Mixed-use development plans are becoming an increasingly important way to energize existing commercial areas such as the underutilized areas of North Montclair by creating quality mixed-density housing and commercial opportunities. The Plan includes a “pedestrian first” mixed-use district, which requires an extensive, connected network of public spaces and smaller streets. This would be achieved through the proper balance of cars and pedestrian linkages that are dependent on a sidewalk network associated with amenities like landscaping, bicycle routes, transit service, and public parking.
The Plan also includes a “form-based” code to regulate private development. In contrast to conventional zoning that divides land by uses, the form-based code for North Montclair is organized by geography or place. The Code provides regulations for three unique places: Town Center (mixed-use district near transit center), Corridor Residential (medium to high-density housing), and Neighborhood Residential (public squares or open space), with an emphasis on the design of individual buildings directed to form the public realm.
The Specific Plan will follow a market-driven development strategy in four phases:
Phase One: utilizes available land market interest to create mixed-density housing serving transit commuters
Phase Two: the creation of a mixed-use Town Center adjacent to the Transcenter
Phase Three: additional residential development on land bordered by Claremont and Upland
Phase Four: the final component of development
A number of public workshops conducted between 2003 and 2005 provided City/Agency staff the opportunity to receive input from the public. Those attending the meetings included elected and appointed officials, residential and commercial property owners, local and out-of-town real estate brokers, interested developers, leasing agents, and property managers.
The Plan was adopted on May 15, 2006. Final adoption of the plan included approval of a Master Environmental Impact Report, Traffic, Noise, Circulation, and Economic Assessment reports, and a zone change to reflect the proposed land uses.
Please click on the link to view the Moule & Polyzoides Architects and Urbanists web site: www.mparchitects.com
Please click on the link to view an aerial of the location of the proposed North Montclair Downtown Specific Plan: Aerial of North Montclair
For additional information, please contact Marilyn J. Staats, Director of Redevelopment/Public Works at (909) 625-9412 or Steve Lustro, Director of Community Development at (909) 625-9431.
