policies of this Element call for the development of an Urban Design Plan that will include specific guidelines for the design of buildings and the public realm in Denton that will include these basic principles.
Accessibility: This is the ease with which people can access a full range of facilities such as shops, leisure, employment, and other public areas. Accessibility is affected by the location and distribution of uses; transportation choices, including facilities for less mobile people; the physical design of spaces and pedestrian circulation systems. New development will be accessible to the widest range of people both in terms of its location, the physical design of spaces and buildings, and its accessibility via transportation modes including bicycle, pedestrian, and transit.
Health & Safety: A well-designed built environment can help to improve safety and security. An unsafe environment can discourage human activity and render a site unusable. Good lighting and proper site design are also important factors. Efficient transportation design can contribute to reduce air pollution emissions. Strategically placed landscaping and careful architectural design can reduce energy consumption and save money. Designers will be expected to demonstrate that the health and safety of the city has been a factor in producing new development schemes. Encourage self-policing and discourage crime by incorporating Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies into building and site design.
Connectivity: The number of alternative ways people are able to move through a community is a measure of its connectivity or permeability. New development should maximize permeability both within the site and in the neighborhood. Site design must be based on the promotion of walkability and modal choice, including access to bicycle, pedestrian and transit networks and efficient use of existing paths and patterns of movement. New development is designed to complement the existing street grid network and maximize the choice of movement within and through the site. Paths into a site connect rather than forming a series of dead-ends. Cul-de-sacs are generally discouraged except under circumstances, such as the presence of topography, stream corridors or other barriers. New development will be expected to take advantage of opportunities to promote walkability and modal choice, including access to bicycle, pedestrian and transit networks.
Neighborhood Scale: A neighborhood is limited in physical size, with well-defined edges. The size of a neighborhood is generally defined as a five-minute walk or one-quarter mile from the neighborhood edge to its center and a ten- minute walk edge to edge. Human scale is the proportional standard for all structures and accessory components. Automobiles are allowed within the neighborhood but do not take precedence over the pedestrian or human needs, particularly the aesthetic functions that include a sense of place. These neighborhoods will typically contain transit stops and will utilize transit-oriented design.
Durability & Endurance: Durability and endurance are very important factors in achieving a sustainable, built environment. The use of high-quality materials for surfaces should be a priority. The resistance of materials to wear is important if they are to last and not require excessive maintenance. Flexibility and adaptability in the design and layout of space are also important factors to accommodate changing demands and a variety of activities in coming decades.
Variety: Architectural diversity and creativity should be encouraged to avoid homogeneity and sterility, while still mandating high-quality and sustainable construction. Contrast and variety contribute strongly to visual interest and viewer perceptions of quality. Implementation of design standards by the city will pay strong attention to avoid regulations that promote sameness and stifle individuality.
Sustainability: Sustainability is a theme of Denton Plan 2030, as well as a priority for Denton. As such building and neighborhood designs should strive to achieve the highest possible standards for sustainability. In the design process, rating systems such as LEED for New Construction, LEED for Neighborhood Development, and Green Built™ Texas should be consulted as a reference with the intent of incorporating as many green building elements as feasible. (PCE 5.9)
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Legibility: Legibility confers a sense of orientation, in which people can understand and are comfortable with the organization of a place. Good legibility is important because it allows people to find their way around the city. Development schemes will be expected to complement and reinforce the urban character of:
• Paths that help define proper routes for movement; • Districts that are recognized as areas of similar character, with unified features such as land use density;
architectural style, scale, or construction age; • Landmarks that provide specially recognized feature unique to the city; • Edges that indicate distinctions between different neighborhoods or land use districts; and • Nodes that are created at the juncture of paths or are created as special activity centers.
Architectural Quality: The impact of architectural quality will strongly influence the quality of growth during the next twenty years. High-quality design and materials in all future development that will create attractive business destinations and encourage economic development for the future. The following architectural principles shall be used to guide decisions regarding design of structures:
• High-quality architectural design should be encouraged. Innovation, creativity, and originality are considered to be primary ingredients of high-quality architecture. Unique or challenging design solutions will be welcomed. Such buildings are individualistic, provide contrast, and in these ways create local identity and contribute to local distinctiveness.
• Careful consideration of proportioning, detailing, and context is important in designing buildings adjacent to historic buildings and within historic areas of the city by providing variety and defining space.
• Architectural design will be used to integrate the functions of buildings with public spaces, adding to interest and vitality. The impact of architecture on public spaces must be considered. Main frontages and corners should include major entrances, windows, or other features to create activity and visual interest at the ground floor level.
• Design materials will be used and expressed authentically and appropriately with the use materials and design features indigenous to the region. Use high-quality, durable materials to ensure long-term quality and appreciation of local design.
• The City will partner with developers on development projects and will actively explore the use of competitions in the development of significant public buildings as a means of encouraging more distinctive design. Calls for design and programs for development related to projects that demonstrate consistency with the comprehensive plan may be explored by the city in partnership with potential developers and design professionals.
Historic Precedent: Development should echo and complement the historic character of Denton’s past, including materials, fenestration, scale, height, roof pitch, and street orientation. New buildings should demonstrate thorough knowledge of historical architectural information and context, but should not imitate older buildings. In the case of infill, materials, fenestration, scale, height, roof pitch, and street orientation should complement the character of the existing area. Consider the adaptive reuse of existing buildings and warehouse for all types of uses.
Building Scale and Orientation: Buildings should be oriented to address primary streets or thoroughfares in order to create a sense of presence on the street and create a strong street wall. In order for a street to achieve the intimate and welcoming quality of an outdoor room, the buildings along it should compose a suitable street wall. Building height should be sized in proportion to the width of the street and to the surrounding context of the neighborhood or block. Build-to lines should be used to determine how close buildings will stand to the street. If parking lots are necessary, they should be located behind or to the side of buildings. Additional standards may be employed to govern recess lines for upper stories, and transition lines, which denote a distinction between ground floors used for retail and the upper story floors for offices and apartments. Building massing and façade articulation should contribute to a fine-grained, pedestrian scale environment at the street level that promotes walkability.
• Definition of Public Space: Buildings should be sited carefully to create a defined public realm. Build-to lines should be utilized to establish a consistent series of building facades and to shape outdoor spaces, including the street and areas for community gathering, including plazas, courtyards, and parks. The street is an important form of public space, and the buildings that define it should be expected to reinforce and enhance the streetscape corridor.
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• Mobility Choice: Integration of pedestrian and public transportation systems within new development is encouraged. Development should encourage bicycle and pedestrian access that contributes to efficient and safe travel for all modes. This includes consideration of the approaches and access to development, and the arrangement of spaces within the site. Developers should contribute funding for public transportation improvements where warranted, accompanied by a reduction in off-street parking requirements.
• Entrances: Primary street entrances of all building types should front onto the primary street. In multi-family residential developments, ground-floor units should front onto and access the street, rather than having a shared entry and access from interior corridors.
• Location of Parking: Residential garage structures should be located to the rear of the lot with alley access or employ shared driveways from public street frontages where there is no alley access. Garage entrances facing the street or those with side garage entrances accessed from a shared drive are set well back from the front facade so as to obscure views of the garage entry.
• Parking Standards: Off-street parking requirements should reflect respect for environmental quality considerations. Parking location and associated landscaping should be carefully regulated to avoid unacceptable expanses of pavement. Large parking lots should be broken into smaller sub-lots and screened with planting.
• Car-Free Development: Mixed-use development in the Downtown core and adjacent to universities should not require off-street parking, but rather should rely on on-street and shared parking along with transit, bicycle, and pedestrian use.
• Service Areas: Solid waste containers should be located out of public view on private property, in areas specially designed to accommodate truck maneuvering. The use of innovative technologies to reduce the visibility of solid waste operations should be encouraged. Small Area Plans should contain strategies for solid waste improvements in existing developed areas.
• Lighting: Install adequate and sufficient lighting throughout the area for added safety, visibility, and comfort. Lighting should complement the overall character and design of a building or neighborhood and not be visually intrusive to neighbors or the night sky. Lighting should be energy efficient.
• Landscaping: Incorporate distinctive landscaping into the design of buildings when feasible, contributing a vibrant, inviting setting. Accentuate key focal points, entrances, gateways, and corners of a development with accent plant materials and trees. Use local planting materials and those requiring minimal maintenance to contribute to their long-term health and upkeep.
• Signage: Design high quality signage that contributes to community identity, improves wayfinding, that is highly visible and legible. Require all signs within and around a development to be high quality, professionally designed, and creative symbols of community character. Limit attached and detached signage to achieve private advertisement and wayfinding but not clutter corridors and detract from community aesthetics.
• Provision of Onsite Open Space: In commercial, multi-family residential, and mixed-use development, ensure the provision of shared open space and amenities in a central gathering location that is safe, well-lit, and accessible. Use shared open space as opportunities for community gathering, events (depending on the size), public art, and expression of community character.
Elements of the Public Realm: In addition to the built environment, elements of the public realm are an essential element of the character of a city. The design of the public realm includes streets, sidewalks, parks and open space, and bridges and transportation structures. These elements should be designed to address their adjacent uses, be well appointed and maintained, and facilitate safe and accessible function for all modes.
• Design of Bridges and Transportation Structures: Qualified and creative engineering input should be used in the design of mobility infrastructure, with interesting structural solutions, rather than the addition of decorative detailing to a standard structure.
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• Street Trees and Landscaping: Trees and landscaping will be designed as a crucial component of the public realm. Trees and other plantings will be properly coordinated with utilities to avoid conflicts with maintenance of the public right-of-way and competition for limited underground space. The City will fully consider the significant value of trees and the urban forest when resolving infrastructure conflicts; and select and plant appropriate tree species on public rights-of-way that maximize planting potential while protecting the safety of the public. Landscaping shall promote low-impact design, including water-efficient irrigation practices, the use of drought-tolerant planting materials, and permeable paving to promote the sustainable design of the public realm.
• Adaptation to the Natural Environment: Development should complement natural topography and respect natural systems, including tree canopy. Development should be located outside of, the 100-year floodplain, including roadways. Rather developments adjacent to floodplains should establish green space between the road and the floodplain to serve as open space, limit flood exposure, and facilitate channel maintenance. Development should not remove valuable tree canopy, but rather contribute additional trees to the urban forest.
Incorporation of multi-modal elements Signage Sustainable materials
Connectivity Lighting Historic precedent
Orientation to the public realm Durable materials On-site open space
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4.16.6 Employ the following guidelines in the
design of Business Innovation land
uses:
* Encourage the development of office
and business workplaces in close
proximity to housing, civic, and
recreational uses. (DP p. 50)
* Design office facilities (whether free
standing or related to manufacturing
uses) to address the street frontage at
a pedestrian scale.
* Orient and design business park
structures around shared outdoor
gathering spaces (rather than parking
lots) to reinforce a sense of community
and improve the quality of life of
workers.
* Consider the adaptive reuse of existing
warehouse buildings in the area for
* New mixed-use development should
include buildings that are compatible
with one another in size, scale and
their relation to the street.
* Architectural guidelines may be
required for mixed-use areas to
establish unity with respect to
massing, facade details, materials, and
roof pitch, although many variations
would be possible. (DP p.69) These
would be established through Small
Area Plans.
* Use standards for mixed-use centers
proposed by NCTCOG as a basis for
creating mixed-use developments,
and in Small Area Plans. This will align
the type of development occurring
in Denton with standards for the
region in order to maintain economic
competitiveness and quality of
development. (See Table 4.2)
T a b l e 4 . 2 : M i x e d - u s e D e v e l o p m e n t C r i t e r i a ( b a s e d o n N C T C O G ’ s V i s i o n N o r t h T e x a s )
Typologies/ Designations
Typical Service Area
Mix of Uses Employment
Intensity Residential
Density Scale Height
Mobility Integration
Regional Mixed- use
Region
Office, retail, MF residential, light
industrial and entertainment; includes mixed-
use. Emphasis on employment uses
100-200 jobs Over 12 units/
acre
600 – 1,000 acres
5 to 20 stories
All modes of transporta- tion, public transit including DCTA local bus routes and A-train. Served by multiple major highways and arterials. Specific parking guidelines, and commuter parking may be included.
Community Mixed-use
City/ Community
SF and MF resi- dential and retail;
includes mixed-use
30-50 jobs/ acre
4-12units/ acre
20-100 acres
1 to 5 stories
Served by local roads and lo- cated on an arterial network. Served by a local DCTA transit route providing connections to at least one Regional Center.
Neighborhood Mixed-use
Neighbor- hood
Mix of uses at a neighborhood scale
20-30 jobs/ acre
4-12 units/ acre
10-50 acres
1 to 5 stories
Served by local roads and arterials. Served by local transit with connections to nearby Community and Re- gional Mixed-use areas.
Note: Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects may occur within any of these
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
non-industrial uses, such as office or
community facilities.
* Use varying building heights and
setbacks to define different functions,
such as offices and warehousing.
* Screen all loading docks, platforms,
and overhead bay doors from public
view. Loading function should be
located away from front streets and
should be designed or screened in
such a way as to reduce their visibility.
4.16.7 Partner and collaborate with UNT
and TWU to create Neighborhood/
University Compatibility Area Small
Area plans to establish specific
planning guidelines for areas adjacent
to UNT and TWU. (See LU 2.7.1)
4.16.8 Employ the following guidelines in the
design of Commercial land uses:
* Consider two-story, “tall box” retail
in lieu of one-story, “big-box” retail,
and within key corridors, and take
advantage of the height to make a
statement at critical intersections in
the community.
* Discourage use of the parking area
as primary frontage area within and
around the property.
* Where a single-story commercial
development is proposed, provide
additional height to help mark
the corner and make a significant
statement on the street.
* Discourage taking truck access directly
off key corridors. Encourage truck
access and servicing in the rear of
primary buildings.
Commercial use
4.16.9 Employ the following guidelines in the
design of Government/Institutional
land uses (properties not within the
City’s zoning jurisdiction, such as UNT
or TWU, are encouraged to follow
these principles):
* Institutional and governmental
buildings, such as city facilities,
places of worship, schools, libraries,
Fire and Police, post offices, and
museums, should be placed in
prominent locations. Potential sites
include the frontage of plazas, in
neighborhood centers, and where
street vistas terminate in order to
serve as landmarks and reinforce their
importance. (DP p.69)
* Buildings should define parks
and plazas, which are distributed
throughout the neighborhood and
appropriately designed for a range
of neighborhood functions. Design
and scale should be compatible with
surrounding structures. (DP p.69)
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
intensity in the future. Focus areas—Centers,
Corridors, Gateways, Branding Stations, and Travel
Centers—are not land use types, rather they are
types of development that may occur within specified
areas, allowable in the underlying mixed-use land
use designation. The goal for identified Focus Areas
is to create Small Area Plans that examine the areas
to develop context-specific guidelines and land uses
that go beyond the general recommendations of the
Urban Design Principles and land use guidelines. If
necessary, these plans could then be incorporated
into the zoning code as overlays. The guidelines
for Focus Areas add specificity to the Regional,
Community, and Neighborhood Center Mixed-
use land use designations for use in guiding the
development types that may occur in those areas.
Potential Focus Areas are listed below and illustrated
on Figure 4.1: Focus Areas Concept. These focus
areas were developed in the creation of the future
land use alternatives in Phase 3 to illustrate potential
areas of intensification, based on input from City
staff. These areas are reflected in the Future Land
Use Map (FLUM) as areas for intensification or the
creation of new development. Additional areas could
be added as a result of prioritization or development
momentum (CC 4.12.4). Those areas located within
approved MPCs are shown for illustrative purposes
and are liable to be changed based on potential
redesign of MPCs based on alignment with Preferred
4.16.10 Employ the following guidelines in the
design of Industrial Commerce land uses:
* Minimize conflicts with adjoining land
uses and efficiently utilize existing
transportation systems. (DP p. 49)
* Locate development in a manner that
does not compromise health, safety,
and welfare of community. (DP p. 48,
CHS 8.3.2)
* Design all facilities (whether free
standing or related to manufacturing
uses) to address the street frontage at
a pedestrian scale.
* Consider the adaptive reuse of existing
warehouse buildings for non-industrial
uses, such as office or community
facilities.
* Use varying building heights and
setbacks to define different functions,
such as offices and warehousing.
* Screen all loading docks, platforms,
and overhead bay doors from public
view. Loading function should be
located away from front streets and
should be designed or screened in
such a way as to reduce their visibility.
G u i d e l i n e s f o r F o c u s A r e a s : The establishment of Focus Areas is an important
element of ensuring quality development in key
areas of Denton. Focus areas include Centers,
Corridors, Gateways, Branding Stations, and Travel
Centers that are located at key intersections and
destinations throughout the city and were identified
as part of the Plan development process. Due to their
prominent locations—either currently or envisioned
for the future—they warrant special design scrutiny
that will result in perceivable distinction in design,
urban vitality, and potentially increased development
The goal for identified Focus Areas is to create Small Area Plans that examine the areas to develop context-specific guidelines and land uses that go beyond the general recommendations of the Urban Design Principles and land use guidelines.
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
Growth Concept (i.e. compact development). (LU
2.11.1) These will not warrant Small Area Plans to be
initiated by the City.
Focus areas shown on Figure 4.2 include the
following centers, corridors, and travel centers- a
type of center geared towards freight use. Locations
of Gateways are discussed in policy 4.2.6.
Centers
• Cole Ranch (intersection of potential Loop 288 extension and I-35W)
• Cole Ranch (FM 2449) Highway 377 and Country Club Road
• Denton Center (University Drive/ U.S. 380 and Carroll Boulevard)
• Denton Enterprise Airport (Airport Road)
• Denton Natatorium and surrounding area (Loop 288 and Sherman Drive/ FM 428)
• Downtown Denton (see Downtown Small Area Plan)
• Elm and Windsor
• Fry Street
• Golden Triangle Mall
• Hills of Denton (intersection of Loop 288 and Locust Street)
• Hills of Denton (south of Milam)
• Hunter Ranch (corner of I-35W and Crawford Road)
• McKinney at Loop 288/ Mayhill
• McKinney at Trinity
• McKinney at Woodrow
• MedPark Station (Mayhill north of I-35E)
• Presbyterian Hospital Denton (I-35 at Scripture)
• Rayzor Ranch (Town Center South)
• Robson Ranch
• Stonehill Center (at I-35 and Loop 288)
• Teasley and Teasley
• Teasley at Robinson
• Trinity North of McKinney
Center Development
Center Development
Corridor Development
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4 DENTON PLAN 2030
• Trinity South of McKinney
• Unicorn Lake
• University at Loop 288/ Mayhill
Corridors
• Dallas Drive (I-35 to Eagle Drive)
• Fort Worth Drive (I-35 to Country Club Road)
• Fort Worth Drive/Carroll Boulevard (I-35 to Eagle Drive)
• I-35 Frontage Road North and South (Fort Worth Drive to North Texas Boulevard)
• Mayhill Road (I-35 to University Drive)
• Sherman Drive (Locust Street to Loop 288)
• Teasley Lane (Lillian Miller Parkway to Dallas Drive)
• Teasley Lane (I-35 to south city limits)
• University Drive (I-35 to Loop 288)
• University Drive (Loop 288 to east city limits)
• University Drive (I-35 to west city limits)
Travel Centers
• I-35 and Milam Road
• I-35 at West University Drive (U.S. 380)
4.17 Establish design guidelines for Focus Areas to aid in design review for key intersections and destinations in Denton, with the intention of creating Small Area Plans and corresponding Overlay Districts. (LU 2.8.1, 2.8.2)
4.17.1 The following design principles
should guide the design of Center
Focus Areas:
* Design and development intensity
of Center Focus Areas will be
determined by underlying land use
shown in the FLUM and development
regulations of underlying zoning
districts.
* New development in Center Focus Areas should
adhere to general urban design guidelines and
policies of the Community Character and Urban
Design Element. (Table 4.1)
* Coordinate designs for Center Focus Areas with
best practices of NCTCOG, Project for Public
Spaces, and other national resources.
* Center Focus Areas should be included in the
Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy. (CC
4.2.1)
* Center Focus Areas that are located adjacent to key
entry points to the city may employ guidelines for
Gateways (CC 4.2.6).
* Buildings in identified Center Focus Areas should
be oriented along streets, plazas, and pedestrian
ways.
* Building facades in Center Focus Areas
should create an active and engaging public
realm and encourage walking and alternative
transportation. Amenities for public transit and
bicycle infrastructure should be included at key
intersections/ focal points.
* All modes of transportation should be
accommodated to the greatest extent possible
to contribute to efficient and safe travel for all
modes.
* Transitions between building intensity should be
established between large-scale and small-scale
development. The relationship can be improved
by designing larger buildings to reduce their
apparent size and recessing the upper floors of
the building to relate to the lower scale of the
adjacent, lower-density buildings.
* Center Focus Areas that are within existing
developed areas should complement the scale
and architectural features of surrounding
development.
* Encourage parking structure designs that include
landscaping and other aesthetic treatments
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COMMUNITY CHARACTER AND URBAN DESIGN 4
to minimize their visual prominence.
Parking structures should be lined with
active and visually attractive uses to
lessen their impact on the streetscape.
* Parking standards should be reduced in
centers to further principles for transit-
oriented design. Buildings set back
behind parking lots are discouraged.
4.17.2 The following design principles should guide the design of Corridor Focus Areas:
* Design and development intensity of
Corridor Focus Areas will be determined
by underlying land use shown in the
FLUM and development regulations of
underlying zoning districts.
* Promote high quality development
along corridors to improve aesthetics,
enrich neighborhoods, and encourage
reinvestment. Design of new
development should contribute to the
overall visual quality of the corridor and
define the streetscape.
* Highlight important intersections and
access points along key Corridor Focus
Areas through enhanced architectural
design features, streetscape treatments,
or traffic-calming elements such as
roundabouts to mark transitions and
define character.
* Apply zoning standards to discourage
strip commercial shopping centers and
auto-oriented development in Corridor
Focus Areas. Buildings set back behind
parking lots facing key corridors are
discouraged.
* In urban contexts and where Corridor
Focus Areas intersect with Center Focus
Areas, encourage development to create
continuous facades built to activate the
street wall, provide a sense of enclosure
and improve pedestrian comfort.
* Corridor Focus Areas that are within
existing developed areas should
complement the scale and architectural
features of surrounding development.
* Create visually cohesive Corridor Focus
Areas using a variety of techniques
including landscaping, undergrounding
of utilities, and other streetscape
improvements along key corridors.
* Corridor Focus Areas that are located
adjacent to key entry points to the city
may employ guidelines for Gateways
(CC 4.2.6).
4.17.3 The following design principles should
guide design within Travel Center Focus
Areas:
* Special signage and gateway treatment should be applied in order create a distinctive entry point into the city in Travel Center Focus Areas.
* Land uses should be appropriate to support freight industry in Denton and recognize the importance of Denton as the first destination on I-35 from points northward.
* Landscape screening should be employed in parking areas.
* Development should be oriented in a manner that reduces conflicts with adjacent sensitive uses, such as residential uses.
* Buffering techniques should be employed to minimize impacts to adjacent sensitive uses, such as residential uses.
5) PARKS, CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENT
Parks, Conservation, and Environment Overview 135
Parks and Recreations 138 Provisions of Parks Integrated Park Planning and Design Cost-Efficient Parks
Natural Areas, Natural Resources, and Conservation 144 Green Infrastructure Network Preserving Tree Canopy Habitat and Ecosystems Protection Air Quality Water Quality
Sustainability Framework 156 Green Building Design Low-Impact Development Renewable Energy Solid Waste and Recycling Local Food Production Mobility
PARKS, CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW As the population grows and development expands over the Plan horizon, providing parks and open space
and the conservation of natural resources is essential for maintaining the quality of life and character
of Denton. The policies that follow address the provision of new parks and open space resources, and
resource conservation policies, addressing the following primary considerations, and are integrated into
goals throughout Denton Plan 2030:
• An integrated green infrastructure network created by the linking of parks and natural resources together through parks, trails, contiguous open space, and natural systems.
• Coordination with regional goals for holistic open space and recreation planning and ecosystem-wide conservation strategies.
• Provision of a variety of park types and amount of park land to match population growth and different community contexts.
• Creation of park lands and recreational facilities that incorporate elements of Denton’s natural environment.
• Prioritization of conservation strategies that achieve integrated conservation objectives, including: protecting air quality, ecosystems and habitat, water body and watershed conservation and quality, and protection of rural, agricultural character.
• A framework for environmental policies that affect the built environment and city functioning.
• An overarching vision for an update to Denton’s sustainability Plan: Simply Sustainable: A Strategic Plan for Denton’s Future (2012), including proactive policies for green building and solid waste recovery.
• An overarching vision for an update to the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan.
A robust system of parks, open space and recreational
resources are important for creating and sustaining memorable,
livable neighborhoods, places to work, a balance of land uses, and
places of distinction throughout the community. Denton’s natural
environment is an essential element of the city that is important to
character community as a whole, but is fundamentally tied to regional and
global goals for environmental stewardship and sustainability, affecting the quality
of life of Denton residents, the health of region, and beyond. Incorporation of considerations
of open space and natural resource protection into every land use decision, from the
smallest urban park to a regional land conservation strategy, is necessary for a plan of this
scale to address natural resources adequately.
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
The Character of Denton • Denton is consciously green. We are a leader in our commitment to sustainability and we have a
significant tree canopy, a network of parks and greenways, stream corridors, and urban forests.
• Denton is safe and livable, a hospitable community of friends and neighbors.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • The City of Denton is a healthy, family-friendly community which sees its youth as its most
valuable resource; a resource worthy of investment in education, healthful recreation, and opportunities for challenging and rewarding employment and engagement in civic affairs.
• The City of Denton has integrated, reconciled, and streamlined its plans, processes, policies, and regulations for consistency, clarity, and effectiveness.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • Managed, balanced, and sustainable growth in high-quality, livable urban, suburban, and rural
places which offer diverse choices among neighborhood settings while respecting private property rights.
• An efficient transportation system with a safe and well-connected road network which accommodates a wide array of mobility options, including local and commuter rail transit, as well as accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Parks, greenways, stream corridors, tree canopy, and other natural resources integrating into the fabric of the community and contributing to healthy lifestyles.
• Environmental stewardship through water conservation, positive contributions to regional air quality, sustainable development practices, green infrastructure, and renewable energy.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Contiguous, staged growth which is fiscally and environmentally sound, reduces fragmentation
and sprawl, discourages premature development, and conserves the city’s future growing room.
• Conservation development which retains rural character, protects open space and greenways, enhances development value, and provides greater choices to land owners.
Parks, Conservation and environment in the Community vision statement
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
The primary goal of the Parks, Conservation
and Environment Element is the creation of a
cohesive green infrastructure network within the
city and advancement of environmental practices
throughout. Green infrastructure refers to the
network of natural systems that ties the city together
in terms of ecological function and a providing a
natural backdrop of rural character and aesthetic
value. The notion of green infrastructure goes
beyond conserving lands at the city’s fringes, but
rather supports the integration of open space into
all parts of the city in the form of tree canopy, parks
of all sizes and types, and sustainable stormwater
management. The expansion of green elements
into the everyday functioning of the city provides
important habitat, areas for natural groundwater
recharge, and the improvement of air quality through
carbon sequestration, which is powerful in terms of
climate change mitigation and reducing the urban
heat island effect.
Bringing about the goals of conservation and
environmental measures takes a coordinated effort
through multiple city departments and regional
regulators. The policies of Denton Plan 2030
establish guidance to better protect open space
through regulatory tools as well as encourage
coordination among complementary Plan goals.
Land use policy is the first step in ensuring open
space protection, as it creates policies and dedicated
land for parks and open space. However, mobility
and infrastructure are also tied to the further support
the health of Denton’s environmental systems,
from improved air quality via reduced vehicular
emissions, through encouraging alternative modes
of transportation; to incorporating stormwater
management polices to conserve water resources.
Finally, raising the environmental awareness of
Denton’s population through education, access
to recreational resources, and providing ample
opportunities for physical activity and interaction
with the outdoors, will create a healthier Denton,
Quakertown Park - Denton
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
one more appreciative of its natural surroundings.
Ensuring adequate access to parks, open space,
and natural resources will ensure a healthy, happy,
and economically viable community for the next
generation and for all cross sections of Denton’s
population today.
Parks and Recreation Attractive, safe and well-maintained public parks,
open space, and recreation facilities are essential
elements of Denton’s image and quality of life. Open
space refers generally to any parcel or area of land
or water that is devoted to either the preservation
of natural resources, outdoor recreation, or public
health and safety. Parks typically serve a recreation
purpose, either passive or active in nature. When
combined, “parks and open space” refers to the
network of all such areas within the city.
Strategically-placed and equitably-distributed
parks can provide a wide array of opportunities
for both individual and community enrichment. In
addition, parks and open space may serve to protect
environmentally-sensitive lands from potentially
harmful effects of urban development, including
curbing sprawl and reducing fragmentation, and
mitigating against climate change, while also offering
recreation benefits.
Parks and open space are places to play, relax,
and enjoy the natural environment, and to connect
socially with others in the community. They can
define a neighborhood and provide a cultural and
historical focal point. If properly designed and
maintained, parks can enhance the economic value
of nearby properties. Open space preserves and
linkages and greenways can together knit together
neighborhoods with other important elements of
the city’s fabric, including schools, neighborhoods,
community facilities, and commercial developments.
Whether in the form of golf courses, parks for active
recreation, protected natural areas, passive open
space within neighborhoods, they add intrinsic
value as well as real estate property value. Such
lands can also serve as an effective buffer between
incompatible land uses. In short, parks and open
space help to protect the social, economic, and
aesthetic qualities that Denton values. In order
to preserve these qualities, the city will continue
to expand its award-winning parks system as the
community grows.
At present the City of Denton’s parks system
includes just over 4,000 acres of parks and open
T A B L E 5 . 1 : Ty p e s o f Pa r k s a n d E x i s t i n g A c re a g e
T y p e o f P a r k E x i s t i n g P a r k A c r e a g e , 2 0 0 8
Mini-Parks/ Pocket Parks/Urban Open Space 0.00
Neighborhood Parks 185.82
Community Parks 143.36
City Parks 587.29
Open Space Preserve 2,900.00
Trail/Linear Parks 126.11
TOTALS FOR PARK SYSTEM 3,942.58
Source: City of Denton Parks, Recreation, & Trail System Master Plan (2008)
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
space recreation facilities. More than half of this
acreage lies within the Clear Creek Natural Heritage
Center, the 2,700-acre preserve opened in 2009 that
provides an integral piece of achieving the City’s
environmental vision and provides an important
outdoor recreation facility for the city. Beyond this
preserve, the City maintains twenty-six parks and
two cemeteries as developed parkland. The system
includes 13 neighborhood parks, 10 open space/
linear parks, four community parks, and four city
parks Table 5.1 identifies the individual parks within
each category and their associated acreage (as of
2008) and Figure 5.1 depicts their location.
New parks are developed based on the
recommended park acreage per 1,000 residents to
achieve park level of service as well as meet the
needs and vision of the community. Currently, park
types, terminology, and level of service standards
are based on the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan (2009) and the open space framework provided in the Open Space Master Plan (2002). The Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan also includes recommendations for individual elements
within parks such as sports fields, picnic pavilions,
playgrounds, and skate parks, based on community
desires, suitable locations, and reasonable costs.
An update to the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan is recommended to ensure that specific recommendations for parks, trails, and recreation
amenities are developed within the framework of
Denton Plan 2030.
Based on the community vision for the City of
Denton through the Plan horizon, including adequate
park facilities to maintain the livability and quality of
life of Denton is essential. To accomplish this, the city
must match population growth through the provision
of new and well-maintained parks, open space, and
recreation facilities. In addition, the City must think
big picture about how the parks and open space
relate to one another, forming a network of facilities
that are accessible regionally, locally, and on a
community-by-community basis, linked with trails
and bicycle paths, and contributing to a network of
connectivity and natural resources that frame the
city. The city should aim to have an appropriate
balance of each of these types of parks to meet
community needs and create an exemplary parks,
recreation and open space system.
C i t y P a r k s City parks are typically greater than 50 acres
and serve the entire city as well as larger region.
Recreational facilities including playground, picnic
area, playing courts, trails, and necessary parking. A
portion of the site is set aside for passive recreation
activities and/ or natural open space/conservation
area. These parks are unique, one-of-a-kind facilities
and may include such attractions as garden centers,
water parks, outdoor theatres, civic centers, fitness
center, a model airplane field, a multi-field athletic
complex, a nature center, and are likely to include
significant conservation areas.
City Park - Denton
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
O p e n S p a c e P r e s e r v e s An open space preserve is a special park type
that applies to land that is acquired and managed
in accordance with land use, preservation,
environmental, and urban design objectives.
These are developed according to the goals of
environmental conservation and the ability to
acquire specific land area.
C o m m u n i t y P a r k s Community parks are typically 30-50 acres, serving
the larger community up to a 2-mile radius and
featuring a variety of recreational facilities including
playground, picnic area, playing courts, trails, and
necessary parking. A portion of the site is set aside
for passive recreation activities and/ or natural open
space/conservation area. These parks may include
recreation-multipurpose centers, competitive sports
fields, & swimming pools.
N e i g h b o r h o o d P a r k s Community parks are typically 5 to 20 acres serving
nearby neighborhood(s) within ½ a mile. Usually
includes recreational facilities such as a playground,
picnic area, court games, trails, and limited parking.
A portion of the site is set aside for passive
recreation activities and/ or natural open space/
conservation area.
M i n i - P a r k s / P o c k e t P a r k s / U r b a n O p e n s p a c e Smaller parks, taking the form of mini-parks, pocket
parks, or urban open space are typically 2,500 square
feet to 1 acre serving immediate neighborhood (1/8
to 1/4 mile in radius). May feature amenities like
benches and public art elements and be developed
in locations not suitable for larger parks and/or to
reclaim undeveloped lots of excess vehicular right-
of-way.
L i n k a g e s a n d G r e e n w a y s Linkages and greenways knit all open space
together. Physically they may take the form of hard
or soft surface trails for hiking, biking, skating, or
horseback riding. Ideally they connect neighborhood
areas to schools, parks, civic buildings, and other
communities, creating a framework of connectivity
in and around the city. In addition, linkages and
greenways are part of a regional trail network,
providing bicycle and pedestrian connections
to other communities in the Dallas-Forth Worth
Metroplex, contributing to regional mobility goals.
(See Mobility Element for further discussion)
Playground - Denton Urban Open Space
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5 F I G U R E 5 . 1 : P a r k s
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
aligned with natural resources in the
city and is linked regionally.
5.1.2 Update the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan at least once every five years to implement this
vision. Align park terminology and
recommended acreage standards with
national terms and best practices. (M
6.14.4)
5.1.3 Acquire and maintain sufficient land
to keep pace with Denton’s park needs
based on standards of updated Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan.
5.1.4 Engage the community in the design
and planning for new parks to
The policies of Denton Plan 2030 will ensure that
the needs of the community as well as the vision for
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
P r o v i s i o n s o f P a r k s : Denton Plan 2030 provides the overarching
guidance and framework for the provision of parks
and recreational resources. The vision for the
provision of parks, open space, and recreation
facilities is to ensure that Denton is characterized
by a superior park system that provides a variety of
different park types, connected by trails and open
space linkages, that provide recreational and open
space opportunities for the growing population as
well as achieve environmental benefits. Specific
regulations for the development of parks, including
standards and terminologies are located in the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan. Standards are established so that appropriate variety and
amount of parks are created to match population
growth and community needs. Policy 5.1.1 calls for
the updating of this plan every five years.
5.1 Provide for the development of superior park facilities in a range of types and sizes, per city standards, to meet Denton’s population growth. (DP p. 110)
5.1.1 Implement the vision for a park, open
space, and trail system in which
mobility to, from, between, and within
the system is readily apparent and
G O A L P C E - 1 : U n i t e D e n t o n t h r o u g h a f r a m e w o r k o f p a r k s , o p e n s p a c e , a n d r e c r e a t i o n f a c i l i t i e s t h a t r e s p o n d t o u n i q u e c o m m u n i t y n e e d s a n d m a t c h p o p u l a t i o n g r o w t h .
A range of park types and sizes
parks, open space and recreational facilities are met
as the city grows and develops.
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
create reflections of neighborhood,
community, and city character, as with
all community facilities design (HN
7.15.4)
5.1.5 Create designs for new recreation and
open space facilities that respond to
the context of specific neighborhood,
the needs of specific segments of the
community, and utilize best practices
in park design. Create master plans to
implement design.
5.1.6 Develop, fund, and implement future
Capital Improvement Programs
consistent with the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan. (LU 2.4.2, FEV 3.9.4)
5.1.7 Periodically survey community
preferences and needs regarding
parks and recreation. Incorporate
this information into revisions of the
strategic plan, annual action plans, and
updates of the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan.
5.1.8 Actively pursue the creation of mini-
parks, pocket parks, urban open space,
and urban gardens on vacant parcels
or other types of unused, available
land throughout the city. (HN 7.9.2, CHS
8.3.4)
I n t e g r a t e d P a r k P l a n n i n g a n d D e s i g n : It is important that the provision of parks not only
address population-based development standards,
but be coordinated with overarching city and
regional policy for the protection of environmental
resources, the achievement of high quality,
memorable public spaces, and the attainment of
regional environmental goals. Parks and open space
provide myriad benefits for achieving environmental
quality goals, such as improved air and water quality,
as well as providing access to scenic corridors and
views, and natural buffers. Parks and open space
development and acquisition plans should endeavor
to further regional goals as well as link with other
relevant planning policy. Planning for trails needs
to be coordinated regionally in order to facilitate
a mobility connection between communities and
foster a broader green infrastructure network. Trail
planning is coordinated through the North Central
Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).
5.2 Coordinate acquisition of parks and open space with goals for urban design, mobility, infrastructure, and environmental conservation objectives. (DP p.111)
5.2.1 Implement the updated Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan to prioritize development of trails and greenway corridors throughout
Denton. Update the plan every five
years to identify further significant
scenic, historical, and environmentally
sensitive lands, and determine
strategies to preserve them. (M 6.14.4)
5.2.2 Ensure that trail development is
coordinated with North Central Texas
Council of Governments (NCTCOG) to
achieve regional mobility objectives
that will link Denton with surrounding
communities via a regional trail and
greenbelt system. (M 6.14.3)
5.2.3 Develop parks and open space
adjacent to residential areas,
community facilities, commercial
centers, and the universities to link
areas together via green space, and
creating opportunities for outdoor
access, and physical activity.
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
5.2.4 Acquire land for park dedication along
drainage corridors and floodways to
preserve environmentally sensitive
lands, provide recreation opportunities,
and promote stormwater management
through green infrastructure (IU 9.11.2).
5.2.5 Utilize parks and recreation spaces as
elements of air and water pollution
management as well as an important
tool in buffering incompatible
land uses, and preventing sprawl
and reducing fragmentation of
development by promoting land
conservation. (DP p.112, IU 9.13.4)
5.2.6 Encourage pedestrian and bicycle
linkages to parks and recreation areas
in order to promote mobility and
community health goals. (DP p.107, M
6.14.4)
5.2.7 Work with UNT and TWU to link
parks within campus boundaries
into the city network and create new
parks and open space resources as
part of campus development and
environmental stewardship.
C o s t - E f f i c i e n t P a r k s : The provision of parks and recreation facilities and
programs, like any community facility or service,
impacts the city budget. High quality parks and
open space, while a priority, are expensive to
maintain, program and develop. The City of Denton
should coordinate the planning and maintenance of
parks and open space with other facilities in order
to identify cost-efficient approaches and investigate
the opportunity for revenue generating parks and
privately-funded parks in the future.
5.3 Develop parks, open-space, and recreation facilities in a manner that is most cost-efficient for capital and operating expenses and coordinated among city departments, adjacent municipalities, DISD, and local institutions and recreation providers. (DP p.112, HN 7.13)
5.3.1 Require that plans for new park
facilities are coordinated with planning
for other community facilities, and
vice versa. Identify opportunities for
clustering multiple public facilities
together with parks and recreation
facilities, including libraries, fire
stations, and school sites. (HN 7.13.2)
5.3.2 Research feasibility of creating
revenue-generating parks and
recreation features that can reduce the
dependency on property tax revenue
and generate profits to underwrite
other recreation facilities and services.
5.3.3 Coordinate with adjacent
municipalities, DISD, and local
institutions to explore opportunities
for cooperative ventures in providing
parks and open space.
5.3.4 Coordinate with adjacent and nearby
municipalities, school districts, local
institutions, and other agencies to
develop a regional, connected trail
system. (M 6.14.3)
Natural Areas, Natural Resources, and Conservation Environmental protection is one of the most significant
ongoing concerns expressed by Denton citizens.
During the public input process for Denton Plan 2030,
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
as well as in the 1999 Denton Plan, citizens repeatedly
expressed that the natural environment of Denton
was among its highest priorities. The City of Denton
has already made great strides in the protection of its
natural environment and addressing the value of its
environmental resources appropriately by prioritizing
the reduction of environmental degradation and
pollution. With environmental concerns reaching out
far beyond the city limits, successful environmental
management must be coordinated with the regional
community, in order to achieve goals to benefit Denton,
the region, and the planet.
Denton County lies at the juncture of the heavily-
wooded region of Eastern Texas and the sparse Great
Plains of West Texas. Three ecoregions give the City
of Denton its mix of prairie grasslands and woodland
character: the Blackland Prairie, Cross Timbers, and
Grand Prairie land resource areas.
The Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity River is the origin
of the water sources for the City of Denton and
Denton County. Several major creeks that flow
into the Elm Fork pass through the western part of
Denton. Clear Creek, flows through the northern
portion, while Cooper Creek, Hickory Creek, and
Pecan Creek flow southeast through the central area
of the city into Lake Lewisville. These creeks also
define the city’s watersheds. Denton is served by
two lakes: Lake Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts,
both of which were constructed as part of the
Trinity Regional Project of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. Lake Lewisville, located to the east of the
City of Denton on the Elm Fork, is the city’s primary
source of drinking water. Lake Lewisville and Lake
Ray Roberts are connected via a 20-mile “Greenbelt
Corridor” multi-use trail system that follows the
banks of the Elm Fork. The trail begins at the Ray
Roberts Dam and ends at the headwaters of Lake
Lewisville.
Denton lies at the juncture of three ecoregions: the Blackland Prairie, Cross Timbers, and Grand Prairie land resource areas, characterized by a mix of prairie grasslands and woodland. Each boasts a rich, diverse wildlife population seen only in North Texas.
Cross Timbers Ecoregion
Elm Fork Trinity River
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
As a result of the environmental principles of the
1999 Denton Plan, Denton has identified areas with
significant ecological value as Environmentally-
Sensitive Areas (ESAs), which were adopted in 2002.
These areas are subject to regulations (contained
in Subchapter 17 of the Denton Development Code)
that limit land-disturbing activity and development
in special natural resource areas, as well as protect
the city’s water quality. ESAs provide important
plant and animal habitats, as well as provide critical
linkages for wildlife, as they are intended to link
existing and planned open space within the city.
Finally ESAs filter pollutants, serve as a source of
resources, and serve as a sink and sequestration
area for pollutants.
ESAs, depicted on Figure 3.1, include the following
areas as defined in the Denton Development Code:
• 100-Year Floodplain: Areas within the FEMA 100- year floodplain in its natural state or areas that have been graded, filled, or otherwise disturbed.
• Riparian Buffers: Areas identified as 100 feet from the stream centerline for streams draining a basin of greater than one square mile, and 50 feet from any streams that drain areas of one square mile or less.
• Water-Related Habitat: Areas designated for wetland, tree, and understory preservation and including significant stands of predominately native water-related habitat.
• Upland Habitat: Areas of a minimum of ten acres in size that contain remnants of the eastern Cross Timbers Habitat.
The flagship of Denton’s environmental progress is
the establishment of the Clear Creek Natural Heritage
Center. Denton, in partnership with the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, designated the 2,900-acre area
in 2009 to celebrate the natural heritage of the city
and region. Located in northeast Denton at the
confluence of Clear Creek and the Elm Fork, this
natural and recreational preserve is a central piece
of Denton’s open space network and showcases the
city’s natural resources, habitat, and ecoregions. It
serves as a gateway to the approximately 2,900 acres
of rare bottomland habitat with a diversity of diverse
flora and fauna. The Center works to: promote
environmental citizenship; provide a place for people
to interact and connect with nature; be a model of
integrated learning for environmental, outdoor, and
experiential learning; provide a leading example of
conservation and ecosystem restoration projects;
and be an educational, recreational, and cultural
resource for all people.
In addition, Denton has enacted regulations to
protect its water resources since adoption of the
1999 Denton Plan. The city received a Clean Water
Act Section 319 grant from the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) in 2010 to explore
water quality issues within the Lake Lewisville
Sub-basin of the Hickory Creek Watershed. As a
result, the city will develop a framework of best
management practice (BMP) incentives that can be
applied throughout the Lake Lewisville watershed.
The city also initiated the Watershed Protection
Program in January 2001 to reduce pollutants within
its surface waters and to ensure compliance with
the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Storm Water Phase II rule. During the first
year of this program, monitoring results were used
to establish preliminary baseline conditions for the
physical, chemical, and biological components of
the city’s surface water resources. Results from this
ongoing monitoring program are used to support the
requirements of the Phase II stormwater program,
assess water quality for the purposes of source water
protection, and establish baseline conditions that
can be used to evaluate any future changes in water
quality.
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5 F I G U R E 5 . 2 : E n v i r o n m e n t a l l y S e n s i t i v e A r e a s
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
The city also has made strides in the preservation of
its tree canopy, although there is strong community
sentiment that the City should do more to preserve
and increase it. Denton participates in programs
such as Tree City USA (awarded for over 20 years),
Scenic City, Keep Denton Beautiful, Keep Texas
Beautiful, and Keep America Beautiful. Trees, parks,
and public green spaces are viewed as more than
just amenities, but essential to community health
and quality of life.
Just under half (40 percent) of the city’s 3,000 acres
of tree canopy is located in ESA’s, illustrated in
Figure 5.2. The city enforces a tree preservation
ordinance known as the Tree Code that promotes the
retention of existing trees, manages and limits tree
removal, requires replacement and/or replanting of
trees removed, protects trees during construction,
and establishes site design and construction criteria
to protect the long-term viability of existing trees.
The city has discussed updating the Tree Trusts, a
section of the tree preservation ordinance, to offer
incentives for developers to preserve trees on
existing tracts of land rather than remove trees and
plant new ones, or pay into the Tree Fund. These
tools are important for maintaining essential tree
cover, important for a variety of economic and
ecological benefits.
As a responsible steward of the natural environment,
Denton will enact an integrated approach to
conservation management through the policies of
Denton Plan 2030, addressing goals for improving
air quality, water quality, conserving resources (land,
water, etc.), and reducing solid wastes. The city
will consider environmental impacts of proposed
plans, programs, and regulations and work with
regional, state and federal agencies, and neighboring
jurisdictions to improve the quality of the city’s and
region’s natural environment. Tools to protect natural
resources may include mitigation banks, which
encourage the replacement of function and value
Denton’s Tree Canopy
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
for water, native, and restored wildlife habitat areas,
sensitive lands, and urban forests. Conservation
of these areas will be promoted through education
programs, incentives, design standards and
regulations.
of natural resources if preservation is a financial
impediment to landowners. Through this and other
tools, the policies and implementation of Denton
Plan 2030, Denton will continue to develop and
implement strong resource conservation programs
G O A L P C E - 2 : U s e a n i n t e g r a t i v e a p p r o a c h t o e n v i r o n m e n t a l m a n a g e m e n t t o c r e a t e l o c a l l a n d c o n s e r v a t i o n s t r a t e g i e s t a i l o r e d t o p r o t e c t i n g D e n t o n ’ s w a t e r, a i r, e c o s y s t e m s , a n d n a t u r a l c h a r a c t e r.
W h a t i s c a r b o n s e q u e s t r a t i o n ?
• Carbon is one of the primary greenhouses gasses
contributing to global warming. Carbon sequestration
means removing carbon from the atmosphere through
the natural processes of trees, plants, agricultural and
grazing lands.
• Approximately 38% of Denton’s land area consists of agricultural
uses while farm and ranchland
comprises 5%. Denton’s
agricultural lands are an important
source of locally-grown food.
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
G r e e n I n f r a s t r u c t u r e N e t w o r k : Environmental conservation encompasses a range of
considerations: water quality, air quality, soil erosion,
habitat preservation, public health, agricultural
productivity, and rural character. As such, a variety
of tools are available to ensure protection of
natural resources. Many strategies are related to
specific solutions, such as air quality regulations
for industrial uses. Others strategies are more far
reaching in scope, related to overarching land use
and development patterns, and transportation
choices. One of the most important aims to achieve
in conservation is to achieve a green infrastructure
network in Denton, connecting the city through open
space and its tree canopy. This network provides
both a natural backdrop of rural character and the
integration of open space into development, as well
as providing important habitat, areas for natural
groundwater recharge, and the improvement of
air quality through carbon sequestration, which
is powerful in terms of climate change mitigation.
Regulating conservation takes a coordinated effort
through multiple city departments and regional
regulators. The policies of Denton Plan 2030
establish guidance to better protect open space
through regulatory tools as well as encourage
coordination among complementary Plan goals.
5.4 Promote the formation of a cohesive, broad green infrastructure framework for the city that links open space and natural resources, incorporates goals for land conservation and management, and retains the rural and natural character of Denton.
5.4.1 Further the ESA program to create an
integrated system of publicly-owned
natural areas that protect the integrity
of important conservation sites, protect
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
will trigger appropriate management
practices including any necessary
mitigation actions. (DP. 104)
5.4.8 Promote Conservation Development to
protect open space and rural character
and reduce development pressure on
agriculture. (LU 2.14.1)
5.4.9 Work with State of Texas Department
of Agriculture to conduct a survey of
Prime Agricultural Land consistent with
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring
Program (FMMP) standards to
determine potential locations and
value of agricultural land threatened by
urban development within Denton city
limits and the ETJ.
5.4.10 Encourage use of conservation
easements and land trusts to protect
agricultural land and heritage
rangelands through State of Texas
Department of Agriculture (i.e. Family
Land Heritage Properties) and Natural
Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS) programs. (LU 2.14.3)
corridors between natural areas, and
preserve outstanding examples of
Denton’s diverse natural environments.
(DP. 107)
5.4.2 Acquire and manage land and water
to preserve, protect, and enhance
important natural areas to contribute
to a natural, healthy community and
environment.
5.4.3 Use the ESA framework as basis
for guiding land use decisions and
providing an equitable distribution of
natural resources throughout the city.
5.4.4 Encourage the preservation of
floodplain and open space access as a
community-wide recreational resource
instead of singular ownership by one
person or a single neighborhood. (DP
p.102, IF 9.13.4)
5.4.5 Promote Denton’s sustainable features
and practices, natural assets, and
Parks, Recreation, and Trail System
as distinguishing traits for economic
growth and community development
through public relations materials and
business attraction. (FEV 3.5.3)
5.4.6 Encourage environmental awareness,
the ethical use of natural resources,
and preservation of natural habitat
through all development policies. (DP
p.102)
5.4.7 Require Environmental Sensitive Area
Assessments for development sites
where areas of high ecological values
(Environmentally Sensitive Areas)
are proposed to be disturbed that
Agricultural land in Denton
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
Maintaining the urban tree canopy should be
done in accordance with existing city policies and
ordinances. However the City should proactively
engage service providers to amend service criteria so
as to contribute to maintaining a healthy tree canopy
and coverage.
5.5 Ensure the protection of Denton’s tree canopy as an essential element of Denton’s cohesive, broad green infrastructure framework.
5.5.1 Conduct an Urban Forestry Master Plan to identify important tree canopy resources and include specific
strategies for protection and provision
of a more robust tree canopy.
5.5.2 Research and determine what the
goal should be for percentage of
tree canopy in Denton and establish
regulations accordingly, taking into
consideration the topography and
habitats present and also Denton’s
geographic location.
5.4.11 Make broader use of mitigation
banks to facilitate market-based
compensation to landowners that
choose to help protect environmentally
sensitive lands. (DP p. 104)
5.4.12 Explore adequate public facilities
requirements in coordination with
Land Use policies and open space
conservation. (LU 2.12.2, DP p.104 )
5.4.13 Enhance clearing and grading
requirements to minimize erosion,
eliminate clear-cutting, reduce
sedimentation, and reduce fugitive
dust (airborne particles) in new
construction. Utilize guidance of
LEED for New Construction for new
construction. (DP p. 104)
5.4.14 Incorporate strategies regarding Land
Use and Open/ Natural Space from
Denton’s Sustainability Plan: Simply Sustainable, 2012. (pp.32-37).
E x p a n d i n g a n d P r o t e c t i n g T r e e C a n o p y : As stated, Denton has strong community support
for the expansion of its existing tree canopy
preservation program. Denton’s tree canopy, in
concert with its parks, trails and open space, provide
an essential layer of the city’s green infrastructure
network and provide environmental and aesthetic
benefits community health and quality of life.
Much of Denton’s tree canopy is already under
protection in ESAs and the city’s Tree Code as
discussed above. However, a variety of tools exist
to further promote the preservation of Denton’s tree
canopy. These tools are important for maintaining
essential tree cover, important for a variety of
economic and ecological benefits.
W h y d o t r e e s , o p e n s p a c e , a n d a g r i c u l t u r a l l a n d s m a t t e r ?
• The greater the amount of these elements, the greater
the resilience to climate change.
• One acre of forest absorbs six tons of CO 2 and puts out
four tons of oxygen.
• Urban trees currently store 700 million tons of carbon,
with an annual sequestration rate of 22.8 million tons.
• Tree canopy increases property values and provides
shade and comfort in urban areas
DENTON FORT WORTH
DALLAS PORTLAND
19% 25% 30% 30%
COMPARING TREE CANOPY
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
5.5.7 Ensure that service providers are
in compliance with the Tree Code
regarding tree trimming and planting
requirements. (IU 9.4.6, DP p.168)
H a b i t a t a n d E c o s y s t e m s P r o t e c t i o n : Habitat preservation is at the core of environmental
protection. Denton’s location within the ecoregions
of the Blackland Prairie, Cross Timbers, and Grand
Prairie, as well as at the confluence of the tributaries
of the Trinity River, make the city and surrounding
county rich in ecological resources. A key element
of land conservation is the protection of native flora,
fauna, and aquatic species. Extensive research
has been conducted on the value of the habitat in
Denton and many areas have been protected as a
result of the ESA program, as well as interpreted at
the Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center. The policies
of Denton Plan 2030 will ensure the furtherance
of environmental protection goals and education,
to ensure the continued safeguarding of precious
habitat resources.
5.6 Promote the retention of essential ecosystems and habitat in Denton’s land conservation strategies. (DP p. 102)
5.6.1 Develop a plan for conservation
and preservation of the unique and
endangered native Cross Timbers
Forest region trees, Blackjack Oak
and Post Oak, which are critical to the
local wildlife and natural ecosystem of
Denton.
5.6.2 Develop conservation and
development priorities to be used
by planners and decision makers to
systematically identify, evaluate, and
synthesize various environmental
attributes and evaluate ecological
values.
5.5.3 Conduct a study to understand
the current and future economic
development value of Denton’s urban
tree canopy, and to determine best
practices in urban tree management.
5.5.4 Promote Denton’s commitment to
sustainable community growth and
community aesthetics/appearance
through continued participation
with the organization Keep Denton
Beautiful, in programs such as Tree
City USA, Scenic City USA, and the
Governors Community Achievement
Award.
5.5.5 Update the Tree Trusts section of the
tree preservation ordinance with
incentives for developers to preserve
existing trees located in development
sites rather than remove or replace
trees, or pay into the Tree Fund.
5.5.6 Establish Tree Parks in which the City
purchases lands identified to have
significant amounts of historic trees for
long-term preservation.
Tree Preservation - Denton
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
5.6.7 Coordinate ecosystem protection goals
with surrounding municipalities and
Denton County.
5.6.8 Continue to enforce and update the
ESA regulations in order to manage
important natural areas that preserve
wildlife habitat and native landscapes,
while providing opportunities for
education, scientific research, nature
interpretation, art, fishing, relaxation,
wildlife observation, hiking, and other
activities.
5.6.9 Create an overlay to protect areas of
Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area not
already under ESA protection.
A i r Q u a l i t y : Air quality, is an issue that affects the entire North
Texas region. Four counties in the Dallas/Fort
Worth metropolitan area (Denton, Collin, Dallas,
and Tarrant counties) have been classified by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as
“non-attainment” areas for ground-level ozone.
The EPA also has classified the entire Dallas – Fort
Worth metropolitan area as a “serious” ozone
5.6.3 Create a 10-year plan for acquiring
and preserving open space that are
considered to be of high value for
ecological preservation and are not
already under protection.
5.6.4 Determine standard for open
space provision as a percentage
of development area that new
developments on greenfield land must
provide on- or off-site. Include this
provision in development standards for
Master Planned Communities (MPCs).
5.6.5 Expand the City’s public education
programs to celebrate Denton’s
ecosystems through physical
interpretation, site management,
conservation, sustainability, watershed
protection, and urban forestry.
5.6.6 Update the criteria prepared through
the 1999 Denton Plan to identify and
prioritize habitats with emerging
trends, current conditions, and new
expertise to strengthen and continue
use of this tool for open space
protection. (DP p. 103)
Katy Trail Network Habitat protection
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
non-attainment area. Much of this is as a result of
vehicular travel and other factors. Improving the air
quality of Denton and the region requires a multi-
pronged approach. Air quality is affected by not
only vehicular emissions and pollution, but can be
ameliorated by natural factors such as tree canopy.
Denton has the opportunity to not only improve air
quality through the enactment of compact growth
principles and multi-modal strategies, but a move
towards sustainable building design, industrial
standards, and the preservation of open space. The
compact growth framework, furthered by the entire
Denton Plan 2030 and discussed most thoroughly
in the Land Use Element, puts forward policies and
actions that will result in development that is located
in closer proximity, thereby generating fewer vehicle
trips and preserving the greatest amount of open
space. The Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality (TCEQ) and the North Central Texas Council
of Governments (NCTCOG) both already have strong
policies in place that can serve as guidance for
Denton to ensure appropriate compliance. Also, the
preservation of open space will contribute to carbon
sequestration that can also have a positive influence
on Denton’s atmospheric quality.
5.7 Uphold regional air quality goals through conservation strategies that improve air quality in Denton and the region. (DP p. 102)
5.7.1 Promote the expansion of alternative
transportation options such as public
transportation, walking, and bicycling
through the Mobility Element that
reduce vehicle trips and thereby reduce
emissions.
5.7.2 Protect and increase existing
tree canopies and promote the
enforcement of an enhanced and high
quality Tree Preservation program to
increase natural carbon sequestration.
(PCE 5.5)
5.7.3 Continue to work with the NCTCOG
to address air pollution on an airshed
basis, including regional programs for
alternative transportation.
5.7.4 Update policies to reduce point-source
emissions in keeping with Texas
Commission on Environmental Quality
(TCEQ) policy.
5.7.5 Incorporate air quality and greenhouse
gas (GHG) management strategies
from Denton’s Sustainability Plan:
Simply Sustainable (2012).
5.7.6 Research and implement methods
to view and quantify the value trees
provide as infrastructure.
5.7.7 Explore and implement methods to
mitigate any adverse effects of oil
and gas drilling and production on
air quality, such as requiring Vapor
Recovery Systems.
5.7.8 Explore and implement requirements
to improve air quality through private
community actions, new development,
and revitalization efforts.
W a t e r Q u a l i t y a n d C o n s e r v a t i o n : Denton has made strides in recent decades to
protect and value its water system, including water
bodies and watersheds. Denton’s ESA program
has been successful in helping to protect its natural
resources and improve water quality, both for human
consumption and habitat. Denton should continue
to enforce the ESA program, as well as participate
in regional coordination to address issues of water
quality, conservation, and supply. An innovative,
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
comprehensive approach to natural resources
protection will ensure that protecting water quality
and habitat will be coordinated with regional goals
for air quality, land protection, as well as goals for
mobility and the enhancement of the public realm.
The adoption of green infrastructure features as part
of the Infrastructure and Utilities Element policies
will be instrumental in improving water quality,
conservation, and the natural functioning of Denton’s
ecosystems.
Water conservation is very important for Denton,
as well as other cities North Texas, due both to
population growth and the potential for drought in
the region. Water conservation is accomplished
through regulations to reduce water consumption
on individual property and through community
education to achieve conservative use of water. The
City completed the Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan (2009; revised 2012) to increase community resiliency to drought, and regularly
monitors water consumption. The City will strive to
continue this program, coordinate regionally with
water conservation goals, and update necessary
regulations to promote water conservation on
private and public property.
W h a t i s i m p e r v i o u s s u r f a c e ?
W h y d o e s i t m a t t e r ?
• Impervious area is the amount of hard surfaces such as
parking lots, roads, rooftops and driveways.
• Impervious cover increases surface runoff, resulting
in increased delivery of stormwater and associated
contaminants into streams.
• During a storm event,
the house on the right
sends more rainwater
into the storm system
than the house on the
left. That's because
the house on the right
has more impervious
surface.
SOURCE: City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County Government
SOURCE: EPA
Low-impact development - Denton
5.8 Incorporate water management and floodplain preservation strategies into conservation prioritization to improve water quality and maintain the functioning of natural systems. (DP p.106)
5.8.1 Continue to enforce and update the
ESA regulations in order to improve
water quality and maintain floodplain
habitat through preservation of the
100-year floodplain and wetlands. (DP
p.162, IU 9.11.1, 9.13.1)
5.8.2 Preserve stream buffers and the
bottomland hardwood habitat and
wetlands in accordance with ESA
regulations.
5.8.3 Review and revise engineering
standards for roads and stormwater
systems to apply low-impact design
(green infrastructure) elements to
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5 DENTON PLAN 2030
improve the quality of stormwater
runoff. (IU 9.11.2, 9.11.3, 9.11.4, M
6.15.1)
5.8.4 Coordinate development of greenways
and trails along the floodplain and
tributaries to promote recreational and
mobility goals. (DP p. 106).
5.8.5 Limit creation of new impervious
surface areas as a result of new
development through the adherence
with the City of Denton iSWM Design Manual including low-impact design regulations and incorporation of
green standards (i.e. LEED) for new
construction. Ensure that measures
are regularly enforced and not waived.
(IU 9.12.1, 9.12.3, 9.12.4).
5.8.6 Continue to enforce and update
the ESA regulations to restrict
development and encourage
greenbelts and other low-intensity
land uses incorporated into new
development. (DP p. 106)
5.8.7 Continue to enforce and update the
ESA regulations in order to actively
protect, manage, and enhance
natural stream corridors and other
waterways as natural ecological
systems, important wildlife habitat,
and accessible recreational areas. (DP
p. 107)
5.8. 8 Incorporate water quality and
watershed management strategies
from Denton’s Sustainability Plan:
Simply Sustainable (2012).
5.8.9 Continue to monitor quality of Denton’s
drinking water and provide annual
updates to community members
and to be posted online.
5.8.10 Coordinate regionally to achieve
regional goals of conserving the
water supply of North Texas and
drought preparedness, such as
participation in Water Efficiency
Network of North Texas (WENNT)
(IF 9.6.2, 9.6.3, 9.6.4)
5.8.11 Continue to implement the Denton Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan to help reduce per capita water use. (DP p. 153, IU
9.6.3)
5.8.12 Encourage community members to
employ best management practices
for water reduction such as use of
landscape irrigation improvements.
(IU 9.6.6)
Sustainability Framework Denton has established itself as one of the most
environmentally proactive cities in the country.
The City completed and adopted a sustainability
plan: Simply Sustainable: A Strategic Plan for Denton’s Future in 2012, which is highly regarded and followed. In addition Denton Municipal
Electric (DME) leads the country in the provision
of energy from renewable sources, providing
approximately 40 percent of its energy from
renewable sources as of 2014.
Achieving a more sustainable future for Denton
remains a priority for the City and the community,
with the intent of continually raising the bar.
As sustainability is one of the overarching
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
themes of Denton Plan 2030, it is understood to
be both a top priority of the plan as well as an
issue that transcends many topics. Policies and
actions furthering sustainable practices in terms
of land use, land conservation, renewable energy,
mobility, water and wastewater services, stormwater
management, local food production, and solid waste
Sustainable Building Design- UNT
Green roof
G O A L P C E - 3 : C r e a t e a f r a m e w o r k f o r a d v a n c i n g s u s t a i n a b i l i t y i n a c o m p r e h e n s i v e m a n n e r f o r t h e f u t u r e o f D e n t o n .
are found throughout the Plan. The purpose of
this discussion is to create a framework to unite the
sustainability measures together so that they can be
referenced for purposes of providing an update to
Simply Sustainable as well as further a coordinated sustainability agenda through the planning horizon.
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
G r e e n B u i l d i n g D e s i g n : 5.9 Further the incorporation of green design
standards for new construction and improvements to existing buildings and the public realm. (CC Table 4.1)
5.9.1 Explore green building standards
for new residential and commercial
construction, using Green Built™ Texas
as a standard. Assign a staff person to
oversee and streamline green building
project design and commissioning to
increase feasibility and reduce project
cost.
5.9.2 In the absence of a Green Building
Ordinance, encourage certification by
Green Built™ Texas for construction of
residential projects.
5.9.3 Promote the establishment of green
building service businesses locally in
Denton that are hired to further green
build goals in the city.
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5.10 Further the incorporation of low-impact development for the site design.
5.10.1 Implement the North Central Texas Council of Government’s (NCTCOG’s) iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction and continue to participate with regional
groups to identify and implement best
practices.(PCE 5.7.3)
5.10.2 Coordinate with design guidelines
created for new roads, pedestrian
improvements, and trails to ensure that
sustainable materials are chosen for
site design, such as permeable paving
materials that mimic natural systems.
R e n e w a b l e E n e r g y : Advancing the progress for renewable energy
provision remains a priority for the City of Denton
and the community and is an important component
of sustainability. As stated in the Infrastructure and
Utilities Element, offering cost-effective renewable
energy as well as continuing programs such as
GreenSense to offer flexibility for consumers is a
goal for Denton Municipal Electric (DME), Denton’s
electric utility.
5.11 Ensure that renewable energy actions are an element of the sustainability framework for the City and a basis for an updated Sustainability Plan.
5.11.1 Incorporate actions for Cost-Effective
Service, Cost-Effective Renewable
Energy, and Lighting Standards are
incorporated into the sustainable
management practices of the City and
the updated Sustainability Plan. (IU
9.1, 9.2, 9.3)
5.9.4 Create guidelines and incentives for the
construction of green roofs in Denton.
5.9.5 Create guidelines and incentives for the
use of Energy Star certified products in
new construction and commercial and
residential remodels.
5.9.6 As part of Green Building ordinance,
encourage the use of sustainable
and locally-sourced materials in new
construction and rehabilitation.
5.9.7 Encourage the use of durable materials
in all construction that will last and not
contribute to significant maintenance
needs.
5.9.8 Require that all commercial buildings,
including City buildings comply
with standards for reduced energy
consumption.
L o w - I m p a c t D e v e l o p m e n t : Low-impact development is a component of
sustainable design that refers to the design of
the public realm in a manner that mimics natural
systems. Low-impact design guidelines are
included as part of the North Central Texas Council of Government’s (NCTCOG’s) iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction that Denton adopted in 2013. This manual
includes seven categories of guidance including:
Planning, Water Quality, Hydrology, Hydraulics,
Site Development Controls, Construction Controls,
and Landscape guidelines. The manual includes
best management practices (BMPs) for site design,
including stormwater flows, permeable paving,
and drought-tolerant landscaping. By adherence
to these guidelines, future development in Denton
will be up to the regional standards of sustainable
development.
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PARKS, CONSERVATION, AND ENVIRONMENT 5
S o l i d W a s t e a n d R e c y c l i n g : Management of solid waste and recycling is an
important component of sustainability. As stated
in Infrastructure and Utilities Element, recycling,
landfill gas programs, organic materials and materials
recovery are all priorities of the Denton community and
have impact into the sustainable operation of the City.
5.12 Ensure that solid waste and recycling goals are an element of the sustainability framework for the City.
5.12.1 Incorporate actions for Waste
Minimization and Resource Recovery,
Efficient Solid Waste and Recycling,
and Environmental Protection and
Disposal Capabilities are incorporated
into the sustainable management
practices of the City and the updated
Sustainability Plan. (IU 9.14, 9.15,
9.16. 9.17)
L o c a l F o o d P r o d u c t i o n : Local food is central to furthering sustainability.
Food sources are important to issues of community
health, economy, and the environment. Food
production also affects air and water quality based
on the distance that food travels to be consumed
in Denton, as well as the practices of local farmers
in terms of irrigation. Already the City of Denton
supports local farmers, urban agriculture, and
community gardens, as well as local businesses
focused on locally-sourced and sustainable food.
Denton 2030 further supports this goal. Policies in
the Land Use and Community Health, Safety and
Services Elements contain goals to further local food
production practices and access to healthy foods.
5.13 Ensure that local food production continues to be at the forefront of the sustainability framework for the City.
Earthwise Gardens - Denton
Denton Solid Waste and Recycling program
5.13.1 Continue to expand community
gardens and urban agriculture to
promote access to healthy foods.
5.13.2 Update the Denton Development Code
to allow urban agriculture by right in
appropriate land use designations. (LU
2.19, 2.2.2, 2.19, 2.20)
5.13.3 Actively seek out and implement
methods to make local food production
easier. (CHS 8.1.6)
6 ) MOBILITY Mobility Overview 161
Motor Vehicles 163 Mobility Plan Connectivity Mobility and Land Use Level of Service Access Management Context-Sensitive Street Design Road Financing Intelligent Transportation Systems Travel Demand Management Parking Transportation Impacts on Air Quality Mobility as Sustainability Framework
Freight 178 Freight
Bicycle and Pedestrian Circulation 180 Mobility Plan Designing for Complete, Green Streets Coordination with New Development Financing the Pedestrian and Bicycle Network
Transit Circulation 185 Transit and Land Use Transit and Urban Design Planning for Transit Regional Coordination
MOBILITY OVERVIEW Denton is a fast-growing community with growing travel demands among residents, students, and
employers. Travel demands include trips to and from work, around town, and to areas outside of
Denton. Travel demands increase with population growth, and grow in duration according to the
amount of distance between origins and destinations. Travel demands impact the need for more roads
to accommodate traffic of all kinds, and are used to model impacts ranging from air quality to fiscal
performance. The City and its partners will be challenged in the future to provide a safe, convenient and
efficient transportation system as growth occurs in the decades to come.
For much of Denton’s recent growth, the automobile has continued as the primary form of transportation,
utilizing the farm-to-market road network. While the private automobile will continue to be a major part of
the city’s transportation system, lifestyle, economic, community design, and infrastructure considerations
will drive the development of a more balanced transportation system to complement Denton’s growth.
Walking, cycling, and riding transit will experience increased emphasis in the decades to come. This has
implications for how Denton provides facilities for walking and cycling, how Denton County Transportation
Authority (DCTA) provides transit service, and how land use and development patterns influence travel
behavior.
Denton Plan 2030 and specifically, the Mobility Element, present a comprehensive vision and opportunity
to guide future plans, studies and actions. Updates to the Mobility Plan, for example, will incorporate
overarching goals and policies listed within this Element as guidance to inform the details of the resulting
Mobility Plan. The Mobility Element references differences in current transportation standards, utility
practices, and approaches to complete street and multi-modal standards that will support the overarching
vision and land use pattern of Denton Plan 2030. While opportunities exist to adopt guidance that results
in streets designed for a range of users and modes, it is important that they be consistent with TxDOT
standards. As a result of the Mobility Plan update, City plans and manuals may require revision, which
will require coordination between city departments, the NCTCOG, and TxDOT
to ensure consistency.
Freight movement associated with Denton’s manufacturing
and distribution sectors is a key component of the city’s
economic base, and as such, an important element to
consider in the design of the mobility network.
As Denton and its travel demand
grows, the city must ensure
viable freight access
and mobility on its
transportation network.
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The Character of Denton • Denton is consciously green. We are a leader in our commitment to sustainability and we have a
significant tree canopy, a network of parks and greenways, stream corridors, and urban forests.
• Denton is safe and livable, a hospitable community of friends and neighbors.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • The City of Denton government is customer-friendly and prides itself on its transparency and
open communication, utilizing modern technology, its efficient provision of public services and facilities, and through its leadership in seeking to realize the Vision of Denton’s future.
The Strength of Our Economy • We leverage our strategic location and multi-modal accessibility in the Metroplex and capitalize
on key assets such as the Denton Enterprise Airport.
• We value and support our major manufacturing employers and other responsible corporate citizens to ensure their stability, encourage their commitment to Denton, facilitate their expansion, and leverage their presence by accommodating their suppliers, supporting businesses, and workers.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • An efficient transportation system with a safe and well-connected road network which
accommodates a wide array of mobility options, including local and commuter rail transit, as well as accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Special attention paid to our major travel corridors, both aesthetically and functionally, representing Denton’s character, brand, and excellence.
• Infrastructure systems which have undergone well-planned, staged expansion to serve and manage the city’s growth.
• Parks, greenways, stream corridors, tree canopy, and other natural resources integrating into the fabric of the community and contributing to healthy lifestyles.
• Environmental stewardship through water conservation, positive contributions to regional air quality, sustainable development practices, green infrastructure, and renewable energy.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Contiguous, staged growth which is fiscally and environmentally sound, reduces fragmentation
and sprawl, discourages premature development, and conserves the city’s future growing room.
Mobility in the CoMMunity Vision stateMent
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MOBILITY 6
running east and west, and US Highway 377, which
runs parallel to I-35W into Fort Worth. I-35E is the
primary route connecting Denton to the heart of the
Metroplex to the south and as a result suffers from
congestion on a daily basis.
The travel demand model prepared by the NCTCOG
estimates that most workers who live in Denton
County commute to jobs outside of the County
(approximately three-fourths). An estimated 2.8
million motor vehicle trips are made each day in
Denton County. Of these, about one-quarter are trips
made between home and work. NCTCOG travel
forecasts estimate that total trips will increase to
more than 4.7 million by 2030. The highest growth in
trip generation is expected to come from the area in
southeast Denton County.
In 2012, travel times ranged between 30 to 60
minutes to Fort Worth and 45 to 75 minutes to
Finally, one of the major priorities of Denton Plan
2030 is to maintain elements of its small-town charm,
as well as to create new places that are interesting,
safe, hospitable, and livable. As streets constitute
a large portion of the public realm and the places
where the community comes together, transportation
and the design of the street network can play a large
role in setting the tone for community character.
Additionally, streets can play a strong role in the
promotion of a greener Denton by incorporation of
green infrastructure in new and retrofitted streets.
Motor Vehicles
Denton is located in the northwest portion of the
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex at the convergence of
Interstates 35E (from Dallas) and 35W (from Fort
Worth). Denton is also served by US Highway 380,
which connects the northern portion of the Metroplex
I-35 and I-35E in Denton
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
Dallas during peak commute periods. According
to NCTCOG’s travel forecasts described in its long-
range planning report Mobility 2035 Plan, these
travel times will remain generally consistent over
the next two decades, although travel times to
destinations east of Denton into Collin and Rockwall
Counties are expected to increase by approximately
10 to 15 minutes.
With the expected increase in both trips and travel
times, upgrades to the road infrastructure in and
around Denton are required. Studies to expand
I-35E from IH 635 to US 380 began in 1998 and,
Phase 1 was approved to go forward in 2013. The
expansion will add one general purpose lane in each
direction along I-35E/I-35 in Denton County, as well
as two reversible managed lanes from IH 635 to FM
2181 and additional lanes and frontage roads across
Lake Lewisville to the south. Phase 1 is expected to
be completed by mid-2017.
Locally, Denton’s street network is based on a farm-
to-market street framework in which several arterials,
including US 380, US 377, US 77, FM 426, and FM 428
converge in Denton’s traditional center. Loop 288 (on
the east and north sides) and I-35 (on the south and
west sides) form a “loop” around the city. A planned
extension of Loop 288 would extend the loop further
west and south, which would foster development in
those portions of the city. This planned extension
of Loop 288 needs to be monitored closely as the
alignment may be in conflict with gas wells and
underground pipelines that proliferate west of I-35.
(LU 2.13.3) The Roadway Network is shown in Figure
6.1.
Within Denton’s traditional center, including
Downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, the
grid street network is distributed among local and
collector streets, which are well-connected and
evenly spaced between the arterials. Further out—
closer to the loop and beyond—the street network
Loop 288 in Denton
becomes a more disconnected suburban pattern.
Residential developments become more internally-
oriented and funnel traffic to arterials through one
or two connections. Commercial uses are typically
located at the intersections of arterials and/or extend
along arterials in strip fashion.
Although Denton experiences a large degree of out-
commuting, there are several major trip attractors
within the city, including:
• A cluster of manufacturing and distribution facilities on and near Airport Road just, west of I-35;
• The University of North Texas;
• Texas Woman’s University;
• Several hospitals, including Denton Regional Medical Center, North Texas Hospital, and Presbyterian Hospital;
• Rayzor Ranch; and
• The Golden Triangle Mall.
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
M o b i l i t y P l a n :
The Roadway Component Map of the Mobility Plan
is the guiding document for the development of
Denton’s street network. This Plan will not be realized
as a result of a single decision or action. Rather, it
is the cumulative result of a number of decisions
spanning various entities and years. As a result, it is
essential that plans, policies, and activities that have
implications for roads within the city be guided by
Denton Plan 2030.
At the local level, this means that the Mobility Plan
should be an integral part of the layout of street
networks in the site plan review process. It should
also be the starting point for road projects as they
make their way into Capital Improvement Programs
and Plans.
At the regional level, the Mobility Plan makes
Denton’s case for the inclusion of the city’s priority
projects to be funded in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), and ultimately built by private developers, the City, Denton County, TxDOT,
or a combination thereof.
6.1 Pursue new corridors and improve existing corridors in a manner consistent with the Roadway Component of Denton Mobility Plan.
6.1.1 Implement the Mobility Plan to be
consistent with the Future Land Use
Map (FLUM) (LU 2.4.1)
6.1.2 Coordinate the Capital Improvement
Plan (CIP) as a means for pursuing
G O A L M - 1 : P r o v i d e f o r t h e s a f e , e f f i c i e n t m o v e m e n t o f m o t o r v e h i c l e s , b i c y c l e s , a n d p e d e s t r i a n s i n a s u s t a i n a b l e w a y t h a t c o m p l e m e n t s D e n t o n ’ s p l a n n e d g r o w t h s t r a t e g y .
What is the Mobility Plan?
The Mobility Plan identifies specific transportation projects and strategies for the City of Denton, including streets and bicycle and pedestrian facilities. It is guided by the goals, policies and actions of the Mobility Element. The City is in the process of updating the Mobility Plan alongside Denton Plan 2030.
city road projects and streetscape
improvements. (LU 2.4.2)
6.1.3 Continuously coordinate the
management of the Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP), Mobility Plan,
and Denton Plan 2030 to ensure that
policies are coordinated. (LU 2.4.1,
2.4.2)
6.1.4 Advocate for projects in the Mobility
Plan to be included in the regional
Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), both maintained by the North Central Texas Council of
Government’s (NCTCOG).
6.1.5 Ensure new development is consistent
with and preserves new roads and
road improvements identified in
the Mobility Plan. As part of the
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MOBILITY 6
development review process, include
a check of the Mobility Plan to ensure
that adequate provisions for right-of-
way have been made.
6.1.6 Revise the Denton Development Code
and related development standards
consistent with the updated Mobility
Plan.
6.1.7 Establish a procedure for all roads
in Denton to comply with consistent
standards that contribute to mobility
goals, regardless of whether roads are
under control of and/or funded by the
City, Denton County,TxDOT, or federal.
6.1.8 Coordinate local road expansion with
TxDOT plans for the expansion of
I-35E, I-35, and other TxDOT roadways.
6.1.9 Coordinate regulations regarding gas
wells and pipelines with TxDOT plans
for the extension of Loop 288 and
other major roadways. (LU 2.13.3)
6.1.10 Continue the city’s wayfinding strategy
to guide motorists, bicyclists, and
pedestrians throughout Denton,
noting key entry points, landmarks,
and destinations. Coordinate with the
Citywide Branding and Placemaking
Strategy to call out landmarks and
destinations as part of this strategy,
where feasible. (CC 4.2.1, 4.2.7)
6.1.11 Partner and collaborate with projects
that are major trip attractors to develop
and implement innovative ways to
manage congestion and incentivize
best practices for peak management.
C o n n e c t i v i t y :
Well-connected street networks result in more direct
routes and shorter travel times, as opposed to a few
large, multi-lane arterials which create congested
intersections and longer, more circuitous routes.
Robust street networks also include smaller streets
with less traffic, which are more conducive for walking
and cycling. The differences among these connectivity
options are shown in Figure 6.2.
It is important to note that this network does not
necessarily have to be provided by the public sector.
This network could easily be built as part of private
development, as long as it provides connectivity to the
external network and it meets applicable design and
construction standards.
6.2 Promote street networks and connectivity for the efficient distribution and movement of motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
6.2.1 Update the Denton Development Code
and Transportation Criteria Manual to include connectivity standards for new
development that are consistent with the
updated Mobility Plan (6.1.1).
6.2.2 Pursue new opportunities to achieve
new roadway connections as
development opportunities arise. Update
the Mobility Plan accordingly.
6.2.3 Provide emergency access when
designing new residential subdivisions.
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
M o b i l i t y a n d L a n d U s e :
Land use has a profound influence on travel
behavior. How close together or far apart we build
our communities has a direct effect on the amount of
driving we do or whether we are able to walk or ride
a bicycle. There is a direct relationship between the
compactness of our neighborhoods and feasibility of
transit service.
The Land Use Element prescribes future land uses,
such as mixed-use centers surrounded by compact
neighborhoods that are conducive to walking,
cycling, riding transit, and short automobile trips.
These land uses should be encouraged for their
ability to support a balanced transportation system
and reduce the amount of demand placed on
Denton’s street network.
6.3 Pursue a coordinated land use and mobility strategy to reduce motor vehicle trip lengths and reduce the need for motor vehicle trips.
6.3.1 Encourage and incentivize new
development to include elements
such as mixed-use and to place
homes within walking distance to
shopping, education, employment, and
entertainment consistent with compact
growth framework of the Land Use
Element. (LU 2.3.1)
6.3.2 Implement the Mobility Plan to be
consistent with the Future Land Use
Map. (LU 2.4.1)
6.3.3 Coordinate mobility standards to be
consistent with and allow adequate
Short trips can be made on the local street network
Good Connectivity
All trips must use arterials
Poor Connectivity
F I G U R E 6 . 2 : Co n n e c t i v i t y D i a g r a m
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MOBILITY 6
right-of-way for public realm
recommendations within the proposed
Urban Design Plan (CC 4.11.1)
6.3.4 Use innovative and up-to-date
research and methodology to estimate
reductions in travel demand when
evaluating projects that integrate
transportation and land use.
L e v e l o f S e r v i c e :
In terms of Mobility, level of service standards (LOS)
are a metric for assessing how well an individual
transportation facility or group of facilities (area
or corridor) perform. Level of service also refers
to the measure by which community facilities are
rated and expanded, which are described in other
elements of the Denton Plan 2030 (see Fiscal and
Economic Vitality and Housing and Neighborhoods
Elements). The Fiscal and Economic Vitality Element
includes an LOS standard for arterial streets (0.14
lane miles per 1,000 vehicle miles travelled). While
this standard is intended to broadly measure
whether Denton’s infrastructure is keeping pace
with growth, LOS measures described here are
more refined and intended to measure the quality
of the user experience. Traffic is just one type of
level of service analysis. At the most basic level,
roadway LOS is measured using average daily traffic
volumes and capacity in terms of vehicles per day.
More sophisticated measures take into account peak
period data, travel time data, network measures, and
multiple modes.
LOS measures should take into account the balance
between mobility and the surrounding context
of various places within the city. For example,
facilities traversing more rural areas should adopt
LOS standards that reflect higher vehicle travel
speeds, while facilities in village centers, where the
emphasis is less on moving vehicles quickly and
more on compatibility with surrounding activities
and character should adopt LOS standards where a
greater degree of congestion is acceptable.
By tracking LOS on an annual or semi-annual basis,
Denton can monitor how well the transportation
system is performing over time and become aware
of any system inefficiencies that must be addressed.
The LOS standards can be defined in a number of
ways, but should be consistent with the city’s road
impact fee study. For example, if the road impact
fee study uses daily traffic volume thresholds
to measure impact, those thresholds should be
consistent with LOS thresholds.
6.4 Maintain adequate levels-of-service for travel on Denton’s streets.
6.4.1 Develop and adopt LOS standards for
all roads in the city that are appropriate
for the surrounding environment.
6.4.2 Develop a 3- to 5-year review program
to track and monitor LOS and system
performance on Collector and Arterial
road networks.
6.4.3 Pursue the multi-modal LOS concept
with future Mobility Plan updates.
A c c e s s M a n a g e m e n t :
Having good street connectivity is important to a
well-functioning transportation network. However,
street systems with too many access points can
create friction which poses safety problems and
impedes efficient traffic flows. Access points include
driveways, cross-streets, and median openings.
Each additional access point increases the potential
for conflict, which degrades roadway capacity and
increases the chances for collisions.
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Access should be coordinated closely with
development. More intense development, where
people and activities take priority, should have
greater access than in sparsely developed locations
where vehicular speed and mobility take precedence.
Freeways, by definition, should have very limited
access, followed by arterials and then collectors.
Limiting access is less of a concern on local streets
with less traffic and slower speeds. Closing
substandard access points should also be a high
priority. The relationship between thoroughfare type
and access are shown in Table 6.1.
Access management standards can provide specific
guidance for the placement of access points. For
state roads, they should be consistent with the City’s
access standards.
6.5 Use access management as a strategy for maintaining road safety and capacity.
6.5.1 Continue to utilize the City’s access
management standards for Collectors
and Arterials in the city that meet
or exceed TxDOT’s standards.
The standards should include a
requirement for cross-access between
commercial building sites and within
and between developments where
appropriate. This access should
accommodate bicycle and pedestrians
either as part of the driveway/street
design or through separate pathways.
6.5.2 Develop access management plans
for each of the City’s main corridors
that are consistent with Small Area
Plans, overlay districts, and other land
use plans. The access management
plan should identify opportunities
for median separation, driveway
consolidation, cross access and rear
access and corresponding signage.
C o n t e x t -S e n s i t i v e S t r e e t D e s i g n :
Denton Plan 2030 applies policies for Community
Character and Urban Design as a way of both
preserving existing places within Denton as well as
identifying places the City aspires to create. The
resulting places are intended to convey a specific
look and feel in terms of layout, form, appearance
and functionality.
The proposed street network is context-sensitive,
meaning the look and feel of the street is reflective
of the surrounding land use and activities. Streets
T A B L E 6 . 1 : R e l a t i o n s h i p B e t w e e n T h o r o u g h fa r e Ty p e a n d A cce s s
Function Rural/High-
er Speed
Neighbor- hood/Sub-
urbs
Center/Corri- dor Overlay
Industrial
Freeways and Expressways
Arterials Collectors Local
Less Access
More Access
Em ph
as is
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MOBILITY 6
that pass through activity centers place more
emphasis on lower vehicle speeds, wider sidewalks,
and on-street parking. Roads in rural areas place
an emphasis on moving vehicles at higher speeds,
which means that objects (trees, people, buildings,
etc.) are farther from the road. Design guidelines will
guide the various elements of street design, such as
lane widths, sidewalk widths, horizontal clearances
and curb radii that are appropriate for each context.
Figures 6.3 through 6.5 illustrate typical sections
of what an arterial might look like under different
contexts. They depict the vision for complete streets
that further modal balance and also include an
active public realm, as described in the Community
Character and Urban Design Element.
6.6 Develop a street network that is compatible with and enhances Denton’s community character.
6.6.1 Develop street design requirements
that are consistent with and enhance
Community Character and Urban
Design goals, policies, and actions
through coordination with the
proposed Urban Design Plan. (CC 4.11.1)
6.6.2 Ensure that street design requirements
include provisions context sensitive
solutions that are responsive to the
surrounding land use and activities.
R o a d F i n a n c i n g :
Across Texas and the rest of the nation, regions, and
communities are struggling with the issue of how to
pay for transportation infrastructure amid stagnant
or declining revenues. Projects that have been in the
works for years are continually put on hold because
of a lack of funds. Regular maintenance is deferred,
leading to more costly rehabilitation projects down
the road.
Denton Plan 2030 is informed by a Fiscal Impact
Analysis, which provides a higher level of assurance
that the Preferred Growth Concept will be efficient
from a cost and revenue standpoint. The City initiated
a road impact fee study, as well as an update of the
Mobility Plan, that represents the first step in getting
new development to cover its cost for building new
road infrastructure.
Beyond those items, there are other actions the City
can take to ensure adequate revenue to build and
maintain roads:
• First, the City should include regular maintenance and rehabilitation expenses in addition to construction when estimating road costs. This will help the City ensure there is adequate revenue to keep the transportation infrastructure in good repair for the foreseeable future.
• Second, the City should complete a road financing study that considers capital, maintenance and operating costs of all projects in the Mobility Plan and anticipated revenue streams from city, county, state, federal and private sources. Using this information, the City can do two things: implementing the Mobility
Context-sensitive design in an urban setting
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
F I G U R E 6 . 4 : H i g h e r S p e e d Co n t e x t B o u l e v a r d
F I G U R E 6 . 5 : S u b u r b a n Co n t e x t B o u l e v a r d
F I G U R E 6 . 3 : U r b a n / M i x e d - u s e Co n t e x t A v e n u e
Credit: Kimley Horn Associates. Cross sections are for illustrative purposes. Revised cross sections will be created as part of updated Mobility Plan.
Credit: Kimley Horn Associates. Cross sections are for illustrative purposes. Revised cross sections will be created as part of updated Mobility Plan.
Credit: Kimley Horn Associates. Cross sections are for illustrative purposes. Revised cross sections will be created as part of updated Mobility Plan.
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MOBILITY 6
Plan, phase or scale back the scope of projects to bring it more in line with anticipated revenues; and pursue new sources of revenue to close any projected gaps. New revenue sources could include additional sales or property tax, public- private partnerships, or developer contributions.
6.7 Ensure adequate revenue to build and maintain roads.
6.7.1 Incorporate the results of the City’s
road impact fee study to determine
new development’s fair share of road
costs. (FEV 3.15.1)
6.7.2 Include the cost of regular road
maintenance and rehabilitation in
estimating the cost of building and
widening roads. Consider approaches
to road construction that minimize
lifecycle costs.
6.7.3 Complete a road financing study
that considers capital, maintenance,
and operating costs of projects in
the Mobility Plan and anticipated
revenue streams from city, county,
state, federal, and private sources for
appropriate plan phases (e.g. ten year
increments). Develop strategies for
new revenue sources and/or revise the
Mobility Plan accordingly. Coordinate
recommendations with the CIP (M
6.1.3).
6.7.4 Update the Mobility Plan at least every
five years. (M 6.1.1)
I n t e l l i g e n t T r a n s p o r t a t i o n S y s t e m s :
Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) are
defined by the Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) as the application of advanced sensor,
computer, electronics, communication technologies,
and management strategies—in an integrated
manner—to improve the safety and efficiency of
the surface transportation system. In essence, ITS
uses technology to enable existing transportation
systems to operate more efficiently, often precluding
the need to make more costly physical capacity
improvements.
The City of Denton developed an ITS Plan in 2002
which prescribes several key elements, including a
Traffic Management Center (TMC), closed-circuit
television (CCTV) monitoring system, dynamic
message signs, and signal integration. Over a decade
in existence, the Denton ITS Plan should be updated
for a number of different reasons.
First, a number of technologies have emerged
subsequent to the plan adoption. For example,
adaptive signal technologies now enable street
networks to adapt to traffic conditions in real-time.
Personal mobile technology have rapidly advanced in
the last decade to fundamentally change the way we
receive information.
Second, NCTCOG has developed a Regional ITS
Architecture, which coordinates all ITS activities
throughout the region and sets standards and
protocols to ensure seamless integration across
jurisdictional boundaries. Denton’s ITS Plan should
conform to the Regional ITS Architecture.
ITS will continue to be an important element
of Denton’s array of transportation strategies,
particularly as the city builds out and large-scale
capacity improvements come to end. The ITS Plan is
a strategy to implement ITS strategies.
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
programs, including carpool ride-matching and
vanpools to encourage TDM.
Denton can encourage major employers in the
city to implement TDM programs including
carpooling, vanpooling and telecommuting by
providing incentives such as reduced parking
requirements. In fact, TDM programs themselves
can be considered a benefit because they make
commuting more affordable and convenient for
employees. Ultimately, Denton should explore the
creation of a Transportation Management Association
(TMA), a formal organization dedicated to promoting
TDM strategies. Such an exploration could address
whether it is feasible for Denton to operate a TMA on
its own or whether it should be done in partnership
with NCTCOG.
6.9 Use TDM strategies to make efficient use of motor vehicle travel, reduce impacts on road infrastructure, parking, and the environment and to make transportation more affordable.
6.9.1 Encourage major employers in the city,
including universities, hospitals and
others, to participate in TryParkingIt.
com, the regional commuter program
hosted by NCTCOG.
6.8 Engage in ITS strategies as a way of making Denton’s transportation systems more efficient and safer.
6.8.1 Update the Denton ITS Plan to reflect
new technologies and to conform to
the Regional ITS Architecture. Use
the ITS Plan as a guiding document
for the planning, programming, and
deployment of ITS strategies in the city.
6.8.2 Implement ITS strategies and current
trends to improve the efficiency of
transportation systems prior to making
costly capacity improvements.
T r a v e l D e m a n d M a n a g e m e n t :
Denton is an integral part of the sprawling North
Central Texas region. Thousands of Denton residents
commute to jobs in places such as downtown Dallas,
Fort Worth and around DFW International Airport.
In turn, thousands of North Central Texas residents
commute every day to Denton’s major employers,
such as:
• A cluster of manufacturing and distribution facilities on and near Airport Road just, west of I-35;
• The University of North Texas;
• Texas Woman’s University;
• Several hospitals, including Denton Regional Medical Center, North Texas Hospital, and Presbyterian Hospital;
• Rayzor Ranch; and
• The Golden Triangle Mall.
Travel Demand Management (TDM) is one strategy
to address large commuting populations by
providing alternatives to driving alone during rush
hours. NCTCOG maintains a regional TDM program,
TryParkingIt.com, which offers a wide range of
NCTCOG Regional ITS Architecture manages ITS regionally
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MOBILITY 6
6.9.2 Provide incentives, such as reduced
parking requirements, for employers
who agree to participate in commuter
programs.
6.9.3 Create a TMA, separately or in
partnership with NCTCOG, to
coordinate all TDM efforts in the city
and work with major employers and
city staff to enforce.
P a r k i n g :
Parking exacts a measurable impact on Denton in
terms of stormwater runoff, community character,
and land use efficiency. While the private automobile
—and thus parking—will continue to be a major part
of the city’s transportation system for the foreseeable
future, steps can be taken to mitigate parking-related
impacts while meeting Denton’s needs.
Denton’s parking standards were first developed to
meet the peak demands associated with a suburban
pattern of separated land uses, resulting in excess
parking in many of the city’s commercial areas.
Parking standards based on more recent research
on parking rates will help to avoid the creation
of excess parking. Additionally, the latest best
practices in parking include standards for mixed-
use developments where parking is often shared
by several different uses that are active at different
times of day. Transitioning to new parking methods
must be done concurrently with transitioning to
more compact, mixed-use development patterns.
One cannot come before the other.
Reduced parking requirements can be used as an
incentive for developments that encourage walking,
cycling, and riding transit. Similarly, developments
can be incentivized to use pervious or semi-pervious
materials in parking lots through reduced stormwater
retention requirements.
6.10 Pursue a balanced parking strategy that provides reasonable accommodations and minimizes environmental and land use impacts.
6.10.1 Update parking standards for
new development in the Denton
Development Code to include:
* The most recent research on parking
generation rates.
* Shared parking standards for mixed-
use developments.
* Reduced parking requirements for
developments and locations where
increased use of transit and non-
motorized travel (walking, bicycling) is
implemented.
6.10.2 Continue to allow and encourage
the use of pervious or semi-pervious
materials in the construction of
parking facilities to further stormwater
management goals (IU 9.12.1).
6.10.3 Revise the Site Design Criteria Manual accordingly to ensure parking areas
in private development are consistent
with the Urban Design Plan and overall urban design policies in the
Community Character and Urban
Design Element. (CC 4.11.1, 4.16, 4.17,
Table 4.1)
6.10.4 Encourage enactment of special
parking requirements and dedicated
parking areas for electric vehicles,
car charging stations, and car sharing
throughout Denton.
6.10.5 Continue the City’s wayfinding
strategy to guide drivers to locate
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parking facilities throughout Denton.
Coordinate with the Citywide
Branding and Placemaking Strategy
to call out landmarks and destinations
where feasible. (CC 4.1.2, 4.16.2)
T r a n s p o r t a t i o n I m p a c t s o n A i r Q u a l i t y :
Air quality, which has suffered as a result of
vehicular travel and other factors, is an issue that
affects the entire North Texas region. Four of these
counties (Denton, Collin, Dallas, and Tarrant) in the
Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area (CMSA)
hold nonattainment status for ground-level ozone.
The DFW area is classified as a “serious” ozone
nonattainment area by the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA). This designation creates both a
regulatory compliance reason to take action and a
significant health concern for communities within
the affected area. The Parks, Conservation and
Environment Element describes air quality in greater
detail.
Regional coordination to address mobile emission
sources as part of the DFW State Implementation Plan (SIP) is led by the NCTCOG. Denton can continue to engage as a proactive stakeholder in
setting regional air quality policy by participating in
NCTCOG planning efforts such as updating the DFW
SIP by 2015 and implementing aggressive practices
to meet the federally- required attainment deadline
of 2018. The NCTCOG recently approved a resolution
supporting locally enforced motor vehicle idling
restrictions in North Central Texas. As a result, it is
encouraging local government adoption of the Texas
Commission on Environmental Quality’s (TCEQ)
idling limitations rule as well as entrance into a
North Texas Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
with the TCEQ. This is one of several policies
developed by the NCTCOG to reduce air pollution in
the North Texas region. Denton recently adopted an
anti-idling ordinance.
Facilitating use of alternative transportation options
such as the A-train, buses, bicycles and walking will
contribute to decreased air emissions as compared
to the use of fossil-fuel powered single-occupancy
vehicles. Prioritizing policies that decrease total
vehicle use, maximize vehicle efficiency by limiting
regular starting and stopping driving practices and
simultaneously decreasing idle times will contribute
to less air emissions within the community. In other
words, less traffic translates into better gas efficiency
and decreased emissions.
6.11 Implement a comprehensive transportation and mobility approach that minimizes air quality impacts.
6.11.1 Participate in NCTCOG air quality
forums to develop achievable regional
policies to minimize air pollution from
Denton’s mobile sources.
6.11.2 Implement the city-wide anti-idling
enforcement policy.
6.11.3 Adopt the TCEQ idling limitations rule
and sign a North Texas Memorandum
of Agreement with TCEQ as part of
Parking garage in a mixed-use center format
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MOBILITY 6
a city-wide anti-idling enforcement
policy.
6.11.4 Create a partnership with DISD to
reduce bus emissions through anti-
idling enforcement and strategic route
mapping.
M o b i l i t y a s S u s t a i n a b i l i t y F r a m e w o r k :
Mobility has a great effect on sustainability, mainly
as it relates to air quality. The relationship of
mobility to land use helps determine the type of
choices that the Denton community can make,
which in turns affects commuting patterns and
emissions. The polices of the Mobility Element
include recommendations for complete streets and
context-sensitive design, which will match roadway
design with the preferred circulation patterns of
the community as it evolves, as well as coordinate
S o u r c e s o f E m i s s i o n s , 2 0 1 2
C i t y o f D e n t o n C o m m u t i n g P a t t e r n s , 2 0 1 2
Transportation
Industrial Electricity
Other Sources
20%
21%
20%
Residential Electricity
39%
SOURCE: Simply Sustainable: A Strategic Plan for Denton’s Future (February, 2012)
76%
Drove Alone
Carpooled
13%
Transit Bicycle Other
{1%
Walked Worked at Home
{4%
Sustainable mobility
recommendations for bicycle, pedestrian, and transit
circulation which further contribute to a sustainable
mobility framework.
6.12 Ensure that Mobility continues to be at the forefront of the sustainability framework for the City.
6.12.1 Incorporate actions from the Mobility
Element to further sustainability in
Denton as well as provide basis for the
updated Sustainability Plan. (IU 9.14,
9.15, 9.16. 9.17)
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Freight
Freight transportation is a key component in the
DFW Metroplex, as 98 percent of the mainland U.S.
population can be reached from the I-35 corridor that
runs through North Texas. More than 700 trucking
carriers and freight forwarders operate within
the DFW region, making use of one of the most
extensive surface and air transportation networks in
the world.
Several distribution and manufacturing facilities
are located within Denton, making it a significant
freight generator for the region. Clusters where such
facilities are located include:
• Airport Road and I-35W Frontage Road just west of the I-35W/I-35E interchange.
• Western Boulevard and US 380.
• US 380 and Mingo Road, just east of Loop 288.
• Flowers Bakery near Edwards Road and Colorado Road.
Discussions with freight operators have revealed that
truck access within the area is a growing concern.
Additionally, many of these facilities employ a
significant number of workers. Transportation
issues cited during interviews include congestion/
accessibility during shift changes and providing
reliable, convenient accessible transportation options
(i.e. public transportation).
In addition, Denton is home to the Denton Enterprise
Airport, located west of I-35 in the industrial portion
of the city. The Airport’s role is that of a publicly-
owned, public-use airport. The Airport is classified
in the National Plan of Integrated Airports System
(NPIAS) as a General Aviation Reliever airport,
providing access to the air transportation system
for general aviation aircraft. The Airport completed
the Denton Municipal Airport Business Plan in 2010
that highlighted the Airport’s role in attracting and
supporting business and creating local jobs. In
addition, its proximity to the developing industrial
areas in the western part of the city present an
opportunity to augment the movement of goods
and services through Denton, strengthening its
role in freight operations and supporting business
development. The 1999 Denton Plan called for
highlighting the role of the Airport in coordinated
transportation planning, as a key element in multi-
modal transportation, and as a tool to optimize the
movement of goods and services throughout the
Metroplex. (DP p.136)
Strategic expansion of the physical airport
property in coordination with long-term viable
aviation services for the region will be addressed
in detail in the updated Airport Master Plan.
Planned proactive property acquisition to avoid
inflated real estate costs and participation in
public-private partnership agreements to assist
with infrastructure and facility development
remain of interest to the Airport. (DP p. 147)
Coordination with Denton Plan 2030 to optimize
the multi-modal transportation network in Denton
through land use and an implementable mobility
framework that considers the economic asset
of the Airport will directly impact long-term
commerce and economic development. Airport
planning must also take into consideration the
impact and location of gas wells and pipelines.
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MOBILITY 6
idling agreement with the NCTCOG, they become
the enforcement agency and can levy fines against
truckers. Denton should consider implementing
this measure as it expands freight infrastructure,
yet must consider the implications for enforcement
before enacting the policy.
6.13 Provide for the safe and efficient movement of freight to preserve and enhance its contribution to Denton’s economy.
6.13.1 Ensure that truck routes identified in
the Rail and Trucking Component of the Mobility Plan are designed to allow the safe and efficient movement of freight
vehicles, in balance with the character
of the surrounding community and
coordination with the FLUM. (M 6.1.1)
6.13.2 Encourage freight generating
land uses, such as manufacturing,
warehousing and distribution centers,
to be located adjacent to truck routes,
rail lines and travel centers. (CC 4.17.3)
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
F r e i g h t :
The efficient movement of trucks is paramount
to the local and regional economy. Facilities that
involve freight transport, specifically those found
in the Rail and Trucking Component, should play a
prominent role in Denton’s transportation priorities
and economic development as a whole. In addition,
planning for the Denton Enterprise Airport must
also be consulted in the development of freight and
trucking strategies and specifically addressed in the
updated Airport Master Plan. The construction of an
additional entrance to the Airport, as proposed in
Denton Plan 1999 (p.148), should be coordinated with
land use and the mobility framework of Denton Plan
2030 to optimize freight transport in the area.
While the movement of truck traffic is good for
economic activity in general, it may detract from
the desire to create walkable, people-oriented
streets. The design parameters for efficient truck
movement —wide outside lanes, large turning radii,
etc.—are not conducive to a walkable environment.
Thus, it is best to keep freight routes separate from
areas in the city where smaller scale, walkable
environments are encouraged. The Future Land Use
Map (FLUM) provides a guide on where land uses
will be developed throughout the city. The Rail and Trucking Component of the Mobility Plan should be coordinated to ensure that are no conflicts with the
furtherance of the goals of the FLUM.
One concern for expanding freight trucking is its
detrimental impacts to air quality. When idling,
heavy-duty diesel vehicles produce roughly 15 times
more emissions than light-duty gasoline vehicles.
As discussed above, if the City takes part in the
Freight movement in Denton
G O A L M - 2 : E n h a n c e D e n t o n ’ s e c o n o m y b y s u p p o r t i n g t h e c i t y ’ s f r e i g h t n e t w o r k .
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
Additionally, a number of national trends could
shape our transportation systems. Rising fuel and
road construction costs and declining transportation
revenues are some of the factors that may lead more
Americans to seek out alternatives to driving.
Of particular interest is connectivity between parks
and other places of interest. Providing the ability to
walk and cycle for recreation is a key part of making
Denton a more livable place.
Better walking and cycling conditions requires
that facilities such as sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and
multi-use paths are included concurrent with the
construction of new roadway facilities and provided
as stand-alone projects when viable and necessary.
However, facilities alone will not fully create an
environment for walking and cycling. A supporting
land use pattern that facilitates short trips and
promoting community design at a human-scale are
also essential ingredients.
6.13.3 Remove truck routes from the core of
the city, away from more dense areas
identified in the FLUM.
6.13.4 Coordinate freight operations with
planning for the Denton Enterprise
Airport as part of the Airport Master
Plan update.
6.13.5 Direct hazardous materials/cargo that
are being transported through Denton
away from heavily populated or
environmentally sensitive areas.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Circulation
Improving conditions for walking and cycling,
whether to make work locations and other activities
more accessible, or to make the city as a whole
more walkable, continually emerged as a key
priority during all phases of the Denton Plan 2030
visioning process. National research confirms that
many Americans would prefer to walk and cycle
more and drive less, most notably older (65+) and
younger (under 35) generations, but feel there
are not enough options available to them (source:
Future of Transportation National Survey, 2010).
Bicycle and Pedestrian trail in Denton Bicycle and Pedestrian trail in Denton
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MOBILITY 6
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
M o b i l i t y P l a n :
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Component is an
element of the Mobility Plan that identifies specific
on- and off-road facilities to make walking and
cycling in Denton safe and convenient, and includes
guidelines and standards for their design. The City
should consult the Mobility Plan when planning,
programming, and designing transportation
improvements and encourage TxDOT to do the same
for their state roads, including the recommendation
of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan.
NCTCOG also spearheads a significant amount of
bicycle and pedestrian planning to guide the ten-
county region. NCTCOG’s Regional Veloweb is a
1,728 mile network of existing and planned off-
street, shared-use paths (trails) designed for use
by bicyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized
forms of active transportation in the Dallas-Fort
Worth metropolitan area. The network of shared-use
paths serves as a system of off-road transportation
facilities for bicyclists and other users that extends
and completes the region’s roadway and passenger
rail transit network. The Regional Veloweb has
planned connections in 10 counties and 117 cities in
North Texas, providing an “interstate” for bicyclists
and pedestrians. In addition, the City of Denton’s
Parks, Recreation and Trails System Master Plan includes proposed locations for recreational trails
and bicycle routes throughout the city to link with
parks and open spaces. The City should continue to
monitor these related planning efforts and update
P r o p o s e d B i c y c l e F a c i l i t i e s i n D e n t o n
Shared Routes 27 mi
Wide Curb Lanes (WCL) 24 mi
Bike Lanes (BL) 20 mi
Side Paths 36 mi
Trails & Veloweb 61 mi
TxDOT Roadway w/ WCL or BL 57 mi
Future Collector with Side Path and WCL or BL 15 mi
Future Arterial with Sidewalk and WCL or BL 27 mi
SOURCE: Update to the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Denton Mobility Plan, 2012.
G O A L M - 3 : C r e a t e a t r a n s p o r t a t i o n n e t w o r k w h e r e r e s i d e n t s c a n w a l k , b i c y c l e , a n d u s e o t h e r f o r m s o f n o n - m o t o r i z e d t r a n s p o r t a t i o n f o r e x e r c i s e , r e c r e a t i o n , a n d t o g e t t o d a i l y d e s t i n a t i o n s .
the Bicycle and Pedestrian Component of the
mobility plan accordingly.
6.14 Use the Bicycle and Pedestrian Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan and regional plans to guide the placement of facilities and educate residents on walking and cycling in Denton.
6.14.1 Ensure that bicycle and pedestrian
facilities, as identified in the Mobility
Plan, are included in the design of
new roads and road improvements.
6.14.2 Ensure that bicycle and pedestrian
facilities are designed consistent
with the guidelines and standards
established in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan.
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6.14.3 Incorporate NCTCOG regional bicycle
plans such as the Regional Veloweb,
into Denton’s bicycle facilities planning,
and actively participate in NCTCOG’s
Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory
Committee (BPAC). (PCE 5.2.2)
6.14.4 Ensure the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Component of the mobility plan and
the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Trails System Master Plan recommendations are consistent with each other. (PCE
5.1.2)
6.14.5 Continue the City’s wayfinding
strategy to facilitate bicycle and
pedestrian circulation through Denton.
Coordinate with the Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy to call out landmarks and destinations where
feasible. (CC 4.2.1, 4.2.7)
6.14.6 Coordinate departments and agencies
to implement the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Denton Mobility Plan, including education efforts such as the Smart
Cycling Program.
6.14.7 Incorporate recommendations from
UNT and TWU masterplans for
pedestrian and bicycle pathways, and
pedestrian streets into the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage Component of the Denton Mobility Plan.
6.14.8 Incorporate the National Association of
City Transportation Officials (NACTO)
Urban Bikeway Design Guide in the
update of the Mobility Plan.
6.14.9 Designate and maintain the City
of Denton as a Bicycle Friendly
Community.
6.14.10 Designate and maintain the City of
Denton as a Walk Friendly Community.
D e s i g n i n g f o r C o m p l e t e , G r e e n S t r e e t s :
Today, the design of streets in Denton is driven
by the Transportation Criteria Manual. In order to ensure that new streets and retrofits within the
city incorporate desired bicycle and pedestrian
features, and green infrastructure features. To ensure
that these goals are met, it will be necessary to
coordinate an update to the Transportation Criteria Manual consistent with the Mobility Plan, including recommendations of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Linkage Component, complete streets elements, and low-impact design elements based on the guidance
of the North Central Texas Council of Government’s
Complete Streets and Context Sensitive Solutions
Complete streets refer to the design of roads and other transportation facilities so that they accommodate all users regardless of age or ability. Complete streets are separate from, but related to, context sensitive solutions (CSS). The difference is that CSS speaks more specifically to designing transportation facilities that are supportive of surrounding land uses and activities. Where possible, the city should build facilities that are both complete streets and context-sensitive.
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a number of materials, such as Best Development Practices: A Primer for Smart Growth, and model ordinances that the city can draw from.
6.16 Encourage new development to create pedestrian-and bicycle- friendly places.
6.16.1 Update the Denton Development
Code to include standards for new
developments to include:
* Connectivity standards for new
development that result in short,
walkable systems.
* Bicycle facilities, such as racks and
lockers.
* Building placement guidelines that
result in buildings oriented toward
the street and each other, especially in
mixed-use centers and corridors.
* Safe, direct connections to adjacent
transit facilities.
* Adequate sidewalks on all streets,
including Safe Routes to School.
(NCTCOG’s) iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction that Denton, adopted in 2013. (see Policies PCE 5.10 and IU 9.11).
6.15 Ensure that future road designs incorporate bicycle and pedestrian design features as desired and appropriate.
6.15.1 Update the Transportation Criteria Manual to incorporate complete streets elements consistent with the updated
Mobility Plan as well as the Bicycle and Pedestrian Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan.
6.15.2 Update the Transportation Criteria Manual to incorporate low-impact design elements. (IU 9.11.2, 9.11.3,
9.11.4, PCE 5.8.3, 5.10.1)
C o o r d i n a t i o n w i t h N e w D e v e l o p m e n t :
The private realm is just as important as the public
realm when it comes to creating environments
conducive to walking and cycling. Denton can
actively encourage the private sector to build these
types of places by incorporating standards into
their land development regulations and by offering
inducements in the form of incentives. There are
Complete street with low-impact design features - example Pedestrian network - UNT
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
* Appropriate crossing treatments at
intersections and mid-block crossings.
6.16.2 Partner and collaborate with
development projects to include multi-
modal features, such as bus shelters
and reduced transit rate agreements,
by providing incentives for best
practices. Such incentives may include:
* Reduced parking requirements.
* Fee credits.
* Official recognitions.
6.16.3 Develop access management
standards that require adjacent
developments to connect directly and
facilitate easy bicycle and pedestrian
travel. (M 6.5.1)
6.16.4 Encourage new development
to provide off-road trails where
appropriate and feasible. (CC Table 4.1)
6.16.5 Establish easements to allow
pedestrian and bicycle access through
private or mixed-use developments,
where appropriate, to promote site
connectivity and pedestrian circulation.
(CC Table 4.1)
F i n a n c i n g t h e P e d e s t r i a n a n d B i c y c l e N e t w o r k :
The City should explore how new development can
cover its cost for building new road infrastructure,
in conjunction with the road impact fee study,
to include pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The
study should include pedestrian and bicycle
accommodations when estimating the cost of
building new roads. The study should also look
specifically at potential pedestrian and bicycle
demand, the cost to satisfy that demand and create a
reflective fee structure.
The City should also include pedestrian and bicycle
facilities as part of a recommended road financing
study. The City could then use this information to
update the Mobility Plan to phase or scale back
the scope of projects and bring it more in line with
anticipated revenues and/or pursue new sources of
revenue to close any projected gaps.
6.17 Ensure adequate revenue to build and maintain pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
6.17.1 Account for pedestrian and bicycle
facilities in the road impact fee study.
(M 6.7.1)
6.17.2 Account for pedestrian and bicycle
facilities in a Mobility Plan financing
study. (M 6.7.3)
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MOBILITY 6
Transit Circulation
Transit services provided by DCTA continue to be a
growing part of Denton’s transportation system by
serving patrons in a number of different ways. The
A- train provides commuter rail service from two
stations in Denton through the Lewisville area into
Carrollton, where it connects to a DART light rail
station. According to NCTCOG projections, about
three-fourths of workers living in the County will
commute to jobs elsewhere in the region. The A-train
will continue to be an important regional mobility
option for Denton residents.
In addition to a large out-commuter population,
Denton also sees a large influx of people traveling
from across the region into the city daily. These
include employees bound for one of the major
employers, such as the Denton Regional Medical
Center and students, and employees bound for UNT
and TWU.
In order for the A-train to work for people
commuting into Denton, there needs to be good
local connections to ultimate destinations from the
train stations. In some cases, A-train riders can walk
or ride bicycles, but for many destinations, Denton
Connect (DCTA’s local transit service) provides that
necessary link. Beyond rail station access, Denton
Connect also serves many important local transit
needs. Most importantly, the UNT campus shuttle
service experiences the highest ridership of any
route in DCTA’s system. The success of this route
should be explored and reviewed to implement in
other areas.
DCTA has a number of plans to expand transit
service, including upcoming adjustments that will
provide a shuttle connection between the MedPark
A-train station and UNT and a new north-south
service that will link Denton with Lewisville, Corinth
Denton County Transit Authority (DCTA) Denton Connect Bus
T r a n s i t S t a t i s t i c s
• A-train: Denton Transit Center boardings
increased by over 64% and by over 34% at the
MedPark Station since 2012.
• Denton Connect: Total ridership increased by
over 6% since 2012.
• UNT’s DCTA Shuttles: Shuttle ridership
increased by 7% between 2011 and 2012,
with a total of 2,018,009 riders.
6 4%
34 %
A-train Downtown Denton Station
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
continue to be made so that transit is accessible
and convenient to residents, students, workers,
and patrons. This can occur through continued
enhancements to local and regional transit service,
but also through land use and development patterns
that are supportive of transit.
and Flower Mound. Additionally, DCTA is studying
long term options for regional transit service
connecting to Denton via US 377 and I-35W (source:
DCTA Long Term Service Plan, 2012).
According to NCTCOG estimates, the number of
daily trips (regardless of mode) in Denton County
will grow by two million to about 4.7 million over the
next two decades. As the city grows, strides must
G O A L M - 4 : C r e a t e a n e n v i r o n m e n t w h e r e t r a n s i t i s c o n v e n i e n t a n d s a f e f o r t r a v e l b o t h w i t h i n D e n t o n a n d t o t h e r e s t o f t h e r e g i o n .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
T r a n s i t a n d L a n d U s e :
There is a plethora of research that reveals a direct
relationship between compact growth, and transit
ridership. Putting residences and jobs within walking
distance of a transit station. Reconnecting America,
a leading advocate for transit, suggests that viable
transit service – starting with 30-minute bus service
– begins at average densities of about seven units
per acre. This could be achieved through a variety of
single-family and multi-family housing types.
In addition to more compact growth, mixed-use, or
putting complementary land uses in close proximity
to each other, is also supportive of transit use. The
ability to meet basic needs such as errands and
dining out, without the use of a car, makes riding
transit much more convenient.
6.18 Promote a land use pattern that makes transit convenient and feasible.
6.18.1 Encourage and incentivize new
development to include transit
supportive elements adjacent to
existing DCTA stations. This could
include development in mixed-use
areas, centers, and corridors.
6.18.2 Update the Denton Development Code
to permit transit-supportive densities
and intensities. (LU 2.9.4)
T r a n s i t a n d U r b a n D e s i g n :
In addition to land use, urban design plays a large
role in the viability of transit. For high-impact areas
such a rail stations, building placement, parking,
and provisions for bicycles are all important transit-
friendly features. For developments along existing
and planned bus routes, dedicated locations and
facilities for bus stops and safe, convenient and well-
lit pedestrian connections are important.
These are design enhancements that can be
prescribed through land development regulations
(base zoning or overlay) and/or design guidelines.
As an inducement to incorporating transit-friendly
features into site design, the city can offer relaxed
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MOBILITY 6
Improved transit stations
parking requirements or density bonuses under
the rationale that such features will increase transit
ridership and thus reduce the need for parking
and/or offset additional trips created by increased
density. When Denton enacts a road impact fee, it
may consider offsets as an incentive.
6.19 Encourage new development to create transit- friendly places.
6.19.1 Update the Denton Development Code
to include incentives and standards for
new developments to include:
* Dedicated transit facilities (stops,
shelters, etc.).
* Safe, convenient, and direct
connections between transit stops and
building entrances.
6.19.2 Partner and collaborate with DCTA and
other transit groups to develop Small
Area Plans around existing and future
DCTA rail stations to include standards
and guidelines for: (CC 4.11.4)
* Building placement.
* Access and egress.
Historic streetcar in Denton
* Parking (if necessary).
* Bicycle and pedestrian linkages.
* Local transit connections.
(See Policies LU 2.8.1; HN 7.1.6; CC 4.12.3, 4.16, 4.17,
Table 4.1, Table 4.2)
6.19.3 Provide incentives for new
development to include transit-friendly
features. (LU 2.8) This could include:
* Relaxed parking requirements (M
6.10.1, M 6.10.2).
* Density bonuses.
* Impact fee offsets. (FEV 3.9.8)
P l a n n i n g f o r T r a n s i t :
The City can help to ensure that transit is successful
through close coordination with DCTA and other
transit providers on new development projects and
the retrofitting of the existing transit network and
facilities.
The City should communicate the policies of
Denton Plan 2030 and follow-up work to DCTA and
other transit-related providers. This includes likely
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6 DENTON PLAN 2030
6.21 Coordinate with placemaking and cultural promotion strategies.
6.21.1 Continue the City’s wayfinding
strategy to help transit users navigate
throughout Denton. Coordinate
with the Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy to call out landmarks and destinations where
feasible. (CC 4.2.1, 4.2.7)
6.21.2 Encourage the use of transit to
attend events in Denton through the
proposed Special Events Integrated Transportation Plan. (CC 4.7.8)
6.22 Explore the potential for initiating trolley service in Denton.
6.22.1 Perform a study of the feasibility of
implementing trolley service in Denton.
The study should address potential
routes, modes (rubber tire, streetcar),
operation (city, DCTA, other transit-
related providers) and funding.
R e g i o n a l C o o r d i n a t i o n :
In addition to direct coordination with DCTA and
other transit-related providers, Denton should
continue to be an advocate for regional transit
service in general. The City is a member of the
Regional Transportation Council and technical
committees of NCTCOG, where much of the region’s
transit planning occurs. Denton should continue
to use its position at NCTCOG and other regional
bodies to support the expansion of regional transit
service.
transit supportive areas identified in the FLUM and
transit friendly land development regulations and
guidelines. Additionally, the city can provide DCTA
and other transit-related interests the opportunity to
comment on new development applications.
6.20 Coordinate with DCTA and other Denton-area transit providers.
6.20.1 Communicate recommendations for
transit-supportive areas to DCTA. (CC
4.2.5)
6.20.2 Provide DCTA with the opportunity
to comment on new development
applications with respect to placement
of transit-friendly features and impacts
on transit vehicle operations.
6.20.3 Participate in new transit studies and
initiatives, such as planning for new
local routes within Denton and DCTA
corridor studies.
6.20.4 Work with DCTA to identify service
enhancements and the development of
additional sub-hubs, such as the one at
UNT.
6.20.5 Establish bus pull-offs along existing
and planned routes where appropriate.
6.20.6 Work proactively with DCTA and
other transit-related providers to
progressively improve transit service
to encourage ridership by choice and
not just by necessity.
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MOBILITY 6
6.23 Continue to be an advocate for regional transit service.
6.23.1 Participate in the NCTCOG/MPO’s
Regional Transportation Council,
technical committees and other
regional bodies to advocate for
expanded regional transit service. In
particular those services that expand
and enhance regional connections to
Denton.
6.23.2 Continue to promote the use of the
A-train to travel outside of Denton,
serve commuter travel, and link with
DART and other local transit-related
providers in the Metroplex.
6.23.3 Work with DCTA to expand service of
the A-train and local routes to increase
ridership and better serve the needs
and schedules of the population.
7) HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS
Housing and Neighborhoods Overview 191
Housing and Neighborhoods in Denton 193
Housing Choice 195 Downtown and University Housing Affordable Housing Homelessness Senior Housing Expanding Homeownership Housing Variety Improved Quality of Housing and Neighborhoods
Neighborhood Conservation 202 Neighborhood Conservation
Schools and Community Facilities 204 Schools Community Facilities New and Upgraded Facilities Efficient Co-location of Facilities Community Facilities Design
HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS OVERVIEW By 2030, housing and neighborhood choices will expand and diversify, guided by the policies described
below and through partnerships with neighborhood organizations, major employers, non-profits, and
development interests. The policies that follow address the retention of the existing housing stock, as well
future housing development, consisting of the following primary housing segments:
• Existing neighborhoods in the urban core and developed parts of the city
• Housing in existing and emerging mixed-use centers and corridors, including Downtown and Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Areas
• New development at and beyond the suburban fringe, including the City’s large Master Planned Communities (MPCs).
Housing and neighborhoods are closely related, and directly impact a community’s quality of life. All
Denton residents have a need for housing that is sound, affordable, and suitable for their household and
locational preferences. This housing needs to be located in neighborhoods that are safe and livable and
that provide a sense of connection to the community with convenient access to schools, parks, shopping,
and amenities. Characteristics that enhance livability, such as walkability, access to transit, neighborhood
scale, and true mixed-uses such as small, neighborhood
scale, walk-to businesses, are becoming increasingly
valued by some segments of the population. In
order to establish neighborhoods of choice, a range
of housing options need to be complemented by
community facilities, including schools and parks,
and compatible neighborhood-oriented commercial
uses (ex. coffee shops and neighborhood grocery
stores) that contribute to neighborhood livability. In
addition to improving neighborhood livability and
an array of housing choices, there are increased
expectations for higher quality of both the
aesthetics of housing and the design
of neighborhoods, including design
features that promote neighborliness
and health and safety.
Finally complete, balanced, and
sustainable neighborhoods are served by
neighborhood programs that aid those who
live in the community, including communities in
need. This includes services for youth, seniors,
and people with disabilities, and encapsulates
not only services provided by the City and
organizations, but opportunities for volunteering,
allowing the community members of Denton
to support one another and give back. The
establishment of these community connections
will establish resilient and prosperous
neighborhoods for the future.
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The Character of Denton • Denton is safe and livable, a hospitable community of friends and neighbors.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • We retain our sense of community and shared values, while welcoming new arrivals and
celebrating growing diversity.
• We are committed to fairness and equitable access to opportunity in education, community services, jobs, and government representation.
• All generations, of both natives and newcomers, are deeply rooted in the community and are actively engaged in its betterment through volunteer participation with faith-based, civic, and/or neighborhood organizations and service on local government boards and commissions.
• The City of Denton is a healthy, family-friendly community which sees its youth as its most valuable resource; a resource worthy of investment in education, healthful recreation, and opportunities for challenging and rewarding employment and engagement in civic affairs.
• The City of Denton has integrated, reconciled, and streamlined its plans, processes, policies, and regulations for consistency, clarity, and effectiveness.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • Managed, balanced, and sustainable growth in high-quality, livable urban, suburban, and rural
places which offer diverse choices among neighborhood settings while respecting private property rights.
• A compact development pattern which includes expanded areas of mixed-use, a broad array of housing and retail choices responding to changing demographics and market preferences, and re- investment and infill in established areas of the city.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment,
supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
• Established neighborhoods where revitalization and compatible infill development contributes to stable, livable, and historic character, and fosters neighborhood pride and homeownership.
• Thriving universities where coordinated planning and collaborations between the City and the academic communities creates mutually beneficial, stable, and healthy neighborhood edges and where the non-academic community benefits from the vast educational and cultural resources in close proximity.
Housing and neigHborHoods in tHe Community Vision statement
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
that is, they are paying more than the 30 percent of
household income toward housing – the standard
of housing affordability. In 2011, nearly 58 percent
of renter households and 26 percent of owner
households were cost burdened, meaning even
“affordable housing” remains too expensive for this
group, forcing difficult trade-offs regarding the costs
of health care, childcare, and food. As a result, Denton
has a high rate of homelessness, with roughly half of
homeless individuals unsheltered.
In response to this need, a number of organizations
work collaboratively with Denton’s Community
Development Division to provide affordable housing
for low-to-moderate income residents. Denton’s
supply of subsidized housing includes three
affordable housing developments managed by the
Denton Housing Authority, as well as in privately-
owned scattered site homes and apartments
accepting Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, which
allow rent payments to be set based on income.
According to the City’s 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan, Denton has a higher percentage of subsidized affordable housing than neighboring communities.
The Community Development Division leverages a
budget comprised of federal, state, and local funding,
in coordination with the Denton Affordable Housing
Housing and Neighborhoods in Denton The city’s housing stock of approximately 45,000
dwellings as of 2012 consists of approximately 58
percent single-family and 42 percent multi-family
dwellings. This is a higher proportion of multi-family
housing than is typical for North Texas communities,
due largely to the influence of university students.
With a combined enrollment of just under 50,000
students, the majority of which reside off campus,
students are a major segment of the local housing
market. The dynamic of housing construction
in Denton has shifted significantly over the past
decade with a sharp decline in single-family home
construction after 2006, with only 2,205 homes built
between 2007 to 2012, compared with 6,741 homes
built between 2001 and 2006, a shift in part due to
impact of the mortgage crisis on the national housing
market, coupled with increased demand for multi-
family apartments.
Apartments are necessary to provide the diversity
and amount of housing for a growing city such as
Denton, but the quality of construction, design, and
maintenance of the properties are key issues affecting
the city on many levels. Also, due largely to the impact
of university students, Denton has a much larger
proportion of renters: 49 percent compared to around
33 percent for Denton County and Texas. Of particular
concern regarding the high proportion of renters
and multi-family housing is the condition of some of
the city’s older multi-family housing, indicated by an
unusually high vacancy rate (9 percent).
While housing in Denton, both rental as well as
owned housing, is generally more affordable than
elsewhere in the region, the incomes of many of
Denton’s households are also lower than other
areas in the region. As a result, a high proportion of
Denton households are considered “cost burdened”,
Neighborhood-oriented commercial use
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
homes, including townhomes and apartments, in
walkable, more urban scale mixed-use neighborhoods
rather than conventional suburban subdivisions.
This dynamic of changing demographics and
preferences raises issues related to planning for
future housing development. The shift in housing
preferences is an opportunity to attract middle and
upper income, home-owning households to support
market rate, infill housing development, bringing
about re-investment and a mixed income balance
that is at the core of neighborhood conservation and
revitalization in Denton’s urban core neighborhoods.
Key targets are Downtown Denton and Compatibility
Areas surrounding Downtown and the UNT and TWU
campuses, as well as areas designated for Business
Innovation of the Future Land Use Map (FLUM). One
specific opportunity is the trend emerging nationally
for housing marketed to retirees who are relocating to
reside near their alma maters to pursue opportunities
for lifelong learning.
Conversely, these shifting demographics and
preferences may present both a challenge and an
opportunity for the City’s large outlying planned
communities, many of which were conceived based
on conventional models of suburban, mostly single-
family development. As noted in the Land Use
Element, the undeveloped land area within these
Master Planned Communities (MPCs) is greater
than can be absorbed through the Plan horizon.
Consequently, it is anticipated that some of the
assumptions made in the development plans that
were the basis for development approvals will be
reconsidered, representing an opportunity to align
them to reflect the changing housing market by
incorporating a different mix of housing and land use
types in community designs that embrace walkability,
sustainability, and conservation.
Corporation, and non-profits such as Habitat for
Humanity of Denton County. Denton has chosen
a policy of providing subsidized housing through
partnerships with non-profits and with developers
using low income tax credits to finance low-moderate
income, as well as establishing partnerships with
landlords who accept Section 8 Vouchers, rather
than concentrating dependent households in public
housing developments.
While meeting the needs of students and lower-
income households for affordable housing is critically
important for Denton, maintaining the stability of,
and promoting re-investment in, the city’s older
neighborhoods is a priority as well. To address issues
of neighborhood stability, strategies for neighborhood
conservation are needed, including the promotion
of mixed-income housing (areas that contain both
market rate and affordable units), re-investment
in compatible infill housing (development of new
housing in within developed areas of the city), efforts
to promote greater levels of home ownership, and
targeted code enforcement by the City’s Community
Improvement Services Division. In addition, a rental
housing inspection and registration program should
be considered to ensure that rental dwellings are
properly maintained for habitability.
While the maintenance of the stock of quality,
affordable housing and the livability of Denton’s
neighborhoods is a primary concern, another issue
is to anticipate future housing needs as the city’s
population grows and ages by 2030. One key factor
is the demographic shifts already underway, resulting
in changing consumer preferences for housing and
neighborhoods. Many among the wave of retiring,
empty-nest Baby Boomers are opting to downsize
from their single-family home. At the same time,
young Millennials just entering the job market, are
also entering the housing market. Trends nationally
have shown that many in both groups prefer smaller
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
Policies and Actions
Downtown and University Housing: Downtown Denton and its neighborhood edges,
together with the campuses of UNT and TWU and their
surrounding neighborhoods, make up Denton’s urban
core. While there has been some success in attracting
high density and mixed-use development Downtown,
there is an opportunity to re-focus the Downtown Implementation Plan (DTIP) to identify priorities to stimulate development of additional downtown
housing, both as new infill and as adaptive re-use
(adaptation of historic buildings to new use) of older
buildings and upper floors above commercial uses.
The neighborhoods surrounding both Downtown
and the two universities have been impacted by
factors such as commuter traffic, student housing,
parking overspills, and by property acquisition
for campus expansion, all of which can disturb
neighborhood stability. Denton’s urban core is also
where the bulk of the city’s Section 8 and other
subsidized housing is located. Small Area Plans
are needed for the Downtown and Neighborhood/
University Compatibility Areas to identify items
such as: redevelopment targets, incentives for re-
investment, infill, and homeownership; land use
and housing mix; compatibility and scale; parking
policy; walkability; and transit access. The Small Area
Plans will also be used to guide zoning and other
regulatory adjustments which may be implemented
with additional Overlay Districts. Small Area Plans
and Overlay Districts are recommended for targeted
centers and corridors outside the urban core. Since
small area planning targets those areas of the city
expected to change in use or character over time,
areas which are expected to remain sound and stable
over time would generally not be targeted for small
area planning.
7.1 Promote development of higher density housing as part of mixed-use development in Denton’s urban core, including Downtown, the Downtown and Neighborhood/University Compatibility Areas, and in designated centers and corridors outside the urban core. (DP p. 122)
7.1.1 Revise and update the Downtown Implementation Plan (DTIP) to specifically discuss residential
development. (LU 2.6.1)
7.1.2 Create a Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan. (LU 2.6.2)
7.1.3 Create regulatory incentives to expand
housing in and adjacent to Downtown
though adaptive re-use, utilization of
upper stories, and infill development.
(LU 2.6.4)
G O A L H N - 1 : D e v e l o p a n d m a i n t a i n a h o u s i n g s t o c k t h a t m e e t s t h e n e e d s o f a l l r e s i d e n t s w i t h a d i v e r s e a r r a y o f c h o i c e s i n t y p e , c o s t , a n d l o c a t i o n ( D P p . 1 2 2 . )
Housing Choice
Mutli-family Housing - Denton
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
7.1.4 Partner and collaborate with the
universities to create Neighborhood/
University Compatibility Area Small
Area Plans around UNT and TWU,
integrated with the Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan and the updated Downtown Implementation Plan. (LU 2.7.1)
7.1.5 Partner and collaborate with the
universities to establish protocols
for joint city – university planning
within the Neighborhood/University
Compatibility Areas, focusing on
issues such as: (LU 2.7.2)
* Creation of redevelopment target areas surrounding blighted properties
* Regulation of on-street and off street parking (M 6.10.1)
* Pedestrian and bicycle improvement (M 6.14)
* Community gathering places and open
space (CC 4.10.2)
7.1.6 Create Small Area Plans for key centers
and corridors. (LU 2.8.1, CC 4.12.3)
7.1.7 Establish additional Overlay Districts
to apply revised development
standards tailored to specific centers
and corridors. (LU 2.8.2, CC 4.12.5)
Affordable Housing: Denton has a higher percentage of affordable housing
than neighboring communities. The Denton Housing
Authority (DHA) oversees the needs of low and
moderate income Denton residents by providing
subsidized housing utilizing Section 8 Housing Choice
Vouchers funded by the U.S. Department of housing
and Urban Development (HUD). These vouchers
allow qualified low and moderate-income residents
to reside in houses, apartments, and mobile homes
with below market rent payments, which is set
at 30 percent to 40 percent of household income.
Section 8 Vouchers may also be used to purchase,
rather than rent, a home. Denton has an inventory
of approximately 3,400 subsidized rental units, as
of 2014, which are located in three developments
(Heritage Oaks Apartments, Pecan Place Apartments,
and Renaissance Courts Townhomes), as well as
approximately 1,800 in scattered site units. There are
approximately 1,500 people on waiting lists, which
will span at least five years, for these affordable units
as of 2014.
While the Denton Housing Authority manages
housing properties, funding and grants are
administered through Denton’s Community
Development Division. Two primary means of
funding are through the federal funding programs
of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG),
which Denton receives as an Entitlement City,
and through the Home Investment Partnerships
(HOME) program. Guiding the strategic use of
this funding are the five-year strategies contained
in the 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development. Key areas of focus include a Homebuyers Assistance Program, a Home
Improvement Program, and a Minor Repair Program
to assist renters as well as owners. Related programs
such as infrastructure improvement, anti-poverty,
human services, and continuum of care strategies
to address homelessness are also provided. Much
of Denton’s subsidized housing is concentrated
in relatively few areas of the city, contributing to
socio-economic segregation and pockets of poverty.
Consequently, efforts should be made to promote a
broader distribution of subsidized dwellings in mixed
income housing developments and neighborhoods to
avoid pockets of poverty.
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
rental units are not considered an
impediment to fair housing in the
community.
Homelessness: Denton’s homeless population is estimated to
be approximately 435 individuals as of January
2014, roughly half of which are believed to be
unsheltered. The City is the recipient of a Federal
Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), which targets
homelessness. Through this grant, the Community
Development Division makes an important impact
on the problem of homelessness in Denton. These
efforts include collaboration with the Denton County
Homeless Coalition (DCHC) and other local charitable
organizations, such as Christian Community Action,
Denton County Friends of the Family, Giving HOPE,
Inc., and the Salvation Army Denton who provide
funds for Street Outreach, Emergency Shelters,
Homelessness Prevention, and Rapid Re-Housing
services to the homeless and those at risk of
homelessness.
7.3 Expand the availability of affordable housing choices for community members most in need of housing, including the homeless. (DP p.122)
7.3.1 Support efforts of the Denton County
Homeless Coalition to address
the needs of Denton’s homeless
population.
7.3.2 Partner and collaborate with Denton
County MHMR, United Way, and
other organizations and agencies
to address mental illness needs
which significantly contribute to
homelessness.
7.3.3 Explore best practices to bring
innovative types of housing for the
homeless to Denton.
7.2 Expand the availability of affordable housing choices for community members most in need of housing, including those with low incomes and special needs. (DP p.122)
7.2.1 Support efforts of the Denton Housing
Authority, Denton Affordable Housing
Corporation, and Habitat for Humanity
to expand the availability of affordable
housing for low-moderate income
residents through policies for mixed
income neighborhoods and housing
development.
7.2.2 Continue the efforts of the Community
Development Division to utilize grant
funding targeted to address the
needs of low-moderate incomes and
distressed neighborhoods, with future
action priorities adjusted based on
community input for consistency with
neighborhood conservation strategies
for mixed income housing and
neighborhoods.
7.2.3 Update the Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development to continually gauge the housing needs of Denton’s low income
and special needs populations.
7.2.4 Partner and collaborate with local
organizations and within City
departments to improve connections
between home-related program
resources and potential recipients and
neighborhood groups.
7.2.5 Explore a rental housing and multi-
family inspection and registration
program to ensure that rental
dwellings are properly maintained
for habitability and that existing
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
homes and properties if they are able
to live independently.
Expanding Homeownership: Denton’s Community Development Division provides
assistance to facilitate homeownership through its
Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP) to aid first
time homebuyers available to qualifying Section
8 households, as well as its Home Improvement
Program (HIP) providing counseling assistance for
homeowners regarding repairs and maintenance. In
addition, the Denton Affordable Housing Corporation
(DAHC) provides opportunities for homeownership
for low- and moderate-income households through
its Affordable Housing Opportunity Program (AHOP).
As effective as these programs are, as evidenced by
waiting lists, the need appears to be greater than
the available resources. Therefore, the City should
pursue additional opportunities to support expanded
rates of home ownership. Three opportunities are
identified. One is to expand the activity of Habitat for
Humanity of Denton County (HHDC) in building infill
single-family homes for sale to low-moderate income
Denton households with zero interest mortgages.
As has been done in other communities, the City
should partner with HHDC to build a certain number
Senior Housing: National studies have demonstrated the tremendous
value of retaining and attracting middle and upper
income retired seniors. They support the property and
sales tax base, contribute to local charities, and do
not compete for jobs or exert demands for schools
and most other public services and facilities. The
Community Development Division and the Denton
Housing Authority currently have programs to support
low and moderate income housing for seniors, such
as at Pecan Place Apartments, located in Downtown
Denton. Although Denton is home to Dogwood
Estates and Robson Ranch and other market rate
senior or active adult housing, there is the potential to
attract additional senior living communities, working
in collaboration with local medical institutions and
real estate development interests.
7.4 Expand the availability of housing choices for existing and potential community members most in need of housing, including seniors. (DP p. 122).
7.4.1 Collaborate with local medical
institutions and real estate
development interests to measure
needs and encourage development
of life care communities and other
housing options for seniors.
7.4.2 Encourage the development of
options for senior housing and
housing for persons with disabilities
with a variety of unit types and cost
choices, including ADA-accessible and
active adult settings.
7.4.3 Partner with organizations and
agencies to provide assistance and
connect needs and resources for
seniors and people with disabilities
to be able to maintain single-family
Housing for Denton’s seniors
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
for Humanity of Denton County
and Denton Affordable Housing, to
encourage homeownership.
7.5.2 Encourage UNT, TWU, and other
major employers to provide
financial incentives for home
ownership, particularly in adjacent
neighborhoods.
7.5.3 Consider establishing an urban
homesteading program to recycle and
reoccupy abandoned or tax delinquent
properties.
Housing Variety: While a major focus of housing and neighborhoods is
in promoting affordable housing options for Denton’s
low-moderate income residents and promoting
neighborhood stability and reinvestment, there are
also opportunities to promote housing development
innovation in urban, suburban, and rural contexts.
While Denton’s single-family neighborhoods and
subdivisions serve the large proportion of households
that prefer this housing choice, demographic shifts
currently underway are beginning to change housing
preferences. Specifically, retired empty-nest Baby
Boomers, and well as Millennials, increasingly prefer
smaller, apartments, condos, lofts, and townhomes
in compact walkable locations. While Denton has a
large supply of apartments, much of it is older, poorly
designed, and not properly maintained. Consequently,
there is a need to promote development of a broader
array of higher-quality housing options including
townhomes and other forms of attached dwellings,
as well as mid-rise apartments, condominiums and
lofts, and live-work units. These should be targeted
within Downtown, Neighborhood/University and
Downtown Compatibility Areas and in redeveloping
centers and corridors and other locations where such
development would not impact established single-
of infill dwellings annually in targeted distressed
neighborhoods. This could entail the acquisition by
the City of infill blighted or tax delinquent lots and
their transfer to HHDC in return for an agreed upon
construction schedule. This would serve multiple
purposes, including removing blighting influences
and adding to neighborhood stability through greater
home ownership.
Because a significant component of the housing
market is related to university housing of students,
faculty, and staff, the universities could play an
important role in expanding home ownership
opportunities, particularly in neighborhoods that
make up the Neighborhood/ University Compatibility
Areas. As was done in the University District
Revitalization Area surrounding the University
of Arkansas at Little Rock and the University of
Pennsylvania’s West Philadelphia Initiatives, the
universities could be encouraged to provide
financial assistance to faculty and staff for home
purchases in neighborhoods surrounding university
campuses, thus adding to neighborhood stability.
The universities could also make special programs
available to first-time homebuyers and alumni.
In addition, consideration should be given to
establishing an urban homesteading program in
which tax delinquent or abandoned residential
structures could be acquired by the City and sold for a
nominal sum to individuals who agree to occupy and
bring property conditions up to Code, thus eliminating
blighting influences. These homes would be made
available for sale to qualified low-moderate income
first-time home buyers as well.
7.5 Support expanded opportunities for home ownership to encourage neighborhood stability and reduce blight.
7.5.1 Expand partnerships with nonprofit
housing providers, such as Habitat
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
development practice may be different today from
when MPCs were initially approved. It is in the
mutual best interest of the City and the owners and
developers of the presently undeveloped MPCs to
anticipate and provide for flexibility in re-planning
these developments. Such opportunities could include
the introduction of innovative mixed-use and walkable
development patterns, and to design for greater
connectivity and alternative mixes and locations of
residential, and centers for commercial development
and employment.
The Community Vision Statement refers to the vision
of Denton’s rural fringe as one where scenic rural
character is retained with protected open space,
greenways along with agricultural and ranch lands.
Conservation Development is an approach to the
design of rural residential subdivisions which is
highly suited to agricultural fringe areas where the
retention of rural character and open space is desired.
Refer to the Land Use Element (Policy 2.14) which
contains specific policies to achieve Conservation
Development.
7.6 Encourage innovative housing development in mixed-use centers and corridors, Master
family neighborhoods.
Outside of Denton’s urban core are a number
of designated centers and corridors which are
targeted to undergo redevelopment from primarily
commercial or undeveloped areas to a mixed-use
character, incorporating moderate and high density
residential uses in walkable patterns near transit and
employment. The means of reinvigorating these areas
begins with the creation of Small Area Plans. Small
Area Plans will identify opportunities and strategies
for the introduction of housing as an element of
mixed-use, adjusted to the context of each area, as
described in the Land Use Element (LU 2.8.1) and
Community Character and Urban Design Element (CC
4.12.3).
At the suburban fringe (The Edge), because of excess
development capacity within large Master Planned
Communities (MPCs), their build-out will likely
take the next two decades to complete. Although
developments such as Rayzor Ranch and Robson
Ranch are well underway, the MPCs have experienced
little or no development. As a consequence, much
of this development will occur well into the future
when market conditions, consumer preferences,
and the state-of-the-art in community planning and
High quality dense housingHigher-density housing in a mixed-use setting
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
lot suburban development. (LU 2.14.1)
7.6.3 Revise Rural Agricultural and Rural
Residential zoning districts to provide
specific guidelines for Conservation
Development, including density and/
or lot size incentive for open space
protection. (LU 2.14.2)
Improved Quality of Housing and Neighborhoods: Increasingly, communities within the Dallas-Fort
Worth Metroplex, as well as nationally, must compete
to become communities of choice based on the
quality and aesthetics of housing, as well as design
characteristics that foster neighborliness. Specific
tools could include design guidelines to avoid
patterns of architectural uniformity and monotony
through the use of indigenous materials such as
limestone, varied color schemes, and details such a
front porches facing neighborhood streets and open
spaces, rather than lines of garage doors. Likewise, at
a larger scale, the clustering of homes around shared
open space or gardens, a concept known as “Pocket
Neighborhoods” promotes a sense of community as
well as security. Involving residents in neighborhood
planning exercises can identify opportunities for
enhancing livability and promoting a sense of
Planned Communities (MPCs), and through residential development in rural areas that protects rural character.
7.6.1 Establish procedures to facilitate
revisions to the land use mix and
design of MPCs including: (LU 2.11.1)
* Incorporation of compact, mixed-use,
and walkable development patterns
* The integration of area-wide trails,
greenways, and green infrastructure
elements (Table 4.1)
* A mix of housing types to reflect
changing demographics and housing
preferences
* Improved architectural and
neighborhood design features (HN 7.7.1,
7.7.2, CC 4.16.2)
7.6.2 Promote Conservation Development
(clustered housing) in Rural
Agricultural and Rural Residential
areas, with permanently protected
open space in conservation
easements, as an alternative to large
Rural residential areasHigh quality single-family housing in Denton
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
G O A L H N - 2 : E n s u r e t h e c o n t i n u e d v i a b i l i t y o f D e n t o n ’ s e s t a b l i s h e d n e i g h b o r h o o d s t h r o u g h t h o u g h t f u l c o n s e r v a t i o n .
Neighborhood Conservation
Policies and Actions
Neighborhood Conservation: Neighborhood conservation is an important
theme throughout Denton. Denton’s Community
Improvement Services Division has periodically
conducted targeted inventories of exterior building
conditions in some of Denton’s older neighborhoods.
However, Denton lacks a comprehensive
neighborhood conservation program to promote
neighborhood stability. Such a program would
begin with a Housing and Neighborhood Condition
Inventory to identify patterns of stability, as well
as patterns of decline and disinvestment. Specific
conditions to be inventoried include building
condition, tenure (owner/renter) and code violations,
as well as livability factors such as crime statistics,
best practices, such as clustering
homes around shared open space
(Pocket Neighborhoods) and
other components of traditional
neighborhood design (TND) including
use of rear alleys and orientation to
streets with sidewalks and street trees.
(CC 4.16.2)
7.7.3 Conduct participatory neighborhood
planning efforts in neighborhoods
to address opportunities to enhance
character and livability.
neighborhood ownership.
7.7 Establish tools and strategies to enhance the quality and character of housing and neighborhoods.
7.7.1 Create residential design standards to
improve aesthetic quality and variety,
including materials, color palettes,
and architectural features, such as
porches and other elements typical in
the region. (CC 4.16.2)
7.7.2 Create subdivision and neighborhood
design standards incorporating
traffic conditions, walkability and proximity to parks,
schools, and healthy food. Because the principal
purpose of a neighborhood conservation program is
to encourage investment and stability, neighborhood
associations should be encouraged to participate in
the surveying effort and to contribute to conservation
strategies.
A principal means of reversing neighborhood decline
is infill development, that is, new development
on vacant or redeveloped properties. In addition
to expanding the quantity of sound housing and
strengthening the tax base, infill development offers
the opportunity to broaden housing choice. For
example, the introduction of high-quality townhomes
in or adjacent an established, predominantly single-
family neighborhood can serve to attract first-time
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
renovation tax credits, as well as urban homesteading
and employer-assisted first-time homebuyer
programs described below. In neighborhoods which
do not quality for historic district designations and
where present zoning may not ensure compatible
infill development, neighborhood stabilization overlay
districts may apply. These zoning overlays would
modify underlying zoning requirements for such
factors as front and side setbacks, garage placement
and building height.
homebuyers, as well as relocating retirees who
may desire a smaller, more low-maintenance home.
However, such infill development may be impeded
by zoning districts that do not provide for flexibility
for varying housing types and lot sizes. Therefore,
the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) has been revised
to allow for infill while maintaining appropriate scale
and density in single-family neighborhoods.
Another available tool to assist in neighborhood
conservation and revitalization are Public
Improvement Districts (PIDs), authorized under
Chapter 372 Texas Local Government Code. PID’s
collect special assessments to fund street and
infrastructure improvements and amenities such as
sidewalks, street trees, and parks for the financing of
housing construction and rehabilitation.
In order to address potential neighborhood concerns
about the impact of infill development, guidelines
that define neighborhood compatibility issues such
as density, design and scale are included in the
Community Character and Urban Design Element.
The mechanisms of the Small Area Plan enable more
particular design guidelines to be developed for key
neighborhoods. As some older neighborhoods in
need of infill may also have historic designations or
character, policies for neighborhood conservation and
historic preservation should be aligned.
Additional tools for neighborhood conservation
can be both “defensive” and “proactive” in
nature. Defensive mechanisms include preventing
“spillover” impacts from adjacent corridor and center
development, and from capital investments such as
road widenings. Also, neighborhood conservation
must address any impacts of concentrations of rentals
and subsidized housing in reducing property values
and homeownership. Conversely, there are proactive
measures to promote neighborhood stabilization
and conservation. These include historic district
designations to protect character and make available Northwest Denton neighborhood
Southeast Denton neighborhood
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
7.8 Promote the stability and livability of established neighborhoods through the FLUM and a comprehensive neighborhood conservation program. (DP p.122)
7.8.1 Include Future Land Use Designations
and corresponding zoning districts in
the FLUM that protect neighborhood
scale and density. (LU 2.2.2, 2.19, 2.20)
7.8.2 Partner with neighborhood
associations to create a Housing and
Neighborhood Condition Inventory
and monitoring strategy.
7.8.3 Establish criteria to identify the
characteristics of compatible infill
to ensure that new development
in established neighborhoods
complements the scale, character and
quality of neighborhood housing. (LU
2.9.2)
7.8.4 Identify and modify zoning and other
regulatory impediments to compatible
infill and redevelopment. (LU 2.9.3)
7.8.5 Prevent impacts and encroachments
of incompatible uses, development
scales, and intensities through
adherence to the established land
use standards and urban design
principles.
7.8.6 Revise standards in the Denton
Development Code to ensure proper
transitions and buffers between
conflicting land uses, scales, and
intensities. (LU 2.9.4)
7.8.8. Apply neighborhood conservation
strategies, such as targeted code
enforcement, housing rehabilitation,
clearance of blighted properties, and
the encouragement of mixed income
housing and neighborhoods. (LU
2.9.5)
7.8.9 Review and revise transportation,
infrastructure, and subsidized
housing plans and policies that are
inconsistent with neighborhood
conservation policies. (M 6.1.1)
7.8.10 Couple neighborhood conservation
strategies with local historic district,
historic conservation area, and
Neighborhood Stabilization Overlay
policies. (CC 4.3.1)
7.8.11 Review the policies and priorities
contained in the Consolidated Plan and the policies of the Community
Development Division, the Denton
Housing Authority, and the Denton
Affordable Housing Corporation
for consistency with neighborhood
conservation strategies. (HN 7.2.3)
7.8.12 Partner and collaborate with Denton
County and DISD regarding the
development of infill lots that
have been abandoned and are tax-
delinquent as housing, community
gathering places, or community
gardens.
Schools and Community Facilities As the city increases in population, additional
community facilities to support community services
will be designed and constructed. Facilities will be
designed to enhance the community, contribute to
aesthetics in urban design and provide functionality
to users. Such facilities include schools, libraries,
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
growth and increasing responsibility mandated by
the State of Texas. In 2012, DISD had over 25,000
students with enrollment projections showing a 40
percent increase by 2022, and even more by 2030.
Denton also has eight private schools of varying age
ranges that are not associated with DISD.
In the 1999 Denton Plan, recent residential
development had been located within the Argyle
and Denton Independent School Districts. These
two districts contained almost all of the urbanizing
areas and were expected to experience most of the
projected residential growth over the next several
years. Today, the southern and eastern sectors
of the city are seeing the most development. As
development continues to occur in Denton, DISD must
keep pace with this activity. Additional schools need
to be constructed in areas of new growth. Keeping
up with demand is the greatest challenge to the DISD
at present, but due to a proactive operations strategy,
the District currently conducts 20-year projections
to anticipate future needs. In addition to meeting
student need, it is important that schools are sited
appropriately in order to further sustainability and
mobility goals, and a compact development pattern.
In addition, existing schools will need upgrades in
established parts of the city that will experience
recreation and community centers, and senior
centers. Facilities may also refer to government uses
such as utilities and landfills, which are discussed
in the Infrastructure and Utilities Element. The
community facilities discussed in this Element
pertain to the establishment and maintenance of
well-served and balanced neighborhoods. Facilities
can positively contribute to building a strong social
network through thoughtful placement, siting and
design, and coordinated management.
Schools Quality of education and community facilities
are often voiced as a priority for residents in any
community. These were issues identified in the
1999 Denton Plan as well as in community outreach
for Denton Plan 2030. The Denton Independent
School District (DISD) administers public education
throughout most of Denton, except for small portions
of the city lying within the Argyle, Sanger, and other
districts (Figure 7.1). The DISD’s service area includes
three high schools, six middle schools, 21 elementary
schools, two early childhood centers, an alternative
high school, an Advanced Technology Complex, and
other specialized schools and centers. The school
district is challenged with continuing their level of
service to area students in a climate of population
Emily Fowler Central Library - DentonNewton Rayzor Elementary School - Denton
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030 F I G U R E 7. 1 : D I S D a n d S u r r o u n d i n g S ch o o l D i s t r i c t s
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
increased densification and population growth.
Currently, school siting is highly influenced by private
development as land for elementary schools is
typically donated by developers, knowing that high
quality schools make a neighborhood attractive for
homeownership. Conversely, the siting of new schools
has had a significant impact in driving development
patterns, as proximity to good schools is a key factor
in demand for housing. This can be seen in the impact
of schools outside the city limits near U.S. 380.
Planning for new schools, as well as maintaining
existing schools in the urban core, is especially
important for encouraging reinvestment and
development in a compact pattern so that existing
schools do not diminish in quality and standards
as newer facilities open. DISD is already furthering
sustainability goals, having recently adopted a Safe
Routes to Schools and a Sustainable Schools Program,
however, policies for school siting need to achieve a
shift in development patterns and housing choice. The
goals and policies of this Element will ensure that the
planning of new school facilities will be coordinated
with the overarching goals for Denton Plan 2030.
Community Facilities The provision of community facilities such as libraries,
community centers, and senior facilities are important
for maintaining balanced neighborhoods with a range
of services. As of 2014, the City of Denton had three
library facilities: the Emily Fowler Central Library, the
North Branch Library, and the South Branch Library.
The library system offers a wide range of services for
Denton residents including early and remedial literacy
instruction, electronic resources, internet access,
and educational training. Materials in a variety of
formats are available for checkout remotely or in
person. Libraries serve as community anchors with
free meeting space for group, quiet study areas, and
structured programs for lifelong learning.
A new 33,000 square-foot branch library is proposed
for southwest Denton off of Vintage Road and Bonnie
Brae. The area is anticipated to be a multi-department
service point including facilities from Fire, Parks, and
Libraries. Acquisition of land for a fifth library site in
a strategic location will ensure accessibility from all
points across the city. As a trusted entity, the Library
can act as a catalyst for government, community, and
neighborhood interaction.
Denton has two senior centers that serve as locations
for the offering of programs, services, and activities
designed for adults age 50 and older. Classes and
programs include arts and craft classes, cooking
classes, foreign language classes, fitness classes,
outdoor adventures, and day trips. The two locations
are the American Legion Hall, located in eastern
Denton, and the Denton Senior Center, located within
the Downtown.
Denton also oversees three community centers
located throughout the city. These include the
Denia Recreation Center, the Martin Luther King Jr.
Recreation Center, and the North Lakes Recreation
Center. These facilities, that offer a wide range of
education and fitness programs as well as places
for events and gathering, are excellent resources
for furthering community health goals, fostering
community unity and pride, and providing sense of
place in individual neighborhoods. Specific goals and
polices related to recreation centers are contained in
the Parks, Conservation and Environment Element.
Community facilities are important for creating
vibrant neighborhoods and as physical facilities
key to carrying out social programs. These centers
for community gathering should continue to offer
co-location opportunities for a variety of activities
and programs which foster community interaction.
Future facilities should be planned in order to serve
additional neighborhoods as the city expands.
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
Policies and Actions
New and Upgraded Facilities: Ultimately the viability and stability of a
neighborhood is dependent on its desirability
and livability, with the least desirable and livable
becoming concentrations of households without
choices or the resources to relocate to more
desirable locations. Schools and community facilities
are important factors contributing to neighborhood
desirability, and therefore are important to provide
and maintain to encourage neighborhood stability.
Throughout the Postwar Housing Boom, preferences
favored the proliferation of single-family homes on
larger suburban lots, which were more attractive
for families. As housing preferences and families
favored suburban neighborhoods, schools followed
suit and investment in urban schools and community
facilities diminished. Housing preferences are now
changing, largely coinciding with demographic shifts,
namely the retiring Baby Boom Generation and
the entry of Millennials into the labor and housing
markets. Established traditional neighborhoods
are now able to compete with outlying suburban
development if expectations for livability are met.
Increasingly these expectations are for greater
walkability and opportunity for exercise and travel
to schools, community facilities, parks, and corner
stores with less reliance on the automobile, coupled
with the absences of nuisances such as traffic, noise,
and blight. Although the characteristics of the
urban lifestyle are appealing to many, maintaining
the quality of schools and facilities in these areas is
a challenge which must be overcome to support an
urban lifestyle for all demographics. In a growing
community such as Denton, the building of new
facilities must be balanced with the maintenance
G O A L H N - 3 : M a i n t a i n a n d i m p r o v e t h e l i v a b i l i t y o f D e n t o n ’ s n e i g h b o r h o o d s t h r o u g h p r o v i s i o n o f a d e q u a t e s c h o o l s a n d c o m m u n i t y f a c i l i t i e s .
of existing facilities in the urban core in order to
encourage a balance of viable neighborhoods
throughout.
7.9 Improve the livability of Denton’s existing neighborhoods with investments in improved infrastructure, services, and amenities . (DP p. 122)
7.9.1 Link programming of plans for public
investments in parks, schools, and
community facilities consistent
with neighborhood conservation
strategies, Compatibility Areas, and
Small Area Plans.
7.9.2 Provide opportunities to improve
public safety, health, and well-being
such as:
* Improved walkability with sidewalks
in all neighborhoods, and the
prioritization of “Safe Routes to
School.” (M 6.17.1)
* Expanded access to parks and
recreation, including development of
abandoned properties as pocket parks
and community gardens. (CE 5.1.8)
* Improved neighborhood appearance
through enforcement of dumping and
property maintenance regulations and
the removal of visual clutter. (CC 4.5.1)
* Improved accessibility for people with
disabilities.
7.10 Ensure that schools, libraries, community centers, and senior centers are sited equitably to service all of Denton’s neighborhoods.
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
7.10.1 Work with the City of Denton
Department of Parks and Recreation
and DISD to match growth
projections and identified growth
areas to ensure that schools
and community facilities are
appropriately sited in future growth
centers and in locations where multi-
modal mobility can be adequately
accommodated. (FEV 3.9.1, CE 5.1.2)
7.10.2 Collaborate with the Denton school
districts to create siting guidelines
for the location of new schools and
community facilities consistent with
overarching urban design policies.
(DP p. 130, CC Table 4.1)
7.10.3 Revisit the practice of private
development driving school siting
by creating Denton school district
guidelines for building schools and
community facilities in locations
most conducive to overarching land
use goals, including infill areas.
7.11 Concentrate community facilities in transit- accessible areas and walkable communities to increase greatest potential for access and contribution to community health.
7.11.1 Create policies and agreements with
DCTA, other transit agencies, the
Denton school districts, and the City
of Denton Transportation Department
to ensure that walkable and bicycle
accessible routes are identified
installed, and maintained, near
schools and community facilities.
(DP p.133, M 6.14, 6.20)
7.11.2 Ensure that community facilities are
accessible through safe pathways
Recreation Facility - Denton
Recreation Facility - Denton
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7 DENTON PLAN 2030
accessibility and efficient land use. In the compact
development pattern furthered through the Future
Land Use Map (FLUM), it is essential that sufficient
community facilities and schools be located within
the urban core so that a higher density of housing
can be supported. The Downtown especially offers
opportunities to house community facilities and
programs within existing historic buildings, and to
infill areas suitable for redevelopment.
Multi-use development of civic resources maximizes
the use of space and decreases associated
management capital expenses. Therefore, whenever
opportunities exist to co-locate and/or combine civic
uses, the development of collaborative partnerships
with civic organizations, including universities,
schools, and other jurisdictions are encouraged to
assist with co-locating facilities.
Land acquisition, property development and
maintenance costs can be reduced through co-siting
of municipal and civic facilities, where feasible.
Maximizing municipal resources, including financial
resources, can be realized by setting policies that
prioritize multi-use facilities within community
activity centers. Enhancing community health
has been identified through the Denton Plan 2030
visioning process, and the co-siting and coordinated
management of municipal and civic facilities
contributes to a connected community.
7.13 Provide joint-use of facilities in order to encourage community unity and ensure cost- efficient maintenance.
7.13.1 Conduct a study of all community
facilities as part of the updated
Capital Improvements Plan (CIP)
to analyze the capacity for shared
services among existing facilities.
(FEV 3.9.1, 3.9.2)
that are well-lit, visible, and protected
against traffic safety concerns,
including accessibility concerns for
people with disabilities. (CC Table 4.1)
7.12 Use community centers, senior centers, schools, and libraries as a means of enhancing and highlighting neighborhood distinction and sense of community.
7.12.1 Partner and collaborate with
neighborhood residents in the design
of new community facilities.
7.12.2 Engage neighborhood residents
to determine the programming
within community facilities and
match programming with the needs
of distinctive communities and
demographic groups.
7.12.3 Explore the viability of historic
building reuse in housing new
community facilities and spaces for
community programs. (CC 4.3.8)
Efficient Co-location of Facilities: Providing ample and well-designed schools and
community facilities is of prime importance as
Denton looks to its future. Planning for new facilities
is much more than responding to population growth
and putting the necessary facilities in place, but
includes considerations for meeting the unique
needs of Denton’s diverse community, advancing
sustainable land use and building design standards,
and fostering healthy and engaged communities
for the future. Policies and actions are designed
to further sustainability goals such as placing new
schools and community facilities close to transit,
accomplished through coordination with DCTA and
Land Use and Mobility goals, and co-location of
facilities to promote “one stop” programming and
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS 7
Community Facilities Design: Purposeful selection of architecturally distinct
community facilities can positively contribute to
the community character that is uniquely Denton.
Incorporating artistic design into facilities used by
the general public can promote community pride and
general interest.
7.15 Enhance community character through well- designed community facilities.
7.15.1 Utilize overarching Urban Design
Principles for the design and planning
of new municipal facilities. (CC Table
4.1, DP p.55)
7.15.2 Include exemplary architectural
details when constructing community
facilities. (DP p.55, CC Table 4.1)
7.15.3 Integrate public art into the planning
and design for City and County-owned
public facilities. (CC 4.6.2, DP p.74)
7.15.4 Engage the community in the design
and planning for new community
facilities. (PCE 5.2.4)
7.15.5 Continue to encourage community
facilities to be designed according to
best practice sustainability standards
(i.e. LEED). (PCE 5.9.8)
7.15.6 Ensure that community facilities
are accessible via the open space
network, with connections to trails,
parks, and the pedestrian network.
(PCE 5.2.3)
7.15.7 Ensure that municipal facilities are
designed consistently with municipal
lighting standards and include as
much natural light as possible to
reduce energy costs. (PCE 5.9.8)
7.13.2 Include shared use spaces in plans
for future community facilities. (PCE
5.3.1)
7.13.3 Include vocational and job training
programs in both DISD and City of
Denton facilities to serve Denton
residents.
7.14 Combine community facilities for the most efficient use of resources. (CE 5.3)
7.14.1 Co-locate school and school athletic
facilities within or adjacent to
Regional Mixed-Use Centers. (DP
p.55)
7.14.2 Locate elementary schools within
Neighborhood Mixed-Use Centers.
(HN 7.10, DP p.55)
7.14.3 Locate major recreational activity
centers within or adjacent to
Mixed-Use Centers when possible
to encourage convenient access
between these uses. (DP p. 55)
7.14.4 Establish policies to encourage
places of worship, service clubs, and
other quasi-public uses to co-locate
within appropriate activity centers to
create community focal points and
enable sharing of parking and other
facilities. (DP p.55, CC 4.7.8, Table 4.1,
M 6.10.1)
7.14.5 Ensure compatibility of community
facility clusters by choosing locations
that are suitable for multi-modal
accessibility and neighborhood
compatibility.
8) COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, & SERVICES Community Health, Safety and Services Overview 213
Planning for Healthy Communities 215 Healthy Communities Planning Community Health Education Plan and Policy Coordination
Hazard Mitigation 222 Hazard Protection and Gas Well Drilling and Production
Emergency Services 224 Emergency Services
Social Services and Programs 227 Addressing Communities of Need Volunteer Programs
COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, & SERVICES OVERVIEW With the update to the 1999 Denton Plan, it is important to address emerging trends in planning, both
nationally and in the North Texas Central region. Among the main emerging themes in planning is
supporting healthy communities. This encompasses a wide range of topics, top among them the
connection between the built environment and physical activity, which is often limited by the car-oriented
lifestyles of most communities. Healthy communities planning attempts to reverse this trend with a focus
on encouraging walkable development, public space activation, safe and efficient transportation routes,
and places for active recreation. Access to healthy food, improved air quality and water quality, and
protection from environmental hazards are also important aspects of health and safety. The Community
Health, Safety, and Services Element covers this range of subjects, including:
• Establishment of a comprehensive approach to planning for healthy communities.
• Acknowledgment of national standards, contemporary research, and regional coordination and guidance regarding healthy communities planning, including coordinated programs to improve air and water quality.
• Planning for natural and man-made hazards mitigation on a citywide scale, including gas well drilling and production.
• Provision of emergency services based on level-of-service standards.
• Furtherance of programs and services addressing underserved and disadvantaged communities in Denton.
The goals, policies, and actions within this Element
require coordination throughout Denton Plan 2030,
among the many policies linked to land use, housing
and neighborhoods, community character, mobility,
facilities, parks and open space, and economic
vitality. The most important actions for ensuring
healthy communities planning will be to coordinate
among City departments, a comprehensive
approach to supporting public health and wellbeing,
along with a robust public education campaign to
raise awareness within the community.
Community health and safety is also directly affected
by the real and perceived threats of natural and man-
made hazards, including gas well drilling and production.
Addressing the implications of gas wells as part of the
implementation of Denton Plan 2030 will be important for
ensuring long-term safety and economic vitality. The day-to-
day health and safety of Denton’s citizenry will continue to be
monitored by the City’s emergency services, including police,
fire, and emergency medical services (EMS), which will expand to
keep up with population growth and city expansion.
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030 The Character of Denton • Denton is consciously green. We are a leader in our commitment to sustainability and we have a
significant tree canopy, a network of parks and greenways, stream corridors, and urban forests.
• Denton is safe and livable, a hospitable community of friends and neighbors.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • We are committed to fairness and equitable access to opportunity in education, community
services, jobs, and government representation.
• All generations, of both natives and newcomers, are deeply rooted in the community and are actively engaged in its betterment through volunteer participation with faith-based, civic, and/or neighborhood organizations and service on local government boards and commissions.
• The City of Denton is a healthy, family-friendly community which sees its youth as its most valuable resource; a resource worthy of investment in education, healthful recreation, and opportunities for challenging and rewarding employment and engagement in civic affairs.
• The City of Denton’s institutions of higher learning, UNT and TWU, are partners with government, civic organizations, and local employers in initiatives to foster creativity in the arts, innovation, a strong economy, life-long learning, and the retention of the best and brightest.
• The City of Denton government is customer-friendly and prides itself on its transparency and open communication, utilizing modern technology, its efficient provision of public services and facilities, and through its leadership in seeking to realize the Vision of Denton’s future.
• The City of Denton has integrated, reconciled, and streamlined its plans, processes, policies, and regulations for consistency, clarity, and effectiveness.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • A compact development pattern which includes expanded areas of mixed-use, a broad array of
housing and retail choices responding to changing demographics and market preferences, and re- investment and infill in established areas of the city.
• An efficient transportation system with a safe and well-connected road network which accommodates a wide array of mobility options, including local and commuter rail transit, as well as accommodations for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Parks, greenways, stream corridors, tree canopy, and other natural resources integrating into the fabric of the community and contributing to healthy lifestyles.
• Environmental stewardship through water conservation, positive contributions to regional air quality, sustainable development practices, green infrastructure, and renewable energy.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment,
supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
• Established neighborhoods where revitalization and compatible infill development contributes to stable, livable, and historic character, and fosters neighborhood pride and homeownership.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Conservation development which retains rural character, protects open space and greenways,
enhances development value, and provides greater choices to land owners.
• Potential safety and compatibility impacts presented by hazardous activities, such as gas well drilling and production, mitigated to protect neighboring persons and property.
Community HealtH, Safety, and ServiCeS in tHe Community viSion Statement
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
Finally, taking care to address the needs of Denton’s
disadvantaged and underserved populations is an
important element of long-term community health and
resilience. Community groups in Denton continue to
work to provide services to these communities through
the city and also provide opportunities for giving back.
As part of Denton Plan 2030, these programs should be
monitored formally as part of planning policy to ensure
that the health and welfare of all of Denton’s citizenry
remains a priority for the future.
Planning for Healthy Communities Community health and the built environment has been
a primary emergent theme in the field of planning
in recent years. The notion of healthy places and
public health transcends issues of land use, physical
activity, access to the outdoors, and access to healthy,
locally-produced food. The Urban Land Institute (ULI),
a national non-profit focused on urban development
issues, has published a number of documents on
the topic of building healthy communities, including
Ten Principles for Building Healthy Places. The report
is intended to bridge the gap of discourse between
the health care and land use fields and thus bring
individuals together to develop principles on designing
healthier communities.
T h e Te n P r i n c i p l e s f o r B u i l d i n g H e a l t h y P l a c e s a r e a s f o l l o w s :
1. Put People First: design communities that put community health first and consider health impacts ahead of time.
2. Recognize the Economic Value: changing lifestyle preferences indicate that walkable, mixed-use, and transit-rich communities are more highly valued and create economic engines in cities.
3. Empower Champions for Health: use community engagement to further community health goals.
4. Energize Shared Spaces: activation of the public realm enlivens communities and provides additional opportunities for physical activity and community interaction in the outdoors.
5. Make Healthy Choices Easy: ensure that environments are safe so that making healthy choices will not be discouraged by perceptions of safety.
6. Ensure Equitable Access: design for all ages and abilities, focus on safe and accessible routes to schools and integrate land use with transportation, addressing all modes and transportation users.
7. Mix It Up: a variety of land uses, building types, and public spaces can improve both physical activity and social interaction, which necessitates updating of regulations and standards.
8. Embrace Unique Character: integrate open space planning and revitalization of existing community centers to base city design on existing assets and character areas.
9. Promote Access to Healthy Food: food access must be considered with every new development, including reconsidering grocery store size standards and access to existing stores.
10. Make It Active: use urban design guidelines to further community health goals by co-locating activities, upgrading walking and bicycling infrastructure, and encouraging shared-use facilities.
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
The ULI report is based on the premise that one of
the most important determinants of physical activity
is a person’s immediate environment, as people
who live in neighborhoods with parks, trails, and
greenways are considerably healthier than people
who live in neighborhoods without such facilities.
As rising health care costs from largely preventable
diseases—such as obesity, asthma, diabetes, and
depression—have real costs that are passed on to
cities and communities to endure, it is important to
consider the influence of city design on many aspects
of public health. According to the Centers for Disease
Control (CDC), in 2010, more than a third of adults in
the United States and almost 17 percent of youths
were obese, with annual medical costs significantly
higher than for individuals of a healthy weight. The rise
of obesity and health problems is partially attributed
to limited physical activity as a direct consequence
of the built-environment and transportation choices.
As these considerations are becoming increasingly
central in urban design and planning policy, they are
complemented by an increased demand for more
housing opportunities in compact, urban environments
with a sense of place, walkable streets, and transit.
Thus, it is important that Denton Plan 2030 establish
a framework for a physical environment that is
conducive to healthy lifestyle choices.
Another factor in community health is access to
healthy foods. While an urban lifestyle is increasingly
popular, supermarkets, the best purveyor of a range
of food options, are located primarily in outlying
suburban neighborhoods. As a result, many urban
environments lack food options beyond convenience
stores and fast food restaurants, neither of which offer
the fresh foods that are desirable in a balanced diet,
leaving urban communities with few healthy food
choices. Typically, urban communities have been of
lower incomes, and grocery stores were unlikely to
locate in downtowns due to development codes and
limited available sites, and also a lack of buying power.
This trend has contributed to the connection between
poverty and obesity and the term “food deserts,”
indicative of environments, both urban and suburban,
that are underserved by accessible grocery stores.
National retailers are beginning to re-think models of
grocery stores-- many moving to multi-level options
for small sites, and creating different products to serve
a variety of incomes. Another factor in community
health is the opportunity for local food production
within the community in a variety of settings, which
also contribute to physical activity and community
interaction.
Access to healthy foods is highlighted in Denton’s Sustainability Plan: Simply Sustainable: A Strategic Plan for Denton’s Future (2012). Urban agriculture in Denton has grown in recent decades, paralleling a
national trend supporting local food production. The
City of Denton partners with the Denton Community
Market to support local businesses and promote
increased access to local, fresh, and healthy foods.
The city has several farmers markets that operate
seasonally on various days of the week and allows
up to eight hens in a backyard are currently permitted
as long as certain standards are met. Additionally,
several community gardens and small farms have been
established in Denton, including Earthwise Gardens,
Cardo’s Farm Project, Shiloh Farms and Backyard
Farms.
The American Planning Association (APA) has also
produced guidance on comprehensive planning
for public health, similar to ULI. APA has created a
guide to integrating public health into planning called
Healthy Plan Making (2013). The report is based on the evaluation of comprehensive plans throughout
the country that had included public health policies
either throughout the plan or in stand-alone Elements.
The report concludes with a summary of the most
frequent types of polices, as well as recommendations
for successful and effective implementation. While
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
Healthy food
Active lifestyle
Fostering social interaction
Making healthy choices
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
districts, city parks and recreation departments, UNT,
TWU, and local emergency medical services (EMS),
to name a few, for things such as mosquito testing for
West Nile. The City of Denton’s Building Inspections
Division oversees inspections of food establishments
to ensure health code compliance. While DCHD and
local non-profits do an outstanding job of addressing
specific health challenges, there is no all-encompassing
policy framework to support healthy lifestyles.
Fortunately, there has been significant work done
regionally on the topic of community health and
sustainability, affecting all of the communities within
the DFW Metroplex. Denton is encompassed in the
Vision North Texas plan that was created by the North
Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG),
in partnership with local ULI chapters, affected cities
and counties, and the University of Texas at Arlington.
Vision North Texas is a valuable opportunity for Denton
to implement regional goals that contribute to the
future quality of life, economic desirability, and long-
term sustainability of the 16-county North Central Texas
region.
Included in Vision North Texas is guidance for increasing public awareness about important regional
land use issues that affect mobility, air quality, water
supply, and other economic and environmental
resources. In addition, NCTCOG has worked with its
Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) to
create a Regional Complete Streets Policy Statement
for North Central Texas. Complete streets refer to
thoroughfares that feature a combination of sidewalks,
bike lanes, bus lanes, accessible public transportation
stops, safe pedestrian crossing opportunities, and
other amenities to ensure modal balance and safety
for all transportation types. Complete streets are an
important element of achieving healthy communities.
With the adoption of the goals and policies of Denton
Plan 2030, and with important strides in recent years,
many cities and counties address a diversity of topics
related to public health, the most important elements
for implementation are sending the right message,
having the support of public officials, interdepartmental
coordination, and including metrics to benchmark
progress.
Many communities have created frameworks to
measure public health through Health Impact
Assessments (HIA) in order to promote the
consideration of public health in decision-making
that affects the built environment, public services,
and facilities. HIAs may be conducted for a policy, an
individual site, a community, or a region. HIAs help
measure the potential effects on community health
through screening, scoping, assessing risks and
benefits, developing recommendations, reporting, and
monitoring. The CDC oversees a Healthy Community
Design Initiative as another resource for building
healthy communities and ensuring that goals and
policies are put in place in a systematic manner.
Currently, community health in Denton is addressed by
the Denton County Health Department (DCHD). This
Department is focused on making Denton County a
healthier place to live, work, and play by improving
health outcomes of Denton County residents. Its
services focus on disease awareness and prevention,
protecting against environmental hazards, encouraging
healthy behaviors, and disaster preparedness and
recovery. DCHD provides programs on public
education regarding cancer, cardiovascular disease and
diabetes prevention, tobacco use, West Nile, and injury
prevention through healthy behaviors. In addition
DCHD offers services for prevention of communicable
diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases (STD)
and tuberculosis (TB). The Department also offers
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) services to provide
nutrition education and food vouchers for those
who qualify. The Department regularly engages in
partnerships with other organizations such as schools
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
Denton is making progress in achieving the primary
guiding principles of Vision North Texas. These include:
a. Development Diversity
b. Efficient Growth
c. Pedestrian Design
d. Housing Choice
e. Activity Centers
f. Environmental Stewardship
g. Quality Places
h. Efficient Mobility Options
Healthy Communities planning includes access to transit, walkable streets, and housing densities that support transit use
i. Resource Efficiency
j. Educational Opportunity
k. Healthy Communities
l. Implementation
This framework should continue to serve as a useful
tool in implementing goals for healthy communities
that further regional goals.
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
8.1.3 Dedicate staff within the City of
Denton to oversee programs,
recommendations and guidance
focused on community health.
8.1.4 Apply the reference resources on
community health including ULI and
APA guidebooks, as well as the health-
related recommendations of Vision
North Texas.
8.1.5 Create an annual Community Health
Report Card featuring the progress
of programs focused on community
health and the findings of the initial
HIA and publish it online.
8.1.6 Actively seek out and implement
methods to make local food production
easier.
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s H e a l t h y C o m m u n i t i e s P l a n n i n g :
There is a great diversity of resources informing
the implementation of actions to support healthy
communities in Denton. The city has already made
great strides through the ongoing implementation
of Denton’s Sustainability Plan and developments in
urban agriculture. Given that identifying indicators
for community health is a relatively new concept in
planning, it is important to establish programs and
a system for monitoring progress to ensure that
goals are being pursued and achieved. Working
to establish guidelines will ensure that community
health goals are met. A HIA will allow for the city to
understand the “state of the community” in regards
to public health in the present day. This can further
be monitored annually through a Community Health
Report Card. Coordination among City departments
is important to ensure that a consistent approach and
framework is established, and shared priorities are
identified. Substantial research has been conducted
in this field that can be applied to planning for
community health in Denton.
8.1 Establish a comprehensive framework to promote healthy communities.
8.1.1 Produce a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) for Denton following CDC guidelines and publish it online.
8.1.2 Partner and collaborate with Denton
County to create a health policy
framework to be applied among
departments within the city and
county including streets, utilities,
planning, parks and recreation, and
environmental services.
G O A L C H S - 1 : I n t e g r a t e p l a n n i n g f o r h e a l t h y c o m m u n i t i e s a n d i n d i v i d u a l s i n t o a c o m p r e h e n s i v e f r a m e w o r k f o r D e n t o n ’ s f u t u r e d e v e l o p m e n t .
Healthy Communities Planning
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
that encourages walking, bicycling, and public
transportation to reduce emissions and improve air
quality. The policies to encourage community health
are distributed throughout Denton Plan 2030 and
Simply Sustainable: A Strategic Plan for Denton’s Future (2012). The adoption and implementation of these plans will ensure that many community health
goals are met, and may be tracked to account for
progress through the plan horizon.
8.3 Link healthy community goals and polices throughout the Comprehensive Plan and to Denton’s Sustainability Plan.
8.3.1 Promote compact development
patterns and urban design standards
that support pedestrian access and
physical activity. (LU 1, CC Table 4.1)
8.3.2 Locate land uses according to the
Future Land Use Map (FLUM) to
ensure that protected land uses are
not in conflict with health hazards,
applying standards of environmental
justice. (LU 2.3.1)
C o m m u n i t y H e a l t h E d u c a t i o n :
While planning for community health is important, it
is even more important to ensure that the message
reaches the Denton population in order to realize
true progress. An increase in public awareness
for healthy communities can be accomplished by
partnerships with major employers and healthcare
providers to distribute material about healthy
lifestyle choices, coordinated with programs already
underway. In addition, partnering with DISD can
realize improvement in community health through
the types of foods children and youth are served,
regulating the level of physical activity that is
required, and including public health as a topic of
education. A robust communications framework
to accompany community health strategies is
encouraged to achieve long-term results.
8.2 Enhance public awareness for community health goals.
8.2.1 Create a robust public relations
campaign centered on community
health advocacy and promoting
physical activity.
8.2.2 Work with Denton Independent School
District (DISD) to promote awareness
of healthy lifestyle choices within
Denton schools.
8.2.3 Work with major employers and
healthcare providers to promote
healthy lifestyle choices within Denton
employment centers.
P l a n a n d P o l i c y C o o r d i n a t i o n :
The most important elements of encouraging
healthy communities that can be affected by the
comprehensive plan are the furtherance of a
compact growth pattern, community design that
supports physical activity, and a mobility network
Community health education in Denton
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
Hazard Mitigation Hazard mitigation is a concern in many communities.
Hazards can be broadly defined and may include
daily environmental hazards such as noise, polluted
stormwater runoff, and air pollution from vehicular
traffic and industrial emissions. Hazards also include
tornadoes, floods and other natural disasters, and
man-made disasters from industrial accidents and
terrorist or criminal activity. In North Texas, specific
concerns regarding gas wells include risks to public
safety from potential explosions, and the potential
impact of toxic chemicals on air and water quality.
Denton is located atop the Barnett Shale formation,
which is a rich resource of natural gas, among the
largest in the United States. The rise of hydraulic
fracturing has made the reserves of the shale more
accessible and has led to a proliferation of gas wells.
Presently, there are over 280 active gas wells within
Denton’s city limits. Many of the gas wells are
within or adjacent to areas currently designated as
protected land uses and in the potential alignment of
planned roads. The potential impacts of gas wells
on public health and safety continues to be a topic
of great concern. A Gas Well and Pipeline Impact and Compatibility Study is recommended to address
8.3.3 Incorporate complete streets
guidelines into update Mobility Plan
following the guidance of NCTCOG
and the NCTCOG Bicycle and
Pedestrian Bicycle Advisory Committee
(BPAC). (M 6.1.1, 6.14.3)
8.3.4 Continue to implement policies from
Simply Sustainable (2012) regarding expansion of community gardens and
urban agriculture to promote access to
healthy foods. (PCE 5.1.8, HN 7.9.2)
8.3.5 Include policies for agricultural
production and green infrastructure in
the update to the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan. (PCE 5.1.2)
8.3.6 Implement green infrastructure
standards for private development
and public rights-of-way as part of
stormwater management polices to
improve water quality and supply. (IU
9.11)
8.3.7 Coordinate with NCTCOG goals for
maintaining regional air quality and
healthy ozone levels. (M 6.11.1)
8.3.8 Create a program to alert Denton
residents when ozone levels are at
potentially unhealthy levels, based on
the Air Quality Index (AQI) monitored
by NCTCOG.
Maintaining healthy air quality
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
mobility, and livability, balanced with the positive
contributions they make to the local economy
and tax base. To address these considerations in
a comprehensive and transparent fashion, a Gas Well and Pipeline Impact and Compatibility Study is recommended. (LU 2.13.1)
In addition to understanding their impact on land
use patterns and mobility, gas wells should be
included in all future hazards planning, in tandem
with the programs currently overseen by the OEM. It
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s H a z a r d P r o t e c t i o n a n d G a s W e l l D r i l l i n g a n d P r o d u c t i o n :
Protecting Denton’s citizens from both natural and
man-made potential hazards is an essential element
of ensuring efficient city functioning and healthy
communities. A particular goal of Denton Plan
2030 is for the City to get a clear understanding
of the implications of gas well drilling and
production regarding potential risks to public safety,
development, mobility, community safety and
livability. This is discussed in the Land Use Element
under policy 2.13.
The Denton Fire Department’s Office of Emergency
Management (OEM) is charged with coordinating
the City of Denton’s emergency management
program. Activities include developing emergency
plans, offering disaster preparedness training,
conducting drills and exercises, and participating in
public education programs. The program operates
through the four phases of emergency management
in order to properly prepare for disasters, coordinate
response efforts, provide timely recovery assistance,
and implement projects to try to prevent and/or
lessen the impacts of disasters. OEM works with
numerous public, private, and nonprofit agencies
in order to help ensure the City of Denton is a safe
place to live, work, and play.
The OEM prepares a Local Mitigation Strategy
covering a variety of hazards affecting Denton,
known as the Hazard Vulnerability Analysis (HVA). In
addition, OEM hosts and participates in a number of
emergency preparedness public education programs
and prepares guidelines for training and drills. OEM
also oversees and utilizes the following programs for
Denton:
• Texas Regional Response Network (TRRN), which aids in response and planning efforts by allowing system users to collect and retrieve resource information
• Code Red System and Code RED Weather Mapping
• Emergency Preparedness Planning
• Evacuation and Shelter Guide
• National Incident Management System (NIMS)/ Incident Command System (ICS)
• Pet and Animal Issues
• Disaster planning with special attention to persons with special needs
• Volunteer opportunities related to disaster preparedness
G O A L C H S - 2 : E n s u r e t h a t D e n t o n ’ s c o m m u n i t i e s a r e p r o t e c t e d f r o m h a z a r d s a n d e q u i p p e d f o r d i s a s t e r p r e p a r e d n e s s .
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
is recommended that the OEM prepare a report on
understanding the health and safety hazards of gas
wells that can be used as a resource by the public
to better understand the potential health and safety
consequences of gas wells. Gas wells should be
included in the Hazard Vulnerability Analysis (HVA)
for Denton, which is updated every five years.
8.4 Ensure effective disaster preparedness for natural and manmade disasters.
8.4.1 Update the HVA every five years.
8.4.2 Include consideration of gas well
drilling and production in the HVA and
addressed by policies of the OEM.
8.4.3 Coordinate with land use policies for
gas well drilling and production which
will mitigate for real and perceived
impacts to community safety.
E m e r g e n c y S e r v i c e s
Denton provides high-quality public facilities and
services to protect the safety and welfare of the
community. Emergency services, in general, refers
to police, fire, and emergency medical services
(EMS). The provision of emergency services is
provided based on level-of-service standards, which
must be maintained to keep up with population
growth and the city’s expansion. As population
increases, the operating capacity of emergency
service providers must increase, with additional
professional staff, vehicles, and physical facilities in
order to maintain level of service standards. Police
and fire facilities may be centralized or distributed
around the city based on location of density of
population and employment. Typically, fire and
police departments have a central management
office that may be collocated and satellite offices
that are located in many different areas to serve
neighborhoods directly.
Denton is currently served by the Denton Police
Department with a force of 156 sworn officers (i.e.,
those who have arrest authority) and 68 non-sworn
employees. A key measure of level of service for
both police and fire protection are response times.
As shown in Table 8.1, despite handling more calls
for service in 2012, police response time improved
from 2008.
The Denton Fire Department operates seven fire
stations throughout the city. With a staff of 167 full-time
professionals as of 2014, the Department is responsible
for fire suppression, fire prevention, fire prevention
education, emergency medical services, and disaster
preparedness. Table 8.2 shows statistics for fire and
emergency services activity from 2008 to 2011. Fire
Department activity decreased notably between 2010
and 2011.
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
G O A L C H S - 3 : P r o v i d e e m e r g e n c y s e r v i c e s t o k e e p t h e c o m m u n i t y s a f e a n d h e a l t h y .
systematic, proactive approach to guide departments
and agencies at all levels of government,
nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector
to work seamlessly to prevent, protect against, respond
to, recover from, and mitigate the effects of incidents.
NIMS aims to reduce the loss of life and property
and harm to the environment. City staff involved
in emergency operations are trained based on their
position and area of responsibilities.
8.5 Ensure adequate police services to protect the health and safety of the Denton Community and business population.
8.5.1 Plan and provide for police stations,
offices, and supporting facilities
adequate to support level of service
standards.
8.5.2 Co-locate police facilities close by
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s E m e r g e n c y S e r v i c e s :
In addition to keeping pace with population growth
and providing adequate service, it is desirable
that Denton’s emergency services contribute to
overarching goals of community health and safety,
thoughtful planning and urban design, and to a sense
of community and pride. As with other Elements of
Denton Plan 2030, emergency services planning should
be coordinated with land use, urban design, housing
and neighborhoods, and mobility planning in order
to realize a holistic, well-integrated, and efficiently-
operated city. It is the responsibility of Denton’s
Police and Fire departments to update facilities plans
regularly to keep a pace with growth and update the
Capital Improvement Program accordingly.
The City of Denton utilizes the National Incident
Management System (NIMS). NIMS provides a
T a b l e 8 . 1 : D e n t o n P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t A c t i v i t y , 2 0 0 8 - 2 0 1 2
2 0 0 9 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 1 2 0 1 2 2 0 1 3 Calls for Services 78,826 80,302 76,793 75,384 60,575
Average Response Time (minutes) 5:34 5:09 5:22 5:51 6:31
Traffic Citations 31,465 27,947 25,146 26,121 25,171
Injury Accidents 730 754 685 800 740
Non-Injury Accidents 2,063 1,876 1,718 1,926 2,280
T a b l e 8 . 2 : D e n t o n F i r e D e p a r t m e n t A c t i v i t y , 2 0 0 8 - 2 0 1 1
2 0 0 8 2 0 0 9 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 1 Fires 427 451 405 518
EMS 6,862 7,071 7,255 7,458
Transports 5,114 5,285 5,326 5,719
HazMat 120 145 109 112
Miscellaneous * 2,300 2,455 2,685 2,905
Other 856
Source: Denton Police Department
Source: Denton Fire Department * Includes all types of rescue calls, alarm calls, assist other agency calls, etc.
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
to other community facilities when
possible for land use and operational
efficiency. (DP p.55)
8.5.3 Design police facilities to be recognized
as iconic civic buildings. Reuse and
update existing police facilities when
possible.
8.5.4 Encourage use of the Crime Prevention
through Environmental Design
(CPTED) design standards to reduce
instances of crime. (Table 4.1)
8.5.5 Continue to strengthen and grow the
City’s neighborhood policing program.
8.6 Ensure adequate fire and emergency prevention and response to protect the health and safety of the Denton Community and business population.
8.6.1 Plan and provide for fire and
emergency services, offices, and
supporting facilities adequate to
support level of service policies
maintained by emergency services
departments. (FEV 3.9.1, 3.9.2)
8.6.2 Co-locate fire and emergency services
facilities close by to other community
facilities when possible for land use
and operational efficiency. (DP p.55,
HN 7.13)
8.6.3 Continue to design fire and emergency
service facilities to be recognized as
notable civic buildings. Reuse and
update existing fire and emergency
service facilities when possible.
8.6.4 Maintain response time standards
established by the National Fire
Protection Association for populations
of Denton’s size.
8.6.5 Provide connections to resources
for tornado shelter purchases and
installation.
8.6.6 Focus on prevention programs to
heighten awareness, minimize loss,
and support a safer community.
8.6.7 Reduce the possibility of fire in
commercial, industrial, and multi-
family buildings through development
review and a high-quality inspection
program.
Denton Fire Department - Firefighter Story Time
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
as community and recreation centers, should also be
coordinated with community needs in order to provide
centers within Denton’s neighborhoods that can serve
various needs. (See Housing and Neighborhoods
Element).
8.7 Establish a framework for the formation of programs to serve Denton’s communities of need.
8.7.1 Establish a working group consisting
of city, county departments and
community leaders to conduct an
assessment of the existing programs
serving community members in need
in Denton. Determine if adequate
In a recent needs assessment conducted by the
United Way of Denton County (2011), the greatest
needs for social services in Denton County that were
revealed include affordable and accessible health and
dental care, preventative care, nutrition information,
substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation
resources, and mental health services. Additionally,
childhood homelessness, drug trafficking, predatory
lending, and a lack of public education are cited to
be among the chief concerns in the city. The goals
of Denton Plan 2030 are to enable the city to create
a streamlined approach to respond to these needs
of these groups with the support of established
community groups.
8.6.8 Continue and strengthen the City’s
participation in the National Incident
Management System (NIMS).
Social Services and Programs Denton currently has a wide range of organizations
providing services to communities in need, primarily
through non-profits and faith-based groups. Denton
has over thirty active organizations and faith-based
groups that continue to grow and provide specific
services to serve community needs. Recently, there
has been an effort to create a campus for non-profits
to enable inter-group collaboration, efficient and
streamlined service to the community, and highlighted
presence in the city.
G O A L C H S - 4 : P r o v i d e a v a r i e t y o f c o m m u n i t y p r o g r a m s t h a t m e e t t h e n e e d s o f k e y g r o u p s o f n e e d i n D e n t o n i n c l u d i n g y o u t h , s e n i o r s , a n d t h e h o m e l e s s .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s A d d r e s s i n g C o m m u n i t i e s o f N e e d :
While Denton has a robust neighborhood and
social services program, through the work of many
community organizations, the needs will only persist
and become more pervasive as the population
grows. As a result, the policies are primarily geared
at revisiting and updating the current programs at
work in Denton and aligning them with present-day
challenges in Denton with an eye to the future. The
maintenance of a healthy and thriving community
will be enabled by ensuring programs will continue,
expand, and add additional capacity to meet changing
needs. The provision of new community facilities, such
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8 DENTON PLAN 2030
upgrading of community facilities. (HN
7.12.2)
8.7.8 Work with DCTA to ensure that public
transit needs for senior and people
with disabilities are met.
8.7.9 Establish a task force to create policies
to eliminate predatory lending
practices in Denton.
Vo l u n t e e r P r o g r a m s :
Throughout the public input process of Denton
Plan 2030, numerous comments were made about
providing more volunteer opportunities for people to
give back to the community and serve those in need.
While many programs exist in the city, providing a
formalized organizational framework will help ensure
that volunteers are well-matched with those most in
need.
8.8 Proactively identify and organize volunteer opportunities within the city that will link Denton residents with opportunities to serve their fellow citizens.
8.8.1 Establish a City of Denton staff position
to oversee volunteer organization and
mobilization.
8.8.2 Work with non-profit groups to identify
existing volunteer programs and create
a framework for identifying additional
program needs.
8.8.3 Regularly update and enliven the page
on the Denton website advertising
volunteer opportunities.
8.8.4 Establish partnerships with UNT
and TWU to volunteer within the
community.
services are available and if additional
programs or organizations are needed
to meet needs.
8.7.2 Work with existing Denton community
groups to create a dedicated campus
facility for non-profit use and the
provision of community services and
programs.
8.7.3 Establish a consortium among city
and county departments, DISD, and
local youth-focused non-profits to
prioritize and create an action plan for
identifying and updating the needs of
Denton youth and identify key partners
to aid in implementation of programs.
8.7.4 Create a plan for identifying and
updating the needs for combatting
substance abuse in Denton and identify
key partners to aid in implementation
of programs.
8.7.5 Work with local partners to strengthen
and broaden current programs
addressing the needs of Denton’s
homeless, in conjunction with housing
policies. Create a plan to identify and
update the needs of Denton’s homeless
population, including childhood
homelessness, and identify key
partners to aid in implementation. (HN
7.3)
8.7.6 Include health education and
preventative care guidelines into all
programs serving communities of
need.
8.7.7 Include needs for neighborhood and
social services in the planning for and
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COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY, AND SERVICES 8
8.8.5 Establish partnerships with major
employers to volunteer within the
community.
8.8.6 Work with Denton health care
providers to continue and expand
volunteer opportunities related to
provision of health care and health
education.
8.8.7 Support development of a dedicated
campus and/or facility to support the
growth and collaboration of local non-
profits to better serve communities in
need.
Keep Denton Beautiful volunteer program - Denton
8.8.8 Include volunteer programs in
programming of community facilities
and link with school programs. (HN
7.12.2)
9) INFRASTRUCTURE & UTILITIES Infrastructure and Utilities Overview 231
Energy 233 Cost-Effective Service Cost-Effective Renewable Energy Lighting Standards Communications Infrastructure Undergrounding Utilities
Water 238 Water Supply Water Infrastructure
Wastewater 241 Wastewater Service Resource Recovery
Stormwater 244 Water Quality Green Infrastructure Low-Impact Development Flood Protection
Solid Waste and Recycling 250 Waste Minimization and Resource Recovery Efficient Solid Waste & Recycling Collections Environmental Protection and Disposal Capabilities
INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES OVERVIEW The Denton population is poised to increase by approximately 94,000 persons by 2030—essentially
doubling the existing population. The compact growth framework put forward through the Plan
will be influenced by the availability and access to, as well as the economic feasibility of, supporting
infrastructure. Services provided to the Denton community such as electricity, water treatment and
distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, solid waste collection, and flood mitigation and
drainage will determine the extent of development and the quality of life of community members
throughout the plan horizon. The policies that follow in this Element include the following primary
considerations:
• The provision of efficient and sustainable energy systems to the residents and business community of Denton.
• A reliable, safe, and sustainable source of water for the future needs of the Denton community.
• Establishing practices that ensure cost-effective and environmentally- sensitive wastewater services sufficient to meet future demands.
• Promoting the expansion of a natural systems-based, green infrastructure approach to stormwater management consistent with national best practices.
• A solid waste and recycling program that moves beyond refuse removal to promote best practices in waste minimization and resource recovery and thinks locally and globally regarding environmental protection.
• Maintenance of existing and future facilities that ensure their longterm viability to sustain the future of Denton’s growth.
Water and energy resources have historically been sufficient to support Denton’s growth
over the past several decades. However, in the present day, state-wide and global issues
such as population growth, variable rainfall, and forecasted shortages in capacity to meet energy
demands (i.e. energy reserve margins) have caused staff at the City of Denton to strategically
plan to meet customer demands. Denton must now consider a larger community that must
collectively adapt to both droughts and floods in an economically- and environmentally-
sensitive manner. The ability to rely on natural systems, such as floodplains, to store
flood waters has been compromised by historic development within the floodplain.
Conversely, renewable energy source options have become economically feasible
and are now incorporated into Denton’s electricity portfolio. Responding to new
options, as well as being more responsive to natural constraints is a theme
in the infrastructure policies that follow, and their effect on the long-term
resiliency of Denton in terms of cost-effective responses to changing
dynamics in the community.
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
The Character of Denton • Denton is authentic. Our small-town charm and, North Texas heritage are proudly embraced
along with positive change, smart and balanced growth, and high-quality development.
• Denton is consciously green. We are a leader in our commitment to sustainability and we have a significant tree canopy, a network of parks and greenways, stream corridors, and urban forests.
Our People, Institutions, and Government • The City of Denton is a healthy, family-friendly community which sees its youth as its most
valuable resource; a resource worthy of investment in education, healthful recreation, and opportunities for challenging and rewarding employment and engagement in civic affairs.
• The City of Denton government is customer-friendly and prides itself on its transparency and open communication, utilizing modern technology, its efficient provision of public services and facilities, and through its leadership in seeking to realize the Vision of Denton’s future.
• The City of Denton has integrated, reconciled, and streamlined its plans, processes, policies, and regulations for consistency, clarity, and effectiveness.
Sound Growth: Strengthening Our Form and Function
Throughout Denton we see… • Infrastructure systems which have undergone well-planned, staged expansion to serve and
manage the city’s growth.
• Environmental stewardship through water conservation, positive contributions to regional air quality, sustainable development practices, green infrastructure, and renewable energy.
In the core of Denton we see… • A vibrant Downtown Denton, energized with new housing, shopping, arts, and entertainment,
supporting day and nighttime activity and a true urban lifestyle – Denton style.
In our rural fringe areas of the city and the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) we see… • Contiguous, staged growth which is fiscally and environmentally sound, reduces fragmentation
and sprawl, discourages premature development, and conserves the city’s future growing room.
• Conservation development which retains rural character, protects open space and greenways, enhances development value, and provides greater choices to land owners.
Infrastructure and utIlItIes In the communIty VIsIon statement
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INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 9
A significant theme in the provision of infrastructure
and utilities in the future is based on the transformation
from “gray” to “green” infrastructure options, based
on the concept of green infrastructure as described
in Element 5: Parks, Conservation, and Environment.
Green infrastructure relies on the mimicking of
natural systems to create stormwater management
that is more akin to natural processes rather than the
traditional “gray” concrete systems of the past, which
sought to alter natural systems. Significant capital
expenses are associated with the installation and
maintenance of infrastructure systems. Applying a
systems approach to infrastructure developments will
conserve resources over the long-term, including costs.
Best practices that maximize cost-effective, long-term
sustainable green infrastructure options are proposed
within this Element that offer the City options for
both short and long-term strategies for infrastructure
investment including operation, maintenance, and
replacement costs.
The Infrastructure and Utilities Element also includes
policies and actions to manage solid waste over
the development horizon of the Denton Plan 2030.
Solid waste management, which includes waste and
recycling, has evolved according to best practices
since the 1999 Denton Plan. In Denton, waste is
viewed as more than just trash to be placed in a
landfill, but as a resource. Furthermore, material
reuse and recycling are increasing as rapidly as the
available technology permits. Landfill capacity needs
to be prolonged, the environment protected, and
energy production and material reuse maximized
into the future to optimize this community resource.
A well-maintained and operated infrastructure
network is fundamental to a healthy, thriving
community. Denton’s investment in this
infrastructure will both influence and support the
framework for compact development and infill that is
central to the Denton Plan 2030.
Energy Energy in Denton is provided by Denton Municipal
Electric (DME), Denton’s customer-owned electric
utility. It has been in operation since 1905 and provides
electricity to approximately 50,000 customers. It reports
to the Public Utilities Board and the City Council,
similar to other utilities in Denton. DME’s infrastructure
system is monitored and maintained by a state-of-
the-art National Electric Reliability Council (NERC)-
Certified Operations Center and a staff of professional
electric workers. By constructing and maintaining
transmission and distribution infrastructure and by
procuring energy from a variety of sources, DME
reliably and cost-effectively meets the power demands
of a growing population. Electric power is a vital
component of the community, and DME will continue
to expand to meet Denton’s growth.
Denton is one of the few communities within the
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex with its own electric
utility. Given Denton’s proximity to the deregulated
market, DME is able to compare its rates and service
with competitive power providers; this allows DME
to ensure customers are getting the best value. As
a result, operational efficiency is a cornerstone for
DME. As an example, DME is currently implementing
an automated metering system with the capability to
increase operational efficiency for DME while providing
additional value to DME customers in the form of
improved usage data, new energy efficiency programs,
and additional rate options.
DME’s extensive Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
provides infrastructure improvements to Denton’s
electrical system. As of 2014, this CIP includes many
projects that will strengthen the transmission and
distribution infrastructure in Denton. These projects
include the construction of new electrical substations,
and the expansion and conversion of existing
substations and transmission lines from 69kV to 138 kV.
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
DME is assessing the viability of new technologies and
energies, such as a Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
plant. DME currently provides only electrical energy
to Denton. DME has the ability to provide natural
gas to industrial customers in a specific geographic
area, west of I-35, but there are currently no natural
gas infrastructure or facilities in place. Should they
become economically feasible to pursue, DME should
proceed with installing this infrastructure to further
economic development efforts.
As of 2014, DME provides approximately 40 percent of
its energy from renewable sources, through a multi-
year power purchase agreement. A significant portion
of DME’s power comes from the Gibbon’s Creek Coal
Plant near Bryan, Texas, owned by Texas Municipal
Power Agency. Less than one percent comes from
DTE Energy, which operates a landfill “gas to energy”
project at the City of Denton Landfill. The remainder is
supplied by a power supply contract. Staff in DME’s
Power Supply Division continually search for cost-
effective sources of renewable energy and pursue
additional contracts that contribute to the security
and stability of the City’s energy source portfolio. By
making renewable energy source choices, DME can
positively affect statewide air quality, consistent with
the goals and objectives of Denton’s Sustainability
Plan: Simply Sustainable (2012).
DME encourages residential-scale renewable energy
through the GreenSense Energy Efficiency Rebate
program. Through the GreenSense program,
customers can receive rebates of up to $30,000 by
installing photo voltaic solar panels on their home or
business. As of 2014, 58 systems had been installed
with a combined capacity of 250kW, i.e. enough energy
to power approximately 50 homes.
The policies and actions that follow ensure the
provision of energy for the City of Denton’s future that
saves costs, expands options for renewable resources,
reduces fossil fuel consumption, improves the physical
environment, and is coordinated with overarching
sustainability goals.
Wind Turbines - Denton Gas to energy - Denton Landfill
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INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 9
G O A L I U - 1 : P r o v i d e s a f e , r e l i a b l e , a n d c o s t - e f f e c t i v e e l e c t r i c a n d c o m m u n i c a t i o n s u t i l i t i e s t h a t a p p l y e n v i r o n m e n t a l s t e w a r d s h i p t o o p e r a t i o n s a n d m e e t s f u t u r e d e m a n d s .
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
C o s t - E f f e c t i v e S e r v i c e : As a municipally-owned electric utility operating
in close proximity to the deregulated market, it
is important for DME to demonstrate its value to
customers. One of the most important ways to
accomplish this is through competitive rates. To
maintain competitive rates, DME will continue
to focus on procuring energy and conducting
operations in such a way as to keep rates
competitively priced and stable.
Siting and construction of substations and related
transmission infrastructure requires coordination
within DME, with other city departments, with the
community, and with property owners. DME’s
process for constructing new transmission
infrastructure ensures that all stakeholders have
input on the decision making process. Management
of DME capital investments, including infrastructure
expansion and upgrade projects, should promote
efficient resource use and positively facilitate long-
term development, as identified within the Denton
Plan 2030.
9.1 Seek economically favorable sources of power and continue to develop programs to increase operational efficiency to offer stable and competitively-priced electric rates and exceptional customer service compared to the deregulated market.
9.1.1 Provide efficient and effective customer
services by maintaining rapid response
times to customer outages, enhancing
communication systems, developing
automated meter reading capabilities,
and improving system automation and
analysis capabilities. (DP p. 168)
9.1.2 Seek cost-effective sources of power.
(DP p.168).
9.1.3 Identify, evaluate, and invest in new
technologies and energies that can
spur economic development, such
as a CHP plant or natural gas, when
economically feasible.
C o s t - E f f e c t i v e R e n e w a b l e E n e r g y : DME successfully sources approximately 40
percent of its energy from wind generation, which
is provided to users at no additional charge.
Seeking renewable energy options that are priced
competitively with traditional sources of energy
is one way to expand renewable energy source
options that will provide long-term value to the
city. In addition, continuing to offer the GreenSense
Renewable Rate which provides the option for
customers to receive 100 percent renewable
energy allows greater flexibility to consumers. The
continuation and expansion of these programs is a
goal of the Denton Plan 2030.
9.2 Seek cost-effective opportunities for expanding DME’s renewable portfolio.
9.2.1 Support an increase in the quantity and
diversity of renewable energy sources
in the electric utility’s portfolio.
9.2.2 Support expanding renewable energy
source options through public-private
partnerships.
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
L i g h t i n g S t a n d a r d s : Lighting upgrades should be one of the first items
addressed when planning for future development,
as it can affect heating and cooling energy loads
and the specifications for other building systems.
Lighting also affects light pollution and reflectance
into the night sky, which affects migratory bird
patterns and other ecosystem functions. Properly
designed and adjusted light fixtures, aimed directly
down at the ground decrease light pollution that
detract from dark night skies.
While controlling the lighting design of privately-
owned development is best controlled by area-
specific design guidelines, many cities adopt
municipal lighting standards to set a standard for
sustainable lighting strategies in all city-owned
facilities, which affect energy consumption. The
City of Denton has recently leveraged grant funds
received as part of the federally funded Energy
Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG)
program to fund a municipal lighting retrofit at
19-City-owned facilities and to purchase new energy
audit equipment. Continuing to upgrade lighting
fixtures that are energy efficient, non-toxic, and
oriented downward when installed in the case of
outdoor fixtures, can result in economic savings over
the long-term and decrease or even eliminate a toxic
waste stream as well as widespread light pollution.
9.3 Continue to advance the use of municipal lighting fixtures that direct illumination efficiently, reduce nuisance lighting problems, and enhance views of the nighttime sky. (DP p.167)
9.3.1 Establish a purchase policy for
municipal lighting fixtures that are
energy efficient and where feasible
prioritize non-toxic, non-hazardous
lighting equipment materials, avoid
glare, spill light and energy waste.
9.3.2 Support the development of an
ordinance that applies the Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America
(IES) recommendations for residential,
commercial, and industrial properties.
9.3.3 Include guidelines for lighting
standards as part of the Urban Design Plan and Small Area Plans to encourage sustainable lighting
strategies in private development (LU
2.7.1, 2.8.1, CC 4.11.1, 4.12.1, 4.12.2).
C o m m u n i c a t i o n s I n f r a s t r u c t u r e : Several options for communication services
are available in Denton, including Charter
Communications, AT&T, Sprint and Verizon, among
others. These companies provide communication
services including telephone, television, cellular
phone networks, and high speed internet. Service
providers should anticipate and serve new
growth and continuously add new facilities and
infrastructure to conform to regulations as needed to
meet customer demand.
Lighting standards
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INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 9
9.4 Coordinate with service providers to ensure availability of communications infrastructure throughout the city.
9.4.1 Ensure that communications
infrastructure, including fiber optic
cables, are installed proactively to keep
up with demand as Denton grows.
9.4.2 Install telecommunications
infrastructure consistent with the
Denton Development Code.
9.4.3 Work in tandem with other service
providers to install underground
telecommunications lines when
practical and maintain utility
infrastructure when necessary.
9.4.4 Work with local businesses via the
Chambers of Commerce to sponsor
free public wireless internet (Wi-Fi) and
increase availability throughout the
city.
9.4.5 Establish maintenance regulations
in the DDC that ensures long-
term viability of communications
infrastructure.
U n d e r g r o u n d i n g U t i l i t i e s : Underground electric utility service both enhances
the aesthetic quality of neighborhoods and decreases
exposure of utilities to high wind and potential
storm damage from nearby trees and above-ground
structures. Reduced exposure to ice, wind, and other
hazards decreases the amount of time service is
interrupted and costly maintenance expenses incurred.
As the City faces continued population growth,
investment in sustainable infrastructure options such
as underground electric distribution facilities should be
considered for new as well as in infill development.
At 55 percent as of 2014, DME has one of the highest
portions of underground electric distribution facilities
in the state. DME has recently developed an agreement
with the University of North Texas (UNT) to bury over
12,000 linear feet of distribution lines. DME budgets
money each year to convert overhead distribution lines
to underground facilities.
9.5 Install underground electric distribution facilities wherever practical.
9.5.1 Enforce engineering code
requirements that facilitate the
installation of underground distribution
facilities for all new commercial and
residential developments. (DP p.167)
9.5.2 Pursue the installation of underground
distribution facilities along and
adjacent to major entranceways. (DP
p.168)
9.5.3 Fund the conversion of existing
overhead electric facilities to
underground on a fiscally responsible
basis through electric service
initiatives. (DP p.167)
9.5.4 Develop ordinance criteria that
encourage service providers (i.e.,
cable, telephone, electricity, data
communications, etc.) in the city to
convert existing overhead facilities
to underground by adopting and
promoting the same service criteria
utilized by DME. (DP p.168)
9.5.5 New electric feeder lines to major load
centers may be installed overhead
except in specially designated
areas, or where existing electric,
communications, and cable facilities
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
demands. The City currently holds water rights for
approximately 24 million gallons per day from these
lakes – approximately 4 million gallons per day from
Lake Lewisville and approximately 20 million gallons
per day from Lake Ray Roberts. If additional water
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
W a t e r S u p p l y : Currently, Denton uses surface water from Lake
Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts to supply water
have already been converted to
underground facilities. (DP p.168)
9.5.6 Encourage service providers (i.e.,
cable, telephone, electricity, data
communications, etc.) to comply with
the Tree Code regarding vegetation
removal, tree trimming, and planting
requirements. (PCE 5.5.7, DP p.168)
Water Denton is located in the Region C Regional Water
Planning Area, as designated by the Texas Water
Development Board. The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex
is centrally located in the region, and its surrounding
counties, including Denton County, are among the
fastest growing in the State of Texas.
The City’s priority is to ensure that its customers have a
sufficient source of raw water for human consumption
and daily use. Through existing and future surface
water rights, contracts with other entities, and
coordinated per capita consumption reduction through
2019, the City plans to provide sufficient water to meet
Denton’s population projections. (DP p.151)
Denton treats raw water to state and federal drinking
water standards and maintains an infrastructure
network to distribute the treated water across the City.
Cost-effective prevention of raw water contamination
is addressed proactively by the city through targeted
pollution prevention program implementation
including a comprehensive Watershed Management
Program. As stated in the Parks, Conservation and
Environment Element, the Elm Fork Branch of the Trinity
River is the origin of the water sources for the City of
Denton and Denton County. Several major creeks that
flow into the Elm Fork pass through the western part
of Denton. Clear Creek flows through the northern
portion, while Cooper Creek, Hickory Creek, and Pecan
Creek flow southeast through the central area of the
city into Lake Lewisville. These creeks also define the
city’s watersheds. Denton is served by two lakes: Lake
Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts, both of which were
constructed as part of the Trinity Regional Project of the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Lake Lewisville, located
to the south and east of the City of Denton, is one of the
City’s primary source of drinking water.
The pumping, treatment and distribution processes
associated with the drinking water system require
infrastructure maintenance and optimized operational
management. As identified in this Denton Plan 2030,
long-term capital investment priorities strategically
funded by a mixture of government bonds, loans, and
grants may be leveraged for future water infrastructure
projects.
G O A L I U - 2 : S e c u r e a n d c o n s e r v e r a w w a t e r s u p p l i e s t o m e e t f u t u r e n e e d s w i t h a s u s t a i n a b l e p o t a b l e w a t e r i n f r a s t r u c t u r e .
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INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 9
is needed, the City purchases water from the City of
Dallas under an existing water supply contract.
As water demand increases as a result of population
growth and development, proactive regional water
planning is necessary to ensure the availability
of water for the city’s residents, commercial, and
industrial customers. By participating in regional
planning groups such as the Water Resources Council
of the North Central Texas Council of Governments
the City can position itself to influence water supply
management strategies that will support the expected
population growth in Denton.
In addition to increasing water demands due to
population growth and development, the variability
of precipitation in the region has led to, and may
potentially continue to cause, drought conditions
extending one or more years. The City established
a target to reduce per capita water consumption by
one percent annually through 2019, per the Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan (2009; revised 2012) to increase community resiliency to drought. To assess progress and manage the utility,
the city monitors water consumption by metering
water usage for all customers and all raw water
diversions from Lake Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts.
Continued engagement of the community in water
conservation education, compliance with the city’s
Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan, and coordination of messaging and drought restriction
implementation with water suppliers in the region will
contribute to the goal of meeting basic water supply
demands while reducing water consumption.
9.6 Develop long-term water supply contracts and reduce per capita water use to ensure adequate water supply.
9.6.1 Review, renew, and maintain the city’s
untreated water supply contract with
the City of Dallas. (DP p.152)
9.6.2 Participate in regional water planning
and secure water supply contracts with
local water suppliers such as North
Texas Municipal Water District, Tarrant
Regional Water District and/or Dallas
Water Utilities. (PCE 5.8.10)
9.6.3 Continue to implement the Denton Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan to help reduce per capita water use. (DP p. 153, PCE 5.8.11)
9.6.4 Participate in regional coordination
of water conservation efforts in
North Central Texas such as the Water
Efficiency Network of North Texas
(WENNT) to promote collaborative
water conservation efforts and
synchronized regional messaging. (PCE
5.8.10)
9.6.5 Identify and pursue new water sources
as water supplies become more scarce.
9.6.6 Encourage community members to
employ best management practices
• Daily, the average person in Denton uses
60 to 80 gallons of water.
As increasing demands are being placed on finite water resources, sustainable water, stormwater, and wastewater systems are necessary to ensure the environmental and economic viability of communities.
Source: Denton County Fresh Water Supply.
Source: Simply Sustainable: A Strategic Plan for Denton’s Future, 2012
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
for water reduction such as use of
rain barrels and re-using rainwater on
premises. (PCE 5.8.12)
W a t e r I n f r a s t r u c t u r e : With population growth and the further expansion
of the city requires the expansion of water
infrastructure. The extension of water distribution
lines and supporting infrastructure requires
substantial capital investment. To accommodate
future development and population growth,
oversizing water lines in core areas of the city
will provide opportunities for increased infill
development as supported by the Land Use Element.
Encouraging infill development by prioritizing
infrastructure investments to support this growth will
reduce demands on municipal funds in the long run.
Currently, residential and commercial developers
must pay for infrastructure expansion to new service
areas, to which the City must then provide service.
State and federal funding mechanisms, such as the
Texas Water Development Board’s State Revolving
Fund for Drinking Water projects, may be leveraged
for future capital investment projects, including
efficiency and equipment upgrades.
9.7 Develop and operate water infrastructure in cooperation with other entities so that it is safe, reliable, cost effective, limits negative environmental impacts, and sufficient to meet future demands (DP p.151).
9.7.1 Promote infrastructure capacity
improvements to support infill
development, rather than new line
extensions that expand the geographic
coverage of the city’s infrastructure
systems. (DP p.151, FEV 3.9).
9.7.2 Work proactively to identify gaps
in existing infrastructure to support
connectivity of existing networks and
reduce leapfrog development.
9.7.3 Continue to require residential and
commercial developers to pay to
extend water distribution infrastructure
to service development areas.
9.7.4 Anticipate future growth needs
by oversizing water distribution
lines to meet future development
particularly in urban areas subject to
fund availability and approval by City
Council.
9.7.5 Upgrade infrastructure to provide
for the transmission of treated water
from the plant and storage facilities
through the existing system into newly
developed areas. (DP p. 153)
9.7.6 Balance new elevated storage tanks
to the existing elevated storage tanks
and allow for adequate refill rates. (DP
p.153)
Lake Lewisville
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9.7.7 Build additional elevated storage over
the next twenty years to accommodate
future water needs. (DP p.153)
9.7.8 Establish maintenance regulations
in the Development Code that
ensures long-term viability of water
infrastructure.
9.7.9 Ensure that water is treated and
distributed so that water quality meets
or exceeds all applicable State and
Federal requirements.
Wastewater As Denton transitions from a predominantly low
density, suburban community to include more areas
of high density urban development, the demand for
safe and cost effective wastewater services across
the city will increase. Protecting the environment,
and specifically surface water within the Lake
Lewisville watershed, is a priority for continued
community health.
Wastewater services address collection lines, lift
stations, treatment and resource recovery. As part
of the city’s comprehensive water management
strategy, wastewater services are critical to
maintaining high quality surface water supplies
through treatment plant effluent discharges and
inspection, monitoring, and enforcement on-
site sewage treatment systems for residential
and commercial properties. Wastewater services
include extensive infrastructure networks requiring
long-term capital investments for equipment
upgrades and operational optimization to maintain
system integrity to comply with state and federal
regulations. A strategic approach to addressing
wastewater capital improvements in coordination
with related environmental and water management,
both locally and regionally, maximizes city financial
resources. In addition, continued coordination with
existing programs such as the effluent reuse system
in place at the Spencer Power Plant and permitting
practices for developers for “over sizing” wastewater
collection lines provide opportunities for mutual
gain, further extending financial resources.
Expansion of existing infrastructure, including
collection lines and lift stations to service
development areas requires partnership and
coordination opportunities with developers. In
addition to expansion in future growth areas,
resizing interceptor lines to accommodate infill
development will support the community’s goals for
growth and ensure cost effective and sustainable
wastewater infrastructure.
In addition to serving new development, a
wastewater strategy must also incorporate
sustainable practices in providing wastewater service
options that recognize the vulnerability of the city’s
watersheds and water capacity. Wastewater effluent
may provide a viable potable water supplement
to large volume customers, such as large volume
customers and parks.
Wastewater system resource recovery will expand
as technology options become available. Preserving
raw water supplies and protecting the environment
from untreated wastewater will drive continual
improvement to resource recovery options.
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G O A L I U - 3 : P r o t e c t s u r f a c e w a t e r a n d g r o u n d w a t e r f r o m c o n t a m i n a t i o n f r o m u n t r e a t e d w a s t e w a t e r a n d e x p a n d w a s t e w a t e r s y s t e m r e s o u r c e r e c o v e r y .
service. To support the compact development pattern
as identified in the Land Use Element, oversizing of
wastewater lines in core areas of the city would provide
opportunities for increased infill development. State
and federal funding mechanisms, such as the Texas
Water Development Board’s State Revolving Fund for
Clean Water projects, may also be leveraged for future
capital investment projects.
9.8 Develop and operate wastewater infrastructure in cooperation with other entities so that it is safe, reliable, cost effective, limits negative environmental impacts, and is sufficient to meet future demands.
9.8.1 Provide wholesale wastewater services
to entities outside the Denton area
in the Hickory Creek watershed to
strategically protect the city’s drinking
water intake from wastewater
pollutants. (DP p.157)
9.8.2 Continue to work with communities
around Lakes Lewisville and Ray
Roberts to establish effective collection
and treatment systems to alleviate
potential water quality problems
through active permitting, monitoring,
and enforcement. (DP p.157)
9.8.3 Locate wastewater facilities in areas
that meet engineering criteria and are
compatible with adjacent properties to
the greatest extent possible. (DP p.155)
9.8.4 Continue to require residential and
commercial developers pay to extend
wastewater collection infrastructure to
service development areas. (DP p.155)
P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
W a s t e w a t e r S e r v i c e : Currently the City of Denton is divided into several
Wastewater Service Areas (WSAs). Funding to
operate and maintain the supporting infrastructure of
each service area is provided through an impact fee
ordinance which funds the Wastewater Fund.
The City’s wastewater collection system consists of
approximately 500 miles of wastewater lines and Pecan
Creek Reclamation Plant, which treats about 15 million
gallons a day, with a peak capacity of 46 million gallons
a day. Completed upgrades to the plant provide
additional capacity from current treatment volumes of
approximately 21 million gallon per day.
Per the Denton Development Code (DDC), all
developments within the jurisdiction of the City
shall connect to the City’s sanitary sewage facilities.
Residential or commercial properties may implement
an on-site sewage system that treats and disposes
of no more than 5,000-gallons of sewage per day
in pre-approved arrangements. The City enforces a
permit program to manage on-site sewage systems
as part of a comprehensive, watershed management
approach strategy. All communities in areas around
Lake Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts are required to
establish effective collection and treatment systems
to prevent potential contamination. Active permitting,
monitoring, and enforcement are ongoing.
As with water as stated above, extension of wastewater
collection lines and supporting infrastructure require
substantial capital investment. Already residential
and commercial developers pay impact fees and are
required to extend wastewater infrastructure to new
development areas, to which the city must then provide
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community members as well as to parks and golf
courses for irrigation purposes will significantly
reduce the use of potable water for non-potable
purposes. By using wastewater effluent for non-
drinking water applications, costs for treating raw
water to higher drinking water standards can be
avoided. (DP p.156)
The creation of strategic partnerships with select
industrial and/or commercial large use community
members will reduce the demand for raw water
supply and treatment while also decreasing the
cost of water to these large volume customers.
Partnership opportunities between the City and
large volume customers can further leverage water
conservation strategies in place at the city and
facilitate improved community relationships and
coordination.
In addition, waste-activated biosolids from the
Pecan Creek Water Reclamation Plan are combined
with composting and yard trimmings to create soil
conditioning products. The City sells these DynoDirt
products to residents and other consumers.
9.8.5 Participate in the cost of oversizing
wastewater lines to meet future
development, subject to fund
availability and approval by City
Council. (DP p.155)
9.8.6 Promote inflow/infiltration
infrastructure improvements over
new line extensions that expand the
geographic coverage of the city’s
infrastructure systems. (DP p.155)
9.8.7 Maintain system integrity by prohibiting
any connection to the city sewer system
that is overloaded. (DP p.155)
9.8.8 Enhance existing pretreatment
programs to improve influent quality.
9.8.9 Establish maintenance regulations
in the Denton Development Code
that ensures long-term viability of
wastewater infrastructure.
9.8.10 Ensure that wastewater collection,
treatment, and associated wastewater
support activities meet all applicable
local, State, and Federal requirements.
R e s o u r c e R e c o v e r y : At present, a number of resource recovery strategies
are in place in the City of Denton. The Pecan Creek
Water Reclamation Plant discharges effluent which
is of high enough quality to be safely used for a
number of beneficial reuse purposes. For example,
an effluent reuse system is in place providing
cooling tower water for the Spencer Power Plant.
Already several entities within Denton have adopted
these practices, including the Denton Regional
Medical Center, Oakmont Golf Course, and the
Denton State Supported Living Center. Continuing
to expand effluent use to industrial and commercial Wastewater Treatment Plant
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) to
address stormwater quality.
Protecting water resources and maintaining
regulatory compliance are priorities for the city. The
Watershed Protection Program in 2001, created to
address stormwater quality at the watershed level,
is an established mechanism for reducing pollutants
in Denton’s surface waters. The identification and
protection of areas with significant ecological value,
termed Environmentally-Sensitive Areas (ESAs),
serve as important plant and animal habitat areas
and also filter pollutants that would otherwise enter
surface waters of lakes and streams. The system-
level approach to stormwater management optimizes
program management resources and decreases
downstream water treatment requirements due to
improved surface water quality.
The drainage infrastructure in Denton contains both
gray (pipes and channelized) and green (natural)
infrastructure elements. Increasingly Denton,
as well as other cities throughout the world, are
implementing low impact development (LID)
stormwater management methods that incorporate
onsite retention, such as rain gardens and cisterns, to
decrease amounts of runoff, thereby reducing capital
costs to install and maintain traditional infrastructure
required to convey stormwater away from property.
Cost-effective stormwater infrastructure is available
through the incorporation of best management
practices (BMP’s) that both maximize natural infiltration
to slow stormwater as well as replenish groundwater.
Floodplains also are an essential element in green
infrastructure, as they provide naturally-occurring
water storage areas to contain water during high
volume rainfall events. The preservation of floodplains
and maximizing floodplain storage availability will
decrease hazards to life and property as well as the
need for reoccurring infrastructure repair.
9.9 Expand resource recovery options within the wastewater system.
9.9.1 Implement a targeted educational
program on the benefits of wastewater
effluent reuse to high-volume users.
(DP p.157)
9.9.2 Engage in long-term partnerships that
implement wastewater effluent reuse.
(DP p.157)
9.9.3 Expand the capabilities of providing
effluent to the industrial and
commercial sectors as well as parks and
golf courses for irrigation purposes.
9.9.4 Evaluate additional biosolid recovery
options and expand DynoDirt product
production, as practical. (DP p.158)
9.9.5 Continue to expand effluent use to
industrial and commercial uses, and
parks and golf courses for irrigation
purposes that will significantly reduce
the use of potable water for non-potable
purposes.
Stormwater The ever increasing amount of impervious cover in
Denton and the Lake Lewisville sub-basin as a result
of new development has elevated threats to the
quality of Denton’s drinking water supply. Stormwater
runoff is generated when rainfall flows over land or
impervious surfaces and does not infiltrate the ground.
As the runoff flows over land or impervious surfaces,
debris, chemicals, sediment, or other pollutants
are accumulated and discharged to the receiving
waterbody. Regulated under the Clean Water Act, the
City of Denton maintains National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permit coverage as a
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P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
W a t e r Q u a l i t y : There are three main watersheds, Cooper Creek,
Hickory Creek, Pecan Creek, and Clear Creek that
convey water through the city. These watersheds
combine to form a sub-basin for Lake Lewisville,
the city’s main drinking water source. Per the Clean
Water Act and U.S. EPA’s enforcement of the NPDES
Stormwater Phase II rule, the City actively monitors
surface water quality from each of its 82 sub-
watersheds and implements measures to reduce
the quantity of pollutants that stormwater picks up
and carries into storm sewer systems during storm
events. When deposited into nearby waterways, these
pollutants can impair the waterway. This can result in
contaminated drinking water supplies, wildlife habitat
degradation, and discouraged recreational use of the
impaired waterway.
An integrated approach to stormwater management
to protect the water quality of receiving water bodies,
per the activities described above, is in place. The
approach includes implementation of the city’s
Municipal Separate Sewer Storm System (MS4)
Stormwater Management Program as part of the
more encompassing Watershed Protection Program.
Continuation of the Watershed Protection Program to
reduce the discharge of pollutants to the maximum
G O A L I U - 4 : P r o t e c t w a t e r q u a l i t y a n d m a i n t a i n u n d e r g r o u n d a q u i f e r s b y m a n a g i n g s t o r m w a t e r a t t h e w a t e r s h e d l e v e l .
Regional resources such as the North Central Texas Council of Government’s (NCTCOG’s) iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction are available to guide developers and inform development
code revisions. The City adopted the Manual in 2013
T h e C i t y o f D e n t o n w a s a w a r d e d t h e “ 2 0 1 3 B e s t - Ta s t i n g D r i n k i n g W a t e r i n Te x a s ” a t t h e Te x a s W a t e r 2 0 1 3 C o n f e r e n c e .
to address stormwater infrastructure development on a
regional/watershed level and implement cost effective
stormwater management in targeted areas within the
city and to the city as a whole.
extent practicable, protect water quality, and satisfy the
appropriate water quality requirements of the Clean Water
Act will maintain regulatory compliance and protect water
quality within each watershed as it discharges into Lake
Lewisville.
9.10 Protect the quality of surface water from the negative impacts of erosion, flooding, and pollution.
9.10.1 Minimize erosion occurring during the
physical construction of infrastructure and
private improvements of developments
using adopted best management practices
and necessary enforcement, where
appropriate. (DP p.163)
9.10.2 Provide and oversee a safe, effective
drainage system that enhances both the
natural and urban environment within the
city limits by:
* Promoting open space and buffer zones to
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
enhance water quality, as addressed in
the city’s Watershed Protection Program.
(PCE 5.8.6)
* Adopting a more aggressive Capital
Improvements Program (CIP) for
stormwater facility upgrades and the
necessary funding mechanisms to
support the additional expenditures. (DP
p.162, IU 9.7.1).
* Developing an education program for
residents to reduce the impacts of erosion,
flooding and pollution. (DP p.162)
* Implementing best practices to eliminate
surface water impacts. (DP p.162)
* Updating impervious surface city
inventories to inform utility drainage fee
revisions.
9.10.3 Ensure that stormwater management
meets all applicable local, State, and
Federal requirements for both water
quantity and water quality.
G r e e n I n f r a s t r u c t u r e : Green infrastructure is an important element of
Denton Plan 2030. It provides a basis for the compact
growth framework envisioned for the future of Denton,
which is woven together by a system of parks and
open spaces and infrastructure that respects and is
tied to the natural systems that characterize the city
and region. In terms of stormwater infrastructure,
green infrastructure refers to the use of natural
and permeable vegetation and soil to manage
rainwater where it falls rather than more costly and
environmentally harmful “engineered” systems of
concrete pipes and culverts. It also can potentially
reduce or eliminate street flooding, as green
infrastructure can capture the first 1 to 1.5 inches
of rain, rather than channeling it into engineered
stormwater systems. Employing green infrastructure
practices can also help to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions as compared to traditional gray
infrastructure based on the materials used and the lack
of energy required to pump stormwater.
Regional coordination on stormwater best
management practices (BMP’s) for the North Central
Texas weather conditions and soil types is led by the
NCTCOG. The city should continue to engage the
NCTCOG to inform the development of future regional
guidance and concurrently implement the iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction.
A watershed level approach to upgrading the existing
substandard drainage systems will incorporate the
minimum control measures enforced through the city-
wide Watershed Protection Program and account for
stormwater best management practices (BMP’s).
9.11 Upgrade substandard drainage systems in a way that incorporates green infrastructure BMPs and watershed system-level site design.
9.11.1 Develop new drainage regulations that
require a new or existing development
to make floodplain improvements in
or adjacent to a floodplain to meet the
100-year floodplain restrictions. (PCE
5.8.1, DP p. 162)
9.11.2 Provide low impact drainage facilities
by reserving a sufficient amount of
land for landscaping, green space, or
other permeable areas based on fully
developed watershed conditions in
developments. (PCE 5.2.5 and 5.4.4, DP
p.161)
9.11.3 Continue to implement the North Central Texas Council of Government’s
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(NCTCOG’s) iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction and continue to participate with regional groups to identify and
implement best practices.(PCE 5.7.3)
9.11.4 Coordinate drainage infrastructure
development with operational best
practices and the city’s Watershed
Protection Program. (PCE 5.7.3)
9.11.5 Educate the public on the value of low
impact drainage systems. (DP p. 163)
9.11.6 Establish maintenance regulations in
the Denton Development Code that
ensures long-term viability of green
infrastructure systems.
9.11.7 Ensure that all infrastructure
improvements in the Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) are evaluated
to consider if they are furthering green
infrastructure goals.
L o w - I m p a c t D e v e l o p m e n t : Criteria for low-impact development continues to
evolve in the form of regional, state, and national
best management practices (BMP’s). The application
of the BMP’s as embraced in the city’s Watershed
Protection Program, will provide guidance for
developers and city engineers. Strategic water
quality and quantity management practices
should coordinate with regulatory MS4 permitting
requirements. Proactive incorporation of low-impact
criteria in development standards can contribute to
decreased costs to convey the overflow, with greater
on site infiltration that recharges the groundwater
aquifer and naturally improves water quality through
the natural soil filtration process.
W h a t i s g r e e n i n f r a s t r u c t u r e ?
T y p e s o f g r e e n i n f r a s t r u c t u r e c o n t r o l s
• Green infrastructure uses vegetation and soil to manage
rainwater where it falls.
• Green infrastructure provides stormwater management,
flood mitigation and air quality management by weaving
natural processes into the built environment.
Rain harvesting
Collecting and using rainwater in the landscape helps reduce demands on surface and ground water supplies and can save money by reducing water bills.
Rain gardens
Rain gardens are shallow, vegetated basins that collect and absorb runoff from rooftops, sidewalks, and streets. Rain gardens mimic natural hydrology by infiltrating and evapotranspiring runoff.
Street planters
Street planters are urban rain gardens with vertical walls and open or closed bottoms that collect and absorb runoff from sidewalks, parking lots, and streets.
Bioswales/ Infiltration basins
Bioswales are vegetated bioretention tools used to partially treat site runoff, reduce flood potential, and direct stormwater from away from vertical development and critical infrastructure.
Porous pavement
Permeable pavement is a porous pavement that filters and allows a portion of roadway and/ or parking lot runoff to infiltrate the surface to recharge ground water sources.
Plants filter and transpire water while enhancing the streetscape
Stormwater from roadway flows into the planter
Stormwater from sidewalk flows into the planter
Stone or other storage media provides additional stormwater storage
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
Plant selection as part of a holistic landscape
design and management are key components to a
comprehensive water management strategy for a site.
Strategic selection of drought-tolerant plant materials
and water-efficient irrigation practices decrease
water demand for landscape maintenance. BMPs
such as xeriscaping, use of weather-based irrigation
controllers, drip irrigation and the cycle-soak method
approved for North Central Texas predominant clay
soil by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office are
common examples for the region. These landscape
practices are part of an inclusive low-impact
development approach for the City.
9.12 Apply low impact development criteria, including green infrastructure practices approved as part of the city’s Watershed Protection Program, to new development and redevelopment projects.
9.12.1 Adhere to the NCTCOG’s iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction and continue to participate in regional coordination
to develop best on site water
management practices. Ensure that
measures are regularly enforced and
not waived. (PCE 5.8.5)
9.12.2 Update the Drainage Design Criteria Manual and Denton Development Code Subchapters 18 and 19 to address
low impact development, including
green infrastructure BMPs.
9.12.3 Update the landscaping standards
of the Denton Development Code to
promote use of drought-tolerant plant
materials and water-efficient irrigation
practices in all new development. (PCE
5.9.6)
Low-Impact Development - Retention Basin
Low-Impact Development - Bioswale
Low-Impact Development - Permeable Pavement
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9.12.4 Promote low-impact development
implementation to improve stormwater
quantity and quality system-wide. (PCE
5.8.3, 5.10.1)
9.12.5 Revise policies that allow use of man-
made water features for decorative
purposes only. Require polices that
expand basin functionality such as for
stormwater detention, irrigation water
storage, wildlife habitat or other related
purposes.
9.12.6 Encourage parking areas to include
low-impact development features
such as pervious pavers, or to be
accommodated on un-paved land,
especially in the case of overflow
parking.
F l o o d P r o t e c t i o n : Due to its location at the confluence of several
creeks, Denton has some areas that are susceptible
to flooding. Periodically, areas within the 100-year
floodplain are flooded which results in threats to life
and property, health and safety hazards, as well as
disruption of commerce and governmental services
and extraordinary public expenditures for rescue
and recovery efforts. The cycle of build and rebuild in
flood-prone areas is economically unsustainable and
environmentally degrading to a city.
Flood losses are created by the cumulative effect of
obstructions in floodplains that reduce water storage
capacity. This results in floodplain constrictions
which exacerbates flood heights and water flow
velocities extending the potential for flood damage
beyond the 100-year floodplain. To reduce these
elevated flood risks, proactive management of the
100-year floodplain is necessary to increase water
storage capacity by removing existing structures and
otherwise restore more natural floodplain conditions.
9.13 Protect the 100-year floodplain to reduce flooding and improve water quality.
9.13.1 Remove existing structures from or
adjacent to the 100-year floodplain
as opportunities come available. (DP
p.162, PCE 5.8.1)
9.13.2 Establish and preserve natural channels
with appropriate vegetation and
daylighting to improve water quality,
restore natural habitat and maximize
management opportunities. (DP p.163)
9.13.3 Prevent any new structures from being
constructed in the 100-year floodplain.
For property located in the floodplain,
affected undevelopable property
may be dedicated to homeowners’
associations or directly to the city as a
park or open space area as one lot. (DP
p.162)
9.13.4 Preserve, protect and, where possible,
dedicate floodplains to the city in
accordance with the city’s Watershed
Protection Program and the Parks, Recreation, and Trail System Master Plan to accommodate multiple functions for flood conveyance,
transportation (trails), recreation and
open space, habitat protection, and
environmental preservation. (DP p.162)
9.13.5 Upgrade the flood monitoring system
to include predictive flooding condition
capabilities. (DP p.162)
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P o l i c i e s a n d A c t i o n s
W a s t e M i n i m i z a t i o n a n d R e s o u r c e R e c o v e r y : The City continues to look for ways to reduce solid
waste generation and divert waste away from landfill
disposal through increased recycling and reuse options
on a regular basis. (Simply Sustainable, 2012, p.48).
Long-term sustainable materials management shifts
people’s perceptions of waste to being a valuable
resource. It requires participation by an entire
community and education is the key to program
success. Innovative outreach and education methods
are needed to both inform residents about program
rules, and gain the support needed to invest in long-
term waste management strategies. Supporting
community engagement as part of a comprehensive
sustainable material management approach will
further enhance the City’s efforts to prolong the life of
the landfill and provide long-term economic benefits.
Solid Waste & Recycling (SW&R) informs residents
and customers directly, and through organizations and
institutions such as Denton ISD, UNT, and TWU; the
Chamber of Commerce; and the non-profit community.
The collective facility that houses SW&R operations,
as well as Wastewater and Beneficial Reuse, is now
called ECO-W.E.R.C.S (Waste to Energy, Recycling,
Composting, Solar), to better convey the variety of
activities and operations the City of Denton undertakes
to handle waste.
Keep Denton Beautiful (KDB) is a 501(c) 3 non-profit
grassroots organization that exists in partnership
G O A L I U - 5 : P r o t e c t p u b l i c a n d e n v i r o n m e n t a l h e a l t h a n d c o n s e r v e n a t u r a l r e s o u r c e s t h r o u g h w a s t e m i n i m i z a t i o n , m a t e r i a l s r e u s e , a n d m a x i m u m m a t e r i a l r e c o v e r y ; e n h a n c e c o m m u n i t y a p p e a r a n c e a n d c o n t r o l c o s t s w i t h e f f i c i e n t c o l l e c t i o n o f s o l i d w a s t e a n d r e c y c l i n g .
with the City of Denton. KDB inspires individuals to
take greater responsibility for creating a clean and
beautiful city through litter prevention, reduction of
waste, and community beautification. Their mission
aligns with the goals of the City and the Solid Waste &
Recycling Department, and the City supports KDB with
staff, location and operating funds, while a Board of
Directors guides the organization and raises funding for
programs.
9.14 Utilize innovative outreach programs and diverse partners from the education, business, non-profit, and residential sectors to encourage waste minimization, material reuse and recycling, and enhance community appearance.
9.14.1 Support Keep Denton Beautiful to
engage Denton residents in creating
a clean and beautiful city. (Simply Sustainable, 2012, p.49) (DP p.166)
9.14.2 Educate the community about
waste reduction, recycling, and
reuse with a welcoming facility at
“ A w e l l - o p e r a t e d s o l i d w a s t e m a n a g e m e n t s y s t e m e n s u r e s w a s t e m i n i m i z a t i o n , r e s o u r c e r e c o v e r y , e n v i r o n m e n t a l p r o t e c t i o n , a n d d i s p o s a l c a p a b i l i t i e s t o m e e t f u t u r e d e m a n d s . ” ( D P p . 1 6 5 )
Solid Waste & Recycling
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INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 9
9.15.2 Maintain partnership with Pratt
Recycling for operation of the
materials recovery facility (MRF) at
ECO-W.E.R.C.S., adding additional
commodities to the single stream
mix as opportunities arise. (DP p.166)
(Simply Sustainable, 2012, p.49)
9.15.3 Seek opportunities for additional
public-private agreements to foster
development of new technologies
for recycling, energy production and
economic development.
ECO-W.E.R.C.S that includes on-site
engagement through facility tours,
a recycling education room at the
Pratt Materials Recovery Facilities,
compost demonstration gardens,
and appropriate interactive learning
opportunities.
9.14.3 Continue to partner with educational
entities such as Denton ISD, UNT, and
TWU to develop and present STEM
“reduce, reuse, recycle” curriculum
and programs.
9.14.4 Support business community relations
through activity in organizations such
as the Chamber of Commerce.
9.14.5 Seek out innovative partnerships with
community non-profits and foster
collaborations with organizations
that share environmental and waste
reduction missions.
Technology and markets drive what items or
materials can be targeted for reuse and recycling.
Consumer demand and legislative action for more
environmentally conscious products and product
packaging can result in changing market conditions.
The SW&R Department responds to the community
and to customer demand, and offers diverse
programs that are feasible and cost-effective.
9.15 Create and expand appropriate waste minimization, material reuse and recycling programs.
9.15.1 Establish the Home Chemical
Collection Center as a regional facility
and maintain operation of the ReUse
store to foster material reuse and
recycling.
Home chemicals collection - Denton
Resource recovery tours - Denton
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9 DENTON PLAN 2030
9.16.1 Require the site design of commercial,
multifamily, industrial, and institutional
land uses to include allocations and
screening for trash and recycling
collection containers, and for other
waste streams generated by the
entity, meeting placement and vehicle
approach specifications for safe, cost-
efficient collections (both dumpsters
and/or compactors). (Simply Sustainable, 2012, p.49) (DP p.166, CC Table 4.1)
9.16.2 Maintain Solid Waste & Recycling
vehicle fleet that utilizes efficient
technology to safely collect materials
and that operates on the cleanest fuels
available.
9.16.3 Utilize technologies such as GIS, RFID,
and other routing programs to gather
9.15.4 Standardize access to recycling
programs for every Denton resident
in multi-family housing, and all
commercial businesses through
a Universal Recycling program.
(Simply Sustainable, 2012, p.49)
9.15.5 Target additional commercial and
residential organic and food waste
streams for composting.
9.15.6 Support appropriate legislation
that reduces waste, litter, and
illegal dumping; creates product
stewardship initiatives that require
producer/retailer responsibility
for the design and end-of-life
of products; and increases the
amount or feasibility of recycling
opportunities.
E f f i c i e n t S o l i d W a s t e & R e c y c l i n g C o l l e c t i o n s : The collection of solid waste materials is an
integral part of the operation of Solid Waste
& Recycling. The collection of materials in a
timely and organized fashion ensures a clean
environment and an efficient city. It is important to
consider the placement of collection receptacles
when designing for future development, as the
location of waste containers may detract from
the appearance of an area, especially if poorly
maintained. Thus, design guidelines typically
include recommendation for siting of collection
receptacles, which may be called for as part of the
citywide Urban Design Plan, in Small Area Plans,
and are described generally in Table 4.1.
9.16 Support the consistent and efficient removal of trash and recycling from each residence, business, and institution.
Recycle with Rex educational program - Denton
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INFRASTRUCTURE AND UTILITIES 9
recycling. Composting organic materials in place
of disposing in the landfill reduces one waste
stream while concurrently repurposing the material
as a soil amendment for future resale by the City.
Maintaining a local landfill that can continue to serve
the city’s growing population will require a regular
review of best management practices, alternative
energy options, and ongoing material management
education.
9.17 Prolong the life of the landfill and protect the environment.
9.17.1 Maintain and grow the BMR sorting
program to remove recyclables and
establish additional reuse opportunities
from recovered materials.
9.17.2 Begin landfill mining, recovering
recyclables and reclaiming soil from
old landfill cells.
9.17.3 Increase selectivity for gas-generating
materials that enter the landfill to
maximize the Gas to Energy Program
production.
9.17.4 Expand on-site organics recovery,
composting, or energy production
with food wastes or recovered wood
not appropriate for DynoDirt program.
(Simply Sustainable, 2012, p.49, DP p.166)
9.17.5 Maintain and improve groundwater
protection and monitoring systems,
methane collection and monitoring
for off-site methane migration
prevention, collection and treatment
of leachate, and management of
stormwater to ensure that the landfill
is operated without degradation of the
environment. (DP p.166)
information about participation to
target residential information, and
maximize routing capability.
9.16.4 Further incentivize residential and
commercial waste reduction through
expanded volume-based waste
collection pricing and/or recycling
participation. (DP p.166)
9.16.5 Expand and support pedestrian waste
and recycling receptacles in walkways
and public spaces, promoting a clean
and green physical environment.
9.16.6 Include policies for the upkeep of
collection receptacles and areas. (CC
4.5.1)
E n v i r o n m e n t a l P r o t e c t i o n a n d D i s p o s a l C a p a b i l i t i e s : The Denton Landfill is part of the ECO-W.E.R.C.S.
complex, which incorporates a variety of material
reduction management processes and activities.
Multiple methods are utilized to prolong the life of
the landfill and should be continued and enhanced
as new technologies become available. The Denton
Landfill currently accelerates the decomposition
process by recirculating leachate and stormwater
using an Enhanced Leachate Recirculation
(ELR) system. Methane and other gasses are a
byproduct of decomposition, and this increased
landfill gas production is captured by well system
and transferred to a generator that converts it to
electricity that is distributed by DME. The Building
Material Recovery (BMR) operation on site accepts
and sorts construction and demolition waste,
many commercial waste containers, and materials
brought in by the public before they reach the landfill
working face. Recyclable and reusable materials
are removed from the waste stream; electronics,
appliances, and other metals are also sorted for
10) IMPLEMENTATION & MONITORING
Implementation and Monitoring Overview 255
Legal Authority 256
Principle 1: 256 Plan Hierarchy – Consistency of All City Plans with Denton Plan 2030
Principle 2: 257 Consistency of zoning and related development regulations and ordinances with Denton Plan 2030
Principle 3: 257 Consistency of re-zonings and development approvals with Denton Plan 2030
Principle 4: 258 The City Council shall consider consistency with the Denton Plan 2030 as a factor in making decisions on proposed programs, projects, and initiatives
Amendments, Monitoring and Updating 258 Plan Amendments Plan Monitoring and Updating
Guidelines for Small Area Plans and Mixed-use Development 260 Criteria for Determining Priorities for Small Area Planning Small Area Planning Guidelines Small Area Planning Process Mixed-use Development Guidelines
IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING OVERVIEW The Vision embodied in Denton Plan 2030 will be realized by actions taken consistently by all
city departments to apply its policies and strategies, in coordination with development interests,
neighborhood associations, local institutions and school districts, and the community at large. Effective
implementation will require continuous and consistent use of Denton Plan 2030 as a key reference for
decisions and actions pertaining to growth management, zoning, annexation, development and road and
infrastructure investments. It affects all operations and activities of the City of Denton, not merely those
of the Planning and Development Department. The Plan is designed to be an evolving, working document
that will guide the city in making decisions, establishing priorities, and committing to actions to positively
shape the future of Denton.
The individual Elements of Denton Plan 2030 call for policies and specific actions to bring about the
positive achievements reflected in the Community Vision Statement. This chapter lays out a program for
the implementation of the policies and actions consisting of four key components:
• Principles to guide future planning and decision-making for consistency with Denton Plan 2030
• Procedures for amending, updating, and monitoring progress in implementation of Denton Plan 2030.
• Guidelines for small area planning and mixed-use development and for
establishing priorities for small area planning.
• An Action Plan that synthesizes the policies and strategies from the Plan
Elements into short- term, mid-term, long-term and ongoing actions,
with assigned responsibilities.
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Legal Authority Texas law provides basic guidance to municipalities
for developing and applying comprehensive
plans. Chapter 213 of the Local Government Code
(LGC), grants local municipalities discretionary
powers to define the content and organization of
a comprehensive plan for the promotion of sound
development and the protection of public health,
safety and welfare. While the wording of Chapter
213, that a municipality may adopt a comprehensive
plan, could be interpreted that adoption of a
comprehensive plan is non-compulsory by local
governments, Chapter 211 of the LGC recognizes
the importance of comprehensive planning and
stipulates requirements. Consequently Texas
municipalities that adopt zoning must also have a
comprehensive plan to base it on. Further, Section
212.010 of the LGC also includes conformance with a
municipality’s “general plan for extension” as one of
the requirements for approval of development plats.
P r i n c i p l e s Upon adoption, Denton Plan 2030 replaces the
1999 Denton Plan and will become a key policy
document, separate and distinct from zoning, but to
which future zoning and regulations in the Denton
Development Code (DDC) shall be made consistent.
The following are more specific principles that the
City will be following to assure compliance, as well
as to amend, monitor, and update Denton Plan 2030.
P r i n c i p l e 1 : P l a n H i e r a r c h y – C o n s i s t e n c y o f A l l C i t y P l a n s w i t h D e n t o n P l a n 2 0 3 0 With the adoption of Denton Plan 2030 it will become
the overarching policy document, establishing the
Community Vision as well and the policies and
strategies pertaining to all aspects of the city’s
development. This plan hierarchy is as follows.
Denton Plan 2030
Denton Plan 2030 is the policy reference for all
subsequent plans which will be developed in a
manner to implement the provisions of Denton Plan
2030.
City-wide Topical Plans
These include plans that pertain to a specific subject
area or aspect of the city’s functionality applicable
city wide. Revisions to current plans and the creation
of new plans will be made in conformance with
Denton Plan 2030. These include, but are not limited
to the following:
• Mobility Plan
• Capital Improvement Plan
• Infrastructure Plan (water, sewer, stormwater)
• Urban Design Plan (CC 4.11.1)
Small Area Plans
A small area plan is a plan that is developed for
a clearly delineated area that addresses specific
issues and challenges with more detailed actions
and strategies than is provided in Denton Plan 2030.
A methodology to prioritize the need for small area
plans and a template for how to carry out small area
planning is provided below. Small area plans include
the following.
• Downtown Master Plan / DTIP (LU 2.6.1)
• Downtown Compatibility Area (LU 2.6.2, CC 4.12.2, HN 7.1.2)
• Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Area (LU 2.7.1, CC 4.12.2, HN 7.1.4)
• Centers and Corridors (LU 2.8.1, CC 4.12.3, HN 7.1.6)
• Neighborhood Plans (HN 7.7.3, CC 4.12.1)
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10
Site Specific Plans
These include plans for site specific public facilities.
These may include the following.
• Denton Enterprise Airport Master Plan
• Park master plans
• Utility plant master plans
• Other governmental facility master plans
These plans are illustrated in general in Figure 1.8:
Plan Hierarchy.
P r i n c i p l e 2 : C o n s i s t e n c y o f z o n i n g a n d r e l a t e d d e v e l o p m e n t r e g u l a t i o n s a n d o r d i n a n c e s w i t h D e n t o n P l a n 2 0 3 0 The Land Use and other Plan Elements propose
revisions to present zoning and development
regulations, such as new standards and incentives
for mixed-use development in the Downtown area
and in other centers and corridors. After adoption,
the city should review the DDC and other regulations
for consistency with these and other policies and
actions called for in Denton Plan 2030 and with the
Future Land Use Map (FLUM). Where inconsistencies
are identified, the DDC will be amended. This does
not suggest that, upon Plan adoption, the zoning
map and its various zoning districts must undergo
a wholesale revision. Instead, this principle calls for
the City to implement a staged program over time to
align its zoning map and development regulations
with Denton Plan 2030 policies and actions.
Suggested priorities and time-frames for regulatory
changes are in Table 10.2: Action Plan.
It is important to note that the FLUM does
not become or replace present zoning district
designations on the zoning map. In fact, LGC Sec.
213.005 contains this specific requirement. A map
of a comprehensive plan illustrating future land use
shall contain the following clearly visible statement:
“A comprehensive plan shall not constitute zoning regulations or establish zoning district boundaries.” Instead, the Future Land Use Map conceptually depicts relatively broad categories of land use. Each of these land use categories may accommodate more than a single zoning district, and they will also serve as a guide for considering future rezoning.
While the Zoning Map, and its associated zoning
districts, defines specific uses and development
types currently permitted for individual properties,
the FLUM depicts more broadly, the likely pattern
of land uses that may exist in the future. Therefore,
the FLUM does not directly determine the specific
development that may be approved for a particular
property. Applicants for zoning changes must
demonstrate that the proposed use / development
is consistent with the land use designation on the
FLUM. However, consistency with the FLUM is
only one of several considerations, and all other
development criteria must be met for a rezoning
approval, per the process laid out in the DDC.
Because FLUM designations are considerably
broader than provided in specific zoning districts,
several different zoning districts may conform to the
provisions of a single FLUM land use category.
P r i n c i p l e 3 : C o n s i s t e n c y o f r e - z o n i n g s a n d d e v e l o p m e n t a p p r o v a l s w i t h D e n t o n P l a n 2 0 3 0 To provide a greater degree of certainty and direction
to the development process, the goals, policies
and actions should be used in conjunction with
the Denton Plan 2030 to evaluate all requests for
re-zoning and development approvals. Proposed
developments or uses that clearly support
implementation of the Plan should be approved.
Conversely, re-zonings for developments or uses that
are inconsistent with the Plan, should not be granted
approval, until and unless the policies of the Plan
are amended based on findings of fact that clearly
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030
demonstrate the need for modification.
Because the policies of the Plan are broader than
present zoning and development regulations,
most development applications that are consistent
with present zoning will also be consistent with
the comprehensive plan. In fact, in many cases,
particularly those involving re-zoning, the Plan
review process will add additional flexibility in the
development review and zone change process.
This will be true particularly in areas designated
for mixed-use, and in centers and corridors, where
underlying zoning is more limited than that depicted
in the FLUM. However, in cases where a proposed
development, larger than a specified magnitude,
is in clear conflict with the Denton Plan 2030, such
approvals may not be granted unless and until the
Plan is amended, in the same manner as it was
adopted (see section below on plan amendments).
P r i n c i p l e 4 : T h e C i t y C o u n c i l s h a l l c o n s i d e r c o n s i s t e n c y w i t h t h e D e n t o n P l a n 2 0 3 0 a s a f a c t o r i n m a k i n g d e c i s i o n s o n p r o p o s e d p r o g r a m s , p r o j e c t s , a n d i n i t i a t i v e s While a key focus of Denton Plan 2030 is on Land
Use, other goals, policies and actions influence
every aspect of the City’s governance beyond
the activities of the Planning and Development
Department. Effective implementation of the Plan will
depend in part on the extent to which present and
future councils take into account consistency with
Denton Plan 2030 in the decision-making process.
The following are recommended components of a
procedure to ensure consistency with Denton Plan
2030:
• Identify specific task schedules, resources and responsibilities for revising the DDC and related development standards to be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, in accordance with the
timeframes and priorities established in Table 10.2.
• Establish a framework for staff reporting to the City Council regarding the consistency of relevant projects, programs and initiatives with Denton Plan 2030.
• Adopt provisions to modify the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) process to reflect policies, actions, and priorities established in Denton Plan 2030.
• Dedicate staff to the implementation of Denton Plan 2030.
This procedure should be developed and established
within one year of adoption of the Denton Plan 2030.
P r i n c i p l e 5 : T h e C i t y s h a l l p r e p a r e a M o n i t o r i n g a n d E v a l u a t i o n R e p o r t t h a t w i l l i n c l u d e m e t r i c s a s s i g n e d t o a p p r o p r i a t e a c t i o n s t o m e a s u r e p r o g r e s s o f i m p l e m e n t i n g t h e g o a l s o f t h e P l a n . Where metrics are not applicable, they are strongly encouraged to be included in existing
and recommended plans, regulations, programs, and
other efforts outlined in Denton Plan 2030.
The following are components of the Monitoring and
Evaluation Report:
• The Planning and Development Department, supported by the Technical Advisory Committee, will prepare the Monitoring and Evaluation Report.
• The Monitoring and Evaluation Report shall be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council on an annual basis.
• The Monitoring and Evaluation Report shall include the following items:
* An Executive Summary which will include key
accomplishments, impediments encountered, and
any recommended changes to the Action Plan.
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10
* An Action Plan Status which will include a
description of the key action, status, description of
achievement, completion date, and if applicable -
details of metrics.
* Metrics including timeframes or numeric indicators.
• Metrics shall be reviewed against by the responsible Department or appropriate groups to make sure that the goals of Denton Plan 2030 are being met.
Amendments, Monitoring and Updating
P l a n A m e n d m e n t s Plan amendments are periodic, substantive changes
to Denton Plan 2030 and its associated goals,
policies and actions, as well as changes to the FLUM
which are necessary to accommodate changed or
unforeseen circumstances, in a manner consistent
with the public interest.
Denton Plan 2030 provides for reasonable flexibility
in interpretation, but to have relevance over time, it
should be kept current but should not be subject to
continuous amendment as a result to developments
in progress. Therefore, the Planning and Zoning
Commission and City Council will accept applications
for Plan amendments on a bi-annual basis via staff
requests. When a rezoning request is submitted, staff
will evaluate its consistency with the overall goals
and objectives of the Plan. If consistent with the
Plan 2030 overall, staff should recommend approval
of rezoning requests, even if they do not match the
FLUM. Likewise, if a proposed rezoning request is
consistent with the FLUM, but inconsistent with the
overall goals and objectives of Denton Plan 2030,
staff should recommend denial of the request.
The City’s approval of a Plan amendment request
should be based on the following criteria:
• That there have been significant changes of an economic, physical, or social nature, which were not anticipated in Denton Plan 2030 and which have substantially alter the basic character of such area (such as the impact of a new highway or a natural disaster) OR there is demonstrated overriding public benefit of the change. This may include planning for a major public facility or amenity, a major source of employment, or an economic development asset that cannot be accommodated without the amendment, as long as it is demonstrated to be consistent with the overall Community Vision Statement and the four themes of sustainability, community character, mobility, and community health established by Denton Plan 2030.
P l a n M o n i t o r i n g a n d U p d a t i n g To avoid Denton Plan 2030 from becoming outdated
or irrelevant, the Planning and Zoning Commission,
and the Planning and Development Department,
on behalf of City Council will monitor plan
implementation progress annually, and will conduct
a thorough review, revision, and update of the
Denton Plan 2030 at least every five years.
Annual Monitoring
At the anniversary of plan adoption, the Planning
and Development Department shall submit a
Monitoring and Evaluation Report indicating
actions taken and progress made toward plan
implementation during the previous year. The
Monitoring and Evaluation Report shall contain a
summary of key accomplishments, impediments
encountered, and recommended updates to the
Action Plan in terms of priorities, timing, and
assigned responsibilities.
• Measures of success should be developed as part of an overall plan-monitoring program, to evaluate the effectiveness of implementation efforts and adherence to the plan. These
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measures may include timeframes for specific completion of actions, or numeric indicators (e.g., number of new miles of bicycle paths; street connectivity ratio; number of acres for usable parkland reserved in new development; etc.)
• Include provisions for a process to monitor implementation progress and adopt Plan amendments (per the previous section), including consideration of an ongoing role for the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) or other vehicle for continuous citizen participation.
• Maintain dialogue with the Technical Advisory Committee, continue public awareness and encourage citizen participation with a variety of community interest groups and other stakeholders on an ongoing, as-needed basis to help implement and monitor the policies, actions, and priorities in the Denton Plan 2030.
Updating / Plan Revision
Every five years or less, a process shall be initiated
to revise and adopt an updated comprehensive plan.
The revision process shall include the following:
• Creation of a new CAC, or other working group to guide the update process.
• Preparation of a Denton Plan 2030 Evaluation Report, documenting Plan effectiveness and implementation efforts, identifying constraints upon implementation, and summarizing trends and challenges which have emerged or changed in the period since plan adoption.
• Revision of goals, policies, and actions to reflect changing circumstances, emerging needs and opportunities, and expressed citizen priorities.
• Revisions to the FLUM based on the criteria above.
Guidelines for Small Area Plans and Mixed-use Development
C r i t e r i a f o r D e t e r m i n i n g P r i o r i t i e s f o r S m a l l A r e a P l a n n i n g An important component of the implementation
strategy for Denton Plan 2030 is subsequent small
area planning to address issues specific to certain
areas of the city, including small area plans for
the Neighborhood/ University and Downtown
Compatibility Areas, neighborhoods, and for
designated centers and corridors. Because of the
potential number of small areas plans, with limited
resources the city must be selective in setting
priorities for the conduct of small area plans. The
following factors shall be considered in setting small
area planning priorities:
• A major development opportunity and/or imminent change in land use.
• An area experiencing land use change, deterioration or abandonment.
• Expressed community interest.
• Partnership / funding opportunity (university, developer, property owners).
• Need to plan for the introduction of specific desired uses (mixed-uses, technology/business innovation, senior housing, etc.).
S m a l l A r e a P l a n n i n g G u i d e l i n e s While comprehensive plans provide broad goals,
policies and strategies applicable at the scale of
the community, city and region, they are limited
in their ability to address the finer grain planning
and development issues at the scale of individual
neighborhoods, districts, centers and corridors.
Consequently, the Land Use Element, and
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corresponding policies in the Community Character
and Urban Design and Housing and Neighborhood
Elements, calls for the development of Small
Area Plans to address site-specific development
issues in areas presenting unique challenges and
opportunities. While the approach to conducting
small area planning must flexibly be adjusted to
reflect particular local circumstances, the following
offers baseline guidance and a procedures
for prioritizing the need for, developing and
implementing such plans.
Purpose of a Small Area Plan
• To respond to a localized challenge or opportunity (land use obsolescence, neighborhood impacts from adjacent uses, redevelopment opportunities, community character enhancement, etc.).
• To provide an opportunity for community members and stakeholders to provide input, create a shared vision, and influence city land use and development policy.
• To apply comprehensive plan principles to the specific circumstances of small areas.
• To create public support for implementation actions (zoning changes, capital improvements, etc.).
S m a l l A r e a P l a n n i n g P r o c e s s The following provides an conceptual template of
a process to develop a Small Area Plan as well as a
“menu” of topics and contents that may be included.
Step One – Plan Initiation and
Mobilization
a. Identify plan development parameters (purpose, study area boundaries, stakeholders, timeframe, etc.)
b. Identify key issues to be addressed (land use,
redevelopment, traffic, aesthetics, etc.)
c. Prepare Work Plan - Identify resources required (staff time, data, mapping, consultants, etc.)
d. Retain consultants, if required
e. Appoint Technical Committee (key staff from Planning and Development and other city departments).
f. Establish Stakeholder Steering Committee and/or Focus Group (area residents, businesses, property owners, institutions, neighborhood associations, development interests, etc.)
g. Create Public Involvement Plan (community forums, website, notification protocols, email lists, etc.)
Step Two – Vision / Existing Conditions
Documentation
a. Vision Forum
Conduct one or more public forums to solicit
stakeholder input concerning current issues and
problems and aspirations for future development
and enhancement within the small area. Identify
areas of consensus to articulate a Vision and
Statement of Purpose for the Small Area Plan.
b. Existing Conditions Documentation
The contents of the existing conditions
documentation may include mapping and analyses
of some, or all, of the following, particular to the
small area identified.
• Overall
* Strengths / Weaknesses / Opportunities / Challenges
* Development / redevelopment opportunity sites
* Project Goals and Objectives
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030
• Land Use and Development
* Existing land use
* Land use change
* Vacant land
* Building and property condition
* Adjacent use impacts
• Community Character
* Historic / architectural character
* Landscape character
* Urban design (scale, neighborhoods edges,
landmarks, etc.)
• Socio-Economic Issues
* Population / demographics
* Market demand
* Property tax base
• Traffic and Mobility
* Vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle circulation
* Hazards
• Infrastructure
* Potable water, sewer, stormwater system condition
and capacity
• Public Facilities and Services
* Parks and recreation
* Schools
* Emergency Services
* Special use facilities (daycare, senior centers,
health centers, etc.)
Step Three – Plan Development
a. Concept Development
Consultants, technical committee, and steering
committee / focus groups develop and depict
alternative concepts for some or all of the following:
* Land use
* Character enhancement
* Traffic and mobility
* Infrastructure
* Public facilities and Services
* Economic development
b. Concept Review Forum
Conduct one or more public forums to solicit
stakeholder input concerning alternative concepts
and identify areas of consensus.
c. City Council / Planning and Zoning Commission Review
Review alternative concepts and forum input with
City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission.
d. Plan Preparation
Consultants, technical committee, and steering
committee / focus groups prepare draft Small Area Plan.
Step Four – Plan Review and Adoption
a. Small Area Plan Review Forum
Conduct one or more public forums to solicit
stakeholder input concerning draft Small Area Plan.
b. City Council / Planning and Zoning Commission Review
Review Draft Small Area Plan and forum input with
City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission.
c. Final Small Area Plan
Prepare Final Small Area Plan based on direction
from City Council and Planning and Zoning
Commission.
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10
the fabric of traditional neighborhoods, is generally
well understood, the term “mixed-use” has two very
different connotations. The concept of mixed-use
as it applies to districts such as Downtown Denton,
where there are hundreds of properties under
separate ownership, means that a “mix of uses”
is permitted on individual sites, such as offices,
shops, restaurants, and high density residential that,
although developed separately, together comprise a
mixed-use district. Another connotation of mixed-
use is a “mixed-use development,” meaning a large
development under single ownership developed
with multiple complementary uses. Mixed-use
developments can be one of two configurations:
vertical mixed-use consists of multi-story structures
in urban centers, typically with ground floor retail
use and with either residential apartments or offices
on upper floors. Horizontal mixed-use simply means
a mixture of complimentary uses on adjoining sites
Step Five - Plan Implementation
Land use components of Small Area Plans will be
implemented in one of two ways; zoning overlay
districts or new zoning districts.
a. Zoning Overlay Districts
Where the future land uses identified in a Small
Area Plan are consistent with uses permitted within
existing zoning districts, Zoning Overlay Districts
are the preferred method of adjusting development
standards and use provisions. For example, in
formerly single use districts, such as highway
commercial and residential areas where these will
remain the predominant uses, zoning overlays
can be used to introduce a mixed-use pattern.
Specifically the overlay districts would specify
what complimentary land uses not permitted in the
underlying zoning districts would be allowed either
as permitted or conditional uses. Likewise, zoning
overlays can modify the development standards
in the underlying zoning districts, such as relaxing
parking requirements in areas converting to mixed-
use, or providing bonus densities to promote the
introduction of affordable housing and mixed-use.
b. New Zoning Districts
In cases where a Small Area Plan calls for a change
in a predominant existing land use, for example,
the redevelopment of older industrial areas for
commercial or mixed-use, entirely new zoning
districts should be created to provide for a new
set of permitted uses and applicable development
standards.
M i x e d - u s e D e v e l o p m e n t G u i d e l i n e s While the concept of mixed-use, that is,
complimentary uses such as “corner stores” as well
as schools, parks and places of worship woven into
The purpose of describing principles and standards is not in any way to limit innovative design, but instead to provide a basic framework to communities thinking about encouraging mixed-use and to applicants who specifically request this type of guidance. Guidelines should always be viewed as flexible and open to interpretation. They are intended to foster fresh and creative solutions. No list of principles and standards provides
the right guidance in every situation.
~ Envision Central Texas – Mixed-use Matters (2008)
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030
definition of specific mixed-uses appropriate for
various areas of the city, as well as development
standards such as parking requirements, which
are not well adapted to accommodate mixed-use
development. In the spirit of this call for flexibility in
providing for mixed-use development, the following
parameters are offered as general guidelines for
large scale mixed-use development to prevent large
single use developments from interrupting the use
synergies intended for the seven mixed-use districts
identified in the Land Use Element. Implementation
of the mixed-use land use designations can be
in the form of new mixed-use zoning districts, or
overlay districts to modify development standards
applicable to existing zoning districts. For each
mixed-use designation, shown in Table 10.1, one
or more permitted primary uses are identified
within a well-connected and walkable development
pattern.
While mixed-use is generally to be encouraged due
to inherent land use efficiencies, reduced parking
demands and greater walkability, the actual “mix”
which is achievable depends upon multiple factors
related to site context and market demand. Some
communities have attempted to mandate mixed-use,
for example, requiring that retail cover the entire
ground floor of multi-story building. Although well
intentioned, vacant storefronts are often the result,
where residential and offices uses above do not
support the amount of required retail development.
While the existing DDC makes provisions for mixed-
use there remain certain impediments to achieving
mixed-use development, including the lack of
T a b l e 1 0 . 1 : M i x e d - u s e D e v e l o p m e n t P o t e n t i a l L a n d U s e M i x R a t i o s
M i x e d - u s e D i s t r i c t A c r e s P r i m a r y U s e s C o m p l i m e n t a r y
U s e s M i n .
R a t i o
Downtown 3 acres
(or city block)
Residential Commercial 20%
Office Commercial 20%
Commercial Residential / Office 10%
Downtown Compatibility Area
3 acres (or city block)
Residential Commercial 10%
Office Commercial 10%
Commercial Office/ Residential 10%
Regional Mixed-use 20 acres
Residential Commercial 10%
Office Commercial 10%
Commercial Office/ Residential 10% Institutional Office/Commercial 10%
Community Mixed-use 10 acres Commercial Residential / Office 15%
Neighborhood Mixed-use 5 acres Residential Office/Commercial 10%
Business Innovation 20 acres Office/ Light Industrial Commercial / Residential
10%
Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Area
3 acres (or city block)
Residential Commercial 10% Office Commercial 10% Commercial Office/ Residential 10%
Source: WRT, 2014
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10
along with permitted complimentary uses and the
minimum ratio of such uses to primary uses based
on development square footage. For example, a
primarily-residential development of 3 acres or
3 city blocks in Downtown would ideally include
a minimum of 20 percent of developable square
footage as commercial uses.
A c t i o n P l a n The Denton 2030 Action Plan, contained in Table 10.2,
synthesizes the recommended actions to implement
Denton Plan 2030 according to timeframe and
relative priority. Six general types of actions and
potential implementation tools are included, defined
as follows:
• Planning: Actions that involve additional planning or study to address specific issues. An example of this are the Small Area Plans, as recommended for compatibility areas and for centers and corridors, as well as studies such as the recommended Gas Well and Pipeline Impact and Compatibility Study and Urban Design Plan.
• Regulation: Actions that involve development of new regulations and revisions to the Denton Development Code to include tools such as overlay districts, new zoning districts, density bonus provisions, etc.
• Program: Actions involving a series of steps to be carried out to accomplish an objective.
• Capital: Actions that involve investments through the city’s Capital Improvement Program, as well as potential funding mechanisms, including Tax Investment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZs) and Public Improvement Districts (PIDs)
• Outreach: Actions involving outreach to the public and residents.
• Partnerships: These include actions that involve coordination or collaboration with one or
more entities to implement the action, such as coordination with UNT and TWU in conducting small area planning for the Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Areas.
The actions are organized according to each Element
of Denton Plan 2030. Reference to relevant actions
from other Elements are provided for each action.
The actions are assigned to one of four timeframes,
established to prioritize and organize the actions
of Denton Plan 2030 into manageable and realistic
groupings for implementation.
• Short-term: These are actions that should be addressed within three (3) years of Plan adoption.
• Mid-term: These are actions that should be addressed within a range of 3-5 years from Plan adoption.
• Long-term: This includes actions designated to be carried out beyond five (5) or more years from adoption.
• Ongoing: These actions are currently being addressed, or should be addressed on a continuing basis.
The Action Plan is not intended to be definitive
prescription, or a rigid formula. It is suggested as
a framework to guide decision-making and the
allocation of resources; a “task list” to ensure steady
progress in implementing Denton Plan 2030. The
Action Plan does not preclude certain actions from
being implemented earlier or later than indicated,
subject to the availability of resources. However,
the degree of success in implementing the Plan
will reflect Denton’s ability to consistently act in
accordance with the Action Plan.
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n
Key Action Referenced Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
Land Use
1
Using parcel level data, track land use changes associated with development and redevelopment and revise Existing Land Use Map no less than annually.
2.1.1 Planning Short Planning & Development
2
Revise zoning districts, and procedures for re- zoning decisions to require consistency with the FLUM. Use the FLUM as the guide to all future development, as an extension of the Preferred Growth Concept. Identify procedures to streamline and reduce time in the approval process for developments demonstrated to be consistent with the FLUM and the policies herein. Reference the Denton Plan 2030 Fiscal Impact Analysis (FIA) to demonstrate the fiscal impacts of development as prescribed by the Preferred Growth Concept.
2.2.1; 2.2.2; 2.2.3; 2.17.3; 3.1.1; 3.2.1; 3.11.1; 7.8.1
Regulation Short Planning & Development
3
Create additional mixed use zoning districts and/or zoning overlay districts to achieve consistency with the mixed use land categories on the FLUM.
2.3.1; 3.11.1; 3.12.1; 4.2.6; 6.3.1; 7.8.6; 8.3.1
Regulation Short Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Commission, Historic Landmark Commission
4
Revise the Denton Development Code and related development standards consistent with the mixed use land use designations on the FLUM.
2.1.1; 2.2.1; 2.2.2; 2.3.1; 2.3.2
Regulation Short, Mid Planning & Development
5
Update the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to prioritize the implementation of the Denton Plan 2030, the Mobility Plan, and the Parks, Recreation, and Trail System Master Plan, consistent with the preferred development pattern, green infrastructure priorities, and context sensitive street design. Engage the Bond Committee in the annual CIP update process.
2.4.1; 2.4.2; 2.8.3; 3.9.4; 3.9.3; 3.9.5; 3.9.6; 3.9.7; 3.9.9; 4.2.8; 5.1.4; 6.1.3; 9.10.2; 9.11.7
Capital/ Program Short, On-going
Engineering, Planning & Development, Parks & Recreation, and Environmental Services
Mobility Committee, Parks Board
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
6
Jointly create procedures for communication and coordinated planning with the following entities, including coordinated standards for roads, infrastructure, ecosystem protection, gauging regional impacts, and historic preservation standards: • Denton Independent
School District (DISD) concerning school siting and impact review
• Denton County • Denton County
Transportation Authority (DCTA)
• Utility providers • Surrounding municipalities • North Central Texas Council
of Governments (NCTCOG)
2.5.1; 2.15.1; 2.15.2; 4.11.9; 5.6.7
Partnership Mid All Departments DISD, Denton County, DCTA, Utility providers, Municipalities, and NCTCOG
7
Revise and update the Downtown Implementation Plan (DTIP) to target residential development.
2.6.1; 7.1.1 Planning Short Planning & Development and Economic Development
Denton Main Street Association and Economic Development Partnership Board, Downtown Task Force
8
Create a Downtown Compatibility Area Small Area Plan that will identify the character and regulations of the Downtown Compatibility Area Future Land Use designation, to include development standards, etc.
2.6.2; 2.6.6; 4.3.3; 7.1.2; 4.12.2
Planning Mid Planning & Development and Economic development
Downtown Mainstreet Association, Economic Development Partnership Board, Downtown Task Force
9
Coordinate the revised DTIP and Downtown and University Compatibility Area Small Area Plans to address common issues such as preservation of historic structure and features that are shared throughout the urban core.
2.6.3 Planning Short Planning & Development and Economic development
Downtown Mainstreet Association, Economic Development Partnership Board, Downtown Task Force, Historic Landmark Commission
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
10
Consider creation of a new entity(ies) to promote, market and develop Downtown Denton, as identified in the DTIP, such as: • Business Improvement
District (BID) • Downtown Development
Corporation • Downtown Parking
Management Authority
2.6.5, 3.10.2; 4.4.3
Planning Short Economic Development and Planning & Development
Downtown Mainstreet Association, Economic Development Partnership Board, Downtown Task Force
11
Create Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Area Small Area Plans with UNT and TWU, including development standards for urban design, streetscape, scale, and architectural character and coordinate them with the Downtown Compatibility Small Area Plan and the updated DTIP. Coordinate with historic resource preservation programs and encourage more community interaction with the universities and the City by linking physical access between these institutions and public property.
2.7.1; 2.7.3; 2.20.7; 4.3.5; 4.3.9; 4.12.2; 4.14.3; 5.2.7; 7.1.4
Planning Mid Planning & Development and Economic Development
UNT, TWU, Historic Landmark Commission
12
Establish agreements for joint city – university planning within the Neighborhood/ University Compatibility Area, focusing on issues such as: • Creation of redevelopment
target areas surrounding blighted properties
• Regulation of on-street and off street parking
• Pedestrian and bicycle facility improvement
• Hazard mitigation • Housing • Wayfinding • Historic Preservation
2.7.2; 7.1.5 Partnership Mid Planning & Development
UNT, TWU, Historic Landmark Commission
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
Key Action Referenced Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
13
Create Small Area Plans for priority corridors and centers and existing character areas consistent with the Focus Areas Concept. Engage the community in the creation of these plans. Consider developing Small Area Plans around existing and future DCTA rail stations.
2.8.1; 2.17.2; 4.12.1; 4.12.3; 7.1.6; 6.18.2
Planning Mid Planning & Development and Economic Development
DCTA
14
Create a prioritization of centers, corridors, and other focus areas in order to streamline and direct the process of creating of Small Area Plans.
4.12.4 Planning Mid Planning & Development
DCTA
15
Establish Overlay Districts or new zoning districts as a result of Small Area Plans that apply revised development standards tailored to specific corridors and centers.
2.8.2; 4.12.5; 7.1.7;
Regulation Long Planning & Development
16
Through the city’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), prioritize investments in designated corridors and centers based on mobility recommendations and street standards.
2.8.3; 6.1.2 Regulation On-going Transportation and Planning & Development
Mobility Committee
17
Conduct an inventory to identify areas of infill potential within established neighborhoods.
2.9.1 Planning Short Planning & Development
18
Establish criteria to identify the characteristics of compatible infill development and identify and remove impediments.
2.9.2; 2.9.3; 7.8.3; 7.8.4
Planning / Regulation
Short Planning & Development and Environmental Services
19
Revise zoning districts in the Denton Development Code for consistency with Future Land Use categories and to apply new development standards to ensure proper transitions and buffers between conflicting land use, scale and intensities, and improve development quality of commercial and employment areas.
2.2.2; 2.9.4; 2.10.2; 3.3.6; 4.6.3; 2.16.1; 7.8.5; 7.8.6
Planning / Regulation
Short Planning & Development
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
20
Create an inventory of underutilized and abandoned “big box” retail structures as potential adaptive reuse, infill, and redevelopment sites.
2.10.1 Planning Long Planning & Development
21
Establish a process to facilitate revisions to the land use mix and design of approved and future Master Planned Communities (MPCs) including: • Design that furthers the
goals and policies of Denton Plan 2030 and the Preferred Growth Concept
• A mix of housing types to reflect changing demographics and housing preferences
• Appropriate siting of schools, civic buildings and community amenities
• Adjacency to existing transportation infrastructure systems
• Conservation development where appropriate
• Incorporation of compact, mixed use, and walkable development patterns
• The integration of area- wide trails, greenways, and green infrastructure elements
• Developable acreage that is in balance of overall development of the city.
• Improved architectural and neighborhood design features.
• Open space provision
Use Small Area Plans to assess appropriate redesign of approved MPCs.
2.11.1; 2.11.3; 5.6.4; 7.6.1
Planning/ Regulation
Long Planning & Development and Environmental Services
22
Consider adoption of an Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance to complement existing tools for growth management.
2.11.2, 3.8.1; 5.4.13
Regulation Mid Water, Wastewater, and Engineering and Planning & Development
Public Utilities Board
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
23
Revise the City’s Annexation Plan and associated policies to reflect the sufficiency of undeveloped land within the present city limits, the need for a contiguous development pattern at the edge and an assessment of the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the provision of city infrastructure and services in various portions of the ETJ. Base future annexations on considerations of fiscal impact.
2.12.1; 2.12.2; 3.10.1, 5.4.12
Planning Mid Planning & Development, Economic Development, Water, Wastewater, and DME
24
Address how drilling and production sites should be identified by size and location, and how to maintain relevant and associated data to address impacts and compatibility. Prepare a Gas Well and Pipeline Impact and Compatibility Study, to address issues such as the impacts of gas well drilling and production on surface development costs and on roads and traffic patterns, the future effects of such activities on the Mobility Plan, and fiscal and economic impacts of gas well development. Prepare an Energy Exploration Master Plan to establish a long-term vision for energy exploration in Denton.
2.5.2; 2.13.2; 2.13.3; 2.13.4; 2.13.5; 6.1.9; 8.4.3; 8.5.3
Planning Short Gas Well Division, Planning & Development, and Legal
25
Consider revisions to Denton’s codes and ordinances as they pertain to gas well development.
2.13.1 Regulation Short Gas Well Division, Planning & Development, and Legal
26
Promote conservation (clustered) development in rural areas, with permanently protected open space in conservation easements, as an alternative to large lot development.
2.14.1; 5.4.8 Regulation Short Planning & Development
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
27
Revise Rural Residential and Rural Commercial zoning districts to provide specific guidelines for conservation development including density and/or lot size incentive for open space protection, and guidelines for transfers of ownership and management of protected open space.
2.14.2; 7.6.2; 2.13.2; 2.18.1; 4.9.1; 7.6.2; 7.6.3
Regulation Short Planning & Development
28
Continue to control growth in the ETJ by requiring City of Denton approval of subdivision plats and all related permits in its ETJ through the established interlocal agreement with Denton County, to ensure growth is consistent with Preferred Growth Concept.
2.16.1; 2.16.2 Regulation On-going Planning & Development
Denton County
29
Discourage the establishment of municipal utility districts in Denton’s ETJ without appropriate development review.
2.16.3 Regulation On-going Planning & Development
Denton County
30
Coordinate with surrounding municipalities as part of the approval process for development proposals in Denton’s ETJ where the proposed development is in close proximity or shares a boundary with said municipality.
2.16.4 Partnership On-going Planning & Development
Surrounding Municipalities
31
Establish new residential, mixed-use, and non-resi- dential land use categories consistent with the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) with corresponding character guidelines for each. Refer- ence the Denton Plan 2030 Fiscal Impact Analysis (FIA) to direct a development pattern that is at least fiscally neutral.
2.17.1; 2.19.1- 5; 2.20.1-7; 2.21.1-4; 3.12.1; 4.9.1- 10; 4.11.5
Regulation Short Planning & Development
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
Fiscal & Economic Vitality
32
Partner and collaborate with developers to provide sufficient workforce housing to meet market demands and diversify housing choices and increase stock of owner- occupied small residential units.
3.1.2; 3.12.2 Partnership On-going Economic Development and Planning & Development
33
Incentivize the development or redevelopment of mixed use projects that provide flexible space for commercial, office, and residential use.
3.1.3 Regulation Short Planning & Development and Economic Development
34
Develop a strategy for evaluating zoning and comprehensive plan amendments for long-term fiscal impacts.
3.1.4 Program Mid Planning & Development and Economic Development
35
Conduct a market feasibility study to identify target industries. Work with the Chambers of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureaus to increase Denton’s visibility among identified target industry employers and their trade organizations.
3.3.1; 3.3.2 Planning / Partnership
Short - Mid Economic Development
Denton Economic Development Partnership Board, Chambers of Commerce, and Convention and Visitors Bureau
36
Build partnerships between industry, local K-12, and post-secondary institutions (specifically TWU and UNT) to design training programs to provide the workforce for the identified target industry employers and entrepreneurs, including Denton Enterprise Airport.
3.3.3; 3.4.2; 4.5.1; 7.12.3
Partnership Short, On-going
Economic Development and Airport
School Districts, UNT, TWU, NCTC, and Major Employers
37
Actively recruit new business to the Denton Enterprise Airport, ECO-W.E.R.C.S, and UNT’s Discovery Park.
3.3.4 Partnership Short, On-going
Economic Development and Airport
UNT, TWU, and NCTC
38
Develop public private partnerships to ensure adequate space for the growth of small businesses, entrepreneurs, and spin-off local businesses of the target industries’ larger employers.
3.3.5 Partnership Short, On-going
Economic Development
Economic Development Partnership Board
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
39
Identify development design standards for greenfield and infill development to streamline the development review process for future applicants.
3.3.6 Program Short Planning & Development, Engineering, Water, Wastewater, and DME
40
Recruit highly skilled talent and high-growth businesses to grow as a high-tech hub.
3.4.3 Outreach Short, On-going
Economic Development
Major Employers, Economic Development Partnership Board
41
Partner and collaborate with School Districts, UNT, North Central Texas College (NCTC), and TWU to connect employer needs with degrees and programming.
3.4.4 Partnership On-going Economic Development
School Districts, UNT, TWU, and NCTC
42
Market, promote, and support the diversity of industry presence in Denton and the opportunity for industry cluster growth.
3.5.2 Outreach On-going Economic Development
Economic Development Partnership Board
43
Market, promote, and sup- port the Arts, Music, and Recreation industry.
3.5.3; 4.7.1; 4.8.5; 5.4.5
Outreach On-going Economic Development
Economic Development Partnership Board
44
Develop and implement a strategy to centralize and coordinate (not standardize) communication and market- ing efforts among all City departments and entities.
3.5.5 Program Short Public Communications
45
Identify different communica- tion and marketing efforts among all City departments and entities and determine how they relate to each other.
3.5.6 Program On-going Public Communications
46
Actively promote historic preservation as a means to increase economic, cultural, and educational diversity.
3.6.2 Program On-going Economic Development and Planning & Development
Economic Development Partnership Board, Historic Landmark Commission
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
47
Charges for services and other city revenues will be examined annually during the budget process and adjusted as deemed necessary by the governing body to respond to cost increases or any other changing circumstances. The City’s revenue and expendi- ture balance will be evaluated annually during the budget process in consideration of the level of services required for the implementation of policies, actions, and priori- ties in the Denton Plan 2030.
3.7.1, 3.7.2 Planning Short Finance
48
Encourage more dense development where water/ sewer infrastructure has existing excess capacity, and define what level of development can be served by septic and well infrastructure. Evaluate existing levels of service for all capital infrastructure to identify existing deficiencies and excess capacities.
3.8.5; 3.9.1; 3.11.2; 9.7.1
Planning On-going Water, Wastewater, Engineering and Planning & Development
49
Explore the feasibility of establishing or revising impact fees for necessary public services including roads, public safety, parks and recreation, libraries, and general government.
3.9.8; 3.15.2
Regulation Short – Mid, Ongoing
All Departments
50
Establish procedures to conduct fiscal impact analyses to evaluate the potential short and long-term impacts of future annexations and other land use decisions.
3.10.1 Program Long Planning & Development
51
Conduct fiscal impact analyses to ensure the fiscal benefit or neutrality of future tax abatement agreements and special districts.
3.10.2; 2.6.5 Planning Short, On-going Economic Development
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
52
Use the benefits of economic incentives to direct continued investments at the Denton Enterprise Airport and surrounding industrial district.
3.10.4 Planning Mid - Long Economic Development and Airport
Airport Advisory Board
53
Ensure maximum efficiencies of all public facilities to minimize the use of land by non-revenue generating development
3.13.1; 7.12 Regulation On-going All Departments
Community Character
54
Continue updating the Historic Resources Survey to identify potentially historic resources for possible zoning protection.
4.1.1 Planning Short Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
55
Identify and recommend ar- eas within the city limits that qualify for historic districts and conservation districts based on distinctive charac- ter, scale and overriding, in- tact, architectural character. Historic districts will receive appropriate zoning classifica- tion in order to enforce and ensure preservation of struc- tures within the district.
4.1.2; 4.1.3 Planning Mid Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
56
Update the Historic Pres- ervation Plan for Denton to identify those buildings and neighborhoods that should receive local protection and state and national recogni- tion within the next twenty years.
4.1.4 Planning Mid Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
57
Work with community and neighborhood groups to identify areas that have sig- nificant community support for the formation of historic and conservation districts, or strong identification of neigh- borhood character to aid in development of Small Area Plans or local protection.
4.1.5 Outreach On-going Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
58
Prepare a Citywide Branding and Placemaking Strategy that welcomes visitors, identifies historic landmarks, gateways and links together existing character areas through a wayfinding program by using a combination of environmental graphics, print materials, and web-based information. Coordinate with mobility planning so that motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit users may easily locate destinations throughout Denton. Engage the community through a public involvement process in the creation of the plan.
3.5.1; 4.2.1; 4.2.2; 4.2.3; 4.9.2; 6.1.10, 6.9.5, 6.10.5; 6.11.5, 6.13.5; 6.19.1; 6.20.1
Planning Short Planning & Development, Public Communications and Economic Development
DCTA, TxDOT, Denton County, UNT, TWU, Mobility Committee, Parks Board
59
Establish guidelines for gateways as part of future development to highlight community points of entry and promote the Denton brand and its quality of life.
4.2.7 Planning Long Planning & Development
60
Create a mechanism for community members to present new ideas for celebrating Denton’s sense of place or developing new community-driven projects by providing a streamlined and transparent process to propose projects to the City.
4.2.8 Program On-going Planning & Development
City Administration
61
Implement recommendations for historic landmark, historic district, and conservation districts per updated historic resources survey to ensure consistent protection.
4.3.1 Planning Mid Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
62
Encourage voluntary landmark designation as a vehicle to protect sites with historical significance.
4.3.2 Program On-going Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
63
Work with private landowners with historic sites onsite to ensure public access to and preservation of site according to applicable standards.
4.3.6 Program On-going Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
64
Establish partnership among private interests to support historic preservation in Denton.
4.3.7 Program On-going Planning & Development
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
65
Encourage adaptive reuse of historic structures to ensure their long-term preservation while allowing for repurposing and economic diversity.
4.3.8 Program On-going Planning & Development
Economic Development Partnership Board, Historic Landmark Commission
66
Consider creation of a local program in which property owners of designated individual sites or sites within historic or conservation districts may receive an incentive in the form of a fifty percent exemption from city taxes for fifteen years. The Historic Landmark Commission would oversee the program.
4.4.1 Program Mid Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
67
Continue to coordinate with the DMSA to provide enable funding of district- wide improvements and incentives, such as façade improvement grants, to encourage preservation.
4.4.2 Partnership On-going Economic Development
DMSA, Economic Development Partnership Board, Historic Landmark Commission
68
Update the Property Maintenance Code every three to five years and include policies for the upkeep of collection receptacles and areas.
4.5.1; 9.16.6 Planning Mid Community Improvement Services
69 Support the maintenance of areas having historical or cultural significance.
4.5.2 Program On-going Community Improvement Services
70
Continue an anti-graffiti program to be administered by the City. Perform graffiti removal on private property within 15 days of receiving a complaint or becoming aware of graffiti vandalism.
4.5.3 Program Short, On-going Community Improvement Services and Economic Development
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
71
Encourage the use of public art to highlight neighborhood identity in Denton’s existing and future neighborhoods through a Public Art Master Plan for Denton. Integrate public art into the planning and design for city and county-owned public facilities, including schools, parks and trails, other publicly-funded projects and projects on city-owned land. Work with DCTA to install public art at transit facilities, and at community gateways. Engage the community through a public involvement process to identify locations and designs for public art. Evaluate opportunities for public art to be included as part of I-35 expansion and potential highway underpasses and overpasses.
4.6.1; 4.6.2; 4.6.4; 4.6.6; 4.6.7; 6.19.1; 7.11.3;7.14.3
Planning Mid, On-going
Parks & Recreation, Planning & Development and Transportation
Public Art Committee, TxDOT, DCTA, Denton County, School Districts
72
Identify opportunities to incorporate venues for arts and music events in future development, including Downtown and in Regional Centers. Study opportunities for arts and music venues in vacant or underutilized sites adjacent to Downtown and the Downtown Denton Transit Center that can be supported by the A-Train.
4.7.1; 4.7.4 Planning Short, On-going
Economic Development and Planning & Development
Denton Main Street Association, DCTA, Downtown Task Force
73
Create a program to investigate the temporary re-use of vacant and/or underutilized parcels and building facades for art exhibitions and murals. Work with the public arts programs to formally demarcate arts and music venues and event locations through permanent or temporary public art and public realm improvements.
4.6.9; 4.7.5 Planning Mid Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development
Public Art Committee
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
74
Study the viability of an Arts and Entertainment Overlay District in Downtown Denton with relaxed regulations for hours, lighting, and design guidelines, sensitive to surrounding uses and consideration of a new zoning district. Designate a baseline percentage of ground-floor retail that should be occupied by arts and culture businesses within the Downtown or a future Arts and Entertainment Overlay District. Coordinate preservation regulations to be consistent.
4.3.4; 4.7.2; 4.7.3
Planning Short Planning & Development
Denton Main Street Association, Downtown Task Force
75
Study the use of tax incentives and subsidies to attract arts and music organizations and private investors.
4.7.6 Planning Mid, On-going
Economic Development
Economic Development Partnership Board
76
Create a Special Events Integrated Transportation Plan particularly for special events that studies opportunities for shared parking, transit, shuttles, and available parking facilities that encourages local and regional travel to events and venues in Denton, without overly burdening Denton’s facilities and highlighting use of alternative transportation modes.
4.7.8; 6.19.2; 6.20.2
Planning Mid Transportation and Engineering
DCTA, NCTCOG, TxDOT, and Convention Visitors Bureaus
77
Create a program to temporarily rent areas to display art, including but not limited to sculptures in City facilities, on City property, and in local businesses and developments, such as art is storefronts, and sculptures on loan.
4.7.9 Program Short, Ongoing Parks & Recreation and Economic Development
Public Art Committee
78
Identify opportunities to host performing arts events in publicly owned areas including parks, streets rights-of-way, and public buildings.
4.7.10 Planning Short, Ongoing Parks & Recreation and Economic Development
Parks Board
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
79
Partner with the Greater Denton Arts Council on programs related to promoting arts in the community.
4.8.1 Partnership On-going Economic Development
GDAC
80
Create a program for arts education through local schools and institutions that will lead to local job growth.
4.8.2 Partnership Mid Economic Development and Planning & Development
UNT, TWU, and School Districts
81
Conduct a study to understand the current and future economic development value of music and the visual and performing arts in Denton.
4.8.3; 3.6.3 Planning Long Economic Development
82
Promote the arts and music through regional Convention and Visitors Bureaus, Chambers of Commerce, the universities and schools, and local promotion groups to highlight Denton’s role in arts and music in the DFW Metroplex for both visitors and residents.
4.8.5 Outreach On-going Economic Development and Public Communications
Convention and Visitors Bureau, Chambers of Commerce, Regional Tourism Board, UNT, TWU, and School Districts
83
Encourage private support for the arts and music by reaching out to private sector organizations in Denton and the DFW Metroplex.
4.8.6 Outreach On-going Economic Development
Major Employers
84
Explore opportunities for donations and grants to assist art and music-related efforts in Denton.
4.8.7 Partnership Mid, On-going Economic Development
85
Partner and collaborate with UNT, TWU, and NCTC to coordinate art and music- related efforts.
4.8.8 Partnership Short, On-going Economic Development
UNT, TWU, and NCTC
86
Coordinate City departments, such as Police, Fire, and Parks and Recreation, to ensure appropriate and feasible in-kind donations of services are offered to facilitate the development of live events and their associated economic and fiscal impacts for the city.
4.8.9 Partnership On-going Economic Development
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
87
Promote preservation as a means to increase economic, cultural, and educational diversity within the community. Coordinate with the DMSA for promotion of heritage tourism.
3.6.3; 4.9.1; 4.9.4
Outreach/ Partnership
On-going Economic Development and Planning & Development
Downtown Mainstreet Association, Historic Landmark Commission
88
Incorporate historic elements into placemaking and community gathering spaces where landmarks exist. Partner and collaborate with local agencies and institutions to engage the community in education regarding the historic identity of Denton and the historic resources Denton has.
4.9.3; 4.9.5 Partnership Short Planning & Development
Denton County, UNT, TWU, NCTC, Historic Landmark Commission
89
Conduct a study of existing community gathering spaces and their use and suitability for various activities and events throughout Denton and highlight these through Discover Denton. Engage with residents in adjacent neighborhoods to provide input into the design and function of community gathering spaces.
4.10.2; 4.10.3 Planning Short Planning & Development and Economic Development
90
Include a zoning requirement to include public community gathering space within mixed use developments and centers. Establish regulations and procedures for the design, installation and maintenance of community gathering spaces as well as regulations for noise and time of use for privately-owned and operated community gathering spaces consistent with underlying and surrounding land use.
4.10.2; 2.3.1; 4.5.1
Regulation Short Planning and Development
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
91
Create design guidelines for the creation and redesign of community gathering spaces in Denton in new and existing centers. Ensure that gathering spaces are accessible and defensible through ADA compliant design and using Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. Ensure that provision of shade, water fountains, appropriate lighting, and trash receptacles are provided in community gathering spaces where feasible.
4.10.4; 4.10.5; 4.11.1; 8.5.4
Regulation Short Planning & Development
92
Coordinate with programming for mobile food vendors to enliven community gathering places for special events.
4.10.6 Regulation Short, On-going
Economic Development and Planning & Development
93
Prepare an Urban Design Plan for Denton that is consistent with the revised future land use designations and its ur- ban design goals, the Denton Development Code, and puts forward a citywide approach to visual quality and image and encourages new develop- ment to create pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly places. Revise the Denton Develop- ment Code to ensure that private development plans adhere to citywide urban design policies and that the development review process is streamlined.
2.18.3; 2.17.3; 4.11.1; 4.11.2; 6.15.1
Planning Short Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Com- mission
94
Include urban design review early in the development review process. Ensure that City government will exert a leadership role in ensuring adherence to the principles of good urban design as es- sential for economic develop- ment.
4.11.3 Regulation Short, On-going All Departments
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
95
Provide a mechanism for coordination between the Parks, Recreation and Trails Master Plan, revised Mobility Plan, Urban Design Plan, and small area plans to ensure that the design of the public realm creates a cohesive network of public spaces in Denton. Ensure that new development addresses established pedestrian and bicycle networks and provides for additional connectivity to further foster pedestrian and bicycle mobility throughout Denton.
4.14.1; 4.14.2 Partnership Mid, On-going
Transportation, Planning & Development, Economic Development, and Parks & Recreation
96
Ensure that trees and landscaping are included in all roadway standards and site design criteria to recognize their aesthetic and environmental contribution to the city and preservation of the tree canopy.
4.13.4 Regulation On-going Planning & Development, Engineering, and Parks & Recreation
97
Ensure that the Urban Design Principles of the Denton Plan 2030 are used to evaluate all future development projects in Denton. Update the DDC and corresponding Site Design Criteria Manual to include Urban Design Principles. Incorporate Urban Design Principles into all future plans related to urban design, including the Urban Design Plan and Small Area Plans.
4.15.1; 4.15.2; 4.15.3
Regulation Short Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Com- mission
98
Include additional guidelines for specific land uses in addition to overarching Urban Design Principles to ensure desired community character is achieved with variations for use.
4.16.1- 4.16.10 Regulation Short Planning & Development
99
Establish design guidelines for Focus Areas to aid in design review for key intersections and destinations in Denton, with the intention of creating Small Area Plans and corresponding Overlay Districts.
4.17.1- 4.17.3 Regulation Long Planning & Development
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
Parks, Conservation and Environment
100
Implement the vision for a park, open space, and trail system in which mobility to, from, between, and within the system is readily apparent and aligned with natural resources in the city and is linked regionally.
5.1.1 Planning On-going Parks & Recreation
Parks Board
101
Update the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan at least once every five years to implement this vision. Align park terminology and recommended acreage standards with national terms and best practices. Periodically survey community preferences and needs regarding parks and recreation. Incorporate this information into revisions of the strategic plan, annual action plans, and updates of the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan. Include policies for agricultural production and green infrastructure. Develop, fund, and implement future Capital Improvement Programs consistent with the Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan.
5.1.2; 5.1.7; 5.1.6; 4.13.3; 7.9.1; 8.3.5
Planning Mid Parks & Recreation, Planning & Development and Environmental Services
Parks Board
102
Acquire and maintain sufficient land to keep pace with Denton’s park needs based on standards of updated Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan.
5.1.3 Regulation On-going Parks & Recreation
Parks Board
103
Create designs for new recreation and open space facilities that respond to the context of specific neighborhood, the needs of specific segments of the community, and utilize best practices in park design. Create master plans to implement design.
5.1.5 Planning Mid, On-going Parks & Recreation
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
104
Actively pursue the creation of mini-parks, pocket parks, urban open spaces, and urban gardens on vacant parcels or other types of unused, available land throughout the city.
5.1.8; 8.3.4 Planning On-going Parks & Recreation
Parks Board
105
Implement the updated Parks, Recreation and Trail System Master Plan to prioritize development of trails and greenway corridors throughout Denton. Update the plan every five years to identify further significant scenic, historical, and environmentally sensitive lands, and determine strategies to preserve them. Coordinate development of greenways and trails along the floodplain and tributaries to promote recreational and mobility goals.
5.2.1; 5.8.4 Planning On-going Parks & Recreation
106
Coordinate with North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) to achieve objectives of the regional transportation system in linking Denton with surrounding communities via a greenbelt system.
5.2.2; 2.15.1 Partnership Long Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development, and Transportation
NCTCOG
107
Develop parks and open space adjacent to residential areas, community facilities, commercial centers, and the universities to link areas together via green space, and creating opportunities for outdoor access, and physical activity. Partner with developers to secure parks and open space in all new residential and commercial centers to ensure adequate green space and multi- modal connections between developments.
5.2.3; 3.13.2; ; 3.14.2; 3.14.3
Partnership/ Regulation
On-going Parks & Recreation
Parks Board
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
108
Acquire land for park and open space dedication along drainage corridors and floodways through voluntary conservation easements, land trusts and parks to preserve environmentally sensitive lands, provide recreation opportunities, and promote stormwater management through green infrastructure.
2.13.3; 5.2.4; 9.11.2; 9.13.2
Regulation On-going Parks & Recreation, and Environmental Services
Parks Board
109
Research feasibility of creating revenue-generating parks and recreation features that can reduce the dependency on property tax revenue and generate profits to underwrite other recreation facilities and services.
5.3.2 Planning Mid Parks & Recreation
110
Coordinate with adjacent municipalities, DISD, and local institutions to explore opportunities for cooperative ventures in providing parks and open space and ecosystem protection, and to develop a regional, connected trail system.
5.3.3; 5.3.4 Partnership Mid, On-going Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development and Environmental Services
Surrounding municipalities, UNT, TWU, and School Districts
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
111
Further the ESA program to create an integrated system of publicly-owned natural areas that protect the integrity of important conservation sites, protect corridors between natural areas, and preserve outstanding examples of Denton’s diverse natural environments. Acquire and manage land and water to preserve, protect, and enhance important natural areas to contribute to a natural, healthy community and environment. Use the ESA framework as basis for guiding land use decisions and providing an equitable distribution of natural resources throughout the city. Encourage the preservation of floodplain and open space access as a community- wide recreational resource instead of singular ownership by one person or a single neighborhood. Coordinate with the city’s Watershed Protection Program and parks planning to further multi- purpose conservation goals and reducing sprawl.
5.2.5; 5.4.1; 5.4.2; 5.4.3; 5.4.4; 5.8.2; 5.8.6; 5.8.7
Planning / Regulation
Mid, Ongoing Environmental Services, Planning & Development and Parks & Recreation
112
Promote Denton’s natural resources as a distinguishing element for economic growth and community development through public relations materials and business attraction.
5.4.5; 3.5.3 Outreach On-going Environmental Services and Economic Development
Economic Development Partnership Board
113
Encourage environmental awareness, the ethical use of natural resources, and preservation of natural habitat through all development policies.
5.4.6 Program On-going Environmental Services and Public Communications
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
114
Require Environmental Sensitive Areas Assessments for development sites where areas of high ecological values (Environmentally Sensitive Areas) are proposed to be disturbed that will trigger appropriate management practices including any necessary mitigation actions.
5.4.7 Regulation Short, On-going Environmental Services
115
Work with State of Texas Department of Agriculture to conduct a survey of Prime Agricultural Land consistent with Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) standards to determine potential locations and value of agricultural land threatened by urban development within Denton city limits and the ETJ. Encourage use of conservation easements and land trusts to protect agricultural land and heritage rangelands based on FMMP criteria, State of Texas Department of Agriculture (i.e. Family Land Heritage Properties) listings, and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs.
5.4.9; 5.4.10; 2.14.2; 2.14.3
Planning, Program
Long Planning & Development, Parks & Recreation, and Environmental Services
State of Texas Department of Agriculture, Denton County
116
Make broader use of mitigation banks to facilitate market-based compensation to landowners that choose to help protect environmentally sensitive lands.
5.4.11 Regulation Mid Planning & Development and Environmental Services
117
Enhance clearing and grading requirements to minimize erosion, eliminate clear-cutting, reduce sedimentation, and reduce fugitive dust (airborne particles) in new construction of new development and infrastructure. Utilize guidance of LEED for New Construction for new construction.
5.4.13; 9.10.1 Regulation Short, Ongoing Environmental Services and Planning & Development
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
118
Incorporate strategies from Denton’s Sustainability Plan: Sustainable Denton (2012) including land conservation, water quality and watershed management, and air quality and greenhouse gas (GHG) management strategies.
5.4.14; 5.7.5; 5.8.8
Regulation, Program
On-going All Departments
119
Prepare an Urban Forestry Master Plan to identify important tree canopy resources and include specific strategies for protection and provision of a more robust tree canopy. Research and determine what the goal should be for percentage of tree canopy in Denton and establish regulations accordingly, taking into consideration the topography and habitats present and also Denton’s geographic location. Research and implement methods to view and quantify the value trees provide as infrastructure.
5.5.1; 5.5.2; 5.7.2; 5.7.6
Planning Mid Planning & Development, Parks & Recreation, and Keep Denton Beautiful
Planning and Zoning Commission
120
Conduct a study to understand the current and future economic development value of Denton’s urban tree canopy, and to determine best practices in urban tree management.
5.5.3 Planning Mid Planning & Development
121
Develop conservation and development priorities to be used by planners and decision makers to systematically identify, evaluate, and synthesize various environmental attributes and evaluate ecological values. Ensure that adequate open space is provided either on- or off-site as a provision for new developments on greenfield land.
5.5.1; 5.5.3 Planning, Program
Short, Ongoing Environmental Services and Parks & Recreation
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
122
Promote Denton’s commitment to sustainable community growth and community aesthetics/ appearance through continued participation with the organization Keep Denton Beautiful, in programs such as Tree City USA, Scenic City USA, and the Governors Community Achievement Award.
5.5.4 Program Ongoing All Departments Keep Denton Beautiful
123
Update the Tree Trusts section of the tree preservation ordinance with incentives for developers to preserve existing heritage trees located in development sites rather than remove or replace trees, or pay into the Tree Fund.
5.5.5 Regulation Short Planning & Development
124
Establish Tree Parks in which the City purchases lands identified to have significant amounts of heritage trees for long-term preservation.
5.5.6 Regulation Mid, Ongoing Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development
125
Develop a plan for conservation and preservation of the unique and endangered native Cross Timbers Forest region trees, Blackjack Oak and Post Oak, which are critical to the local wildlife and natural ecosystem of Denton.
5.6.1 Planning Ongoing Environmental Services
126
Develop conservation and development priorities to be used by planners and decision makers to systematically identify, evaluate, and synthesize various environmental attributes and evaluate ecological values. Update the criteria prepared through the 1999 Denton Plan to identify and prioritize habitats with emerging trends, current conditions, and new expertise to strengthen and continue use of this tool for open space protection.
5.6.2; 5.6.6 Planning Mid Environmental Services
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
127
Create a 10-year plan for acquiring and preserving open spaces that are considered to be of high value for ecological preservation and are not already under protection.
5.6.3 Planning Short Environmental Services, Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development
128
Expand the City’s public education programs to celebrate Denton’s ecosystems through physical interpretation, site management, conservation, sustainability, watershed protection, and urban forestry.
5.6.5 Outreach Ongoing Environmental Services, Public Communi- cations, Planning & Development, and Keep Denton Beautiful
School Districts
129
Continue to enforce and update the ESA regulations in order to manage important natural areas that preserve wildlife habitat and native landscapes, while providing opportunities for education, scientific research, nature interpretation, art, fishing, relaxation, wildlife observation, hiking, and other activities.
5.6.8 Regulation Ongoing Environmental Services
130
Explore and implement methods to mitigate any adverse effects of oil and gas drilling and production on air quality, such as requiring Vapor Recovery Systems.
5.7.7 Planning Short Gas Wells Division, and Planning & Development
131
Explore and implement requirements to improve air quality through private community actions, new development, and revitalization efforts.
5.7.8 Long Environmental Services and Planning & Development
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
132
Explore green building standards for new residential and commercial construction using Green Built™ Texas as a standard. Assign a staff person to oversee and streamline green building project design and commissions to increase feasibility and reduce project cost. In the absence of a Green Building Ordinance, encourage certification by Green Built™ Texas for construction of residential projects.
5.9.1; 5.9.2 Planning Short, Ongoing Building Inspections
Health and Building Standards Commission
133
Promote the establishment of green building service businesses locally in Denton that are hired to further green build goals in the city.
5.9.3 Outreach On-going Economic Development
134
Create guidelines and incentives for the use of Energy Star certified products in new construction and commercial and residential remodels.
5.9.4, 5.9.5 Planning On-going Building Inspections and Environmental Services
135
As part of Green Building ordinance, encourage the use of sustainable and locally-sourced materials in new construction and rehabilitation.
5.9.6 Planning On-going Building Inspections and Environmental Services
136
Encourage the use of durable materials in all construction that will last and not contribute to significant maintenance needs.
5.9.7 Planning On-going Planning & Development and Engineering
137
Require that all commercial buildings, including City buildings comply with standards for reduced energy consumption.
5.9.8 Regulation Short, On-going Environmental Services and DME
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
Mobility
138
Revise and implement the Denton Mobility Plan to be consistent with the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and Preferred Growth Concept. Revise the Denton Development Code and related development standards to be consistent with the updated Mobility Plan. Incorporate complete street policies and public realm design guidelines and streetscape standards consistent with Community Character goals, Context- Sensitive Streets, and the proposed Urban Design Plan.
2.4.1; 2.18.1; 3.8.2; 3.12.3; 4.11.1; 4.13.1; 6.1.1; 6.1.6; 6.3.2; 6.3.3; 6.6.1; 6.6.2; 6.12.1
Planning Short On-going
Transportation and Planning & Development
Mobility Committee
139
Partner and collaborate with projects that are major trip attractors to develop and implement innovative ways to manage congestion and incentivize best practices for peak management.
6.1.11 Partnership On-going Transportation DCTA
140
Incorporate complete streets guidelines into updated Mobility Plan following the guidance of NCTCOG and the NCTCOG Bicycle and Pedestrian Bicycle Advisory Committee (BPAC). Partner with developers to implement streetscape design features like minimal curb cuts, buffered on-street parking, larger sidewalks with bump- outs, and on-street striping of bicycle lanes and cross- walks, and bus pull-offs to create vibrant and safe development districts.
4.7.1; 2.15.1; 2.18.2; 6.13.1;3.14.2; 6.10.1, 6.13.3; 6.19.5; 8.3.3
Planning Short, Ongoing Transportation Mobility Committee, NCTCOG
141
Advocate for projects in the Mobility Plan to be included in the regional Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) both maintained by the North Central Texas Council of Government’s (NCTCOG).
6.1.4; 2.15.1 Partnership On-going Transportation Mobility Committee
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
142
Establish a protocol for all roads in Denton to comply with consistent standards that contribute to mobility goals regardless of whether roads are under control of and/or funded by the City, Denton County or TxDOT.
6.1.7 Partnership Mid Transportation Denton County, TxDOT
143
Coordinate local road expansion with TxDOT plans for the expansion of I-35E, I-35 and other TxDOT roadways.
6.1.8 Partnership Ongoing Transportation TxDOT
144
Update the Denton Development Code and Transportation Criteria Manual to include connectivity and parking standards for new development that are consistent with updated Mobility Plan and Community Character goals. Ensure new development is consistent with and preserves new roads and road improvements identified in the Mobility Plan. As part of the development review process, include a check of the Mobility Plan to ensure that adequate provisions for right- of-way and modal balance have been made. Pursue new opportunities to achieve new roadway connections as development opportunities arise and provide emergency access when designing new residential subdivisions. Update the Mobility Plan at least every five years.
6.1.1; 6.1.5; 6.2.1; 6.2.2; 6.2.3; 2.4.3; 4.7.1; 6.10.1; 6.14.1; 6.7.4
Regulation Short, Ongoing Transportation and Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Commission, Mobility Committee
145 Provide emergency access when designing new residential subdivisions.
6.2.3 Program On-going Fire and Transportation,
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
146
Establish multi-modal guidelines for all new development to increases the share of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit infrastructure over personal automobile infrastructure thereby reducing emissions. Encourage access to parks and recreation areas via non-motor vehicle travel in order to promote mobility and community health goals.
3.14.1; 4.8.2; 5.7.1; 6.13.1; 5.2.6; 8.3.1
Planning/ Regulation
Short, Ongoing Transportation, Engineering, Parks & Recreation, and Planning & Development
147
Use innovative and up- to-date research and methodology to estimate reductions in travel demand when evaluating projects that integrate transportation and land use.
6.3.4 Planning On-going Transportation and Planning & Development
148
Develop and adopt LOS standards for all roads in the city that are appropriate for the surrounding environment, including a review program to track and monitor LOS and system performance. Pursue the multi-modal LOS concept with future Mobility Plan updates.
6.4.1 – 6.4.3; 6.4.2
Planning/ Regulation
Mid Transportation Mobility Committee
149
Continue to utilize the City’s access management standards for collectors and arterials in the city that meet or exceed TxDOT’s standards. Develop access management plans for each of the City’s main corridors that are consistent with Small Area Plans, overlay districts and other land use plans.
6.5.1; 6.5.2; 6.15.3
Planning/ Regulation
Short, Ongoing Transportation TxDOT
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
150
Complete a road financing study that considers capital, maintenance, and operating costs of projects in the Mobility Plan and anticipated revenue streams from city, county, state, federal, and private sources for appropriate plan phases (e.g. ten year increments). Include the cost of regular road maintenance and rehabilitation in estimating the cost of building and widening roads. Develop strategies for new revenue sources and/or revise the Mobility Plan accordingly. Coordinate recommendations with the CIP.
6.7.2; 6.7.3 Planning Short Transportation and Engineering
Mobility Committee, Public Utilities Board
151
Update the Denton ITS Plan to reflect new technologies and to conform to the Regional ITS Architecture. Use the ITS Plan as a guiding document for the planning, programming, and deployment of ITS strategies in the city. Implement ITS strategies and current trends to improve the efficiency of transportation systems prior to making costly capacity improvements.
6.8.1; 6.8.2 Planning/ Regula- tion
Mid Transportation
152
Encourage major employers in the city, including universities, hospitals and others, to participate in TryParkingIt.com, the regional commuter program hosted by NCTCOG.
6.9.1; 2.15.1 Partnership/ Regulation
On-going Transportation, Planning & Development, and Economic Development
DCTA, NCTCOG and Major Employers
153
Create a TMA, separately or in partnership with NCTCOG, to coordinate all TDM efforts in the city and work with major employers and city staff to enforce. Provide incentives, such as reduced parking requirements, for employers who agree to participate in commuter programs.
6.9.2; 6.9.3; 3.12.3
Planning Mid Transportation NCTCOG and Major Employers
154
Continue to allow and encourage the use of pervious or semi-pervious materials in the construction of parking facilities to further stormwater management goals.
9.11.2; 6.10.2 Regulation On-going Planning & Development, Environmental Services and Engineering
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
155
Revise the Site Design Criteria Manual accordingly to ensure parking areas in private development are consistent with the Urban Design Plan and overall urban design policies in the Community Character Element.
4.6.1; 6.10.3 Regulation Short Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Commission
156
Encourage enactment of special parking requirements and dedicated parking areas for electric vehicles, car charging stations, and car sharing in the city.
6.10.4 Regulation Ongoing Planning & Development, Building Inspections, and DME
157
Participate in NCTCOG air quality forums to follow regional policies to minimize air pollution from Denton’s mobile sources and address air pollution on an airshed basis, including regional programs for alternative transportation. Update policies on reducing point- source emissions per TCEQ. Create a program to alert Denton residents when ozone levels are at potentially unhealthy levels, based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) monitored by NCTCOG.
6.11.1; 2.15.1; 5.7.3; 5.7.4; 8.3.7; 8.3.8
Regulation Short, On-going Environmental Services and Transportation
NCTCOG
158
Implement the city-wide anti-idling enforcement policy. Adopt the TCEQ idling limitations rule and sign a North Texas Memorandum of Agreement with TCEQ as part of an anti-idling enforcement policy. Create a partnership with DISD to reduce bus emissions through anti-idling enforcement and strategic route mapping.
6.11.2; 6.11.3; 6.11.4
Partnership/ Regulation
Short, Ongoing Environmental Services, Transportation, and Economic Development
School Districts
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
159
Ensure that truck routes identified in the Rail and Trucking Component of the Mobility Plan are designed to allow the safe and efficient movement of freight vehicles, in balance with the character of the surrounding community and coordination with the FLUM. Encourage freight generating land uses, such as manufacturing, warehousing and distribution centers, to be located adjacent to truck routes, rail lines, and travel centers.
6.12.1; 6.12.2 Planning Short, Ongoing Transportation and Planning & Development
Mobility Committee
160
Coordinate freight operations with planning for the Denton Enterprise Airport as part of the Airport master plan update.
6.12.3 Planning Mid Transportation and Airport
Mobility Committee, Airport Advisory Committee
161
Direct hazardous materials/ cargo that are being transported through Denton away from heavily populated or environmentally sensitive areas.
6.12.4 Planning Short, On-going Transportation
162
Ensure that bicycle and pedestrian facilities are included in the design of new roads and road improvements consistent with guidelines established in the Bicycle and Pedestrian Linkage Component of the Mobility Plan and regional plans to guide the placement of facilities and educate residents on walking and cycling in Denton. Designate and maintain the City of Denton as a Walk Friendly and Bicycle Friendly Community. Coordinate departments and agencies to implement the Pedestrian and Bicycle Linkage component of the Denton Mobility plan, including education efforts such as the Smart Cycling Program.
3.5.4; 3.8.3; 4.2.4; 4.13.2; 4.13.3; 6.13.1; 6.13.2; 6.13.6; 6.14.9, 6.14.10
Planning, Program
Short, On-going
Transportation, Engineering, Planning & Development, and Parks & Recreation
Mobility Committee
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
163
Incorporate NCTCOG regional bicycle plans such as the Regional Veloweb, and the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Trails Master Plan recommendations into Denton’s bicycle facilities planning and actively participate in NCTCOG’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC).
6.13.3; 6.13.4; 2.14.1; 5.7.4
Planning Mid. On-going
Transportation and Engineering
NCTCOG, Mobility Committee, Parks Board
164
Incorporate the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) Urban Bikeway Design Guide in the update of the Mobility Plan.
6.14.8; 6.13.3; 6.13.4; 2.14.1; 5.7.4
Planning Short Transportation & Engineering, Planning & Development
Mobility Committee
165
Partner and collaborate with development projects to include multi-modal features, such as bus shelters and reduced transit rate agreements, by providing incentives for best practices. Encourage new development to provide off-road trails and public pass through access where appropriate and feasible to promote site connectivity. Establish easements to allow pedestrian and bicycle access through private developments
6.15.2; 6.15.4; 6.15.5; 4.13.1
Planning, Program
On-going Transportation, Engineering and Planning & Development
DCTA
166
Complete and implement the Road Impact Fee feasibility study. Account for non-motorized transportation facilities in the impact fee study and road financing study. Use results to determine new development’s fair share of road costs.
6.16.1; 6.16.2; 3.15.1; 6.7.1
Planning Short, Ongoing Transportation Mobility Committee, Public Utilities Board
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
167
Update the Denton Development Code to permit transit-supportive densities and intensities. Encourage and incentivize new development to include transit supportive elements adjacent to existing DCTA stations. This could include development in mixed use areas, centers, and corridors, and are adjacent to existing DCTA stations. Include incentives and standards for new developments to include dedicated transit facilities and direct connections between transit stops and building entrances.
6.17.1; 6.17.2; 6.18.1; 4.11.4
Regulation Short Planning & Development
DCTA
168
Work with DCTA to further the expansion of transit links throughout Denton and to ensure that existing and future centers in Denton are accessible via transit. Allow DCTA to comment on new development applications with respect to transit-friendly features and impacts on transit operations. Work with DCTA to identify service enhancements and the development of additional sub-hubs, such as the one at UNT, in Denton. Ensure that public transit needs for senior and people with disabilities are met. Provide incentives for new development to include transit-friendly features. Work proactively with DCTA to progressively improve transit service to encourage ridership by choice and not just by necessity.
6.18.3; 6.10.2; 4.2.5; 6.19.1; 6.19.2; 6.19.3; 6.19.4; 6.19.6; 8.7.7
Program On-going Economic Development, Planning & Development and Transportation
DCTA, UNT, and TWU
169 Perform a study of the feasibility of implementing trolley service in Denton.
6.22.1 Planning Mid Transportation and Planning & Development
DCTA
170
Participate in the NCTCOG/MPO’s Regional Transportation Council, technical committees and other regional bodies to advocate for expanded regional transit service, particularly those services that expand and enhance regional connections to Denton.
6.22.1; 2.15.1 Partnership On-going Transportation and Planning & Development
NCTCOG
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
171
Continue to promote the use of the A-Train to travel outside of Denton, serve commuter travel, and link with DART and other local transit providers in the Metroplex. Work with DCTA to expand service of the A-Train and local routes to increase ridership and better serve the needs and schedules of the population.
6.22.2; 6.22.3 Partnership On-going Economic Development and Transportation
DCTA
Housing & Neighborhoods
172
Create regulatory incentives to expand housing in and adjacent to downtown though adaptive re-use, utilization of upper stories and infill development.
2.6.4; 3.11.2; 7.1.3
Regulation Short Planning & Development and Economic Development
Texas Housing Department of Community Affairs, Community Development Advisory Committee
173
Work with developers to increase the stock of owner- occupied smaller residential units.
3.12.2 Regulation, Program
Short Planning & Development
174
Work with mixed use developers to balance the need for sufficient workforce housing with market feasibility.
3.1.2 Regulation, Program
On-going Economic Development and Planning & Development
175
Support efforts of the Denton Housing Authority, Denton Affordable Housing Corporation, and Habitat for Humanity to expand the availability of affordable housing for low-moderate income residents through policies for mixed income neighborhoods and housing development.
7.2.1 Partnership, Program
On-going Community Development
Denton Housing Authority, Denton Affordable Housing Corporation, and Habitat for Humanity
176
Continue the efforts of the Community Development Division to utilize grant funding targeted to address the needs of low-moderate incomes and distressed neighborhoods, with future action priorities adjusted based on community input for consistency with neighborhood conservation strategies for mixed income housing and neighborhoods.
7.2.2 Program On-going Community Development
Community Development Advisory Committee
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
177
Update the Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development to continually gauge the housing needs of Denton’s low income and special needs populations.
7.2.3 Planning Mid, On-going
Community Development
Local affordable housing providers and service agencies, Community Development Advisory Committee
178
Partner and collaborate with local organizations and within City departments to improve connections between home-related program resources and potential recipients and neighborhood groups.
7.2.4 Partnership, Program
On-going All Departments Local Organizations
179
Explore a rental housing and multi-family inspection and registration program to ensure that rental dwellings are properly maintained for habitability and that existing rental units are not considered an impediment to fair housing in the community.
7.2.5 Regulation, Program
Mid Community Improvement Services and Community Development
180
Support efforts of the Denton County Homeless Coalition to address the needs of Denton’s homeless population. Create a plan to identify and update the needs of Denton’s homeless population, including childhood homelessness, and identify key partners to aid in implementation. Explore best practices to bring innovative types of housing for the homeless to Denton.
7.3.1; 7.3.3; 8.7.4
Partnership, Program
Short, On-going Community Development
Denton County Homeless Coalition, Balance of State
181
Partner and collaborate with Denton County MHMR, United Way, and other organizations and agencies to address mental illness needs which significantly contribute to homelessness.
7.3.2 Partnership, Program
On-going Community Development
Healthy Communities Coalition, MHMR, and United Way
182
Work in collaboration with local medical institutions and real estate development interests to measure needs and encourage development of life care communities and other housing options for seniors.
7.4.1 Partnership Short, Ongoing Community Development
Healthy Communities Coalition
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
183
Encourage the development of options for senior housing and housing for persons with disabilities with a variety of unit types and affordability choices, including ADA accessible and active adult settings.
7.4.2 Regulation Ongoing Community Development
Mayor’s Committee on Persons with Disabilities, ARC, REACH
184
Partner with organizations and agencies to provide assistance and connect needs and resources for seniors and people with disabilities to be able to maintain single family homes and properties if they are able to live independently.
7.4.3 Partnership On-going Community Development
Mayor’s Committee on Persons with Disabilities, ARC, and REACH
185
Expand partnerships with nonprofit housing providers such as Habitat for Humanity of Denton County and Denton Affordable Housing to encourage homeownership.
7.5.1 Partnership Short, On-going
Community Development
Habitat for Humanity of Denton County and Denton Affordable Housing
186
Encourage UNT, TWU, and other major employers to provide financial incentives for home ownership, particularly in adjacent neighborhoods.
7.5.2 Partnership Short, On-going
Community Development
UNT, TWU, and Major Employers
187
Consider establishing an urban homesteading program to recycle and reoccupy abandoned or tax delinquent properties.
7.5.3 Planning Mid Community Development
Denton County and School Districts
188
Create residential design guidelines to improve aesthetic quality and variety, including materials, color palettes, and architectural features such as porches and other elements indigenous to the region.
7.7.1 Planning Study Short Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Commission
189
Create subdivision and neighborhood design guidelines incorporating best practices, such as clustering homes around shared open space (pocket neighborhoods) and other components of traditional neighborhood design (TND) including use of rear alleys, and orientation to streets with sidewalks and street trees.
7.7.2 Planning Study Short Planning & Development
Planning and Zoning Commission
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
190
Conduct participatory neighborhood planning efforts in older neighborhoods to address opportunities to enhance character and livability.
7.7.3 Planning Study Mid Planning & Development
191
Work with neighborhood associations to create a housing and neighborhood condition inventory and monitoring strategy.
7.8.2 Planning Short, Ongoing Community Development
Neighborhood Associations
192
Provide opportunities to improve public, safety, health, and well-being such as: • Improved walkability
with sidewalks in all neighborhoods, and the prioritization of “safe routes to school.”
• Expanded access to parks and recreation, including development of abandoned properties as pocket parks and urban gardens.
Improved neighborhood appearance through enforcement of dumping and property maintenance regulations and the removal of visual clutter.
4.5.1; 5.1.8; 6.16.1; 7.8.2; 9.14.1
Program On-going Community Development, Transportation, Engineering and Community Improvement Services
DISD
193
Apply neighborhood con- servation strategies such as targeted code enforcement, housing rehabilitation, clear- ance of blighted properties, and the encouragement of mixed income housing and neighborhoods.
7.8.8; 2.9.5 Planning On-going Community Development and Community Improvement Services
Local Organizations
194
Review and revise transpor- tation, infrastructure, and subsidized housing plans and policies that are inconsistent with neighborhood conserva- tion policies.
7.8.9 Planning Mid Community De- velopment and Transportation
195
Couple neighborhood conser- vation strategies with local historic district and his- toric conservation area and neighborhood stabilization policies.
7.8.10; 4.14.1 Regulation, Program
Mid Planning & Development
Historic Landmark Commission
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Key Action Referenced Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
196
Review the policies and priorities contained in the Consolidated Plan and the policies of the Denton Hous- ing Authority, the Denton Affordable Housing Corpo- ration for consistency with neighborhood conservation strategies.
7.8.11 Regulation, Program
Mid Community Development
Denton Hous- ing Author- ity and Denton Affordable Housing
197
Partner and collaborate with Denton County and School Districts regarding the devel- opment of infill lots that have been abandoned and are tax delinquent
7.8.12 Partnership Mid, On-going
Community Development
Denton County and School Districts
198
Link programming of plans for public investments in parks, schools, and community facilities consistent with neighborhood conservation strategies, Compatibility Areas, the Consolidated Plan and Small Area Plans. Use existing and new public facilities as neighborhood anchors and activity centers.
7.8.1; 2.6.2; 2.7.1; 2.8.1; 3.12.4
Partnership Mid, On-going
Community Development and Planning & Development
School Districts
199
Work with the City of Denton Department of Parks and Recreation and School Districts to match growth projections and identified growth areas to ensure that schools and community facilities are sited in future growth centers.
5.1.1; 7.10.1 Partnership Short, On-going
Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development
School Districts
200
Collaborate with School Districts to create siting guidelines for the location of new schools and community facilities consistent with overarching land use and urban design policies. Revisit the practice of private development driving school siting.
7.9.1 Regulation/ Planning
Short Planning & Development and Parks & Recreation
School Districts
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
201
Work with DCTA, other transit agencies and the City of Denton Transportation Department and Denton school districts to ensure that schools and community facilities are accessible via walking, bicycling, and transit, including accessibility concerns for people with disabilities. Explore the viability of historic building reuse in housing new community facilities and programs. Locate school and school athletic facilities within or adjacent to neighborhood centers.
3.12.4; 4.12.2; 4.15.2; 6.13; 7.9.1; 7.10.1; 7.10.2; 7.11.3; 7.13.1; 7.13.2
Regulation/ Planning
Mid, On-going
Transportation, Engineering and Parks & Recreation
DCTA and School Districts
202
Engage neighborhood residents in the design and programming of new community facilities to match needs of distinctive communities and demographic groups. Include neighborhood and social services and volunteer opportunities. Include needs for neighborhood and social services in the planning for and upgrading of community facilities. Include vocational and job training programs in both School Districts and City of Denton facilities to serve Denton residents.
7.11.1; 7.11.2; 7.12.3; 8.7.6; 8.8.8
Planning, Program
On-going Community Development and Planning & Development
School Districts
203
Conduct a study of all community facilities as part of the updated Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) to analyze the capacity for shared services among existing facilities. Include shared use spaces in plans for future community facilities. Co-locate community facilities close by to other community facilities when possible for land use and operational efficiency.
3.13.1; 3.13.2; 5.3.1; 7.12.1; 7.12.2; 8.5.2; 8.6.2
Planning, Program
Mid, On-going
Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
204
Apply policies for the siting and co-location of civic uses including • Co-locate school and school
athletic facilities within or adjacent regional activity centers
• Locate elementary school within neighborhood centers
• Locate major recreational activity centers within or adjacent to regional activity centers, industrial, or mixed- use areas where possible.
• Locate civic facilities along major corridors to prevent strip commercial development.
• Encourage churches, service clubs and other quasi-public uses to co-locate within appropriate activity centers.
• Ensure compatibility of civic use clusters by choosing locations that are suitable for multi-modal accessibility and neighborhood accessibility.
7.13.1 Regulation, Program
Short Planning & Development
School Districts and Major Employers
205
Utilize overarching urban design guidelines for the design and planning of new municipal facilities. Include exemplary architectural de- tails when constructing com- munity facilities. Engage the community in the design and planning for new community facilities. Apply best practice sustainability standards, ensure that facilities are ac- cessible via the open space and pedestrian network, and designed consistent with municipal lighting standards utilizing as much natural light as possible.
4.6.1; 7.9.2; 7.14.1; 7.14.2; 7.14.4; 7.14.5; 7.14.6; 7,14.7; 8.5.3; 8.6.3
Program Short Planning & Development
Community Health, Safety & Services
206
Produce a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) for Denton following CDC guidelines and publish it online. Create an annual Community Health Report Card featuring the progress of programs focused on community health and the findings of the initial HIA and publish it online.
8.1.1; 8.1.5 Planning Long Planning & Development
Denton County
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
Key Action Referenced Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
207
Partner and collaborate with Denton County to create a health policy framework to be applied among departments within the city and county including streets, utilities, planning, parks and recreation, and environmental services.
8.1.2 Planning, Partnership
Short All Departments Denton County
208
Dedicate staff persons within the City of Denton to oversee programs, recommendations and guidance focused on community health. Apply the reference resources on community health including ULI and APA guidebooks, as well as the health-related recommendations of Vi- sion North Texas created by NCTCOG.
8.1.3; 8.1.4 Program Mid Community Development and Planning & Development
NCTCOG
209
Create a robust public rela- tions campaign centered on community health advo- cacy and promoting physical activity. Work with Denton School Districts to promote awareness of healthy life- style choices within Denton schools. Work with major employers and healthcare providers to promote healthy lifestyle choices within Den- ton employment centers.
8.2.1; 8.2.2; 8.2.3
Partnership Mid - Long Community Development and Economic Development
School Dis- tricts, Major Employers, and Healthcare Providers
210
Locate land uses accord- ing to the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) to ensure that sensitive land uses are not in conflict with health hazards, applying standards of envi- ronmental justice.
8.3.2; 2.1.2 Regulation, Program
Short Planning & Development
211
Continue to implement poli- cies from Denton’s Sustain- ability Plan: Sustainable Denton (2012) regarding expansion of community gar- dens and urban agriculture to promote access to healthy foods. Actively seek out and implement methods to make local food production easier.
8.3.4; 8.1.6 Program On-going Environmental Services, Parks & Recreation and Planning & Development
212
Update the HVA every five years. Include consideration of gas well drilling and produc- tion in the HVA and addressed by policies of the OEM.
8.4.1; 8.4.2 Planning Mid Fire
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Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
213
Plan and provide for police and fire stations, offices, and supporting facilities adequate to support level of service standards. Maintain public facilities and services to provide current levels of service to new development. Maintain response time standards established by the National Fire Protection As- sociation. Evaluate existing levels of service for all capital infrastructure to identify deficiencies and excess ca- pacities. Regularly evaluate Public Safety response times to ensure efficient distribu- tion of necessary public services.
8.5.1; 8.6.1; 8.6.4; 3.9.2; 3.9.5
Planning, Program
On-going Fire and Police
214 Continue to strengthen and grow the City’s neighborhood policing program.
8.5.5 Program On-going Police
215 Provide connections to resources for tornado shelter purchases and installation.
8.6.5 Regulation On-going Fire and Police
216
Focus on prevention pro- grams to heighten aware- ness, minimize loss, and support a safer community. Reduce the possibility of fire in commercial, industrial, and multi-family buildings through development review and a high-quality inspection program.
8.6.6; 8.6.7 Program On-going Fire and Police
217
Continue and strengthen the City’s participation in the Na- tional Incident Management System (NIMS).
8.6.8 Program On-going Fire and Police
218
Work with existing Denton community groups to create a dedicated campus facility for non-profit use and the provi- sion of community services and programs.
8.7.1 - 8.7.9 Outreach Short, Ongoing Community Development
Local Organizations
219
Establish a consortium among city and county de- partments, School Districts, and local youth-focused non- profits to prioritize and create an action plan for identifying and updating the needs of Denton youth and identify key partners to aid in implemen- tation of programs.
8.7.2 Planning Mid, Ongoing All Departments Denton County and School Districts
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
220
Create a plan for identifying and updating the needs for combatting substance abuse in Denton and identify key partners to aid in implemen- tation of programs.
8.7.3 Planning Mid Community De- velopment and Police
Denton County and School Districts
221
Include health education and preventative care guidelines in all programs serving com- munities of need.
8.7.5 Outreach, Program
On-going All Departments Denton County and United Way
222
Establish a task force to create policies to eliminate predatory lending practices in Denton.
8.7.8 Long Planning & De- velopment and Legal
223
Establish a City of Denton staff position to oversee volunteer organization and mobilization. Work with non-profit groups to identify existing volunteer programs and create a framework for identifying additional pro- gram needs. Regularly update and enliven the page on the Denton website advertising volunteer opportunities.
8.8.1-3 Governance Structure
Mid Community Development
Local Organi- zations and United Way
224
Establish partnerships with UNT and TWU and major employers to volunteer within the community. Work with Denton health care providers to continue and expand vol- unteer opportunities related to provision of health care and health education.
8.8.4-6 Partnership Mid Community Development
UNT, TWU, and Major Employ- ers
225
Support development of a dedicated campus and/or facility to support the growth and collaboration of local non-profits to better serve communities in need.
8.8.7 Partnership On-going Community Development
Local Organizations
Infrastructure and Utilities
226
Provide efficient and effective customer services by main- taining rapid response times to customer outages, enhanc- ing communication systems, developing automated meter reading capabilities, and improving system automation and analysis capabilities.
9.1.1; 3.9.1 Regulation On-going DME
227 Seek cost-effective sources of power. 9.1.2 Program On-going DME Public Utilities
Board
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
228
Identify, evaluate, and invest in new technologies and energies that can spur economic development.
9.1.3 Planning Mid DME Public Utilities Board
229
Support an increase in the quantity and diversity of renewable energy sources in the electric utility’s portfolio. Support expanding renewable energy source options through public- private partnerships.
9.2.1; 9.2.2 Program On-going DME Public Utilities Board
230
Establish a purchase policy for municipal lighting fixtures that are energy efficient and where feasible prioritize non- toxic, non-hazardous lighting equipment materials, avoid glare, spill light and energy waste
9.3.1 Program Short Facilities, Environmental Services and DME
Public Utilities Board
231
Support the development of an ordinance that applies IES recommendations for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Include guidelines for lighting standards as part of the Urban Design Plan to encourage sustainable lighting strategies in private development.
4.11.1; 9.3.2; 9.3.3
Regulation/ Planning
Mid - Long Planning & Development and DME
Public Utilities Board
232
Ensure that communications infrastructure, including fiber optic cables, are installed proactively to keep up with demand as Denton grows. Install telecommunications infrastructure consistent with the Denton Development Code (DDC).
9.4.1; 9.4.2 Regulation On-going Engineering Communication Service Providers
233
Work with local businesses via the Chambers of Commerce to sponsor free public wireless internet (Wi- Fi) and increase availability throughout the city.
9.4.4 Program Mid Tech Services Chambers of Commerce
234
Establish maintenance regulations in the DDC that ensures long-term viability of infrastructure systems.
9.4.5; 9.7.8; 9.8.9; 9.11.6
Regulation On-going Engineering Public Utilities Board
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
235
Enforce engineering code requirements that facilitate the installation of underground distribution facilities for all new commercial and residential developments. Pursue the installation of underground distribution facilities along and adjacent to major entranceways. Fund the conversion of existing overhead electric facilities to underground on a fiscally responsible basis through electric service initiatives.
9.5.1; 9.5.2; 9.5.3
Regulation Short, On-going DME
236
Develop criteria that encourage service providers to convert existing overhead facilities to underground by adopting the same service criteria utilized by DME. New electric feeder lines to major load centers may be installed overhead except in specially designated areas, or where existing electric, communications, and cable facilities have already been converted to underground facilities.
9.4.3; 9.5.4; 9.5.5
Partnership Long DME and Planning & Development
Communication Service Providers, Public Utilities Board
237
Promote implementation of the Tree Code that encourages service providers (i.e., cable, telephone, electricity, data communications, etc.) in the city to follow the same service criteria utilized by Denton Municipal Electric regarding tree trimming and planting requirements.
9.5.6; 5.5.7 Regulation Short, Ongoing Planning & Development, DME and Engineering
Communication Service Providers, Public Utilities Board
238
Review and renew the city’s untreated water supply contract with the City of Dallas.
9.6.1 Program Short Water
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
239
Coordinate regionally to achieve sustainable practices in conserving the water supply of North Texas, drought preparedness, and synchronized regional messaging. Participate in regional water planning and secure water supply contracts with local water suppliers such as North Texas Municipal Water District, Tarrant Regional Water District and/or Dallas Water Utilities.
9.6.2; 9.6.4; 5.8.10; 2.15.1
Partnership Short, On-going Water and Environmental Services
Local Water Suppliers
240
Continue to implement the Denton Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan to help reduce per capita water use
9.6.3 Planning On-going Water and Environmental Services
Public Utilities Board
241
Identify and pursue new water sources as water supplies become more scarce.
9.6.5 Planning On-going Water Public Utilities Board
242
Encourage community members to employ best management practices for water reduction such as use of landscape irrigation improvements.
5.8.12; 9.6.6 Outreach On-going Water
243
Promote infrastructure capacity improvements to support infill development, over new line extensions that expand the geographic coverage of the city’s infrastructure systems. Work proactively to identify gaps in existing infrastructure to support connectivity of existing networks and reduce leapfrog development. Anticipate future growth needs by oversizing water and wastewater distribution lines to meet future development. Upgrade infrastructure for treated water transmission and inflow/infiltration infrastructure improvements into newly developed areas. Continue to require residential and commercial developers to pay to extend water distribution infrastructure to service development areas.
9.7.1; 9.7.2; 3.11.5; 9.7.3; 9.7.4; 9.7.5; 9.8.6
Program On-going Water, Wastewater, and Engineering
Public Utilities Board
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
244
Continue to require residential and commercial developers to pay to extend water distribution and wastewater collection infrastructure to service development areas.
9.7.3; 9.8.5 Program, Regulation
On-going Water and Wastewater
245
Balance new elevated storage tanks to the existing elevated storage tanks and allow for adequate refill rates. Build additional elevated storage over the next twenty years to accommodate future water needs.
9.7.6; 9.7.7 Planning Mid - Long Water
246
Ensure that water is treated and distributed so that water quality meets or exceeds all applicable State and Federal requirements.
9.7.9 Program Short, On-going Water
247
Provide wholesale wastewater services to entities outside the Denton area in the Hickory Creek watershed to strategically protect the city’s drinking water intake from wastewater pollutants. Continue to work with communities around Lakes Lewisville and Ray Roberts to establish effective collection and treatment systems to alleviate potential water quality problems through active permitting, monitoring, and enforcement. Continue to monitor quality of Denton’s drinking water and provide annual updates.
9.8.1; 9.8.2; 5.8.9
Outreach Short, On-going Water, Wastewater and Environmental Services
Denton County
248
Locate wastewater facilities in areas that meet engineering criteria and are compatible with adjacent properties to the greatest extent possible.
9.8.3 Program Long, On-going Wastewater Public Utilities Board
249
Maintain system integrity by prohibiting any connection to the city sewer system that is overloaded.
9.8.7 Program On-going Wastewater
250 Enhance existing pretreatment programs to improve influent quality.
9.8.8 Program On-going Environmental Services
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
251
Ensure that wastewater collection, treatment, and associated wastewater support activities meet all applicable local, State, and Federal requirements.
9.8.10 Program Short, On-going Wastewater
252
Implement a targeted educational program on the benefits of wastewater effluent reuse to high-volume users. Engage in long-term partnerships that implement wastewater effluent reuse. Expand the capabilities of providing effluent to the industrial and commercial sectors as well as parks and golf courses for irrigation purposes.
9.9.1; 9.9.2; 9.9.3
Outreach, Partnership
Mid, Ongoing Wastewater and Public Communications
253
Evaluate additional biosolid recovery options and expand DynoDirt product production, as practicable.
9.9.4 Planning Short - Mid Wastewater and Solid Waste & Recycling
254
Continue to expand effluent use to industrial and commercial uses, and parks and golf courses for irrigation purposes that will significantly reduce the use of potable water for non-potable purposes.
9.9.5 Regulation On-going Wastewater and Drainage
Public Utilities Board
255
Develop new drainage regulations that require a new or existing development to make floodplain improvements in or adjacent to a floodplain to meet the 100-year floodplain restrictions.
9.11.1; 5.4.4; 5.8.1; 9.10.2
Regulation Mid, Ongoing Drainage and Environmental Services
Public Utilities Board
256
Ensure that stormwater management meets all applicable local, State, and Federal requirements for both water quantity and water quality.
9.10.3 Program Short, Ongoing Drainage and Environmental Services
257
Provide low impact drainage facilities by reserving a sufficient amount of land for landscaping, green space, or other permeable areas based on fully developed watershed conditions in developments.
9.11.2 Program On-going Drainage, Engineering, and Environmental Services
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
258
Review and revise engineering standards for roads and stormwater systems to apply low-impact design (green infrastructure) elements to improve the quality of stormwater runoff.
5.8.3; 9.11.2, 9.11.3, 9.11.4; 9.10.2
Program, Planning
Mid Engineering and Environmental Services
Public Utilities Board
259
Limit creation of new impervious surface areas as a result of new development through the adoption of low- impact design regulations and incorporation of green standards (i.e. LEED) for new construction. Update impervious surface city inventories to inform utility drainage fee revisions.
5.8.5; 9.11.2, 9.11.3, 9.12.4; 9.10.2
Regulation Mid Engineering, Environmental Services and Drainage
260
Continue to implement the North Central Texas Council of Government’s (NCTCOG’s) iSWM Criteria Manual for Site Development and Construction and continue to participate with regional groups to identify and implement best practices. Ensure that measures are regularly enforced and adhered to and not waived and encourage parking areas to include low-impact development features or accommodated on unpaved land.
9.10.2; 9.11.3; 9.12.1; 5.8.5; 2.15.1; 9.12.6
Partnership, Program
Ongoing Environmental Services and Engineering
NCTCOG
261
Coordinate drainage infrastructure development with operational best practices and the City’s Watershed Protection Program.
9.11.4; 5.7.3; 9.10.2
Program Short, Ongoing Drainage and Environmental Services
262
Educate the public on the value of low impact drainage systems.
9.11.5; 9.10.2 Outreach Short, Ongoing Drainage, Environmental Services and Public Communications
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
263
Update the Drainage Design Criteria Manual and Denton Development Code Subchapters 18 and 19 to address low impact development, including green infrastructure BMPs. Update the landscaping standards of the Denton Development Code to promote use of drought-tolerant plant materials and water-efficient irrigation practices in all new development. Revise policies that allow use of man-made water features for decorative purposes only. Require polices that expand basin functionality such as for stormwater detention, irrigation water storage, wildlife habitat or other related purposes.
2.3.3; 8.3.6; 9.12.2; 9.12.3; 9.12.5
Regulation Short - Mid Environmental Services, Drainage, and Planning & Development
Public Utilities Board
264
Promote low-impact development implementation to improve stormwater quantity and quality system- wide.
9.12.4; 5.7.5 Regulation, Program
Short, On-going
Environmental Services, Engineering, and Planning & Development
Public Utilities Board
265
Prevent any new structures from being constructed in the 100-year floodplain. For property located in the floodplain, affected undevelopable property may be dedicated to homeowners’ associations or directly to the city as a park or open space area as one lot. Remove existing structures from or adjacent to the 100-year floodplain as opportunities come available.
9.13.1; 9.13.3 Regulation Short, On-going
Engineering and Environmental Services
266
Preserve, protect and, where possible, dedicate floodplains to the city in accordance with the city’s Watershed Protection Program and the Parks and Recreation Plan to accommodate multiple functions for flood conveyance, transportation (trails), recreation and open space, habitat protection, and environmental preservation. Upgrade the flood monitoring system to include predictive flooding condition capabilities.
9.13.4; 9.13.5 Regulation, Program
Ongoing Engineering, Environmental Services, and Parks & Recreation
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
267
Support Keep Denton Beautiful to engage Denton residents in creating a clean and beautiful city.
9.14.1 Partnership On-going Solid Waste & Recycling, Parks & Recreation and Community Improvement Services
Parks Board
268
Educate the community about waste reduction, recycling, and reuse with a welcoming facility at ECO-W.E.R.C.S that includes on-site engagement through facility tours, a recycling education room at the Pratt Materials Recovery Facility, compost demonstration gardens, and appropriate interactive learning opportunities.
9.14.2 Outreach On-going Solid Waste & Recycling, Environmental Services, and Public Communications
269
Continue to partner with School Districts, UNT, and TWU to develop and present STEM “reduce, reuse, recycle” curriculum and programs.
9.14.3 Outreach On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
School Districts, UNT, and TWU
270
Seek out innovative partnerships with community non-profits and foster collaborations with organizations that share environmental and waste reduction missions. Support business community relations through activity in organizations such as the Chambers of Commerce.
9.14.5 Partnership Short, On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
Local Organizations and Chambers of Commerce
271
Establish the Home Chemical Collection Center as a regional facility and maintain operation of the ReUse store to foster material reuse and recycling.
9.15.1 Capital Short Solid Waste & Recycling
272
Maintain partnership with Pratt Recycling for operation of the materials recovery facility (MRF) at ECO- W.E.R.C.S., adding additional commodities to the single stream mix as opportunities arise
9.15.2 Partnership On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
Pratt Recycling
273
Seek opportunities for additional public-private agreements to foster development of new technologies for recycling, energy production and economic development.
9.15.3 Program Short, On-going Solid Waste & Recycling, Economic Development, and DME
Major Employers
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10 DENTON PLAN 2030 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
274
Standardize access to recycling programs for every Denton resident in multi-family housing, and all commercial businesses through a Universal Recycling program.
9.15.4 Program Short, On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
275
Target additional commercial and residential organic and food waste streams for composting. Expand on-site organics recovery, composting, or energy production with food wastes or recovered wood not appropriate for Dyno-dirt program.
9.15.5; 9.17.4 Program Short, On-going Solid Waste & Recycling and Wastewater
276
Support appropriate legislation that reduces waste, litter, and illegal dumping; creates product stewardship initiatives that require producer/retailer responsibility for the design and end-of-life of products; and increases the amount or feasibility of recycling opportunities.
9.15.6 Regulation On-going Solid Waste & Recycling, Keep Denton Beautiful, and Community Improvement Services
277
Require the site design of commercial, multifamily, industrial, and institutional land uses to include allocations and screening for trash and recycling collection containers, and for other waste streams generated by the entity, meeting placement and vehicle approach specifications for safe, cost-efficient collections (both dumpsters and/or compactors).
9.16.1 Regulation On-going Solid Waste & Recycling and Planning & Development
278
Maintain Solid Waste & Recycling vehicle fleet that utilizes efficient technology to safely collect materials and that operates on the cleanest fuels available.
9.16.2 Program On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
T a b l e 1 0 . 2 : D e n t o n 2 0 3 0 A c t i o n P l a n ( c o n t i n u e d )
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IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 10 Key Action Referenced
Actions and Related Items
Action Type (Planning; Regulation; Program; Capital; Outreach; Partnerships)
Timeframe (Short-term, Mid- term, Long-term, Ongoing)
Responsible Department or Agency (bold rep- resents lead Dept. or Agency)
Partners
279
Utilize technologies such as GIS, RFID, and other routing programs to gather information about participation to target residential information, and maximize routing capability.
9.16.3 Program Short, On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
280
Further incentivize residential and commercial waste reduction through expanded volume-based waste collection pricing and/or recycling participation.
9.16.4 Program On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
281
Expand and support pedestrian waste and recycling receptacles in walkways and public spaces, promoting a clean and green physical environment.
9.16.5 Outreach On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
282
Maintain and grow the BMR sorting program to remove recyclables and establish ad- ditional reuse opportunities from recovered materials.
9.17.1 Program On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
283 Begin landfill mining, recover- ing recyclables and reclaim- ing soil from old landfill cells.
9.17.2 Program Short, On-going Solid Waste & Recycling
284
Increase selectivity for gas- generating materials that enter the landfill to maximize the Gas to Energy Program production.
9.17.3 Program On-going Solid Waste & Recycling, DME
285
Maintain and improve groundwater protection and monitoring systems, methane collection and monitoring for off-site methane migration prevention, collection and treatment of leachate, and management of stormwater to ensure that the landfill is operated without degradation of the environment.
9.17.5 Program On-going Solid Waste & Recycling and Environmental Services
DENTON PLAN 2030
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
APPENDICES
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DENTON PLAN 2030
Abbreviations
ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act
AHOP: Affordable Housing Opportunity Program
APA: American Planning Association
AQI: Air Quality Index
BMP: Best Management Practice
BMR: Building Material Recovery
BPAC: Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
CAC: Citizens Advisory Committee
CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CDBG: Community Development Block Grant
CIP: Capital Improvement Plan
CMSA: Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area
CNN: Certificates of Convenience and Necessity
COA: Certificate of Appropriateness
CPTED: Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design
CSS: Context-sensitive Solutions
DAHC: Denton Affordable Housing Corporation
DCHC: Denton County Homeless Coalition
DCHD: Denton County Health Department
DCTA: Denton County Transportation Authority
DDC: Denton Development Code
DEDP: Denton Economic Development Partnership
DFW: Dallas-Fort Worth
DHA: Denton Housing Authority
DISD: Denton Independent School District
DME: Denton Municipal Electric
DMSA: Downtown Denton Main Street Association
DTIP: Downtown Implementation Plan
ECO-W.E.R.C.S: Waste to Energy, Recycling,
Composting, Solar
EECBGB: Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block
Grant Program
ELR: Enhanced Leachate Recirculation
EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency
ESA: Environmentally Sensitive Area
ETJ: Extraterritorial jurisdiction
FAR: Floor area ratio
FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency
FIA: Fiscal Impact Analysis
FHWA: Federal Highway Administration
FMMP: Farmland Mapping & Monitoring Program
GIS: Geographic Information Systems
GHG: Greenhouse Gas
HAP: Homebuyer Assistance Program
HIA: Health Impact Assessment
HIP: Home Improvement Program
HHDC: Habitat for Humanity of Denton County
HUD: United States Department of Housing and
Urban Development
HVA: Hazard Vulnerability Analysis
iSWM: Integrated Stormwater Management
ITS: Intelligent Transportation Systems
KDB: Keep Denton Beautiful
LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design
LGC: Local Government Code
LOS: Level of Service
LRTP: Long Range Transportation Plan
MPC: Master Planned Community
MUD: Municipal Utility District
MRF: Materials Recovery Facility
NCTC: North Central Texas College
DENTON PLAN 2030
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
NCTCOG: North Central Texas Council of
Governments
NERC: North American Electric Reliability
Corporation
NIMS: National Incident Management System
NRCS: Natural Resources Conservation Service
OES: Office of Emergency Management
PID: Public Improvement District
RFID: Radio Frequency Identification
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics
SW&R: Solid Waste & Recycling
TAC: Technical Advisory Committee
TCEQ: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
TDM: Transportation Demand Management
TIF: Tax Increment Financing
TIRZ: Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone
TMA: Transportation Management Association
TND: Traditional Neighborhood Design
TOD: Transit-Oriented Development
TWU: Texas Woman’s University
TxDOT: Texas Department of Transportation
ULI: Urban Land Institute
UNT: University of North Texas
VMT: Vehicle Miles Traveled
WENNT: Water Efficiency Network of North Texas
WSA: Water Service Area
Glossary of Planning Terms for Reference
A Adaptive Reuse: The conversion of obsolescent or
historic buildings from their original or most recent
use to a new use. For example, the conversion of
former hospital or school buildings to residential
use, or the conversion of an historic single-family
home to office use.
Affordable Housing: Housing capable of being
purchased or rented by a household with very low,
low, or moderate income, based on a household’s
ability to make monthly payments necessary to
obtain housing.
Annex, v.: To incorporate a land area into an existing
district or municipality, with a resulting change in the
boundaries of the annexing jurisdiction.
Arterial: Medium-speed (30-40 mph), medium-
capacity (10,000-35,000 average daily trips) roadway
that provides intra-community travel and access
to the county-wide highway system. Access to
community arterials should be provided at collector
roads and local streets, but direct access from
parcels to existing arterials is common.
Assessment District: See “Benefit Assessment
District.”
Assisted Housing: Generally multifamily rental
housing, but sometimes single-family ownership
units, whose construction, financing, sales prices, or
rents have been subsidized by federal, state, or local
housing programs.
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DENTON PLAN 2030
B Baby Boomers: Baby boomers are people born
during the demographic Post–World War II baby
boom between the years 1946 and 1964.
Best Management Practices: A policy, rule,
or regulation that results in greater efficiency or
benefits than from standard practices.
Benefit Assessment District: An area within a public
agency’s boundaries that receives a special benefit
from the construction of one or more public facilities.
A Benefit Assessment District has no independent
life; it is strictly a financing mechanism for providing
public infrastructure as al- lowed under various
statutes. Bonds may be issued to finance the
improvements, subject to repayment by assessments
charged against the benefiting properties. Creation
of a Benefit Assessment District enables property
owners in a specific area to cause the construction
of public facilities or to maintain them (for example,
a downtown, or the grounds and landscaping of a
specific area) by contributing their fair share of the
construction and/or installation and operating costs
Bicycle Path (Class I Facility): A paved route not on a
street or roadway and expressly reserved for bicycles
traversing an otherwise unpaved area. Bicycle paths
may parallel roads but typically are separated from
them by landscaping.
Bicycle Lane (Class II Facility): A corridor expressly
reserved for bicycles, existing on a street or road-
way in addition to any lanes for use by motorized
vehicles.
Bicycle Route (Class III Facility): A facility shared
with motorists and identified only by signs, a bicycle
route has no pavement markings or lane stripes.
Bikeways: A term that encompasses bicycle lanes,
bicycle paths, and bicycle routes.
Bike Boulevard: Low-speed street designed to give
priority to bicyclists as through traffic.
Blight: The visible and physical decline of a property,
neighborhood, or city due to an economic downturn,
disinvestment, or the cost of maintaining the quality
of older structures.
Bond: An interest-bearing promise to pay a
stipulated sum of money, with the principal amount
due on a specific date. Funds raised through the sale
of bonds can be used for various public purposes.
Build-out: Development of land to its full potential
or theoretical capacity as permitted under current or
proposed planning or zoning designation.
C Capital Improvement: A specific undertaking
involving procurement, construction, or installation
of facilities or related equipment which improves,
preserves, enhances or modernizes the City’s
provision of municipal services.
Capital Improvements Program (CIP): A program
established by a city or county government which
schedules permanent improvements, usually for a
minimum of five years in the future, to fit the projected
fiscal capability of the local jurisdiction. The program
generally is reviewed annually, for conformance to and
consistency with the comprehensive plan.
Carbon Sequestration: Carbon sequestration
describes long-term storage of carbon dioxide or
other forms of carbon to either mitigate or defer
global warming and avoid dangerous climate
change.
Centers: Often referred to as nodes, are geographic
points where land uses and associated economic
and social resources and activities are concentrated.
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
City: City with a capital “C” generally refers to the
government or administration of a city (“City of
Denton”). City with a lower case “c” may mean any
city or may refer to the geographical area of a city.
City Parks: City parks are typically greater than 50
acres and serve the entire city as well as larger
region. Recreational facilities including playground,
picnic area, playing courts, trails, and necessary
parking.
Climate Change: The change in the average
weather of the earth that may be measured by
changes in wind patterns, storms, precipitation, and
temperature.
Community Park: Land with full public access in-
tended to provide recreation opportunities beyond
those supplied by neighborhood parks. Community
parks are larger in scale than neighborhood parks
but smaller than citywide parks—approximately 30-
50 acres.
Complete Neighborhood: A neighborhood that
provides a diversity of housing options, access to
local shopping, quality schools, open space and
recreation, transportation, and other amenities. The
neighborhood is developed at a scale that allows
for walking and biking and provides for the needs of
people of all ages and abilities.
Complete Streets: Streets that include facilities and
designs that enable safe access for all users (i.e.,
pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders)
of all ages and abilities with characteristics such as
comprehensive, integrated, and connected network;
balanced design; variety of uses and activities that
create a varied sreetscape; design that relates well
to bordering uses and allows for continuous activity;
pedestrian and biking facilities that promote safety
and maximize access to bordering uses; aesthetically
designed street lights that provide sufficient
illumination of sidewalks; consistent landscaping
that includes street trees and landscaped medians
and sidewalks; sustainable design that minimizes
runoff, minimizes heat island effects, responds to
climatic demands, and conserves scarce resources;
and well-maintained facilities.
Condominium (Condo): A structure of two or more
units, the interior spaces of which are individually
owned; the balance of the property (both land and
building) is owned in common by the owners of the
individual units.
Context-sensitive Solutions (CSS): Context sensitive
solutions is a collaborative, interdisciplinary
approach that involves all stakeholders to develop
a transportation facility that fits its physical setting
and preserves scenic, aesthetic, historic and
environmental resources, while maintaining safety
and mobility. CSS is an approach that considers
the total context within which a transportation
improvement project will exist.
Corridor: Strips of land that lie alongside key
transportation routes and serve as connectors
between destinations. Sections of a corridor may be
devoted mostly to one land use or may include a mix
of uses.
D Daylighting: the redirection of a stream into an
above-ground channel. Typically, the goal is to
restore a stream of water to a more natural state.
Daylighting is intended to improve the riparian
environment for a stream which had been previously
diverted into a culvert, pipe, or a drainage system.
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DENTON PLAN 2030
Defensible Space: (1) In firefighting and prevention, a
30-foot area of non-combustible surfaces separating
urban and wildland areas. (2) In urban areas, open-
spaces, entry points, and pathways configured to
provide maximum opportunities to rightful users
and/or residents to defend themselves against
intruders and criminal activity.
Demographics: Characteristics of a population,
including age, sex, income, race/ethnicity,
occupation, and housing characteristics.
Density, Residential: The number of permanent
residential dwelling units per acre of land. Densities
specified in the general plan are units per gross acre.
(See “Acres, Gross,”)
Density Bonus: The allocation of development rights
that allows a parcel to accommodate additional
square footage or additional residential units beyond
the maximum for which the parcel is zoned. Under
Government Code §65915, a housing development
that provides 20 percent of its units for lower-income
households, ten percent of its units for very-low
income households, or 50 per- cent of its units for
seniors is entitled to a density bonus and other
concessions.
E Easement: Usually the right to use property owned
by another for specific purposes or to gain access
to another property. For example, utility companies
often have easements on the private property of
individuals to be able to install and maintain utility
facilities.
Easement, Conservation: A tool for acquiring open
space with less than full-fee purchase, whereby
a public agency buys only certain specific rights
from the land owner. These may be positive rights
(providing the public with the opportunity to hunt,
fish, hike, or ride over the land) or they may be
restrictive rights (limiting the uses to which the land
owner may devote the land in the future.)
Economic Development District: An Economic
Development District (EDD) is a federally designated
organization charged with achieving an economic
objective for a defined geography, such as job
creation and economic development.
Ecoregion: An ecoregion is an ecologically
and geographically area defined by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency. Ecoregions cover
relatively large areas of land or water, and contain
characteristic, geographically distinct assemblages of
natural communities and species.
Environmental Justice: The fair treatment of people
of all races, cultures, and incomes with respect to
the development, adoption, implementation, and
enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and
policies.
Extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ): an extraterritorial
jurisdiction of a municipality is the unincorporated
area contiguous to the city’s corporate boundaries.
The ETJ’s distance from the city limits is determined
by the city’s population. For many communities,
Chapter 242 of the Texas Local Government Code
means that cities and counties must decide who will
regulate subdivision platting and permitting where
their authority overlaps in municipal extraterritorial
jurisdictions (ETJ), land outside the city’s boundary
that could be annexed in the future.
F Fair Market Rent: The rent, including utility
allowances, determined by HUD for purposes of ad-
ministering the Section 8 Existing Housing Program.
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): An
independent Federal agency established to respond
to major emergencies. FEMA seeks to reduce the
loss of life and protect property against all
types of hazards through a comprehensive, risk-
based emergency management program. In March
2003, FEMA became part of the newly created U.S.
Department of Homeland Security.
Fiscal Impact Analysis: An analysis that estimates
the impact of a development or a land use change
on the costs and revenues of governmental
units serving the development. The analysis is
generally based on the fiscal characteristics of the
community— e.g., revenues, expenditures, land
values—and characteristics of the development or
land use change—e.g., type of land use, distance
from central facilities. The analysis enables
local governments to estimate the difference
between the costs of providing services to a new
development and the revenues—taxes and user
fees, for example—that will be generated by the
development.
Flood, 100-Year: The magnitude of a flood expected
to occur on the average every 100 years, based on
historical data. The 100-year flood has a 1/100, or one
percent, chance of occurring in any given year.
Floodplain: The relatively level land area on either
side of the banks of a stream regularly subject to
flooding. That part of the floodplain subject to a
one percent chance of flooding in any given year is
designated as an “area of special flood hazard” by
the Federal Insurance Administration.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR): The gross floor area
permitted on a site divided by the total net area
of the site. Also commonly used in zoning, FARs
typically are applied on a parcel-by-parcel basis as
opposed to an average FAR for an entire land use or
zoning district.
Fracking (Hydraulic Fracturing): a well-stimulation
technique in which rock is fractured by a
hydraulically pressurized liquid. A high-pressure fluid
(usually chemicals and sand suspended in water)
is injected into a wellbore to create cracks in the
deep-rock formations through which natural gas,
petroleum, and brine will flow more freely. When the
hydraulic pressure is removed from the well, small
grains of hydraulic fracturing proppants (either sand
or aluminium oxide) hold the fractures open once
the deep rock achieves geologic equilibrium. The
hydraulic fracturing technique is commonly applied
to wells for shale gas.
G Gateways: Transition points from one area to another
or entrances to a neighborhood or district. These
points are often developed a key areas for signage,
commercial development, and other public realm
initiatives.
General Fund: The general fund is only one piece of
Denton’s total budget, but is essential to providing
certain services to the community, including a
portion of funds for public safety, recreation, public
works, courts, traffic and transportation, etc.
Greenhouse Gases (GHG): Gases that trap heat
in the atmosphere, analogous to the way a
greenhouse retains heat. Common GHGs include
water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous
oxides, chlorofluorocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons,
perfluorocarbons, sulfur hexafluoride, ozone,
and aerosols. The accumulation of GHG in the
atmosphere regulates the earth’s temperature.
Without the natural heat trapping effect of GHG, the
earth’s surface would be cooler.
Greenfield: Parcel or parcels of land that are
undeveloped.
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DENTON PLAN 2030
Green Infrastructure: Green infrastructure uses
vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage
water and create healthier urban environments. At
the scale of a city or county, green infrastructure
refers to the patchwork of natural areas that provides
habitat, flood protection, cleaner air, and cleaner
water. At the scale of a neighborhood or site, green
infrastructure refers to stormwater management
systems that mimic nature by soaking up and storing
water.
Greenway: a strip of undeveloped land near an urban
area, set aside for recreational use or environmental
protection.
Groundwater: Water under the earth’s surface, often
confined to aquifers capable of supplying wells and
springs.
Groundwater Recharge: The natural process of
in- filtration and percolation of rainwater from land
areas or streams through permeable soils into water-
holding rocks that provide underground storage
(aquifers).
Growth Trend: Assumes that current trends in land
use, population and job growth, and investment
patterns will continue in the future.
H Habitat: The physical location or type of environment
in which an organism or biological population lives
or occurs.
Hazardous Material: Any substance that, because of
its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical
characteristics, poses a significant present or
potential hazard to human health and safety or to
the environment if released into the workplace or the
environment. The term includes, but is not limited to,
hazardous substances and hazardous wastes.
Heritage Tourism: a branch of tourism oriented
towards the cultural heritage of the location where
tourism is occurring. The National Trust for Historic
Preservation defines heritage tourism as “traveling
to experience the places, artifacts and activities that
authentically represent the stories and people of the
past,” and “heritage tourism can include cultural,
historic and natural resources.”
Historic Preservation: The preservation of historically
significant structures and neighborhoods in order
to facilitate restoration and rehabilitation of the
building(s) to a former condition.
Household: All those persons, related or unrelated,
who occupy a single housing unit. (See “Family.”)
Households, Number of: The count of all year-round
housing units occupied by one or more persons.
The concept of household is important because the
formation of new households generates the demand
for housing. Each new household formed creates
the need for one additional housing unit or requires
that one existing housing unit be shared by two
households. Thus, household formation can continue
to take place even without an increase in population,
thereby increasing the demand for housing.
Housing Unit: A house, an apartment, a mobilehome
or trailer, a group of rooms, or a single room that is
occupied as a separate living quarters, or, if vacant,
is intended for occupancy as a separate living
quarters (2000 U.S. Census definition).
I Impact Fee: A fee, also called a development fee,
levied on the developer of a project by a city,
county, or other public agency as compensation
for otherwise-unmitigated impacts the project
will produce. Fees shall not exceed the estimated
reasonable cost of providing the service for which
the fee is charged. To lawfully impose a development
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
fee, the public agency must verify its method of
calculation and document proper restrictions on use
of the fund. Impact/development fees may be used
to pay for preparing and updating general plans and
specific plans.
Impervious Surface: A surface through which water
cannot penetrate, such as a roof, road, sidewalk, or
paved parking lot. The amount of impervious surface
increases with development and establishes the
need for drainage facilities to carry the increased
runoff.
Indicators: A set of measurements or data that
provide information about the social, economic, and
environmental factors that impact a community’s
well-being. Indicators can be tracked over time
to monitor the implementation of a plan or set of
strategies.
Infill: Development and redevelopment of underused
buildings and vacant lots in areas served by existing
infrastructure. Development that channels economic
growth into existing urban and suburban areas
and conserves open space and agriculture at the
periphery of the city.
Infrastructure: Public services and facilities such as
sewage-disposal systems, water-supply systems,
other utility systems, schools, and roads
Integrated Stormwater Management (iSWM): The
iSWM™ Program for Construction and Development
is a cooperative initiative that assists cities and
counties to achieve their goals of water quality
protection, streambank protection, and flood
mitigation, while also helping communities meet
their construction and post-construction obligations
under state stormwater permits.
Intensity, Building: For residential uses, the actual
number or the allowable range of dwelling units per
net or gross acre. For non-residential uses, the actual
or the maximum permitted floor area ratios (FARs).
J Jobs/Housing Balance; Jobs/Housing Ratio: The
availability of affordable housing for employees. The
jobs/housing ratio divides the number of jobs in an
area by the number of employed residents. A ratio
of 1.0 indicates a balance. A ratio greater than 1.0
indicates a net in-commute; less than 1.0 indicates a
net out-commute.
L Land Use Classification: A system for classifying and
designating the appropriate use of properties.
Leachate: any liquid that in passing through
matter, extracts solutes, suspended solids or any
other component of the material through which
it has passed. Leachate is a widely used term in
environmental science where it has the specific
meaning of a liquid that has dissolved or entrained
environmentally harmful substances which may then
enter the environment. It is most commonly used in
the context of land-filling of putrescible or industrial
waste.
Levels of Service (Facilities): facility or service
standards currently being maintained and funded
through the budget (e.g., park acres per capita, or
lane miles of roadways per vehicle miles of travel).
Levels of service generally vary from city to city and
affect development patterns and fiscal sustainability.
Variations in LOS result from both natural fluctuations
in new development and capital improvement
programs, or by direct action to accept a lower LOS
(e.g., municipal staff layoffs) or planned action to invest
in a higher LOS (e.g., adding sufficient lane miles to
raise the system-wide LOS).
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DENTON PLAN 2030
Level of Service (Traffic): A scale that measures the
amount of traffic that a roadway or inter- section
can accommodate, based on such factors as
maneuverability, driver dissatisfaction, and delay.
The transportation LOS system uses the letters A
through F to designate different levels, with LOS A
representing the best operating conditions and LOS
F the worst.
Linkages: a contiguous network of open spaces or
undeveloped land near an urban area, set aside for
recreational use or environmental protection.
Live-Work Development: Buildings or spaces within
buildings that are used jointly for commercial and
residential purposes where the residential use of the
space is secondary or accessory to the primary use
as a place of work.
Low-Income Household: A household with an annual
income usually no greater than 80 percent of the
area median family income adjusted by household
size, as determined by a survey of incomes
conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of
such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility
limits established by HUD for the Section 8 housing
program
Low-Income Housing Tax Credits: Tax reductions
provided by the federal and state governments for
investors in housing for low-income households.
M Millennials: Millennials are the demographic cohort
following Generation X with birth years ranging from
the early 1980s to the early 2000s.
Minipark: A small neighborhood park of
approximately one acre or less. (see also Pocket
Park)
Mixed Use: Properties on which various uses such as
office, commercial, institutional, and residential are
combined in a single building or on a single site in
an integrated development project with significant
functional interrelationships and a coherent physical
design. A “single site” may include contiguous
properties.
Moderate-Income Household: A household with
an annual income between the lower income
eligibility limits and 120 percent of the area median
family income adjusted by household size, usually
as established by HUD for the Section 8 housing
program. (See “Area” and “Low-Income Household.”)
Mobility: The ability to move about easily using a
form of transportation (biking, walking, driving, etc).
Multi-Family residential: A classification of housing
where multiple separate housing units for residential
(i.e. non-commercial) inhabitants are contained
within one building or several buildings within one
complex.
Multimodal: Descriptive of a neighborhood, center,
or corridor that can be conveniently accessed by
multiple modes of transportation, for example
automobile, transit, bicycle, or walking.
Municipal Development Districts: A Municipal
Development District is a special purpose district
created for the purpose of generating economic
development and growth opportunities within the
boundaries of the district. Texas law authorizes
cities to hold an election to create a municipal
development district and adopt a sales tax to fund
the district.
Municipal Utility District: a special-purpose district or
other governmental jurisdiction that provides public
utilities (such as electricity, natural gas, sewage
treatment, waste collection/management, wholesale
telecommunications, water) to district residents.
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
N National Historic Preservation Act: A 1966 federal law
that established a National Register of Historic Places
and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation,
and that authorized grants-in-aid for preserving
historic properties.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES): A national program under Section 402 of
the Clean Water Act for regulation of discharges of
pollutants from point sources to waters of the United
States. Discharges are illegal unless authorized by
an NPDES permit. (U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency)
National Register of Historic Places: The official list,
established by the National Historic Preservation Act,
of sites, districts, buildings, structures, and objects
significant in the nation’s history or whose artistic or
architectural value is unique.
Neighborhood: A planning area commonly identified
as such in a community’s planning documents, and
by the individuals residing and working within the
neighborhood. Documentation may include a map
prepared for planning purposes, on which the names
and boundaries of the neighborhood are shown.
Neighborhood Park: City-owned land intended
to serve the recreation needs of people living or
working within one-half mile radius of the park,
ranging from 5 to 20 acres in size.
Non-Attainment: The condition of not achieving a
desired or required level of performance. Frequently
used in reference to air quality.
O Open Space: a general term to apply to any parcel or
area of land or water that is devoted to either (1) the
preservation of natural resources, (2) the managed
production of resources, (3) outdoor recreation, or
(4) public health and safety.
Open Space Preserves: a special park type that
applies to land that is acquired and managed
in accordance with land use, preservation,
environmental conservation, and urban design
objectives.
Overlay Zone: A zoning designation on a zoning map,
that modifies the basic underlying designation in
some specific manner.
P Parcel: A lot in single ownership or under single
control, usually considered a unit for purposes of
development.
Parking, Shared: A public or private parking area
used jointly by two or more uses.
Parking Area, Public: An open area, excluding a street
or other public way, used for the parking of auto-
mobiles and available to the public, whether for free
or for compensation.
Parking Management: An evolving technique
designed to obtain maximum utilization from a
limited number of parking spaces. Can involve
pricing and preferential treatment for HOVs, non-
peak period users, and short-term users.
Parking Ratio: The number of parking spaces
provided per 1,000 square of floor area, (e.g., 2:1 or
“two per thousand.”)
Parks: Open-space lands whose primary purpose is
recreation. (See “Open Space,” “Community Park,”
and “Neighborhood Park”)
Peak Hour: The time period during which the greatest
demand occurs on the transportation system in the
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DENTON PLAN 2030
Regional: Pertaining to activities or economies at a
scale greater than that of a single jurisdiction, and
affecting a broad geographic area.
Retrofit: To add materials and/or devices to an
existing building or system to improve its operation,
safety, or efficiency. Buildings have been retrofitted
to use solar energy and to strengthen their ability to
withstand earthquakes, for example.
S Sanitary Sewer: A system of subterranean conduits
that carries refuse liquids or waste matter to a plant
where the sewage is treated, as contrasted with
storm drainage systems (that carry surface water)
and septic tanks or leech fields (that hold refuse
liquids and waste matter on-site). (See “Septic
System”)
Scenario: Scenarios are stories about how things
may look in the future as population, economy,
environment and other factors change. Each
scenario represents a possible future. Scenario
planning is common in business and planning and
is used to help conceptualize the impact of different
choices.
Section 8: refers to Section 8 of the Housing Act
of 1937, which authorizes the payment of rental
housing assistance to private landlords, and is
managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD). The Housing Choice
Voucher Program provides “tenant-based” rental
assistance, so a tenant can move from one unit to
morning and early afternoon, also known as “rush
hour.”
Performance: Refers to how a scenario addresses or
fulfills its intended purpose in relation to the set of
community indicators.
Pocket Park: A small neighborhood park of
approximately one acre or less. (see also Mini Park)
Public Improvement District: a special assessment
area created at the request of the property owners
in a district. Owners pay a supplemental assessment
with their taxes, which the PID uses for services
above and beyond existing City services. A PID has
its own work program, which may consist of eligible
activities such as marketing the area, providing
additional security, landscaping and lighting, street
cleaning, and cultural or recreational improvements.
R Recreation, Active: A type of recreation or activity
that requires the use of organized play areas
including, but not limited to, softball, baseball,
football and soccer fields, tennis and basketball
courts and various forms of children’s play
equipment.
Recreation, Passive: Type of recreation or activity that
does not require the use of organized play areas.
Redevelop: To demolish existing buildings; or to in-
crease the overall floor area existing on a property;
or both; irrespective of whether a change occurs in
land use.
Redevelopment: Restoring buildings, developing
vacant lots, or parts of a neighborhood to a better
condition by rehabilitating existing buildings or
constructing new buildings.
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
people and economies depend. Sustainable
development meets the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to
meet their own needs.
T Tax increment financing: or TIF, is a public financing
method that is used as a subsidy for redevelopment,
infrastructure, and other community-improvement
projects. TIF uses future gains in taxes to subsidize
current improvements, which are projected to
create the conditions for gains above the routine
yearly increases which often occur without the
improvements.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ): a political
subdivision of a municipality or county in the state of
Texas created to implement tax increment financing.
They may be initiated by the city or county or by
petition of owners whose total holdings in the zone
consist of a majority of the appraised property value.
Transit: The conveyance of persons or goods from
one place to another by means of a local public
transportation system.
Transit, Public: A system of regularly-scheduled
buses and/or trains available to the public on a fee-
per- ride basis. Also called mass transit.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Moderate- to
higher-density development, located within easy
walk of a major transit stop, generally with a mix of
residential, employment, and shopping opportunities
designed for pedestrians without excluding the auto.
TOD can be new construction or redevelopment of
one or more buildings whose design and orientation
facilitate transit use. (Statewide Transit-Oriented
Development Study, California Department of
Transportation, 2002).
another. It also allows individuals to apply their
monthly voucher towards the purchase of a home.
Section 8 also authorizes a variety of “project-
based” rental assistance programs, under which the
owner reserves some or all of the units in a building
for low-income tenants, in return for a federal
government guarantee to make up the difference
between the tenant’s contribution and the rent in the
owner’s contract with the government. A tenant who
leaves a subsidized project will lose access to the
project-based subsidy.
Single-Family residential: A classification of housing
where a building is usually occupied by just one
household or family, and consists of just one
dwelling unit or suite. Most Single Family residential
homes in Mill Valley are detached wherein the
building does not share an inside wall with any other
house or dwelling.
Solid Waste: Any unwanted or discarded material
that is not a liquid or gas. Includes organic wastes,
paper products, metals, glass, plastics, cloth, brick,
rock, soil, leather, rubber, yard wastes, and wood, but
does not include sewage and hazardous materials.
Organic wastes and paper products comprise about
75 percent of typical urban solid waste.
Subdivision: The division of a tract of land into de-
fined lots, either improved or unimproved, which can
be separately conveyed by sale or lease, and which
can be altered or developed.
Sustainability: Community use of natural resources
in a way that does not jeopardize the ability of future
generations to live and prosper.
Sustainable Development: Development that
maintains or enhances equity, economic opportunity,
and community well-being while protecting and
restoring the natural environment upon which
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DENTON PLAN 2030
hold size, as determined by a survey of incomes
conducted by a city or a county, or in the absence of
such a survey, based on the latest available eligibility
limits established by HUD for the Section 8 housing
program.
W Watershed: The total area above a given point on a
watercourse that contributes water to its flow; the
entire region drained by a waterway or watercourse
that drains into a lake, or reservoir.
Z Zoning: The division of a city or county by legislative
regulations into areas, or zones, that specify
allowable uses for real property and size restrictions
for buildings within these areas; a program that
implements policies of the general plan
Transportation Demand Management (TDM): the
application of strategies and policies to reduce travel
demand (specifically that of single-occupancy private
vehicles), or to redistribute this demand in space or
in time.
Trends: Describes the general direction in which
something is changing or developing over time.
Trip: A one-way journey that proceeds from an origin
to a destination via a single mode of transportation;
the smallest unit of movement considered in
transportation studies. Each trip has one “production
end,” (or origin—often from home, but not always),
and one “attraction end,” (destination). (See “Traffic
Model.”)
V Vehicle-Miles Traveled (VMT): A key measure of
overall street and highway use. Reducing VMT is
often a major objective in efforts to reduce vehicular
congestion and achieve regional air quality goals.
Veloweb (Regional Veloweb): a 1,728 mile network
of existing and planned off-street, shared-use
paths (trails) designed for use by bicyclists,
pedestrians, and other non-motorized forms of
active transportation in the Dallas-Fort Worth
metropolitan area. The network of shared-use
paths serves as a system of off-road transportation
facilities for bicyclists and other users that extends
and completes the region’s roadway and passenger
rail transit network. The Regional Veloweb has
planned connections in 10 counties and 117 cities in
North Texas. It is the “interstate” for bicyclists and
pedestrians.
Very-Low Income Household: A household with an
annual income usually no greater than 50 percent of
the area median family income adjusted by house-
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APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY
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DENTON PLAN 2030
APPENDIX B: COMMUNITY FORUM RESULTS
APPENDICES
Thank you for your participation in the Denton Plan 2030 Kickoff Open House on August 9!
The Kickoff Open House was an introduction to the Denton Plan update process and a venue for the community to get
acquainted with the project team.
What happened at the Kickoff Open House?
160+ citizens came out to participate in the first Denton Plan 2030 public event, where they shared information and ideas
at six interactive stations:
Station 1: Sign-In and Show Us Where You Live
Station 2: Welcome / Project Orientation
Station 3: Strengths and Challenges
Station 4: Tell Us Your Story
Station 5: What’s Next for Denton?
Station 6: Vote for the Denton Plan 2030 Logo
Station 1: Sign-In and Show Us Where You Live
Participants signed in and placed a dot on the map of the City to let us know where they lived, allowing us to get an idea
of what areas of the city were represented/under-represented at the event in order to target future outreach.
Home About Get Involved Events Plan Development In The Press Contact Us
After Mayor Burroughs’ welcome and opening remarks a presentation was made to give an overview of what’s involved in
the “comprehensive plan” process and to emphasize the importance of public participation and engagement in the
process. Click here to view this presentation.
Station 3: Strengths and Challenges
We asked participants two key questions:
“What Are Your Favorite Things About Denton?” – to determine what the best things about the city are that we
should strive to maintain and promote; and
“What Are Some of the Challenges in Denton?” – to determine the issues we will need to address in Denton
throughout the update of the Denton Plan. “
“What Are Your Favorite Things About Denton?”
Four of the five top responses to the favorite things about Denton (Arts & Events, Community, Downtown/Square, and
Local Businesses) are all related and supportive of one another.
“Arts & Events” was a popular category of favorite things about Denton. This category includes comments directly related to art, music, festivals, venues, and concerts. Another favorite category was “Community,” which includes comments directly related to a sense and spirit of community, fun people, and feeling at home in the city. “Downtown/Square” includes comments regarding a vibrant culture Downtown and around the Square, including the building and businesses associated with them. “Amenities” includes comments related to things such as the city’s parks, libraries, and senior centers. “Local Businesses” relates to the support of local businesses, fondness for unique shopping districts, and specific local businesses around Denton.
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
This information is crucial in determining what Denton Plan 2030 will need to preserve and improve. Many of the favorite
things described by the community are in elements of the current Denton Plan, including community, environment,
infrastructure, and the introduction. Each element will be assessed for its progress, relevance, and future needs in the
update process to ensure that we maintain and promote what people love about Denton as much as possible.
Click here for the complete list of responses for “What Are Your Favorite Things About Denton?”
“What Are Some of the Challenges in Denton?”
Based upon the responses of those who participated, “Transportation”, issues associated with “Development”,
“Infrastructure”, “Environment”, and “Government” are the biggest challenges facing Denton.
The “Transportation” category contains comments related to traffic, bike and pedestrian connectivity, and mass transit. The “Development” category is broad and includes comments related to the general nature of development, the aesthetics of buildings and the city’s gateways, both needed and unwanted land uses, and specific developments within the City. The “Infrastructure” category includes comments regarding poor road quality, solid waste and recycling containers needs and issues, and a lack of neighborhood sidewalks. The “Environment” category includes comments related to more trees and green space, improved air quality, and sustainable water supplies. Closely related to those issues were concerns with gas wells, both from an environmental and development standpoint. Challenges categorized under “Government” involved issues relating to building permits, code enforcement, bureaucratic “red tape,” public participation, and specific public policies.
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
Infrastructure, Land, Design, and Environment are all current elements of the current Denton Plan. Each of these
elements includes subsections, many of which correspond to the community feedback. It is important to assess what
issues persist within each of these elements, identify what new issues have arisen, and work to address them. “Gas Wells”
have accelerated since the adoption of the current Denton Plan and will be a new topic assessed in the update process.
Another important piece of the Denton Plan update is to take a serious look at how current City procedures and policies
affect development and the city as a whole. The comments provided by the community at the Kickoff Open House reflect
that development policies and procedures are significant priorities to address in the Plan.
Click here for the complete list of responses for “What Are Some of the Challenges in Denton?”
Station 4: Tell Us Your Story
We asked participants to share their personal stories of how they came to Denton and why they decided to stay. Read
the written stories here and watch the video here.
Station 5: What’s Next for Denton?
We asked participants to provide us with big, bold ideas for Denton’s future. The comments received were a mix of things
community members would like to see in Denton, what they would like to preserve, and what they’d like Denton to
become.
The “Environment/Sustainability” category relates to promoting green building standards and development, conserving natural resources, pursuing renewable energy, allowing urban chickens, protecting trees and open space, conserving
water, and protecting floodplains. Ideas under “Economy” relate to types of jobs to create, the industries that should be attracted, and what types of businesses Denton should encourage. The “Amenities” category contains ideas such as creating outdoor theaters and entertainment venues, public water and splash parks, dog parks, museums, a zoo, an ice rink, and a municipal golf course. The “Transportation” category includes ideas such as public transit expansion and facilities, a commuter and parking plan, and creating more bike lanes and pedestrian friendly development. The “Bike & Pedestrian” category relates to those ideas specifically pertaining to bike lanes, walkability, and pedestrian corridors connecting downtown to the DCTA Transit Center. “Infrastructure” and “Development” comments frequently referred to a more aesthetically pleasing city. Most of the comments in these categories relate to burying public utilities, improving streets, beautifying gateways into the city, and fostering a healthy development community to bring about the desired changes.
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
The community feedback from the “What’s Next for Denton?” board at the Kickoff Open House provided great ideas for
Denton’s future. There is a strong sentiment among those who participated to encourage and maintain local businesses
while also creating a creative, high-tech economic base. Transportation and the environment/sustainability are other
areas the community has big, bold ideas about. Community members also want to see a Denton where development
and infrastructure is aesthetically pleasing and managed properly. Many of these issues are in elements of the current
Plan that can and will be analyzed for effectiveness and content.
Click here for the complete list of ideas for “What’s Next for Denton?”
Station 6: Vote for the Denton Plan 2030 Logo
The last station was an opportunity for participants to vote for the Denton Plan 2030 logo. We also drew for the door
prizes from the completed Station Sticker Sheets (as labeled on the Passport). Community members also voted online for
their favorite logo until August 24. The winning logo is pictured below!
Thank you to the Kickoff Open House participants and online voters who selected our Denton Plan 2030 logo!
Here is a list of the files referenced in this Event Recap:
“Passport” to the Denton Plan 2030 Kickoff Open House
“Show us where you live” map
Welcoming remarks from Mayor Mark Burroughs (video)
Overview of the Denton Plan 2030 Process
Verbatim comments, Station 3 – Favorite things about Denton
Verbatim comments, Station 3 – Challenges facing Denton
Verbatim comments, Station 4 – Personal stories about Denton
“Tell us your story” citizens’ comments (video)
Verbatim comments, Station 5 – Bold ideas for Denton’s future
Combined Raw Feedback for Stations 3, 4, and 5
Missed the Kickoff Open House?
Don’t worry, there are many more opportunities to get involved and stay engaged:
1. Visit w w w .DentonPl an2030.com for information on upcoming events 2. Join the conversation at w w w .EngageDenton.com 3. Like us on Facebook: w w w .Facebook.com /DentonPl an2030 4. Follow us on Twitter: w w w .tw i tter.com /ci tyofdentontx 5. Sign up for Denton Plan 2030 eNews at w w w .ci tyofdenton.com /eNew s
Please visit the website or email [email protected] for more information.
Thank you for your participation in Denton Plan 2030 Community Forum 1! This recap contains feedback results and preliminary trends from all Community Forum 1 events, which took place from
November 2012 through April 2013.
The first Community Forum provided a venue for the community to voice their opinions about Denton and what should
happen in its future. The results of the Community Forum 1 and information derived from supporting outreach activities
(Kickoff Open House, stakeholder interviews, informational community meetings, Mobile Meetings, website and social
media, and community surveys), will be the basis for developing a 15-to 20-year community Vision Statement. The Vision
Statement will guide the development of each element of the plan, including action steps to make the plan a reality.
The following events made up the Community Forum 1 series and are described below:
Community Forum 1 – November Series
Thursday Nov. 1 – Advanced Technology Complex
Friday Nov. 2 – MLK Jr. Recreation Center
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Saturday Nov. 3 – John Guyer High School
Community Forum 1 – Spanish Series
Click here for the Spanish Series recap in Spanish. Haga clic aquí para ver el resumen en español.
Saturday, February 2, 2013 – Calhoun Middle School
Community Forum 1 – February Series
Thursday, February 7, 2013 – Advanced Technology Complex Saturday, February 9, 2013 – Guyer High School
Community Forum 1 – University Series
Thursday, March 21, 2013 – McConnell Hall, University of North Texas
Wednesday, March 27, 2013 – McConnell Hall, University of North Texas Monday, April 1, 2013 – Student Union Room #207, Texas Woman’s University
What happened at Community Forum 1?
Over 200 citizens came out to participate in the second Denton Plan 2030 public event series, where the primary purpose
was to share ideas on Denton’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the City’s challenges and opportunities for
the future.
The meetings were held at multiple locations over several months in order to accommodate as many citizens as possible.
Meetings were held at different times of day in order to meet varying schedules as well. The attendance for all events was:
November – 100 people (total of all events) February – 44 people (total of all events) Spanish – 12 people Universities – 57 people (total of all events)
Each of the events in the Community Forum 1 series was done in a similar format in order to solicit input that could be
compared equally. At each event, planning consultant WRT gave an overview of the planning process and community
forum exercise and emphasized the importance of public participation throughout the comprehensive planning process.
The Spanish series featured a presentation given in Spanish.
Click here to view this presentation.
Also click to view a brief summary video.
The participants then went to their breakout tables for small group exercises to discuss and prioritize issues and
aspirations for Denton.
Exercise 1: How do we perceive our community today?
Participants were asked to consider Denton in terms of its current strengths and weaknesses.
Strengths: What present characteristics of Denton do we value? What are the qualities that we should retain? What
conditions or trends do we interpret as opportunities to make our community better in the future?
Weaknesses: What present conditions of our community do we characterize as problems requiring resolution? What
negative aspects of our life here would we change?
All of the participants’ responses were recorded. Each person was then asked to pick their top three strengths and
weaknesses. The group facilitator read the strengths and weaknesses aloud to the group, asking for a show of hands and
recording the resulting “votes” for each issue. The number of votes was then recorded for each topic to identify the top
strengths and weaknesses for the group.
Strengths
Common themes that emerged from the list of top strengths include:
Community Forum 1 – November Series
Education and the universities Sense of community Small and local business culture Vibrant downtown Arts and music – creative culture Historic character
Diverse neighborhoods Quality parks and recreation Transportation access (A-train, I-35) Denton Municipal Airport Natural beauty and the environment
Community Forum 1 – Spanish Series
Natural beauty and the environment Music and festivals Diversity and Culture of the City Volunteerism Locational (geographical) benefits Development potential The A-Train Local retailers Universities Friendliness of City, openness of citizens Multiple festivals/ community events
Community Forum 1 – February Series
Small town feel Vibrant downtown History and culture Universities Parks, libraries, community facilities Diverse land uses Quality small businesses Location, access to the region Fast growing city Responsive leadership Music and the arts Events and entertainment for all ages Green space and natural beauty Effective solid waste management Good weather Denton Municipal Electric Clean and safe People, sense of community, family friendly
Airport Diverse economy Alternative transportation choices
Community Forum 1 – University Series
Affordability of housing Location and access Small town character and unique identity Universities Public transportation Downtown, the Square, and historic feel Local business community Natural environment Medical industry Diversity of community Job opportunities for all The Arts Scene Friendly community Environmental awareness/ sustainability programs Airport
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
Understanding what the community values most and wants to preserve and build on as Denton continues to grow is
vital to the success of Denton Plan 2030. Many of the strengths identified in Community Forum 1 were also raised at the
Kickoff Open House and can be found in elements of the current Denton Plan, including community, environment,
access, history, and downtown vitality. Each element will be assessed for its progress, relevance, and future needs in the
update process to ensure that we maintain and promote what people love about Denton as much as possible.
Click here for the complete list of responses for Denton’s “Strengths” from Community Forum 1.
Weaknesses
Common themes that emerged from the list of top weaknesses include:
Community Forum 1 – November Series
Traffic congestion / traffic safety Street and sidewalk disrepair Lack of sidewalks Lack of incentives for infill development Parking problems (downtown, university areas) Inconsistent/restrictive development regulations and permitting Lack of diverse housing opportunities Conflicts between neighborhoods and universities
Lack of planning for gas wells Unattractive gateways / streetscapes Lack of tree preservation Poor air quality Low frequency transit service Not retaining graduates Tax exempt status of universities Lack of community involvement
Community Forum 1 – Spanish Series
Barriers to creating new businesses Permitting process Opportunities for minority advancement Retaining students from the universities Lack of protection for natural beauty and environment Lack of employment opportunities Underrepresentation of minorities in positions of authority Need for greater food diversity Schedule of public transportation limiting The mall needs to be updated Not adequate parks More night life options Volunteer opportunities lacking
Community Forum 1 – February Series
Road conditions / traffic congestion Lack of community / neighborhood services Unbalanced development Poor drainage Poor air quality Lack of water conservation Pipelines Not business friendly Parking problems (downtown, universities) Onerous development process / fees Lack of street connectivity Transient population / homelessness Poor pedestrian and bike access Lack of image for the city Vacant buildings Aging infrastructure Lack of transit oriented development (TOD)
Community Forum 1 – University Series
Quality of streets and road conditions Range of public transit options and schedule Air quality Inconsistency of zoning and planning regulation Crime Limited employment opportunities Ample sidewalks and pedestrian facilities Ample bike lanes and bicycle connectivity Friendly to businesses Civic involvement Vacancy rate, dingy Limited night life options Transient student population Poor student retention due to lack of job options Lack of welfare/ social services Retail options Denton school district University and students impact on housing and physical environment Traffic congestion
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
Negative issues related to transportation, infrastructure, environment, housing and neighborhoods, and economic
development were addressed in the current Denton Plan. It is important to assess what issues persist within each of
these elements and to identify new issues that have arisen since the plan was adopted and work toward addressing
them. For instance, traffic and parking problems seem to remain a consistent issue today, while transit service and gas
well proliferation have emerged as issues since the adoption of the current Denton Plan and will be incorporated in the
update process.
Click here for the complete list of responses for Denton’s “Weaknesses” from the Community Forum 1.
Exercise 2: How do we imagine our community in the future? Participants were asked to consider Denton’s future in terms of its challenges and opportunities.
Challenges: What conditions or trends do we see as challenges that we should prepare for or prevent?
Opportunities: What conditions or trends do we interpret as opportunities to make our community better in the future?
As in Exercise 1, all of the participants’ responses were written down and top “votes” were recorded for each issue to
identify the top challenges and opportunities.
Challenges
Common themes that emerged from the list of top opportunities include:
Community Forum 1 – November Series
Keeping pace with exponential growth (infrastructure, transportation, utilities, schools, housing, social services) Keeping people in Denton Threats/barriers to small businesses (codes, taxes, big box) University expansion into neighborhoods Maintaining quality education Staying competitive in the region (jobs, business, skilled workers) Aging infrastructure Attracting diverse housing options Maintaining historic/cultural identity with new growth Proliferation of gas wells
Community Forum 1 – Spanish Series
No Latinos in positions of authority Illiteracy an increasing problem due to lack of recognition of needs of Latinos Importance of recognizing Latinos as the a part of the future for the City
Community Forum 1 – February Series
Lack of funding resources Balancing growth with quality of life Protecting natural resources, rural character, green space Threats to small businesses Fear of change Coordinating plans / visions between Denton, universities, county, state, other municipalities, etc. Obstacles to redevelopment /green development Air quality impacts Allowing for diverse housing choices Future energy and water demand Denton’s image / maintain downtown, eclectic atmosphere Retaining and attracting young professionals Socioeconomic status / changing demographics Traffic / downtown truck traffic / parking Impacts of gas well drilling Limited rail access Need for social services
Community Forum 1 – University Series
Not enough support for independent businesses Responsible development of sustainability programs
Business community Collaboration between UNT and TWU, and the City Traffic, need to expand I-35 Overly rapid growth to be accommodated by adequate infrastructure and sustainable development pattern Attracting new businesses and employment opportunities Policy approval/ city regulation Transient population/ retention of university graduates Preserving small town feel Balanced land uses Adequate water supply Use and appreciation for public transit School overcrowding Need to get handle on climate change and mitigation Pollution Road quality Maintenance of infrastructure
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
The Denton Plan 2030 update needs to consider negative trends that, if left unchecked in a growing community, could
have serious impacts on the quality of life and economic health of the City. Another key component of the plan update is
to address issues that are considered strengths, but may have facets that could prove challenging in the future. For
example, the presence of the universities has been highlighted as a major strength in the community forum and other
feedback opportunities, but the potential impacts of university expansion into adjacent neighborhoods was also
highlighted as a major challenge to be addressed in the plan.
Click here for the complete list of responses for Denton’s “Challenges” from the Community Forum 1 Series.
Opportunities
Common themes that emerged from the list of top opportunities include:
Community Forum 1 – November Series
Hub of medical and educational facilities Increase diversity/mix of employment opportunities
Expansion of the rail system
Talents of university graduates More unique shopping opportunities Provide resources and venues for artists and musicians Expand and improve special events Capitalize on economic development downtown Nurturing and involving the community/neighborhoods Encourage entrepreneurship / build on the entrepreneurial spirit Great regional access Denton Municipal Airport – opportunity for economic growth Maintain local character Improve educational attainment Increase sustainability programs Expand economic/tech partnership (Discovery Park) Improve mobility/transit connections (downtown/universities)
Community Forum 1 – Spanish Series
Land availble for development
Community Forum 1 – February Series
Highly educated workforce Reuse of existing / historic buildings Infill development opportunities I-35E expansion Expansion of social services – social service hub Expand transit and bike/pedestrian connections – TOD opportunities Redevelopment opportunities – mall renovation
Leveraging universities to promote local industry Denton as a destination – vibrant downtown, variety of entertainment / restaurants Arts, music, and cultural opportunities Promote Denton’s quality education Airport Increase diverse housing opportunities Emergency services – mini fire stations Attract businesses and increase the tax base
Community Forum 1 – University Series
Universities contribution to economy and educated workforce Community events/ arts and culture scene Retail and shopping options Location and access to adjacent cities/ highway Diversity of people Job growth Strengthening of bicycle program Improve use of parks and environmental program Harnessing growth of businesses, the economy Affordable housing and ability to attract residents Sustainability programs and environmental awareness Airport Promotion and growth of public transportation system Medical industry Use of social media for promotion of City/ events
Relevance to Denton Plan 2030:
In considering opportunities for Denton’s future, some participants felt strongly that the presence of the universities and
medical facilities is an important opportunity for economic growth in Denton. At the same time, local businesses and
creative/unique entrepreneurs are also vital to Denton’s future growth. Maintaining excellent access in the region via
expressways and transit are also considered key to Denton’s successful future, and improving connectivity between
major activity nodes (universities, downtown, etc.) are important opportunities. Some participants also want to maintain
Denton’s unique image and natural systems while accommodating growth and economic development. Many of these
issues are in elements of the current Plan that will be addressed and expanded upon in the update.
Click here for the complete list of responses for Denton’s “Opportunities” from the Community Forum 1.
What happens at the end of Community Forum 1 and what happens next? Following each forum, participants were thanked and guaranteed that their hard work would be incorporated into
feedback that would help to inform the community Vision Statement representing their issues and aspirations. The input
of each forum was tabulated by comment, grouped by theme, and counted so that every issue and vote would not be
missed!
Community Survey: Issues and Aspirations After completion of the Community Forum 1 series and data gathering, citizens helped validate the top themes received
through community input on Denton’s strengths, weaknesses / challenges, and opportunities through a community
survey.
175 persons completed an online “Issues and Aspirations” survey in which participants ranked the importance of factors
identified as community strengths, weaknesses / challenges, and opportunities in the community forums. In addition, the
same ranking exercise was conducted through a statistically valid telephone survey among 300 randomly selected
residents. While the relative rankings varied slightly, both surveys generally confirmed the voting pattern revealed in the
forum input. Among all sources if input, consensus strengths included the universities, downtown, the arts and music
scene and the character of the community, while consensus weaknesses included traffic, infrastructure and unbalanced
growth. Consensus opportunities included greater leveraging of higher education and the medical community,
encouraging entrepreneurship, and improved mobility choices.
Click here to see the tabulated results of the online survey.
Click here to see the tabulated results of the phone survey.
Here is a list of the files referenced in this Recap:
Overvi ew of the Denton Pl an 2030 and Com m uni ty Forum 1 Process Presentati on Bri ef sum m ary vi deo of Novem ber Seri es Com pl ete l i st of responses – Strengths Com pl ete l i st of responses – Weaknesses Com pl ete l i st of responses – Chal l enges Com pl ete l i st of responses – Opportuni ti es Com bi ned l i st of Com m uni ty Forum 1 – Novem ber Seri es responses Com bi ned l i st of Com m uni ty Forum 1 – February Seri es responses Com bi ned l i st of Com m uni ty Forum 1 – Uni versi ty Seri es responses
Thank you to the Community Forum 1 participants for their great input and ideas!
Missed Community Forum 1?
Don’t worry, there are many more opportunities to get involved and stay engaged:
Visit www.DentonPlan2030.com for information on upcoming events
Join the conversation at www.EngageDenton.com
Like us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/DentonPlan2030
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/cityofdentontx
Sign up for Denton Plan 2030 eNews at www.cityofdenton.com/eNews
Volunteer to host a Community Conversation
Please visit the website or email [email protected] for more information.
Community Forum 2 is complete, and the results are in! Community Forum 2 occurred in October and November 2013, and the events were held at various dates and locations
in order to encourage the greatest amount of input and attendance. Approximately 100 total participants attended one
of the four open houses to learn about the issues facing Denton and to express their preferences regarding future growth
and community character. The following events made up the Community Forum 2 series and are described below:
Thursday, October 17, 2013 – Denton Civic Center Tuesday, October 29, 2013 – McConnell Hall, University of North Texas Wednesday, October 30, 2013 – Student Union Room #207, Texas Woman’s University Saturday, November 9, 2013 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center
The second Community Forum in the Denton Plan update process gave the community an opportunity to vote on their
preferred form of growth for the future of Denton. Scenarios were developed using the input from Community Forum 1,
other feedback, meetings, and the refinement of the Community Vision Statement. The Vision Statement will guide the
development of each element of the plan, including action steps to make the plan a reality. (see Draft Community
Vision Statement)
What happened at Community Forum 2?
Each of the events in the Community Forum 2 series were presented in a similar format in order to solicit input that can
be compared equally.
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Participants visited each of five stations dedicated to an important decision or presenting important information that
would help to guide the decision-making process. Stations included:
Station 1: Welcome
Station 1 provided an overview of the Community Forum 2 open house, Community Forum 1, and a summary of the
Draft Community Vision Statement. The Draft Community Vision Statement was informed by the public input at CF1, and
participants were given their own copy of the complete draft. The top five strengths, opportunities, weaknesses, and
challenges from Community Forum 1 were listed to provide context.
Station 2: Understanding Scenarios
Station 2 gave an introduction to the Growth Trend Scenario (i.e. “business as usual”) and the Alternative Growth
Scenarios with illustrations of different densities and descriptions of development types. This information was intended
to provide a frame of reference to evaluate the next stations.
Station 3: Understanding the Fiscal Picture
Station 3 illustrated the financial structure of the City of Denton and several aspects of the City’s budget. Data regarding
the City’s financials was used to calculate the fiscal impact findings (i.e. cost to the city) for each Growth Scenario.
Station 4: Comparing Alternative Scenarios
Station 4 provided the opportunity for community members to vote on their preferred growth pattern for Denton. The
Growth Trend Scenario and three Alternative Growth Scenarios were presented with explanatory text and a table of
indicators (ex. percentage of jobs within ¼ mile of existing transit service). Indicators included initial findings on
environmental and fiscal impact that helped inform participants’ decisions in voting for their preferred Scenario. The
station concluded with a summary table of findings and an evaluation of each against the Community Vision Statement.
Community members were asked to vote for their first and second choices for their future Denton.
Station 5: Community Character Considerations
Station 5 explored four Community Character Considerations, which are elements impacting the urban environment that
go beyond density and land use and may be implemented in any Growth Scenario. The four Considerations were
developed from community desires in the Community Vision Statement. Community members were asked to vote for
their first and second choice Community Character Consideration for their future Denton.
Download a printable summary of the five stations here to see how information was presented to inform the
community process.
Community Forum 2 Results
Station 4’s Preferred Scenario Votes
Upon viewing and evaluating the four Growth Scenarios based on the information presented in Station 4 as well as the
information from Stations 2 and 3, participants were asked to vote on their preferred Scenario for the future of Denton.
Participants were able to vote for a first and second choice. The tally of the voting is shown in the table below. For the
overall score, a weighted approach was used in which first choice votes were counted twice and second-choice votes
once. The final score represents the weighted combination of all votes received through the four Community Forum 2
events.
Note: Percentages are rounded.
The Compact Growth Scenario received the greatest number of votes—one third of all votes (33%). This Scenario was
followed by Centers Growth Scenario (29%) and Corridors Growth Scenario (26%), each with just over a quarter of all
votes. The Growth Trend Scenario received the least number of votes (12%). This information will be used to shape the
Preferred Growth Concept that will lead to the development of the Future Land Use Plan for Denton.
Station 4’s Development Priorities Votes
To gain a better understanding of why someone voted for a particular Scenario, participants were asked to vote for their
top three priorities for future development in Denton. The results of this voting process are shown in the table below:
Note: Percentages are rounded.
Based on the total number of votes, the top three priorities were: 1) Increased Walkability and Trails Throughout the City
(22%); 2) Jobs Close to Home and Accessible by Walking and Transit (18%); and 3) More Mixed Use (17%). These key
priorities will be used to refine the Preferred Growth Concept, ensuring that the priorities will be able to be met with the
proposed development pattern. The emphasis that the community placed on these development priorities will also help
determine the importance of weighing the elements of the Preferred Growth Concept and eventually including policies
related to these themes in Denton Plan 2030.
Station 5’s Community Character Considerations Votes
Community Character Considerations are items that can be implemented in any Growth Scenario that reflect important
issues specific to Denton. Similar to the Growth Scenarios, community members were asked to vote for their first and
second choices to include within the Preferred Growth Concept. As with the Growth Scenarios, a weighted approach was
used to determine the overall score in which first choice votes were counted twice and second choice votes once. The
voting for Community Character Considerations revealed the following preferences:
Placemaking & Urban Vitality received the highest number of votes by a large margin (38%). Tied for second and third
most important Community Character Considerations were Green Infrastructure and Multi-Modal Access (22%).
Although Conservation received the fewest number of votes, it received the highest number of second choice votes,
demonstrating that it was still an important item for many community members.
Note: Percentages are rounded.
Summary
The input received at Community Forum 2 was very insightful for informing the future development pattern of the City of
Denton over the next 15 to 20 years. Community members were strongly in support of a Compact Growth pattern for the
city, and for the clustering of development around key areas (i.e. Centers or Corridors) rather than fragmented sprawl as
shown in the Growth Trend. A compact development framework was further supported by the prioritization of mixed-
use development, linking the community through walkable pedestrian networks, the potential for jobs located closer to
home, reducing commuting times, and creating balanced, mixed-use neighborhoods. Finally, the community confirmed
that maintaining and increasing “Placemaking and Urban Vitality” is an essential attribute of their future Denton. This
reinforces the need for maintaining a strong downtown core and sense of place in existing character areas of Denton,
allowing new development to be complementary to those areas, as well as providing areas of new development that can
be centers of community in the future. The desire for a Compact Growth pattern was further reinforced by the
community’s voting for multi-modal transportation options, which are more easily accommodated through compact
development, as well as protecting environmental resources through the inclusion of Green Infrastructure elements and
Conservation areas. Many of these elements can be acknowledged through policy in the updated Denton Plan 2030, as
they affect much more than just new growth.
What happens after Community Forum 2?
The votes and ideas from CF2 will be used to prepare Denton’s Preferred Growth Concept, which will serve as the basis for
future land use and the policies, strategies, and actions of the updated Denton Plan. The Preferred Growth Concept will
be presented at Community Forum 3 in 2014.
Please stay tuned to www.DentonPlan2030.com for updates!
Thank you to the Community Forum 2 participants for their great input and ideas!
Missed Community Forum 2?
Don’t worry, there are many more opportunities to get involved and stay engaged:
Visit www.DentonPlan2030.com for information on upcoming events
Join the conversation at www.EngageDenton.com
Like us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/DentonPlan2030
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/cityofdentontx
Sign up for Denton Plan 2030 eNews at www.cityofdenton.com/eNews
Community Forum 3 is now complete! Thanks for your participation!
Community Forum 3 took place in September 2014, held on consecutive days at different locations to encourage the greatest amount of input and attendance. A total of approximately 200 participants visited one of the four events to review and comment on the goals and policies of the first Public Draft Denton Plan 2030! The following events made up Community Forum 3:
Thursday, September 11, 2014 – Denton Civic Center Friday, September 12, 2014 – Denton Civic Center Saturday, September 13, 2014
Denton Community Market Denton Civic Center – as part of Public Safety Day
The third Community Forum in the Denton Plan 2030 process gave the community an opportunity to review and provide feedback on the Goals and Policies of Denton Plan 2030. The Public Draft of Denton Plan 2030 was posted online prior to CF3, giving the public an opportunity to review the plan prior to the events. The Public Draft built on the input of Community Forums 1 and 2, and the Kickoff Open House, which summarized the aspirations of the community for the future of Denton, and guided the means in which the city should grow and develop until 2030, and beyond.
As a refresher read the recap of the Kickoff Open House here:
Read the recap of Community Forum 1 here:
Read the recap of Community Forum 2 here:
Home About Get Involved Events Denton Plan 2030 In The Press Contact Us
Community Forum 3 included four events, held over three consecutive days at times and locations designed to reach the broadest community attendance. Two events were held at Denton Civic Center (left) and on Saturday at the Denton Community Market (right).
What happened at Community Forum 3? The format of Community Forum 3 was an open house during which participants could come and go in an informal setting, learn about the Plan, and ask questions of planning staff and consultants that were stationed throughout the event. Each of the events in the series was presented in a similar format, and two of the events included live entertainment and food trucks to add a celebratory and fun element to the event, encourage community participation, and showcase the special character of the Denton community. Information presented at the events included:
Community Forum 3 included fun activities to encourage community participation, and create a celebratory atmosphere. These included food trucks, giveaways, and live music, showcasing Denton’s local talent.
Plan Process + Implementation This board provided an overview of the Denton Plan 2030 update process, including all phases to date, next steps, and a summary of the implementation process.
Community Vision Statement The Community Vision Statement was presented on a series of boards, including a background on the development of the Community Vision Statement, including the top Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats collected during Community Forum 1.
Key items presented to the community at Community Forum 3 were the Community Vision Statement, and the Future Land Use Map (FLUM), accompanied by a description of the land use types proposed in Denton Plan 2030.
Future Land Use Map The Future Land Use Map (FLUM), including a Downtown Enlargement, was shared with the community, to solicit comments on the areas poised for certain types of development in the future. The FLUM was presented alongside a description of land use types to aid in the understanding of the map.
Attendeess were able to view each of the Denton Plan 2030 elements, provide comments to hard copies of the Plan, and stated their support for the Plan by signing the “I Support Denton Plan 2030” board!
Denton Plan 2030 Elements The Denton Plan consists of nine topical elements and an implementation element. Each of the topical elements was presented on boards, including the Goals and Policies of that element, and illustrative photos to help convey the concepts. Attendees could review the Goals and Policies to ensure that the Plan was including the items expressed as priorities by the community and City staff. The Denton Plan 2030 Elements include:
Land Use Fiscal and Economic Vitality Community Character and Urban Design Parks, Conservation, and Environment Mobility Housing and Neighborhoods Community Health, Safety and Services Infrastructure and Utilities
Attendees were also given a Handout, which gave more information about the Plan development and process, as well as copies of each of the presentation boards. Attendees were also asked to fill out an optional Questionnaire to share their thoughts about the Plan, as well as write comments to the plan on sticky notes on the several copies of Denton Plan 2030 showcased at the events.
Finally, attendees were asked to sign the “I Support Denton Plan 2030” board to show the support of the community in the development of the Plan to guide Denton’s future.
What happens after Community Forum 3? The comments from the community will be incorporated into the Final Draft of Denton Plan 2030. The final plan will be discussed with Denton’s Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) and City Council in October and November. Finally, staff will bring Denton 2030 to City Council as a public hearing for their consideration and adoption. Please stay tuned to denton2030.com for updates!
Thank you to the Community Forum 3 participants for their great input and ideas!
Missed Community Forum 3?
Don’t worry, there are many more opportunities to get involved and stay engaged:
Visit www.DentonPlan2030.com for information on upcoming events
Join the conversation at www.EngageDenton.com
Like us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/DentonPlan2030
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/cityofdentontx
Sign up for Denton Plan 2030 eNews at www.cityofdenton.com/eNews
Volunteer to host a Community Conversation
Please visit the website or email [email protected] for more information.
APPENDIX C: METHODOLOGIES
APPENDICES
Denton Plan 2030 Growth Trend Scenario Methodology Introduction The Growth Trend Scenario illustrates the 15‐ to 20‐year development pattern that is likely to occur in Denton based on projected population, recent trends, and existing conditions and regulations. In simple terms, it represents a “what the future will look like if we do nothing different” scenario. This document describes how the City of Denton is expected to grow over the next 15 to 20 years, assuming growth continues in a pattern similar to recent decades. Key data inputs, assumptions, and steps that were taken to prepare the Denton Growth Trend Scenario are summarized in the following sections. The Growth Trend Scenario map (Figure 3) indicates, conceptually and in broad strokes, where residential and non‐residential growth is most likely to occur. Existing Conditions and Trends The following facts, derived from data analysis of population and land use trends, were key in constructing the assumptions for the Growth Trend Scenario, as described later in this document:
Denton’s population increased by 41 percent between 2000 and 2010, growing from 80,537 to 113,383 people. This was its most intense decade of growth since the 1960s.
New projections forecast an additional 93,951 residents by 2030.
Denton has a higher proportion of single‐person households than Denton County and Texas as a whole. Thirteen percent of these were residents aged 65 or older. In the same year (2010), only 22 percent of Denton County’s households and 25 percent of all households in the state of Texas were single‐person households.1
The population of Denton is fairly young. The 18 to 24 age cohort comprised one quarter of the city’s population in 2000 and 2010. However, the city’s adult population has seen an increase in the number of older residents, generally due to the aging of the baby boomer generation.
These demographic shifts involve changes in housing preferences that Denton’s housing market does not meet today, such as more multi‐family housing and units for singles and young families.
1 Population projects were derived from the report Economic and Demographic Projections for the City of Denton: An Update,” Prepared by Center for Economic Development and Research; University of North Texas. April 2011. Data were based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, 2010.
Denton has annexed over 20,500 acres of land since 1999.
Between 1967 and 2000, a total of 24 natural gas well permits were issued in the City of Denton. Between 2000 and 2010, almost 500 permits were issued. Development opportunities are limited in areas with high concentrations of natural gas wells and associated pipelines.
Trend Factors and Methodology
1. Projected Population and Housing / Non‐Residential Growth In order to estimate the 15‐ to 20‐year development pattern that is likely to occur in Denton in a “business as usual” scenario, the Growth Trend Analysis begins with an estimate of future housing demand based on specific factors including current and projected population, household size, and existing housing units. Table 1 illustrates the data and calculations used to arrive at projected 2030 housing demand, which is a factor of projected population growth (projected minus existing population) divided by existing household size. As indicated in Table 1, it is estimated that Denton will need an additional 37,282 housing units to accommodate its projected population in 2030.
Table 1 ‐ Population and Housing Growth
2010 Population (1) 113,383
2010 Household Size (2) 2.52
2011 Total Housing Units (3) 43,755
2030 Population Projection (4) 207,334
2011‐2030 Population Change (5) 93,951
2030 Housing Demand (6) 37,282
Total Projected 2030 Housing Units (7) 81,037
(1) Source: US Census Bureau (2) Source: 2010 US Census
(3) Source: American Community Survey 2007‐2011 5‐year estimates (4) 3% Annual Growth Source: University of North Texas Center for Economic Development and Research
(5) 2030 population projection ‐ 2010 population
(6) 2011 ‐2030 population change / household size (7) 2030 housing demand + 2011 total housing units
2. Residential Demand The next step in the Growth Trend Analysis involves estimating projected housing unit demand by type (single family, multi‐family, and other) and the associated land area required to accommodate it. Table 2 shows the projected residential units by type as a proportion of existing (2011) units. For instance, 54 percent of existing units are single family and 54 percent of projected units will be single family, resulting in about 20,000 additional single family units by 2030. Using the existing proportion of housing types reflects the status quo of development patterns in the city. Projected units were then multiplied by the existing acres per unit to arrive at the projected acreage needed to accommodate each housing type. Projected acreage was then adjusted to accommodate an additional 25 percent land area to incorporate associated roads/infrastructure. As shown in Table 2, the greatest housing demand is in the category of single family detached, which will also require the vast majority of land area in the future. Table 2 – Residential Demand by Type
2011 Units
(1)
% of 2011 Units
Existing Dev. Residential Area (AC) (2)
Existing Density (3)
Acres per unit (4)
2030 New Units (5)
New Residential Area (AC)
(6)
1 unit detached (Residential Single Family)
23,548 53.818% 8,134 2.90 0.35 20,064 8,663
1 unit attached, 2‐4 units, Other (Residential Other)
5,826 13.315% 1,024 5.69 0.18 4,964 1,091
5+ units (Residential Multi‐Family)
14,381 32.867% 963 14.94 0.07 12,254 1025
Total 43,755 10,121 37,282 10,779
(1) Source: American Community Survey 5‐year estimates
(2) Source: City of Denton GIS
(3) 2011 units / existing dev. residential acres
(4) Existing residential acres / 2011 units
(5) 2030 housing demand x % of total units
(6) (Acres per unit x 2030 new units) + 25% of land area for roads and infrastructure
3. Non‐Residential Demand Next, the Growth Trend Analysis determined the amount of non‐residential development needed within the next 15 to 20 years. This calculation was done by applying the current proportion of residential to non‐residential development (in acres) to the new residential area (in acres) projected in Table 2. This resulted in a combined total of 5,282 acres needed for commercial, industrial, and institutional development to support residential growth in Denton. The summary of calculations is shown in Table 3. Table 3 ‐ Non‐Residential Demand by Type
Existing Dev. Non‐
Residential Area (AC) (1)
% of Existing Dev. Residential
Area (2)
New Non‐ Residential Area (AC) (3)
Commercial 2,711 26.784% 2,309
Industrial 1,304 12.888% 1,111
Institutional (Government + Institutional) 2,940 29.047% 1,861
Total 6,955 68.719% 5,282
(1) Source: City of Denton GIS (2) Existing dev. non‐residential acres / total existing dev. residential acres (3) % of existing dev. residential area x new residential acres Note: It is assumed that some major institutions that already encompass significant portions of land within the city (26% of the total institutional land) would not continue to grow in the same proportional rate to other uses within the city.
4. Land Consumption The total amount of new land that will be needed to absorb Denton’s projected growth is summarized in Table 4 – Land Consumption. This combines the new residential and non‐ residential development calculated as described above. A total of 16,061 acres will be needed to accommodate Denton’s projected 2030 growth. The estimated location of this new growth, as depicted in the Growth Trend Scenario, is expected to follow similar patterns of development to recent trends. The scenario is depicted in Figure 3 and was developed based on a combination of factors, including the Projected Population and Housing/Non‐Residential Growth analysis, Susceptibility to Change analysis, and assumptions for placing growth. This methodology is described in Sections 5 and 6 below.
Table 4 ‐ Land Consumption
Total Acreage (1) 60,900
Dev. Residential Area (AC) (2) 10,121
Total Units (2011) (3) 43,755
Avg. Acres Per Unit (4) 0.23
New Projected DUs (5) 37,282
New Residential (AC) (6) 10,779
New Non‐Residential (AC) (7) 5,282
(1)Total Municipal Acreage
(2) Existing residential acres
(3) Source: American Community Survey 5‐year estimates
(4) Average acres per unit (developed residential area / total units)
(5) Projected new dwelling units (2011 ‐2030 population change / household size)
(6) New residential area = (average acres per unit x new dwelling units)
(7) New non‐residential acreage estimated at 69% of new residential area
5. Susceptibility to Change Analysis The Growth Trend Scenario assumes that much of the necessary growth in Denton would occur in areas that are undeveloped, unconstrained, and located within the city limits (note that it is assumed that the non‐annexation agreement areas will be annexed by 2030). In order to estimate the areas where growth would occur beyond that, a Susceptibility to Change analysis was conducted, examining the geographic areas most suitable for development and likely to change. The analysis is informed by layering a number of susceptibility indicators including natural features, topography, and floodplains, areas of existing or planned development, access to existing roads and infrastructure, and amenities. This methodology is described below: Methodology Using GIS, WRT created a series of raster files representing each of the selected susceptibly indicators. Each file was given a numeric score from 0 to 10 to weight how likely the indicator is to influence development. The higher the score, the more likely the land will be developed in the future. Each indicator used in the analysis is described below:
1. Out of Bounds Areas: The analysis assumes certain portions of the city are out of bounds and not susceptible to future development or redevelopment patterns. This land includes waterways and existing parks. The “out of bounds” areas are excluded from the analysis and are shown in white on the map (Figure 2).
Excluded: Waterways: Includes undevelopable waterways and bodies of water such as Hickory
Creek, Cooper Creek, Pecan Creek, and the Trinity River as well as ponds and small lakes. The scale of analysis includes a buffer around these waterways that are also excluded.
Parks: Publicly owned parks within the City of Denton.
2. Factors of Susceptibly: After excluding the areas considered out of bounds, the Susceptibility to Change analysis was applied to remaining lands within the city. Specific portions were given a low susceptibility score, meaning these areas are considered least likely to change in the future. Lands within the lowest susceptibility areas were given a score of ‘0’ to indicate their likeliness of being developed. This score was defined given that individual susceptibility indicators do not increase the susceptibility of land to develop. Lands with higher susceptibility were given a higher score, with ‘10’ representing the highest susceptibility. As such, each individual factor may or may not contribute to any given area’s likelihood of development.
All factors were weighted equally with areas likely to change of a higher value than those where change is not likely. These factors are illustrated in Figure 1 and described below.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Existing areas of environmental sensitivity include
the 100‐year floodplain identified in the preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), as well as upland and water‐related habitat. As development near the ESA’s is discouraged, susceptibility decreases as proximity to the ESA’s increases.
Slope: There are a number of areas in Denton that have slopes greater than 25 percent which typically make development more cumbersome. Although Denton is not a city particularly limited by topography, this factor was still included to inform the Analysis. Susceptibility decreases as slope increases.
Gas Wells and Pipelines: Gas wells and pipelines have proliferated in and around the City of Denton in recent decades. While the impact of gas wells and pipelines on future development is still unknown, they have the potential to impact where future development is allowed. Therefore, susceptibility decreases as proximity to concentrations of gas wells and pipelines increases.
Proximity to Roads: Land in proximity to existing roads is more likely to develop given that access is a primary factor in an area’s desirability for development. Areas with access to I‐35E and I‐35W are particularly susceptible to change. Susceptibility decreases as distance from roads increases.
Non‐annexation Agreement Areas: In the City of Denton, the Annexation Plan includes land that may be annexed in the future. If the City does not act on its intent to annex, the City will lose the ability to annex said land. Therefore, the analysis treated land within non‐annexation agreements as equally as likely to develop as land within the city. (Note: this is the area previously referred to as the 5‐year Annexation Plan).
Proximity to Existing Development: Land in close proximity to existing development signifies importance of land use adjacency and development trends as to where new development will occur. Susceptibility increases as proximity to existing development increases.
Proximity to Schools: Areas close to existing schools are desirable for residential development as they offer a key facility needed to attract new residents. While additional schools will be provided as development increases, development is more likely to occur where a school already exists. Susceptibility increases as proximity to schools increases.
Water and Sewer Service Areas: Development is more likely to occur where
infrastructure already exists. Susceptibility increases within current Water and Sewer Service Areas.
Once the Susceptibility to Change analysis was conducted, the overall analysis was applied to the entire city using each susceptibility indicator added together to obtain a cumulative “score” of susceptibility. Land that was considered particularly susceptible likely fell under multiple categories of susceptibility and thus was ranked the highest. The individual susceptibility layers are shown in Figure 1, and the combined susceptibility results are overlaid in the composite Susceptibility to Change map shown in Figure 2.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Growth Trend Scenario Using the projected growth calculations in Steps 1 through 4 and the Susceptibility to Change analysis in Section 5 as the starting point, the Growth Trend Scenario (Figure 3) estimates where development is likely to occur over the next 15 to 20 years if current trends continue within the city’s existing city limits. The projected growth was placed throughout the city according to the development types allowed by the city’s current zoning. All of the existing zoning districts of similar character were grouped together to coincide with the projected residential and non‐residential demand categories in Table 1 and Table 2 to determine where future development would go. The total land area for each category was placed in the undeveloped areas within these grouped zoning districts according to their level of susceptibility to change. For example, Denton has over 20,000 acres of undeveloped land currently zoned for low‐density residential uses (including approved Master‐Planned Communities, and agricultural areas). According to the growth projections identified in Table 2, there will only be a demand for 8,663 acres of single family residential development over the next 15 to 20 years. Therefore the growth in this category is placed in the undeveloped areas zoned for single family residential with the highest susceptibility until the total demand of 8,663 acres is reached. This process is repeated for each of the five projected land use categories identified in Figure 3. To depict a realistic vision of where growth might occur, the following assumptions were made. Institutional Development: For the purposes of this analysis, the Growth Trend Scenario
does not attempt to locate projected institutional land uses, it is assumed that projected institutional development, such as schools, is incidental to residential development and is incorporated with single family residential uses on the map. It is also assumed that growth associated with institutions such as hospitals and universities will be contained within their existing footprint, or will occur in a case‐by‐case manner that is beyond the ability of this exercise to predict.
Non‐annexation Agreement Areas: It is assumed that this land will be annexed by the City by 2030 and is considered as likely to develop as other land within the city even though these areas do not currently have a zoning designation. It is assumed that highly susceptible, undeveloped land in these areas will contain predominantly single family development with small percentages of commercial, institutional, and other residential development. (Note: this is the area previously referred to as the 5‐year Annexation Plan).
Figure 3
The resulting Growth Trend Scenario allocations fall into the following categories according to on their location within the city. Table 5 – Growth by Type and Proportion of Development
Land Use Type Total
Acreage Total Units
% Infill*
Residential Single Family (1 unit detached) 8,663 20,064 1% Residential Other (1 unit attached, 2‐4 units, Other) 1,091 4,964 6% Residential Multi‐Family (5+ units) 1,025 12,254 21% Commercial 2,310 ‐‐ 6% Industrial 1,111 ‐‐ 3% Institutional 1,861 ‐‐ 3%
Total 16,061 37,282 4%
*The boundary of the Infill Special Purpose Overlay District was used to delineate the “Core” fiscal analysis zone, with development totals and percentages included in Table 6. Percent Infill: This is considered undeveloped, unconstrained land that is zoned for
residential or non‐residential development and within the Infill Special Purpose Overlay District. The majority of this area is built out, and the current trend for single family and non‐residential development occurs outside of this area.
Zoned Land: There is sufficient land zoned for residential and non‐residential uses projected
to accommodate growth well beyond the projected 2030 Growth Trend.
Greenfield Development: No land beyond the existing city limits and non‐annexation agreement areas is needed to accommodate the projected growth. Due to the scale of undeveloped and agricultural land with existing residential and commercial zoning, no agricultural land would need to be rezoned to accommodate the projected population and land use growth.
Figure 4 shows a generalization of where new development is projected to occur, which clearly illustrates its location and overall footprint.
Figure 4
6. Fiscal Analysis Zones After refinement of the Growth Trend Scenario, a Fiscal Impact Analysis will be conducted to quantify the costs of serving future development based on the “business as usual” pattern of growth. The Fiscal Impact Analysis model requires that the Growth Trend Scenario to be divided into discrete geographic areas, or Fiscal Analysis Zones. Fiscal Analysis Zones are areas within the City that share similar characteristics and that allow the analysis to reflect differences due to geography. As indicated in Figure 3, the Fiscal Analysis Zones that have been proposed for Denton include the Core, North, South, East, and West zones.
Table 6 – Growth by Type by Fiscal Analysis Zone
Land Use Type Acres in Core *
Acres in North
Acres in South
Acres in East
Acres in West
Residential Single Family (1 unit detached)
123 2,735 1,304 1,529 2,972
Residential Other (1 unit attached, 2‐4 units, Other)
62 286 318 425 0
Residential Multi‐Family (5+ units) 212 110 76 397 231 Commercial 144 298 318 676 874 Industrial 32 0 172 163 743 Institutional 64 551 370 412 464
Total 637 3,979 2,558 3,603 5,284
* The City’s “Infill Special Purpose Overlay District” was used as the boundary of the “Core” Fiscal Analysis Zone.
Denton Plan 2030 Alternative Scenario Methodology August 28, 2013
1. Identify Growth Alternative Concepts Using input from Community Forum 1, WRT developed conceptual approaches to land use and urban development that mirrored the public input received and the Vision Statement. These draft concepts were shared with the CAC and discussed with staff to inform the development of Alternative Scenarios. These are shown in Figure 1.
2. Refine Alternative Growth Concepts Using concept direction, WRT refined growth concepts based on input from City staff, proposed developments and infrastructure improvements, and examination of development potential of key areas within the City. Based on this input, three distinct scenarios are created: Centers, Corridors, and Compact. These scenarios are intended to be conceptual and illustrate three discernible options that can direct future urban form and future investment.
Figure 1
Figure 2 ‐ Centers
Figure 3 ‐ Corridors
Figure 4 ‐ Compact
3. Projected Proportion of Development The development allocation under the alternative scenarios will assume that future growth can divert from its current trend. For example, the Growth Trend projected that the same proportion of single‐family residential, multi‐family, and other residential typologies would remain consistent. In the alternative scenarios, this proportion will be adjusted to reflect the community’s input and expressed interest in more managed, and balanced growth in a compact, walkable, development pattern. The Compact Alternative added an additional higher‐density land use in order to accommodate projected number of housing units within the most compact development form. These ratios are shown in Table 1. Commercial, industrial, and institutional development proportions are unchanged from the Growth Trend Scenario. These land uses support residential development, as calculated by total number of housing units, which are unchanged from the Growth Trend. (Table 2)
Table 1 ‐ Residential Land Uses Demand Per Scenario
Existing Density
Growth Trend Centers and Corridors
Alternatives Compact Alternative
Units per Acre
Acres per unit
2030 New Units
% of Total
Acres Yield
2030 New Units
% of Total
Acres Yield
2030 New Units
% of Total
Acres Yield
Single Family (Total)
2.90 0.35 20,064 53.82% 8,663 16,777 40% 6,439 7,456 20% 3,219
Other Residential, (1 unit attached, 2‐4 units)
5.69 0.18 4,964 13.32% 1,091 5,592 20% 1,639 7,456 20% 1,639
Multifamily (5+ Units)
14.94 0.07 12,254 32.87% 1,025 14,913 40% 1,248 14,912 40% 1,248
Multi‐Family High Density
30 .03 0 0% 0 0 0% 0 7,456 20% 311
Total Units 37,282 100% 37,282 100% 37,282 100%
Total Acres 10,779 9,325 6,417
Table 2 ‐ Non‐Residential Demand Per Scenario
Existing Dev. Non‐
Residential Area (AC)
(1)
% of Existing Dev.
Residential Area
(2)
Acres Needed – Centers, Corridors,
and Trend (3)
Acres Needed – Compact Scenario
(3)
Commercial 2,711 26.784% 2,309 1,155
Industrial 1,304 12.888% 1,111 1,111
Institutional (Government + Institutional) 2,940 29.047% 1,861 1,861
Total 6,955 68.719% 5,282 4,126
(1) Source: City of Denton GIS
(2) Existing dev. non‐residential acres / total existing dev. residential acres (3) % of existing dev. residential area x new residential acres Note: It is assumed that some major institutions that already encompass significant portions of land within the city (26% of the total institutional land) would not continue to grow in the same proportional rate to other uses within the city.
4. Capacity Studies and Allocating Growth Once the general location of new development areas were identified with input from Denton city staff, WRT determined where growth could be accommodated under each of the scenarios. Growth was placed based on underlying land use, surrounding context, zoning, and avoiding environmentally –sensitive areas. Growth was placed first in vacant or undeveloped areas. Rather than in the Growth Trend where the “susceptibility to change” determined where new development would go, growth in the Alternatives Scenarios followed the proposed urban framework (Centers, Corridors, Compact) as the key influence, and in some situations resulted in redevelopment or a change in zoning. Also proportions of redevelopment were suggested based on relative obsolesce of buildings and commercial zones, or where a greater amount of density was needed to be consistent with the framework of the scenario. It is important to note that redevelopment is a “best guest” assumption, but does not suggest that stable neighborhoods and commercial areas, universities, or historic properties would be affected. In no case is development proposed in Environmentally‐Sensitive Areas, even if development is already located there. All scenarios also acknowledged the widening of I‐35E and the 500’ right‐ of‐way that would be required, which limited growth around highways. Areas where a concentration of gas wells exists was also assumed to be less likely to support residential growth. The capacity of Centers and Corridors are illustrated in the Tables 3 and 4 below. The Alternative Scenarios assume that much of the necessary growth would be accommodated in a compact development pattern, but that there would still be land needed in the periphery to accommodate a portion of the growth. Once the amount of land totaled to occur in identified
Centers and/or Corridors was calculated, the remaining necessary land needed for growth will was placed in approved subdivisions and where no environmental constraints existed. Table 3 ‐ Centers Alternative Development Capacity Note: all numbers in acres
Center
S in g le F a m il y
R e si d e n ti a l
O th e r
R e si d e n ti a l
M u lt if a m il y
R e si d e n ti a l
C o m m e rc ia l
In d u st ri a l
In st it u ti o n a l
T O T A L
%
R e d e v e lo p m e n t
Hills of Denton
1047 259 119 300 0 344 2069 0%
Robeson Ranch
1440 240 130 373 0 328 2511 0%
Inspiration 1440 240 130 373 0 328 2511 0%
Cole Ranch 1431 235 124 368 0 364 2522 0% Stonehill Center
169 142 76 96 0 98 582 4%
Golden Triangle
185 62 79 105 0 58 489 20%
377 & Country Club Road
161 57 54 70 100 53 495 20%
288 & University
73 46 92 66 150 34 461 15%
Rayzor Ranch 73 60 19 59 80 42 333 9%
Shady Shores 109 64 36 47 0 50 306 28% Hickory Creek
85 33 55 44 0 30 247 21%
Unicorn Lakes
33 17 24 114 0 14 202 12%
TWU 45 40 26 35 0 19 165 91%
Downtown 148 144 282 260 0 99 933 71%
TIRZ 0 0 0 0 781 0 781 0%
% REDEVELOP‐
MENT 5% 14% 23% 13% 0% 9% 9%
TOTAL 6439 1639 1248 2309 1111 1861 14607
DEMAND 6439 1639 1248 2309 1111 1861 14607
Table 4 ‐ Corridors Alternative Development Capacity Note: all numbers in acres
Corridor
S in g le F a m il y
R e si d e n ti a l
O th e r
R e si d e n ti a l
M u lt if a m il y
R e si d e n ti a l
C o m m e rc ia l
In d u st ri a l
In st it u ti o n a l
T O T A L
%
R e d e v e lo p m e n t
Downtown 23 16 253 406 0 9 706 65% University (I‐ 35 to 288)
0 0 47 95 0 0 142 82%
Rayzor Ranch 817 235 149 209 61 242 1712 3%
288 at I‐35 449 243 67 133 169 159 1220 6%
Elm 284 0 0 0 0 65 349 0% Hills of Denton
886 72 78 156 0 220 1412 0%
Sherman 188 26 32 65 0 49 360 0% University at 288
409 86 42 84 0 115 736 25%
University East of 288
373 0 0 0 0 86 460 33%
Mayhill North of 35E
506 61 106 211 0 130 1014 0%
Mayhill South of 35E
114 65 0 0 0 41 221 0%
288 at 35E 0 32 63 125 0 7 226 83% 288 (University to I‐35E)
161 90 106 212 48 58 675 12%
Teasley South of 35E
91 106 1 2 0 46 246 28%
377 South of 35E
79 91 46 92 29 40 377 45%
Bonnie Brae South of 35E
499 151 0 0 23 149 822 0%
Cole Ranch at FM2449
650 164 103 205 0 187 1309 0%
Robeson Ranch
910 182 47 94 0 251 1485 0%
Southeast Denton
0 20 110 220 0 5 355 89%
TIRZ 0 0 0 0 781 0 781 0%
% REDEVELOP
MENT 4% 8% 38% 41% 0% 5% 13%
TOTAL 6439 1639 1248 2309 1111 1861 14607
DEMAND 6439 1639 1248 2309 1111 1861 14607
The creation of the Compact Scenario required a different approach. This is shown in Table 5 and described below. Table 5‐ Compact Alternative Development Capacity
Developable Area in Compact Growth Scenario Total Area in Core 23,344
‐ ESAs 3,621 ‐ Infrastructure (25%) 5,836
Remaining 13,887 ‐ Industrial Land Use 1,111
Developable Area 12,776 ‐ Undeveloped Land 5,113
Area to be Redeveloped 7,663
Development Demand in Compact Growth Scenario
Residential 6,414 Non‐Residential 4,126
‐ Industrial Land Use 1,111 Total Land Demand 9,432
‐ Undeveloped Land 5,113 Remaining Demand 4,319
Area to be Redeveloped/ Remaining Demand
4,319/9,432
% Redevelopment 56%
The goal of the Compact Scenario was to accommodate all proposed growth with the “core” of the city—meaning within Loop 288 and the proposed completion of Loop 288 west of I‐35. This area was estimated in GIS to be 23,344 acres. Reducing this area by 25% for infrastructure, as listed in Table 1 and 2 assumptions, 5,836 acres were subtracted. The total acres of parks and Environmentally‐Sensitive Areas within the “core” amounted to approximately 3,621 acres, which was also subtracted from the developable area. The assumption was made that industrial land use density would not change, so this total demand of 1,111 acres was included in this scenario. Thus, the resulting area on which development could occur, even in existing areas, is 12,776 acres. Using the density yield from Table 1 and 2 for the Compact Trend, a total of 9,432 acres would be needed to accommodate residential, commercial, and institutional uses. This is broadly assuming that the proportion of both residential and non‐residential demand and density will shift. Those percentages are shown in Table 1. It is assumed that the density of commercial
uses will increase as well, as most development will be compact rather than suburban in nature. Thus the compact trend assumed that half of the amount of commercial acreage would be needed (1,155 acres). Again, it is assumed that industrial land use density would not change, so this total demand of 1,111 acres was included in this scenario and is allocated in the same locations as in the other alternatives. A total of 5,113 acres are undeveloped within the “core,” as measured in GIS. Therefore, development would go there first, leaving 4,319 acres that must be allocated in redevelopment areas. Removing these 5,113 acres from the 12,776 of developable land leaves 7,663 of currently developed land that must accommodate redevelopment. In order words, 4,319 acres of new growth must occur within 7,663 acres that currently contains development, yielding 56% redevelopment of the existing built environment.
4. Illustration of Scenarios Once the detailed analysis was completed, the scenarios must be illustrated in a format that creates a clear picture of where growth could be concentrated in the future, and appear distinctly different from one another. Therefore, the location of growth is generalized in a graphic format to show relative size and proportion of development as calculated in the detailed analysis. These will be presented at Community Forum 2. Once the preferred scenario is determined, more specific allocations of land uses will be will be developed in preparation of the Final Plan. The scenarios are illustrated simply to show that development can be accommodated in the framework suggested. Land uses are grouped to show a range of density and “mixing.” This means that as density increases, so does the amount of mixed‐use development. Also, land uses in the scenarios are not meant to be interpreted as single uses, but rather to illustrate a range of potential uses. As an example, low‐density residential areas can include single‐family residential in addition to schools and parks. Similarly, commercial areas can include a range of retail types, commercial offices, and employment locations. Land uses are illustrated generally, because the scenarios are meant to illustrate general locations of land uses. Developing more specific locations of potential future land uses will be included as part of the Preferred Scenario and Final Plan. 5. Character Overlays Once future land use has been placed according to the above methodology, the Alternative Scenarios will then be depicted to incorporate a series of character overlays that demonstrate high priority future development considerations, as expressed during Community Forum 1. These character overlays are important for determining future development character, but do not change the allocation of land use. These key themes include:
Green Infrastructure Mobility
Placemaking Diagrams will be developed to illustrate these overlays as “constants” within the land use alternatives. The community will be asked to prioritize these items on a scale of 1 to 5 during Community Forum 2 to confirm that these should be included as part of Alternative Scenarios.
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Denton Plan 2030 Preferred Growth Concept Methodology Introduction At Community Forum 2, held in October and November 2013, the public reviewed the Growth Trend Scenario and three alternatives to the Trend: 1) Centers Growth, 2) Corridors Growth, and 3) Compact Growth. The Growth Trend depicts where growth and development are most likely to occur over the next 15 to 20 years based on “susceptibility to change” factors, with no change to past trends and policies. The three alternatives to the trend, developed with the results of Community Forum Series 1 and guidance from the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) and the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), illustrate options for development patterns that use land more efficiently, promote mixed uses, and are more walkable, compact and fiscally responsible. Community Forum Series Two Community Forum Series 2 was held at four events during October and November 2013. Approximately 100 total participants attended four open houses to learn about the issues facing Denton, and to express preferences regarding land use development scenarios and community character. The open houses included brief presentations and an opportunity for participants to learn about the growth and development trends in Denton, talk with the consultants and City of Denton staff, and to share their opinions about development. The open houses featured 5 stations with 41 informational or input boards. Stations 1 contained information about the Plan Update process, Station 2 provided background information on land use and density decisions, and Station 3 contained information about the budget and organizational structure of the City. Station 4 contained information and indicators on each of the scenarios on which participants were asked to vote. Indicators included initial findings on environmental and fiscal impact that helped weigh participants’ decisions in voting for alternative futures. Station 5 presented options for Community Character, or elements of the city’s environment, design, and mobility patterns that could be applied to any scenario. Participants were asked to vote on each which of these community character elements was most important to include. Voting was conducted using dots. A questionnaire was also distributed at the end of CF2 that allowed participants to share comments and feedback about the process and about the scenarios. The following tables summarize results from the open houses sessions. Approximately 100 community members voted for their preferred future scenario and community character considerations. Community Forum 2 Results
Station 4’s Preferred Land Use Scenario Votes
Upon viewing and evaluating the four land use scenarios based on the information presented in Station 4 as well is the information from Stations 2 and 3, participants were asked to vote on
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their preferred land use scenario for the future of Denton. Participants were able to vote for a first and second choice. The tally of the voting is shown in the table below. For the overall score, a weighted approach was used in which first choice votes were counted twice and second‐choice votes once. The final score represents the weighted combination of all votes received through the four Community Forum 2 events. What is your First‐Choice Scenario? What is your Second‐Choice Scenario? Total
1) Growth Trend 16 16% 1) Growth Trend 1 1% 17 10% 2) Centers Growth 27 27% 2) Centers Growth 23 34% 50 30% 3) Corridors Growth 22 22% 3) Corridors Growth 25 37% 47 28% 4) Compact Growth 35 35% 4) Compact Growth 19 28% 54 32%
Total 100 100% 68 100% 168 100%
Total Weighted
First Choice x2 Second Choice x1 Total Percent
1) Growth Trend 32 1 33 12%
2) Centers Growth 54 23 77 29%
3) Corridors Growth 44 25 69 26%
4) Compact Growth 70 19 89 33%
Total 200 68 268 100% The Compact Growth Scenario received the greatest number of votes—one third of all votes (33%). This scenario was followed by Centers Growth (29%) and Corridors Growth (26%), each with just over a quarter of all votes. The Growth Trend received the least number of votes at 12%. This information will be used to shape the Preferred Growth Concept that will be used to guide the development of the Future Land Use Plan for Denton. Station 4’s Development Priorities Votes
To gain a better understanding of why someone voted for a particular Scenario, participants were asked to vote for their top three priorities for future development in Denton. The results of this voting process are shown in the table below.
What are your overall priorities for future development in Denton?
More Mixed Use 41 17%
Jobs Close to Home and Accessible by Walking and Transit 44 18%
Reduced Greenfield Development 33 14%
Improved Transit Access and Service Throughout the City 37 16%
Less Waste and Water Use 19 8%
Increased Walkability and Trails Throughout the City 53 22%
Lower Infrastructure and Service Costs 11 5%
Total 238 100% Note: Participants were asked to vote for their top two priorities.
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Percentages are rounded.
Based on the total number of votes, the top three priorities were: 1) Increased Walkability and Trails (22%); 2) Jobs Close to Home and Accessibility by Walking and Transit (18%); and 3) More Mixed use (17%). These key priorities will be used to refine the Preferred Growth Concept, ensuring that the priorities will be able to be met with the proposed development pattern. The emphasis that the community placed on these development priorities will also help determine the importance of weighing the elements of the Preferred Concept and eventually including policies related to these themes in the Denton 2030 Plan. Station 5’s Community Character Considerations Votes
Community Character Considerations are items that can be implemented in any Growth Scenario that reflect important issues specific to Denton. Similar to the land use scenarios, community members were asked to vote for their first and second choices for those items that were “Very Important” (First Choice) to include within the Preferred Concept and those that were also “Important” (Second Choice). As with the land use scenarios, a weighted approach was used to determine overall score in which first choice votes were counted twice and second‐ choice votes once. The voting for Community Character Considerations revealed the following preferences:
What is your First‐Choice Community Character Element “Very Important?”
What is your Second‐Choice Community Character Element “Important?”
1) Green Infrastructure 20 22% 1) Green Infrastructure 15 22%
2) Multi‐Modal Access 18 18% 2) Multi‐Modal Access 20 29% 3) Placemaking & Urban
Vitality 42 46%
3) Placemaking & Urban Vitality
12 18%
4) Conservation 12 13% 4) Conservation 21 31%
Total 92 100% 68 100%
Total Weighted
First Choice x2 Second Choice x1 Total Percent
1) Green Infrastructure 40 15 55 22% 2) Multi‐Modal Access 36 20 56 22%
3) Placemaking & Urban Vitality
84 12 96 38%
4) Conservation 24 21 45 18%
Total 184 68 252 100% Placemaking & Urban Vitality received the highest number of votes by a large margin, receiving 38% of the votes. Tied for second and third most important community character considerations were Green Infrastructure and Multi‐Modal Access, both with 22% of votes. Although Conservation received the fewest number of votes, it received the highest number of
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second choice votes, demonstrating that it was still an important item for many community members.
Summary
The input received at Community Forum 2 was very insightful for informing the future development pattern of the City of Denton over the next 15‐to‐20 years. Community members were strongly in support of a Compact Growth pattern for the city, and for the clustering of development around key areas (i.e. Centers or Corridors) rather than fragmented sprawl as shown in the Growth Trend. A Compact development framework was further supported by the prioritization of mixed‐use development, linking of the community through walkable pedestrian networks, and the potential for jobs located closer to home, reducing commuting times and creating balanced, mixed‐use neighborhoods. Finally, the community confirmed that maintaining and increasing “Placemaking and Urban Vitality” is an essential attribute of their future Denton. This reinforces the need for maintaining a strong Downtown core and sense of place in existing character areas of Denton, allowing new development to complement those areas, as well as providing areas of new development that can be centers of community in the future. The desire for a Compact Growth pattern was further reinforced by the community’s voting for multi‐modal transportation options, which are more easily accommodated through compact growth, as well as protecting environmental resources through the inclusion of Green Infrastructure elements and Conservation areas. Many of these elements can be acknowledged through policy in the updated Denton 2030 Plan, as they affect much more than just new growth.
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Preferred Growth Concept Draft What is the Preferred Growth Concept?
The Preferred Growth Concept is a conceptual vision for the form, character and general location of development of the City that reflects the input and expressed preferences of the community participants. The general location of new development and areas for intensification will be the basis for the development of a Future Land Use Map that will be included in the Denton 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update. Process The Preferred Growth Concept combines various aspects of each of the scenarios and community character elements that received the highest number of votes. Additionally, comments received through the questionnaire distributed at CF2 helped add detail to formulation of the Preferred Concept. The refinement of the scenarios and the creation of the Preferred Growth Concept involves both the creation of a graphic combination of the scenarios, and the creation of a distribution of land uses demonstrating development capacity. The distribution of land uses will then be used in order to calculate the fiscal impact of the Preferred Concept, which can be compared to each of the four scenarios. The Compact Scenario received the highest number of votes at 33 percent of votes. As a result, this scenario provides a strong basis for the development of the Preferred Growth Concept. Adjustments were made to this base to incorporate elements of the Centers and Corridors growth scenarios which were considered to be the first or second choice by 29% and 26% of votes, respectively. The voting for the Centers and Corridors revealed that the community is interested in seeing development clustered around distinct locations, such as Corridors and Centers, rather than haphazard sprawl. In the creation of the Alternative Scenarios, development capacity studies were conducted in order to ensure that the projected amount of development could be accommodated under each scenario in the locations shown. The Growth Trend was created based solely on the “susceptibility to change” analysis, while the Alternatives Scenarios depicted more compact
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growth occurring in more purposeful patterns (Centers, Corridors, Compact). Growth was placed based on underlying land use and zoning, surrounding context, and avoiding environmentally –sensitive areas. Growth was placed first in vacant or undeveloped areas, and then was placed in areas that could potentially redevelop. These steps are repeated for the Preferred Growth Concept, to assure that the projected development and the locations shown were feasible. Factors evaluated in this process included:
Existing land use Context evaluation using aerial maps Existing zoning Approved subdivisions Environmentally‐sensitive areas Vacant or underutilized areas Areas adjacent to I‐35 that could be affected by its widening Areas adjacent to corridors currently being upgraded (i.e. Teasley and Mayhill) Areas of gas well proliferation Areas otherwise likely to redevelop Areas in the vicinity of areas identified as important for placemaking and urban vitality
In each scenario, the amount of projected land use that is needed to match population growth had to be achievable. These development amounts—of both residential and non‐residential land uses—were consistent throughout the scenarios. The total amount of residential units and non‐residential acreage will be met within the Preferred Growth Concept as well, with the proportions of development most closely matching the preferences of the community. The development capacity analysis will be conducted using GIS and will accompany the Preferred Growth Concept map, as well as the location of development according to Fiscal Impact Zone. In addition to simply accommodating land use, the Preferred Growth Concept also weighs the priorities of the community in choosing the land uses scenarios. In Community Forum 2, the highest priorities included “Increased Walkability and Trails (22%),” “More Mixed Use (17%),” and “Jobs Close to Home and Accessible by Walking and Transit (18%).” Through the placement of land uses, the draft Preferred Growth Concept will encourage a shift towards more mixed‐use development, bringing together compatible residential, commercial, office, institutional, or other uses within a walkable scale. The direction of the Preferred Growth Concept will allow for increased pedestrian activity, reduced car trips for short distances, expanded housing choices, and opportunities for an expanded pedestrian and transit network. Finally, inputs of the Community Character preferences help refine the Preferred Growth Concept. The voting for the Community Character considerations revealed a desire for “Placemaking and Urban Vitality” (38%), “Multi‐modal Access (22%),” and “Green Infrastructure” (22%) in the community. Conservation received 18% of the weighted votes and the highest amount of second‐choice votes, indicating that it was still very important to the community. This underscores the importance of a diversity of building types, sensitivity to the
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environment, and an appreciation for areas for community gathering to be included throughout Denton. Locations of existing and potential areas of urban vitality also help to refine the location and character of potential development areas illustrated within the Preferred Growth Concept as well as potential areas for conservation, multi‐modal access and the green infrastructure network. These are illustrated as they appeared on the boards for Community Forum 2, overlaid with the preferred land use and development framework. The Preferred Growth Concept will also be informed by the Fiscal Impact Analysis that was conducted concurrently with the aforementioned process. Order of magnitude development costs were shared with the community at CF2, corresponding to each scenario, so served as a source of information for scenario evaluation. The votes received by the community demonstrate that the most fiscally sound scenario—the Compact Growth Scenario—was the most popular. However, in the voting of land use priorities, “Lower Infrastructure and Service Costs” received only 5% of votes, showing that this was not the most important consideration for the determination of their votes. The fiscal impact findings are will help determine the scenario(s) that are most fiscally responsible, which will serve as one means of defining the manner of directing the location of development and the Preferred Growth Concept. Within the Denton 2030 Plan document, the Preferred Growth Concept will precede the Land Use Plan, appearing either in the discussion of the Vision or within the introduction section on Land Use. The concept is meant to serve as an overarching framework for development. It is not the Final Land Use plan, but rather a conceptual diagram to demonstrate how the land use plan will be refined and updated to meet the needs of the community for the next 15 to 20 years.
JIM OWEN • JO L. THOMAS • JOANN NUNNELLY • JOE ADER • JOEY HOLLAND • JOHN
BRADLEY • JOHN CABRALES • JOHN GILMER • JOHN HURICKS • JOHN MCCORMICK • JOHN
WILLIAM • JOLEESIA BERRY • JON HURICKS • JON IZQUIERDO • JORGE URBINA • JOSEPH
ILLIFF • JOSHUA KNEPP • JOSHUA MOLLEN • JOY ROBERTS • JT MALLON • JUDY GIESE • JULI
GONZALES • JUNE CARROTHERS • KAREN DEVINNEY • KAREN MCDANIELS • KAREN WALZ •
KATHLEEN HARRIS • KATHLEEN VAUGHT • KATY REYNOLDS • KAY BRANUM • KEN RICHARDS
• KENNY YU • KENT BORING • KERRY GOREE • KEVIN RODEN • KIERSTEN DIETERLE • KIM
PHILLIP • KIM REASONER • KIMBERLY GREEN • KIN ZIMMERMAN • KRISTINA BREVARD • KYLE
SHIRLEY • KYLE VOYLES • LANCINE BENTLEY • LANEY BASSHAM • LARRY CLEVELAND • LARRY
REICHHART • LAURA MAUELSHAGEN • LEAH HOLLAND • LEAH SAUNDERS • LEANN SQUIER
• LEE ALLISON • LEE FOREST • LEE HOWELL • LEHIA HILL • LESLIE STEPHEN-MACFALL •
LEVASSEUR PAT • LILLIE CLARK • LINDSAY PARTRIDGE-BROWN • LINDSEY CROCKARELL • LINNIE
MCADAMS • LISA NAGAOKA • LISS KIERHMEIER • LORENA ARGUELLO • LORGAN MARSON •
LUANN AWTRY • LUIS GARCIA • LUKE TATUM • LYNN JONES • LYNN SINGLETARY • M. BRYCE
OLSON • MAMUN YUSUF • MARILA ABERASTAIN • MARILY SMITH • MARISTELLA FEUSTLE
• MARSHALL SURRATT • MARY ANN HANNA • MARYBETH REINKE • MASAHIRO CLEMURA •
MATIAS AMIEVA • MATT BLAKE • MATTHEW MELTON • MAXINE THOMAS • MEAGAN HATTON
• MEGAN RUSH • MELISSA ADAIR • MELISSA HEROLD • MELISSA HILLS • MENDIE SCHMIDT •
MEREDITH BUTLER • MICHAEL GRANT • MICHAEL PENTECOST • MICHAEL TUBIOLO • MICHAL
GALVAN • MICHELLE CUNNINGHAM • MICHELLE LYNN • MICHELLE REEVES • MICKEY WHITE
• MIGUEL PALACIO • MIIQHAELA FLOREZ • MIKA GIMENEZ • MIKE BRUCIA • MIKE DAVIS •
MIKE SAYLER • MIRIAN ORTIZ • MOHAMED MIDO • MOHAMMED GHAREEB • MONICA PALLA
• MONICA TETTEH • NAHUEL GUZMAN • NANCY BAKER • NANCY CLINE • NANCY SCOTT •
NANCY TEMPLETON • NEENA PANICKER • NERISSA DILL • PAM HANCOCK • PAMELA BARNES
• PAMELA ENGLAND • PAMELA WAT • PAT CHEEK • PATRICK BANNERMAN-AGBESI • PATTI
HAWORTH • PAUL LEHRER • PAUL MELTZER • PETE KAMP • PHIL FULHER • PHIL SHIRLEY •
PHIL WILLIAMS • PHYLLIS MINTON • QUENTIN HIX • RANDALL SMITH • RAVEL RAMIREZ • RAY
SILVA-REYES • READ KING • REBECCA CAGLE • REGGIE HILL • RHONDA LOVE • RICH BARIZ •
RICHARD BURCH • RICHARD LUEDKE • RICK BARIA • ROBBIE SITTEL • ROBERT DONNELLY •
ROD REEVES • RODNEY PATTERSON • RON APARO • RON DAVIS • ROSE DUDICH • RUBY COLE •
RUSS STUKEL • RYAN WILLIAMSON • RYIN CORIE • SABRINA LOPEZ • SALTY RISHEL • SANDRA
BENAVIDES • SCOTISH ETURU • SCOTT BAKER • SCOTT CAMPBELL • SCOTT HENKES • SHAE
EBRAHIMI • SHARETTA LEE • SHARON VENABLE • SHAUN SEITEL • SHELLY TUCKER • SHERYL
ENGLISH • SHIRLENE SITTON • SHIRLEY MATHERSON • SILVIA BEA • STACEY CANALES • STAN
MOORHEAD • STAN MORTON • STELLA BARROSO • STEPHANIE JAEGER • STEVE BIRDSEYE
• STEVE STONE • STEVEN FINLEY • STEVEN FRIEDSON • SUSAN CASTRO • SUSAN GEHRKI •
SYM LANDRETH • TANVIR AZIZ • TARA WEDEMEYER • TAYLOR KAMI • TERESA ROGERS •
TERI ROGERS • TERI TRACY • TERRI CRABTREE • TERRI GIBBS • THEODORE YAN • THOMAS
EMERICH • THOMAS KYEREBOAH • TIFFANY LAM • TIFFANY LIPSCOMB • TIM FOGARTY •
TOCHY CAJUU • TRAVIS BEAMON • TRISTAN BRITT • TRISTAN BYNUM • TYLER CLEVELAND
• TYLER NICHOLSON • VANINA HERRERA • VERONICA BENAVIDES • VICKI BYRD • VICKI
OPPENHEIM • VICTORIA DECUIR • VIRGINIA WHITE • WENDELL LIPSCOMB • WILL NELSON •
WILLIE HUDSPETH • YO GABY • YOHANDER • YOLANDA GLOVER • ZAILEY BLAKESLEE
Prepared by the City of Denton, February 2015
