150401 newport open space forum report

NEWPORT OPEN SPACE CHARRETTE | PAGE 1

newport open space forumLECTURE AND INVITATIONAL CHARRETTE

Report to the Community Newport, Rhode Island

September 19th and 20th 2014

SPONSORED BY THESE ORGANIZATIONS

The City of Newport and The Tree and Open Space CommissionThe Aquidneck Land TrustThe Aquidneck Island Planning CommissionThe Newport Tree Society and ArboretumWith funding from The van Beuren Charitable Foundation

Report prepared by Placestudio Landscape Design

PA G E 2 | N E W P O RT O P E N S PA C E C H A R R E T T E

The Newport Open Space Forum is a consortium of organizations dedicated to the protection, preservation, and enhancement of Newport’s public open spaces. Sponsored by the City of Newport and The Tree and Open Space Commission, The Aquidneck Land Trust, The Aquidneck Island Planning Commission, The Newport Tree Society and Arboretum with funding from The van Beuren Charitable Foundation this two day event kicked off a year long effort to engage the public in a discussion of open space planning for Newport. The goal of these events is to move forward with consensus on a visionary master plan for that will ensure best practices for the future design and maintenance of our parks and open spaces, to protect our precious natural resources, and to preserve our cultural landscape heritage for future generations to enjoy and prosper from.

The Friday night lecture was attended by approximately 100 people at the Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center with a reception following at the Colony House. This lecture provided the public with an introduction to the broad topic of Open Space and allowed the public the opportu-nity to ask questions of the speakers.

The Saturday Professional Charrette took place at Salve Regina University’s Young Building and was attended by approximately forty architects, landscape architects, educators, and repre-sentatives of the City of Newport, and of the sponsoring not for profit groups. The professional charrette provided the opportunity to gain insight into the process of developing an Open Space Plan.

Open Space Forum-Public LectureFriday night’s lecturers were chosen to help illustrate four of the many aspects of Open Space. The topics included: horticultural events in the landscape, cultural landscapes, sea level rise and the economics of place-making. The audience was given the opportunity to ask questions or to submit questions in writing or on-line.

After introductions by Mayor of Newport, Harry Winthrop, Executive Director of The Newport Tree Society and Arboretum, Tina Dolan, Executive Director of the Aquidneck Island Planning Commission, and Chuck Allot of the Aquidneck Land Trust. Tanya Kelley, of Placestudio land-scape design, introduced the speakers.

URBAN HORTICULTURE RITUALSRon Henderson FASLA founding principal and director of design, L+A Landscape Architectureprofessor of Landscape Architecture and Asian Studies, Stuckman chair of design integration, the Pennsylvania State UniversityProfessor Henderson’s presentation explores relationships between horticulture and civic ritual as expressed through Japan’s Kaika celebration. Arboreal planting and maintenance practices were explained as ritual events that tie cultures to their environment.

summary report


THE EXPERIENCE OF OPEN SPACEMatthew Traucht ASLAproject manager, The Cultural Landscape FoundationMr. Traucht presented the role of the Cultural Landscape Foundation in documenting and protecting our national cultural landscape heritage through their on-line database of significant landscapes.

CLIMATE CHANGE - PLANNING FOR ADAPTATION AND RESILIENCY Grover Fugateexecutive director, State of Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management CouncilMr. Fugate discussed sea level rise and its implications for the future of Rhode Island. Focusing on coastal open space resiliency, he highlighted areas subject to flooding and inundation predicted over the next forty years of sea level rise.

ECONOMICS OF PLACE-MAKINGJames Limapresident, James Lima Planning + DevelopmentMr. Lima presented the economics of place-making and how cities can benefit economically while adapting to conditions of sea level rise. Opportunities in resiliency planning can be cata-lysts for economic growth through design integration of infrastructure and public space.

Invitational Charrette SummaryOn Saturday morning, attendees were taken on a bus tour of Newport’s open spaces, narrated by Scott Wheeler of the City of Newport. After lunch attendees were divided into four teams. Each team was given a package of informational material, issues to consider and a detail map of different areas of Newport.

Charrette Goals• Provide professional direction and recommendations for a future Open Space

Master Plan for the City of Newport.

• Provide recommendations for the City of Newport to assist them with the Open Space section of the revisions to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Charrette Priorities• Engage Professionals and the Public in defining Newport’s unique open spaces.

• Protect and Enhance Newport’s Open Spaces.

summary report


Focus AreasOpen Space in Newport

Each area contains the following elements; coastline, parks and recreation, habitat, historical and scenic features. Each area has a unique combination of these elements and unique set of concerns.

NORTH ENDThe North End is concerned with potential new development (Pell Bridge realignment and the Navy Hospital), connecting to the rest of the city (open space linkages), and with defining its future char-acter and quality of life for its residents. Pedestrian, transportation and development are the main issues here.

HARBOR & DOWNTOWNThe historic character of downtown Newport is well established but issues of traffic congestion, bike lanes, and accessibility, are at issue here. Enhancing the visitor experience is paramount for this business district. Streets and sidewalks make up the majority of public space in this area. The dense urban harbor edge presents issues of public waterfront access, storm water management, and planning for sea level rise.

BELLEVUE AVENUE & RUGGLES AREAThis area is characterized by a unique interface between some of Newport’s most valuable cultural and historic landscapes and the city’s most vulnerable and sensitive natural landscapes. The Bellevue Avenue & Ruggles Area includes freshwater ponds, ocean and harbor beaches, the south-east ocean cliff edge, private residential properties, non-profit institutions, Salve Regina University, public and privately owned open spaces. Many of the mature specimen trees that contributed to Newport’s “arboretum” designation are in this area. The Cliff Walk and Preservation Society properties are examples of the significant amount of Newport’s “open space” tourism that is centered in this area. Issues of cultural landscape protection are of concern here.

BRENTON POINT AKA CRITICAL AREAThe south end of the island, or Critical Area, is the area most rural in character and contains the greatest concentration of Newport’s natural resources. Large private estates, the Newport Country Club, Fort Adams, Brenton Point Park, SVF as well as unparalleled views to the ocean and Narragansett Bay account for the experience of open space in this area. Two freshwater ponds, coves with shellfish beds, eelgrass, and wildlife habitat of all kinds exist mainly in this area and are in need of protection.


Charrette ResultsCharrette Participant Tasks

• Define areas in greatest need of protection or study.

• Identify and prioritize potential new areas of open space.

• Define potential “links” for a continuous open space experience.

• Define ideas which will engage the public and enliven our public parks and spaces.

• Determine areas best suited to green infra-structure systems.

• Suggest ways for the city to partner with private, state and federal agencies to realize an Open Space Master Plan and to begin to implement projects.

• Provide your top three pieces of advice before we start this two-year planning process.

Team ResultsBlue TeamNORTH END

Issues suggested for considerationISSUE 1 New development and the preservation of open space (Pell Bridge re-alignment, Navy hospital)ISSUE 2 Railway access through Navy propertyISSUE 3 Connecting North End neighborhood to the rest of the cityISSUE 4 Miantonomi Park

Ross Cann PresentedISSUE 1 | NEW DEVELOPMENT AND PRESERVATION OF OPEN SPACE ▪ There is another Newport which is the North End. ▪ There is an opportunity to create another Newport

— “NEWport” = North End, “OLDport” = Downtown ▪ Cities are dynamic organisms. They don’t freeze in

time. Newport is thought of as old, but we have an opportunity to see it grow in the North End.

▪ The main idea is to connect the north end to the entrance to Newport at Farewell Street creating a main Axis through the city.

▪ Add mixed- use development along this axis maybe 800-1,000.00 units, reconnecting traffic, pedes-trians and architectural fabric.

▪ Growth through density: Density is seen as bad, but we think it’s actually the means of creating open space in terms of street life, squares, and economic activity.

▪ Ray Gastil commented that “A strategic open space plan can be a driver or organizing principal for this area”.

▪ Ross Cann said “ the North End should have controlled open space combined with larger areas”.

PELL BRIDGE RE-ALIGNMENT ▪ Move development to higher ground out of storm

innundation zone. ▪ Create a real entry to Newport that is not only, “you

have arrived” but an invitation to either proceed to the ‘Old’ Newport or to the ‘New’ Newport.

▪ Needs more of a “gate” to the bridge. Create a “There” there.

▪ Relocate the Gateway Visitors Center and transpor-tation hub to the base of the bridge; get people out of their cars. This entrance is the main connector to north and south.

▪ Connect with public access points: Off-load cars, connect to pedestrian, trolley (public transit), and bike routes.


NAVY HOSPITAL ▪ The Navy Hospital development parcel is a bad idea

for development due to storm surge inundation and future sea level rise. Consideration should be given to temporary uses such as waterfront access and connections, and recreation.

▪ Consider temporary solutions using resilient struc-tures that serve linkage.

ISSUE 3 | CONNECTIVITY : HOW DO WE BLEND AND CONNECT? ▪ Take the vitality of the new development in the

North End (CCRI / Met School / proposed Tech Center / Pell School, etc.) and link Miantonomi Park and Hope 6 development all the way to downtown (“OLDport”).

▪ Treat the streetscape as open space — as an economic envigorator and connector.

▪ Add retail and small businesses to Girard Avenue — make an active urban pedestrian area that serves the neighborhood.

▪ Connections to the Pell Elementary School and

between the North End and Washington Square (bike path, etc.) via Broadway will stitch the city back together.

▪ Encourage circulation through the cemetery so it doesn’t separate north and south.

ISSUE 4 | MIANTONOMI PARK ▪ Revitalize Miantonomi Park with the more active

urban zone on the east side. ▪ Don’t just reconnect Mianontomi Park to downtown

with architecture and transit — get people out of cars with inviting walkways and bikeways. Instead of walking and biking on the street edge, activate the other side of the wall in Miantonomi Park as open space used for connectivity.

▪ Blend Miantanomi Park to the south. ▪ Create linear parks with wide sidewalks. ▪ Integrate Section 8 housing along west side of

Miantonomi Park at Girard Avenue by opening up sidewalk and access into park.

▪ Program Miantanomi Park — farmer’s markets, seasonal events etc.

Yellow TeamHARBOR & DOWNTOWN

Issues for considerationISSUE 1 Cemetery and entrance to Newport at Farewell StreetISSUE 2 The Point, Storer Park and sea level riseISSUE 3 Historic branding of downtown NewportISSUE 4 State Pier, Long Wharf and connection to Washington SquareISSUE 5 America’s Cup Blvd. ISSUE 6 Aquidneck Park and storm water managementISSUE 7 King Park, habitat, and sea level riseISSUE 8 Easton Pond – potable water supply

Bruce Leish presentedISSUE 2 | THE POINT, STORER PARK AND SEA LEVEL RISE ▪ Might have to raise the first rows of buildings in the Point.

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▪ Investment incentives to help private land owners and new property owners

ISSUE 4 | STATE PIER, LONG WHARF AND CONNECTION TO WASHINGTON SQUARE ▪ Fully connect Washington Square with the water-

front at Long Wharf.

ISSUE 7 | KING PARK, HABITAT, AND SEA LEVEL RISE ▪ Narrow Wellington Avenue & create a sea wall

(stepped sea walls?). ▪ Pollution problem in southeast corner of harbor

(Newport Oil Co. and storm water outlet). ISSUE 8 | EASTON POND – POTABLE WATER SUPPLY ▪ Create a ‘retreat’: by elevating Memorial Blvd. up on

top of a higher reservoir berm. Combine vehicular and pedestrian access with tidal surge protection.

▪ Dredge pond to keep water storage intact, create a wetland buffer edge where the road is currently

Additional issuesSEA LEVEL CHANGE SOLUTIONS ▪ Harbor; 8” –6’ sea level change ▪ Huge problem on Thames Street. Possible solution:

All of Thames Street was once laid out as a parade. On the east side of Thames St., keep views open to

the harbor. Return historical character to Thames Street prior to America’s Cup Blvd. with buildings on both sides. Then step down to a lower level with piers. You can still build where it floods, but make it a raised pier. Problem is the transition.

▪ Would still need to separate combined storm water and sewer infrastructure because tide will surge in via storm drains.

▪ Transition of waterfront: make old Thames Street two ways to traffic, raise docks and add a berm/dike along Thames St.

▪ Infill buildings at piers (flooding eventually) ▪ Bowen’s Wharf has very few historic buildings

(excepting Seamen’s Church).

CONTINUOUS HARBOR WALK ▪ Create a continuous Harbor Walk. We have an

intact continuous Cliff Walk but not a continuous Harbor Walk.

▪ Complete Harbor Walk could be the city’s biggest attraction.

▪ Remember the Public Trust Doctrine (access to the water).

▪ Increase economic health. ▪ No one should be walking down America’s Cup Ave.

No one is selling anything there! ▪ Mitigate sea level change. ▪ Olmsted had a plan for a secondary road closer to

water from Thames St.


▪ Sea level rise solutions and new development along the shorelines including publicly funded projects and zoning changes should all incorporate public access and recreation opportunities (a la “Big U”).

▪ Any waterside development should include fully integrated public access.

GREENWAY RAIL TRAIL ▪ Rail trail would bring people from a potential

visitor’s center down to the Harbor Walk. ▪ Extend railroad to Portsmouth and connect rail line

to Harbor Walk.

GREENWAYS ▪ Major Boulevards are also greenways. ▪ Greenway connections. ▪ Boulevards and greenways could connect Morton

Park, King Park, and Spring Square.

CONSTITUENCIES ▪ Get everyone at the table to assuage perceived

threats and balance economic and influence disparities.

▪ Build on successes (North End) by demonstrating open space planning principles.

OPPORTUNITIES ▪ North–keep going ▪ South–build ▪ Downtown–change

Red TeamBELLEVUE AVENUE - RUGGLES AREA

Issues for considerationISSUE 1 Coastal fresh water pond habitatISSUE 2 Historic landscapesISSUE 3 Cliff Walk / Ocean Drive and storm damageISSUE 4 Preservation Society and Salve Regina University

Matthew Traucht and Kyle Zick presentedISSUE 1 | COASTAL FRESH WATER POND HABITAT ▪ Ponds – connectivity ▪ How can we develop more habitat around Lily Pond

and Almy Pond and connect to the perimeter of the island?

▪ Watershed protection around ponds, education, and storm water management.

▪ Possible dog park near north end of Almy Pond. ▪ Boardwalk around Almy Pond. ▪ Protect Almy and Lilly Ponds from algae blooms

through best lawn care and storm water manage-ment practices

ISSUE 2 | HISTORIC LANDSCAPES ▪ Eastern edge is the ‘storytelling zone’. There are

layers of stories here; Landscape stories, horticul-ture stories, people stories, future stories (coastal erosion).

▪ LANDSCAPE AS A STORY…ecology, commerce, architecture, horticulture, etc.

▪ High-density Fifth Ward area (historical service connection to the Gilded Age mansions).

ISSUE 3 | CLIFF WALK / OCEAN DRIVE AND STORM DAMAGE ▪ Cliffwalk–Protect shore and stabilize with offshore

islands or wave-breaks ▪ Program bike shares on either end of the cliff walk.


ISSUE 4 | PRESERVATION SOCIETY AND SALVE REGINA UNIVERSITY ▪ Knowing the story of the landscape that you are

working with is critical in this area. ▪ Institutional open space = long-term commitments

to landscape integrity. ▪ These institutional open spaces are rich with

historic, cultural, and aesthetic value. ▪ Salve story: Management of estate trees, competi-

tion landscape, plantings and removals ▪ A center point for education, architecture, location.

Additional issues raisedVIEWSHEDS ▪ Long viewsheds and short viewsheds need to be

maintained, created, and valued. ▪ Views of historical sites create mental connections

to the history of what someone is seeing.

WHO IS OUR CLIENT ▪ Public or private? Year rounder? Seasonal visitor?

CIRCULATION ▪ Bike routes, loops and linkages and connections,

close roads on certain days or make Ocean Drive one-way on a certain day of the week.

▪ Bike routes: make Newport bike friendly — This area of Newport in particular has potential to be a very safe biking area.

TREES, WILDLIFE & HABITAT ▪ Provide wildlife corridors and enhancements to

avoid vehicle/wildlife conflicts by using eco-tunnels or culverts.

▪ Tree corridors: green streets and corridors with heavy tree canopy contribute to more complete streets but maintain views.

▪ Address all major roads as greenways ▪ Competition landscaping ▪ What is the tree canopy percentage goal for

Newport? ▪ King Park- lower vegetation to protect views. ▪ ‘Forest Unseen’ book which highlights the view of

trees from underneath.

EXPANSION ▪ Expand open space network through acquisitions,

easements or properties for sale. ▪ Public & private open space…roads, public parks,

bodies of water, and sewer easements.

Green TeamBRENTON POINT AKA CRITICAL AREA

Issues for considerationISSUE 1 Fort AdamsISSUE 2 Brenton Pt. State Park – habitat managementISSUE 3 Newport Country Club, Hammersmith Farm and SVF – public/private partnershipsISSUE 4 Price’s Neck, Green Bridge, and Gooseneck Cove

Lilly Dick and Ron Henderson presentedISSUE 1 | FORT ADAMS / BRENTON POINT AS A PILOT FOR PUBLIC/PRIVATE PART-NERSHIP ▪ Key recommendation: State park management -

local government must have representation. ▪ A coalition should be formed to begin a discussion

of this area, its use and protection. ▪ Influential constituents at Fort Adams: State of

RI Department of Parks, Fort Adams Trust, Sail Newport, Navy and Newport Festival Foundation.

PA G E 1 0 | N E W P O RT O P E N S PA C E C H A R R E T T E

▪ A successful model is a “conservancy” model. ▪ There are successful models out there for public/

private collaboration. ▪ Good examples of private, local, state, federal collab-

oration: Point State Park, Pittsburgh, PA; Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend, WA; and Marin Headlands, Sausalito, CA.

▪ Centrum at Fort Worden and the Headlands Center for the Arts at Marin Headlands are non-profit arts organi-zations working within state/federal parks.

▪ The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is a good example of an organization bridging community and government interests to improve the quality of their City’s park system.

▪ Sub-division issue, mowing to property edges, and hydrological problems contributing to habitat loss.

▪ It is remarkable that the area of critical concern is already designated as Critical Area.

▪ New development currently requires review of proposed landscape designs including grading and drainage plans, planting plans, and lighting plans.

▪ Encourage sustainable building and lawn care practices.

▪ Legislative collaboration is needed to protect, enforce and enhance the areas of critical concern is very important.

ISSUE 3 | NEWPORT COUNTRY CLUB, HAMMERSMITH FARM AND SVF – PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS ▪ At least 28 various constituents in this area including:

The City of Newport, State, Fort Adams Trust, DEM, CRMC, RIDOT, Sail Newport, Newport Festivals Foundation, Castle Hill Inn, Coast Guard, Save the Bay, The Audubon Society, The Smithsonian, New York Yacht Club, Newport Country Club, as well as sailors, fisherman, bikers, history, military history, birding, recreation (biking/walking/hiking/swimming/boating), private property owners, etc.

▪ How do we connect these places?

Additional issues raised ▪ Ross Cann mentioned that property owners have

shown interest in forming a neighborhood group. ▪ Conservation areas - Legislative collaboration is

necessary. ▪ Vista is everything - viewsheds need protection

▪ Improve bicycling conditions on Ocean Ave. — currently no shoulder.

▪ This is a very special area with many constituents and it is at great risk. How do you protect it?

▪ Many open space assets, but all tightly controlled.

SOILS, HYDROLOGY, HABITAT & SEA LEVEL RISE ▪ Other advocates and new voices needed in regard

to birding along the south coast, shellfish beds, and wildlife habitats. Improving habitat raises the value of the area.

▪ Soils and geology maps show rock stops midway through south end. With climate change and sea level rise, this will create another island.

▪ There are important habitat and sea-level rise condi-tions through this corridor.

▪ This area needs proper hydrology and habitat studies. ▪ Conduct a user intercept count — how many people

and how much money is coming into use? ▪ Hydrology system needs attention and a visible identity

which could knit it all together as an open space. ▪ Put The Newport Country Club in a leadership position. ▪ Define a “Critical Habitat Area” through zoning

percentage- would have to be regulated. ▪ Information currently missing on the city website:

Hydrology and Topography maps and user data, limited land use and SAMP map.


Summary Results Important Take-aways ▪ Redo Zoning: We are presently living with 1970’s

zoning. ▪ The thing that busts down the door for these discus-

sions is sea level rise which can be used to leverage change.

▪ Olmsted Plan tied open space with transportation. We need to pick that up again, (America’s Cup Avenue as a berm, getting people out of cars, bike trails, ocean drive, etc.). Open space should tackle transportation and circulation. View cars as an option not a necessity.

▪ Focus on one area that can be used as an example to show some success in bringing in new changes (North End).

▪ Constituencies: Economic and influence disparities among users. Landowners, tourists, summer residents Section 8 housing, the Navy. Need to get everyone to the table and find common solutions.

▪ Example of pilot location: Off-ramp from Pell Bridge has just been approved. Create a new streetscape at an urban scale, use Navy land as a greenspace and create a linkage along the harbor there.

▪ North End: There already has been success there (housing, CCRI, Met School), but people don’t go there and it is not connected.

▪ Put immediate teeth into the problem at Critical Area (many properties are on the market currently)

▪ Determine principals; develop real plans; run pilot projects for green infrastructure.

▪ Terminology: use Public Space instead of Open Space. ▪ Get the process started by engaging the public.

Priorities1. Zoning is outdated- examine and update

2. Sea level rise- leverage discussion of green infrastructure- CATALYST FOR CHANGE

3. Planning through transportation- pick up where Olmstead Plan left off

4. Pilot project- focus on one area- North End; Navy Hospital and Pell Bridge or South End.


1. Open Space Planning Process & Strategy Beginning to define Newport’s open spaces

Next Steps

Final Goals

2. Open Space Planning Charrette Rational

Process & Planning

Format

Calendar of Events

Attendees and Tables

Photos from events with captions

Sketches from tables with captions

3. Previous Planning Work & Supporting Materia ls Planning Projects Library

Maps

4. Value of Open Space Planning for Newport Previous Open Space Planning In Newport

Current Planning Efforts

Partnerships (City, committees and nonprofit organizations)

Examples of current planning and thinking nationwide

5. Glossary of Terms & Links

Terms used in open space planning process

Links to organizations, information and resources

6. Acknowledgments

addenda


1. Open Space

Planning Process & StrategyBeginning to define Newport open spaceThe forum lectures and professional charrette were the beginning of a year-long effort to discuss Newport’s unique and varied open spaces.

Next StepsOver the next year we will have an on-going dialog with planning professionals, Newport residents, organizations, and the City, to explore ideas about Newport’s open spaces.

Move forward with public engagement through a series of public lectures, workshops and events which will reflect topics concerning Newport’s unique open spaces.

Develop and engage a coalition of community groups, citizen’s, local businesses, and government liaisons to guide the planning effort as a whole.

Put together a Request for Proposals to select a profes-sional firm to develop an Open Space Master Plan for Newport.

Consult with the City on the open space section of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan; the Newport Open Space Forum will request a meeting with Council members to introduce and review plans and provide infor-mation for the open space section of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Develop a comprehensive RFP that will allow us to iden-tify those resources best suited to the unique and varying demands of each project element, including: ▪ A parks and open space inventory, historical analysis,

and existing use and conditions report ▪ Civic engagement activities throughout the planning

process, including a comprehensive communications plan ▪ Parks & Open Space Master Plan development ▪ Management of the RFP process and engagement of

consultants for future project phases ▪ Create Phase II project grant narratives and manage

grant application processes ▪ Put together a Request for Qualifications to select a

professional firm to develop an Open Space Master Plan for Newport

Final GoalsOur goal is to engage the public in a discussion of open space in order to define the needs of the community and gain consensus for an Open Space Master Plan for the City. This plan will assist present and future city officials faced with making decisions about parks and open space management and improvements.In addition, we hope to assist the City of Newport with a city-wide set of recommendations for the open space section of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

addenda


2. Open Space

Planning Charrette

Philosophy & RationalNewport is 98% urban and 2% rural (2012 census) however Newport doesn’t feel urban due to its proximity to its largest open space asset, the Atlantic Ocean. However, Newport’s parks, beaches, shoreline, walks, streets and urban squares contribute to its open space as well. The re-design of Queen Anne’s Square, as well as improvements to the Cliff Walk have been a source of public controversy over this past year. Ongoing street and sidewalk improvements have also witnessed the loss of paving materials which enhance the city’s historic character. Newport deserves a comprehensive open space master plan to guide city officials and city staff when making decisions regarding open space, recre-ation, streetscape improvements and park redesigns. Public input and engagement in the development of this plan is an essential component. Public/ private partner-ships between businesses, not for profits, local, state and federal agencies will help pave the way for projects and broaden funding sources to preserve, upgrade and redesign our public spaces. The first Newport Open Space Forum lecture and professional charrette allowed for immediate input and advice upfront, from design professionals experienced with open space planning. This information is vital to providing a framework for future public workshops and educational events as well as for the development of a RFP for Newport’s Open Space Plan and for guidance for the revision of Newport’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Process & PlanningPlans for the lecture and charrette were developed over the course of about three months between Helen Papp of the Newport Tree Society and Arboretum and Tanya Kelley, principal of Place studio landscape design. Helen and Tanya reported to, and met periodically with, repre-sentatives of the Newport Open Space Forum committee which included; Scott Wheeler of the City of Newport, Chuck Allot, Executive Director of the Aquidneck Land Trust, Lilly Dick and Tina Dolen of the The Newport Tree Society and Arboretum and Sarah Atkins of the Aquidneck Island Planning Commission.

Plans for the Lecture and CharrettePlans for the lecture and charrette included the following: selection of the four speakers, selection of dates for the lecture and charrette, the creation of the budget, planning of both events including: venues, food, transportation for the tour, lodging and transportation for the lecturers, materials and supplies for the lecture and charrette, invitations and publicity for both events, mailing lists, outreach to professionals targeted for the charrette, implementation of the event, evaluation of the event, report and action plan as a result of the event.

Calender of Events

DAY 1 OPEN SPACE FORUM Friday, September 19th, Jane Pickens Theatre, Washington Square6:00 – 8:45 pmReception at The Colony House following8:45 – 9:30 pm

DAY 2 INVITATIONAL CHARRETTESaturday, September 20th, Young Building, Salve University

Charrette Itinerary8:30 – 9:30 am Registration and Breakfast9:30 – 11:30 am Bus Tour of Newport open spaces with Scott Wheeler

12 pm Box Lunch12:15 – 1 pm Introductions: Tanya Kelley Tanya Kelley to introduce Ray Gastil1 – 3 pm Break out- group charrette3 – 4 pm Group presentations and conclusions


participants and team tables TABLE 1 - BLUE TEAM NORTH ENDThe North End to, but not including, Storer Park

Ross Cann Managing Director, A4 ArchitectureBarbara van Beuren Board, van Beuren Charitable FoundationCorey Bobba Federal Highway AdministrationTina Dolen Executive Director, Newport Tree Society and ArboretumEmily Humphrey URI Landscape Architecture studentRobert Lever Principal, New CommonsAngelo Simeoni Professor of Landscape Architecture, University of Rhode Island

TABLE 2 - YELLOW TEAM HARBOR & DOWNTOWN Newport, Washington Square, Easton’s Beach etc

Bruce Leish Former Director, MetroWest Chuck Allot Executive Director, Aquidneck Land TrustPhil Frias URI Landscape Architecture StudentHelen Papp The Newport Tree Society and ArboretumScott Wheeler Building & Grounds Supervisor, Tree Warden, City of NewportJohanna Vietry Board Member, Friends of the Waterfront

TABLE 3 - RED TEAM BELLEVUE AVENUE - RUGGLES AREAArea from Webster Street south and Ballard Park east

Matthew Traucht Project Manager, Cultural Landscape FoundationKyle Zick Principal, Kyle Zick Landscape ArchitectureMary Ellen Flanagan Principal, MEF Design LLCChris Fletcher Manager, Bartlett Tree ExpertsElena Pascarella Principal, Landscape Elements

TABLE 4 - GREEN TEAM BRENTON POINT AKA CRITICAL AREA Southern end of Newport from but not including King Park to Brenton Point

Lilly Dick President, Newport Tree Society and ArboretumRon Henderson Principal, L+A Landscape ArchitectureRobert Currier Co-chair, Newport Tree Society and ArboretumElizabeth Lynn Executive Director, van Beuren Charitable Foundation Hilary Stevens Coastal Geologist, member AIPC

Matthew Traucht presenting at Friday Night lecture.

Ron Henderson presenting at Friday night lecture.

Tanya Kelley introduces the Friday night lectures.


Charrette PhotosForum Photos

Scott Wheeler leading the bus tour of Newport.

Co-facilitator Ray Gastil launches the charrette.

Co-facilitator Tanya Kelley with Northend Team.


Charrette Photos

Teams brainstorming in breakout groups.

Co-facilitator, Ray Gastil summarizing results.Breakout team presentations.


DRAFT

North End

TABLE 1 - BLUE TEAM

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DRAFTDRAFT

Harbor & Downtown TABLE 2 - YELLOW TEAM

MEMORIAL BLVD

CEMETERY

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Bellevue Avenue - Ruggles Area

TABLE 3 - RED TEAM

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BELLE

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RUGGLESRUGGLES

RUGGLES

ALMYPOND

LILLYPOND

ALMYPOND

ALMYPOND

LILLYPOND


Brenton Pt. Critical Area TABLE 4 - GREEN TEAM


Planning Projects LibrarySelected planning projects in Newport that are relevant to the Open Space planning process.

Newport GIS Portal http://newportri.maps.arcgis.com/apps/OnePane/basicviewer/index.html?appid=315ca72e95104 5089a8350ec17f3949a

URI CRC 2013 Assets Vulnerable to Sea Rise http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/uri-crc-2013-assets-vulnerable-to-sea-rise/

Rhode Island 2012 State Preservation Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/rhode-island-2012-state-preservation-plan/

Washington Square 2012 Eisenhower Park Vision for Restoration http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/ washington-square-2012-eisenhower-park- vision-for-restoration/

Washington Square 2012 Charrette Report http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/washington-square-2012-charrette-report/

Washington Square 2012 Bike Newport Report http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/washington-square-2012-bike-newport-report/

Aquidneck Island Open Space Mapping Project 2012 AIPC Final Report http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/aquidneck-island-open-space-mapping-project-2012- aipc-final-report/

Newport 2011 Open Space Inventory List http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/newport-2011-open-space-inventory-list/

Bellvue Avenue 2010 Gates Fences Walls Study http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/bellevue-avenue-2010-gates-fences-walls-study/

Newport Harbor Walk http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/newport-harbor-walk/

Gilded Age Newport – 2008 World Heritage Site Application Addendum http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/gilded-age- newport-2008-world-heritage-site-application/

Gilded Age Newport – 2008 World Heritage Site Application Addendum http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/gilded-age-new-port-2008-world-heritage-site-app-addendum/

Newport Historic District 2007 National Landmark Application http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/newport-histor-ic-district-2007-national-landmark-application/

Newport North End 2006 Summary Presentation http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/newport-north-end-2006-summary-presentation/

Newport North End 2006 Master Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/newport-north-end-2006-master-plan/

Aquidneck Island 2006 West Side Master Plan Implementation http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/aquidneck-is-land-2005-west-side-master-plan-implementation/

Aquidneck Island 2005 West Side Master Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/aquidneck-island-2005-west-side-master-plan/

Miantonomi Park 2005 Management Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/miantonomi-park-2005-management-plan/

Central Newport 2004 Urban Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/central-newport-2004-urban-plan/

3. Previous Planning Work

& Supporting Materials


Newport 2004 Comprehensive Land Use Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/newport-2004-comprehensive-land-use-plan/

Almy Pond 2001 Land Management Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/almy-pond-2001-land-management-plan/

Aquidneck Park 1999 Master Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/aquidneck-park-1999-master-plan/

Aquidneck Park 1998 Annotated History http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/aquidneck-park-1998-annotated-history/

Washington Square 1995 Rehabilitation Report http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/washington-square-1995-rehabilitation-report/

Miantonomi Park 1990 Renovation Master Plan http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/miantonomi-park-1990-renovation-master-plan/

Cliff Walk 1987 User Profile Study http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/cliff-walk-1987-user-profile-study/

Proposed Improvements for Newport 1913 Olmsted http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/miantonomi-park-1990-renovation-master-plan/

Morton Park 1885-1916 News Clippings http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/morton-park-1885-1916-news-clippings/

Almy’s Pond 1859 John Frederick Kensett http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/almys-pond-1859-john-frederick-kensett/

1784 Map of Newport http://newportopenspace.org/portfolio/1784-map-of-newport/

MapsREFERENCE MAP SETS DISTRIBUTED TO EACH TEAMCity of Newport maps ▪ Existing Land Use ▪ Zoning ▪ Historic DIstricts ▪ Shore Access Points ▪ Sewer Systems ▪ CRMC Water Use Classifications ▪ Critical Areas & Conservation Areas ▪ Shelfishing & Bird Nesting ▪ Wetlands

(City of Newport maps source: RIGIS / Newport GIS http://newportri.maps.arcgis.com/apps/OnePane/basicviewer/index.html?appid=315ca72e95104 5089a8350ec17f3949a)

▪ Brockway, Lucinda, Important Designed Historic Landscapes (source: Newport City Comp. Plan, figure 5.4)

ENLARGED AREA BASE MAPS FOR EACH TEAM ▪ North End ▪ Harbor & Downtown ▪ Bellevue Avenue / Ruggles Area ▪ Brenton Point aka Critical Area

(Base maps source: RIGIS / Newport GIS)

ADDITIONAL MAPS USED FOR CHARRETTE ▪ City of Newport - Open Space Type

(source: Aquidneck Planning Commission) ▪ Charrette Bus Tour Route

(source: Google Maps)

CITY OF NEWPORT

OPEN SPACE TYPE


NEWPORT OPEN SPACE CHARRETTE BUS TOUR ROUTE

START/ENDYOUNG BUILDING

KING PARK

FORT ADAMS

WASHINGTON SQUARE

TOURO PARK

BRAGA PARK

VERNON PARK

PELL SCHOOL

MIANTONOMI PARK

CEMETERY

GREEN BRIDGE

BRENTON POINT

EASTON BEACH


NOTE: Additional stops were made along the route.

NEWPORT OPEN SPACE CHARRETTE

BUS TOUR ROUTE


5. Value of Open Space

Planning for NewportOpen Space vs. Public SpaceDefinitions, etc.

Benefits of Open SpaceParks, recreation, and open space perform numerous functions and provide benefits which enhance community living such as: ▪ Active and passive recreational opportunities. ▪ Direct health and safety benefits (such as flood control, protection for water supply and

groundwater recharge areas, cleansing of air, separation from hazards). ▪ Protection for important critical areas and natural systems (such as wetlands, tidal marshes,

beaches) and for protection for wildlife diversity and habitat. ▪ Commercially significant resources and jobs (such as maritime, fishery, and agricultural or

aquaculture products). ▪ Economic development including enhanced real estate values and ▪ Increased tourism; attracting businesses and retirees.

4. Newport Open Space Facts ▪ 102.39 square miles ▪ 98% URBAN / 2% RURAL ▪ .76 sq miles of OPEN SPACE

(officially designated) ▪ 133 miles of streets

POPULATION ▪ Population 24,034 (2012 census) ▪ x4 in the summer (up to 100,000)

COASTLINE ▪ Total linear feet: 360,510 ▪ Gooseberry Island – 2,427 feet ▪ Goat Island – 8,949 feet ▪ Rose Island – 4,421 feet ▪ Coaster’s Island – 12,230 feet ▪ Newport – 332,483 feet

COASTAL TRAILS AND SCENIC DRIVES ▪ Total: 16.5 miles ▪ Harbor Walk = 3 miles ▪ Cliff Walk = 3.5 miles ▪ 10 Mile Drive = 10 miles

PARKS AND RECREATION ▪ 35 parks ▪ 18 tennis courts ▪ 15 playgrounds ▪ 6 basketball courts ▪ 1 dog run


THE DEVELOPMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION CONTRIBUTE TO COMMUNITY HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE ▪ Natural features and spaces important to defining community image and distinctive character. ▪ Boundaries between incompatible uses and breaks from continuous development. They can

shape land use patterns to promote more compact, efficient-to-service development. ▪ Places for facilities, such as cultural and historical sites, and community centers that

contribute educational and cultural benefits. ▪ Opportunity to prevent youth crime through park and recreation programs that offer social

support from adult leaders; leadership opportunities for youth; intensive and individualized attention to participants; a sense of group belonging; youth input into program decisions; and opportunities for community services.

▪ Healthy lifestyles enhancement by facilitating improvements in physical fitness through exercise, and also by facilitating positive emotional, intellectual, and social experiences.

▪ Historic preservation opportunities.

Open Space Planning and Policy Open space projects emphasize preservation and enhancement of natural and cultural resources. Long-range planning for open space is key to preserving resources while enhancing visitor use and experience. Policies and guidelines designed in conjunction with master plans and resource management plans provide a blueprint for future decisions and actions that ensure consistency with the City of Newport’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Master plans are developed to serve as the guiding vision to direct land use and stewardship, natural resource protection and enhancement. Master plans may provide guidelines for historic preservation and/or renovation of parks, streetscapes and public spaces such as squares and boulevards.

Master plans should include a resource management element that provides an inventory and analysis of significant resources, and recommendations for resource management activities. Site-specific resource management plans are intended for areas that have unique natural conditions or resource issues. Subject-specific resource management plans may be generated to address a high priority or urgent resource protection issue such as endangered species habitat preservation.

Open space plans may make recommendations for broader implications to regional systems which can include connections to local, state and regional greenway systems and bike trails. Open space plans may highlight opportunities or constraints for hydrological systems, both man-made and natural, and make recommendations for enhancing connections for habitat corridors and access to natural areas.


Newport’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan ELEMENT SEVEN: OPEN SPACE AND RECREATIONThe City of Newport’s Department of Planning and Economic Development, under the direction of Paul Carroll, are in process of updating the Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan. This update includes only the updating of data and statistics to keep the document that was adopted in 2004 in compliance with current State requirements.

The State of Rhode Island has issued new requirements for municipalities to include in their next Comprehensive Plan. After the data revisions are complete and adopted, Newport will begin the process of reviewing and revising the entire document to bring it in compliance with the new State regulations that go into effect as of June 1st, 2016.

The Comprehensive Land Use Plan as adopted in 2004 by the City Council, forms the legal basis for all land use decisions made by the City as well as Zoning Ordinances and Land Development - Subdivision Regulations. All Zoning and Land Development Amendments enacted must be in compliance with the adopted Comprehensive Land Use Plan. http://www.cityofnewport.com/departments/planning-development/comprehensive-land-use-plan

All elements must contain specific goals and policies which lead to specific recommendations and implementation strategies. Element Seven: Open Space and Recreation includes an inventory of open space areas and recreational facilities within the City of Newport. Goals and policies are set forth for the prioritization of future projects based on the needs of the City and the community. Immediate priorities such as maintenance and upgrades to meet state stan-dards are laid out. Short term and long term projects such as signage, bike paths and funding strategies are put forth as well.

Mapping TechnologyOpen Space Planners use the latest GIS and GPS technology to gather and record land and resource information that establishes the foundation for planning efforts and on-going management of parks and open space. The City of Newport has made great strides in collecting resource data on vegetation, soils and geology, hydrology, plants and animals, and cultural resources. These subjects can be analyzed alone or in combination to identify important land management priorities and are a vital resource for Open Space Planners for the preparation of designs and specifications for resource protection and restoration, and other improvements. The maps can be found on the City of Newport GIS Public Portal: http://cityofnewport.com/departments/civic-investment-planning/gis-mapping-services/gis-public-portal

Community ParticipationCommunity participation is an integral part of the open space planning process. Neighbors, special interest groups, and others interested in shaping decisions about how Newport’s open spaces are enjoyed and managed are encouraged to participate in workshops, attend community meetings and share their ideas at public hearings. The City of Newport’s outreach program, “Engage Newport” is using social media as a means of encouraging more community involvement.


5. Glossary of Terms & LinksGlossary of TermsTERMS USED IN OPEN SPACE PLANNING PROCESS

ACCESSIBLE - refers to a site, facility, work environment, service, or program that is easy to approach, enter, operate, participate in, and/or use safely and with dignity by a person with a disability. http://askjan.org/links/adaglossary.htm

ARBORETUM - a place where trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are cultivated for scientific and educational purposes. http://www.merriam-web-ster.com/dictionary/arboretum

BERM - is a level space, shelf, or raised barrier separating two areas. It can serve as a border barrier. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berm

BIKE SHARES - or bicycle sharing system, public bicycle system, or bike share scheme, is a service in which bicycles are made available for shared use to individuals on a very short term basis. Bike share schemes allow people to borrow a bike from point “A” and return it at point “B”.

CHARRETTE - or design charrette, is an intense period of design or planning activity. http://en.wiki-pedia.org/wiki/Charrette

CLIMATE CHANGE - refers to any significant change in the measures of climate lasting for an extended period of time. In other words, climate change includes major changes in temperature, precipitation, or wind patterns, among others, that occur over several decades or longer. http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/glossary.html#C

COASTAL RESILIENCE - means building the ability of a community to “bounce back” after hazardous events such as hurricanes, coastal storms, and flooding – rather than simply reacting to impacts. http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/resilience.html

COMPLETE STREETS - is a transportation policy and design approach that requires streets to be planned, designed, operated, and maintained to enable safe, convenient and comfortable travel and access for users of all ages and abilities regardless of their mode of transportation. Complete Streets allow for safe travel by those walking, bicycling, driving automobiles, riding public transportation, or delivering goods. http://www. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complete_streets

COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLAN - estab-lishes guidelines for the future growth of a commu-nity. As the term “comprehensive” suggests, this is an all-inclusive approach to addressing the issue of a community’s future growth. A comprehensive plan is the formal document produced through this process. The document is official in nature, meaning that it is designed to be adopted into law by some form of local government. The document should then serve as a policy guide to decisions about community development. http://urbanext.illinois.edu/lcr/comprehensiveplanning.cfm

CONSERVANCY - an association dedicated to the protection of the environment and its resources. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/conservancy

CRITICAL AREA - The R-120 and R-160 zones as established by Newport zoning code and the zoning map shall together comprise the boundaries of the critical area—Ocean Drive district. All development activity including new construction and subdivision of land within the two districts shall be subject to the requirements of the Critical Area Review. It is recognized that the lot sizes prevalent within the R-120 and R-160 districts are desirable to retain the area character and to protect, conserve, and foster the natural, scenic, historical and economic qualities of this truly unique area of Newport. The current lot sizes and density in this area is suitable for the application of the critical area review process. This Critical Area Review shall in no manner enlarge upon nor decrease the number or type of uses permitted in the underlying R-120


and R-160 zoning districts. http://www.cityofnew-port.com/departments/zoning-inspections/critical-area-review

CRITICAL AREA REVIEW - is a development plan review process designed to protect the unique natural resources located in the subject district and is in accordance with recommendations of element two (Land Use) of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for the City. The intent of this review committee is to foster sensitive development activity in the southern shoreline area of the city, commonly known as Ocean Drive, which typically exhibit large lot sizes and to minimize adverse impacts of devel-opment on such critical natural elements as vege-tation, soil erosion, water quality, natural habitats, and scenic quality. The requirements of this review committee are developed to protect, conserve, and foster the natural, scenic, historical and economic qualities of lands along the city’s Ocean Drive. The critical area review process is not intended to deny an applicant a permitted use of the property as established by this zoning code but rather to review, comment, refine, and develop site design elements within the development plan especially those which pertain to the physical characteristics of the site and its surrounding environment. http://www.cityof-newport.com/departments/zoning-inspections/critical-area-review

CULTURAL LANDSCAPE - is defined as “a geographic area, including both cultural and natural resources and the wildlife or domestic animals therein, associated with a historic event, activity, or person or exhibiting other cultural or aesthetic values.” http://www.nps.gov/tps/.../36-cultural- landscapes.htm

DESIGNED HISTORIC LANDSCAPE - a land-scape that has significance as a design or work of art; a landscape consciously designed and laid out by a master gardener, landscape architect, architect, or horticulturist to a design principle, or an owner or other amateur using a recognized style or tradition in response or reaction to a recognized style or tradition; a landscape having a historical associa-tion with a significant person, trend, event, etc. in landscape gardening or landscape architecture; or

a landscape having a significant relationship to the theory or practice of landscape architecture. http://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/nrb18/nrb18_2.htm

ETHNOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE - is a cultural landscape containing a variety of natural and cultural resources that the associated people define as heritage resources. http://www.tclf.org/content/ethnographic-landscape

GIS/GPS - A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present all types of spatial or geographical data. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geographic_information_system

GREENWAY - A greenway is a term that usually refers to a trail (and sometimes a wildlife corridor), found in both urban and rural settings, that is frequently created, out of a railway, utility, or similar right of way, or derelict industrial land. Rail trails are one of the most common forms of greenway, and they also resemble linear parks. http://en. wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenway_%28landscape%29

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE - is an approach to water management that protects, restores, or mimics the natural water cycle. Green infrastructure is effective, economical, and enhances community safety and quality of life. It means planting trees and restoring wetlands, rather than building a costly new water treatment plant. www.americanrivers.org/.../green-infrastructure/

HABITAT - is an ecological or environmental area that is inhabited by a particular species of animal, plant, or other type of organism. It is the natural environment in which an organism lives, or the physical environment that surrounds a species population. A habitat is made up of physical factors such as soil, moisture, range of temperature, and availability of light as well as biotic factors such as the availability of food and the presence of predators. A habitat is not necessarily a geographic area—for a parasitic organism it is the body of its host, part of the host’s body such as the digestive tract, or a cell within the host’s body. http://en. wikipedia.org/wiki/Habitat


LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE - is a multi-disci-plinary field, incorporating aspects of: botany, horti-culture, the fine arts, architecture, industrial design, geology and psychology the earth sciences, envi-ronmental, geography, and ecology. http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Landscape_architecture

LAND TRUST - is a simple, inexpensive method for handling the ownership of real estate. It is an arrangement by which the recorded title to the real estate is held by a trustee, but all the rights and conveniences of ownership are exercised by the beneficial owner (beneficiary) whose interest is not disclosed. www.idfpr.com

MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT - In a broad sense, Mixed-use development is any urban, suburban or village development, or even a single building, that blends a combination of residential, commercial, cultural, institutional, or industrial uses, where those functions are physically and functionally integrated, and that provides pedestrian connections. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed-use_development

NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES (NRHP) - is the United States federal government’s official list of districts, sites, build-ings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Register_of_Historic_Places

OLMSTED - Frederick Law Olmsted (April 26, 1822 – August 28, 1903) was an American landscape architect, journalist, social critic, and public admin-istrator. He is popularly considered to be the father of American landscape architecture, although many scholars have bestowed that title upon Andrew Jackson Downing. Olmsted was famous for co-de-signing many well-known urban parks with his senior partner Calvert Vaux, including Central Park and Prospect Park in New York City, as well as Elm Park (Worcester, Massachusetts), considered by many to be the first municipal park in America. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Law_Olmsted In 1913 Olmsted authored a report for the Newport improvement Association entitled “Proposed Improvements for Newport”.

OPEN SPACE - is any open piece of land that is undeveloped (has no buildings or other built struc-tures) and is accessible to the public. www.epa.gov

PLACEMAKING - is a multi-faceted approach to the planning, design and management of public spaces. Placemaking capitalizes on a local community’s assets, inspiration, and potential, with the intention of creating public spaces that promote people’s health, happiness, and well- being. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placemaking

PUBLIC SPACE - A public space is a social space that is generally open and accessible to people. Roads, public squares, parks and beaches are typically considered public space. Wikipedia

RESILIENCY PLANNING - An umbrella term for planning and design strategies needed to help cities develop the necessary capacity to meet the challenges of the future. http://www.resilientcity.org/

RFP - Request for Proposals

SAMP - Special Area Management Plan (Ocean SAMP), developed by the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to preserve, protect, develop, and where possible, restore the coastal resources of the state for this and succeeding generations, and to ensure that the preservation and restoration of ecological systems shall be the primary guiding principle upon which environmental alteration of coastal resources will be measured, judged and regulated. http://www.crmc.ri.gov/samp_ocean/finalapproved/000_ExecSum.pdf

SEA LEVEL RISE - The so-called greenhouse effect or global warming may cause a Sea Level Rise, which will have a great impact on the long-term coastal morphology. The possible and gradual Sea Level Rise will cause a general shoreline retreat and an increased flooding risk and has to be handled according to the local conditions. http://www.coastalwiki.org/wiki/sea_level_rise

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT - is often used to refer to both structural or engineered control devices and systems (e.g. retention ponds) to treat


or store polluted stormwater, as well as operational or procedural practices. Stormwater management includes both technical and institutional aspects, including:

• control of flooding and erosion

• control of hazardous materials to prevent release of pollutants into the environment (source control)

• planning and construction of stormwater systems so contaminants are removed before they pollute surface waters or groundwater resources

• acquisition and protection of natural waterways or rehabilitation

• building “soft” structures such as ponds, swales or wetlands or Green Infrastructure solutions to work with existing or “hard” drainage structures, such as pipes and concrete channels

• development of funding approaches to stormwater programs potentially including stormwater user fees and the creation of a stormwater utility

• development of long-term asset management programs to repair and replace aging infrastructure

• revision of current stormwater regulations to address comprehensive stormwater needs

• enhancement and enforcement of existing ordinances to make sure property owners consider the effects of stormwater before, during and after development of their land

• education of a community about how its actions affect water quality, and about what it can do to improve water quality

• planning carefully to create solutions before problems become too great

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stormwater#Stormwater_management

SUSTAINABILITY - is the endurance of systems and processes. The organizing principle for sustainability is sustainable development, which includes the four interconnected domains: ecology, economics, politics and culture. http://en.wiki-pedia.org/wiki/Sustainability

TIDAL SURGE - or storm surge is a coastal flood or tsunami-like phenomenon of rising water commonly associated with low pressure weather systems (such as tropical cyclones and strong extratropical cyclones), the severity of which is affected by the shallowness and orientation of the water body relative to storm path, and the timing of tides. Most

casualties during tropical cyclones occur as the result of storm surges. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Storm_surge

URBAN PLANNING - (urban, merged urban regions, regional, city, and town planning) is a tech-nical and political process concerned with the use of land and design of the urban environment, including air, water, and the infrastructure passing into and out of urban areas such as transportation and distribu-tion networks. Urban planning guides and ensures the orderly development of settlements and satellite communities which commute into and out of urban areas or share resources with it. It concerns itself with research and analysis, strategic thinking, archi-tecture, urban design, public consultation, policy recommendations, implementation and manage-ment. A plan can take a variety of forms including strategic plans, comprehensive plans, neighborhood plans, regulatory and incentive strategies, or historic preservation plans. Planners are often also responsible for enforcing the chosen policies. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_planning

VIEWSHED - is an area of land, water, or other environmental element that is visible to the human eye from a fixed vantage point. The term is used widely in such areas as urban planning, archae-ology, and military science. In urban planning, for example, viewsheds tend to be areas of particular scenic or historic value that are deemed worthy of preservation against development or other change. Viewsheds are often spaces that are readily visible from public areas such as from public roadways, public parks or high-rise buildings. The preservation of viewsheds is frequently a goal in the designation of open space areas, green belts, and community separators. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viewshed

WATERSHED - is “that area of land, a bounded hydrologic system, within which all living things are inextricably linked by their common water course and where, as humans settled, simple logic demanded that they become part of a community.” John Wesley Powell from http://water.epa.gov/type/watersheds/whatis.cfm

ZONING - describes the control by authority of the use of land, and of the buildings thereon. Areas of land are divided by appropriate authorities into zones within which various uses are permitted. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoning


LinksLOCAL ORGANIZATIONS & INFORMATION

Aquidneck Land Trust http://ailt.org

Aquidneck Island Planning Commission http://aquidneckplanning.org

City of Newport GIS Public Portal http://cityofnewport.com/departments/civic- investment-planning/gis-mapping-services/gis-public-portal

City of Newport Department of Planning & Development http://www.cityofnewport.com/departments/civic-investment

Coastal Resources Center (URI) http://www.crc.uri.edu

CRMC Coastal Shoreline Change Special Area Management Plan (BeachSAMP) http://www.beachsamp.org

Newport Arboretum http://newportarboretum.org/home

Newport Harbor Walk http://www.newportharborwalk.com

HISTORIC LANDSCAPES

Cultural Landscape Foundation http://tclf.org

LEGISLATION & GOVERNANCE

Growing Smart Legislative Guidebook https://www.planning.org/growingsmart/ guidebook/print

PLANNING & DESIGN

American Planning Association https://www.planning.org

Cyburbia http://www.cyburbia.org

Park Planning Guidelines, Standards & Examples http://www.mrsc.org/subjects/parks/ parkplanpg.aspx

Project for Public Spaces http://www.pps.org

Sprawl Watch http://www.sprawlwatch.org

Urban Land Institute http://uli.org

STORMWATER RUNOFF

UNH Stormwater Center http://www.unh.edu/unhsc

150401 newport open space forum report

Documents