Winter Garden considering framework designs for East Plant Street Corridor

Winter Garden has drafted design standards it expects to implement as guidelines for future development of the East Plant Street Corridor.

By Gabby Baquero
| 9:09 a.m. May 18, 2017

West Orange Times & Observer
News

WINTER GARDEN –– While Ocoee and Apopka seek to create pedestrian-friendly areas modeling Winter Garden’s downtown, Winter Garden seeks to expand its own. During the May 11 City Commission meeting, leaders introduced design plans detailing the framework that, if adopted, would guide development fronting East Plant Street and surrounding areas.

IDEAS FOR EAST PLANT DISTRICT

A variety of building types will be encouraged in this area. House-form buildings with commercial uses remain appropriate.
Special streetscape standards are required for Plant Street.
Access driveways should be minimized along public
streets, particularly Plant Street, to maintain a safe pedestrian environment.
Trail extension will be provided along south side of Plant Street to Ninth Street.
Residential in a more urban street-front organization, with opportunity for ground floor retail on Plant Street.
Public spaces and parks would be created as an amenity for the neighborhood.
Relaxed building frontage standards in this portion of district because of shallow parcel depths. Parking may be located on the sides of a building and screened from Plant Street sidewalk/trail by kneewall.

The framework will establish building standards for any future growth in the corridor situated between South Dillard Street and State Road 429, essentially expanding its downtown and creating a gradual transition that reflects downtown’s character.

The city’s Character Area Plans were drafted to ensure future developers and property managers understand the overall vision targeted for the corridor.

Some goals for the character area according to the proposed ordinance — for which a vote was postponed during the meeting — are to create a more pedestrian-friendly transportation network, a stronger sense of place and a front-door gateway to Winter Garden and Ocoee’s downtown areas; and to encourage high-quality and high-value economic development.

The character area establishes three overlay zoning districts: the East Plant District, Gateway District and Packing Plant District, each of which have its own development standards that align with a desired character.

There are eight building types permitted within the character area. Each has a maximum story limitation, schematic example, regulations and required standards. However, the city may grant exceptions via allowable waivers, according to the plan documents. The ordinance also states the city recognizes the constraints of meeting some standards for certain projects and may approve required deviations.

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Contact Gabby Baquero at [email protected]