Community Design Patterns: A Guidebook for Downtown Hilo, June 2010 (Draft)

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Chapter 205A establishes the following Coastal Zone Management (CZM) objectives and policies: recreational resources, historical resources, managing development, coastal ecosystems, public participation, scenic and open space resources, economic uses, coastal hazards, beach protection, and marine resources. Since Downtown Hilo is located in the SMA, the Planning Department has jurisdiction to review all development within the SMA using CZM objectives and policies. The Planning Department also approves permitted uses within the 40 -foot Shoreline Setback area. All SMA Major Permits and Shoreline Setback Variances are approved by the Planning Commission. Many parcels in Downtown Hilo are also located in the flood plain and are regulated by requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA). Clearly, the existing waterways have a major impact on development in Downtown Hilo. The natural setting not only makes Downtown Hilo a gem for waterfront revitalization but also increases its vulnerability to flooding, high wave action, and additional layers of regulatory requirement for public safety. 1.7. PURPOSE. Based on principles of place- making and design, Community Design Patterns provides a flexible framework for enhancing Downtown Hilo. The design patterns are based on Downtown Hilo's existing environmental, cultural, architectural, and historic assets and seek to preserve these assets for the future. This Guidebook is designed to be an innovative document that will expand and grow, as new design patterns, practices, and treatments are determined to be appropriate for Downtown Hilo. Additionally, through testing and use, improvements can be applied to the design patterns and the recommendations contained herein. It is also hoped that this Guidebook will serve as a model for other planning areas on the Island of Hawai'i. The purpose of Community Design Patterns: A Guidebook for Downtown Hilo is to: 1) Translate Downtown Hilo's distinctive character and identity into design patterns. 2) Define the design patterns and establish recommendations that, when implemented, will produce a livable, healthy, and safe community. 3) Encourage implementation of the design patterns in order to enhance Downtown Hilo's economic vibrancy and significance as a waterfront community. viii I Page Community Design Patterns: A Guidebook for Downtown Hilo •June 2010 DRAFT