Thank you Winnetka for the 1,000+ responses to last month’s Urban Design Quick Poll. We heard you loud and clear — relative to urban design, landscaping and outdoor patios are the top “wants” with lighting and bike amenities highly desired as well. A detailed pie chart relaying responses is noted below.
The results of the Quick Poll were discussed at last month’s steering committee meeting (held April 25th), which focused on Infrastructure and Urban Design. The steering committee reviewed poll results and public comments and agreed on the following:
Landscaping – is a top priority. The Village needs to consider how it can be attractive year round.
Outdoor Dining – can be costly to implement for owners and is a private business decision; should not retrofit (widen) existing sidewalks to accommodate – but can work in created bump outs or pedestrian plazas. Important to many residents and visitors.
Bikes – must be a part of the districts based on all previous discussions. Need to think in terms of multiple types of users 1) children going to school etc, 2) residents on convenience & recreation trips and 3) regional bikers passing through town. Consider that facilities must consider both access around town and places people are going.
Lighting – Needed for business and important for safety.
Gateways – Important for visitors and reflecting character of the Village. Good for letting people know they have arrived someplace special. Also important for those on bikes or Metra.
Wayfinding – implementation relates to Gateways. Can be a low cost items with limited number of signs (part of why scored as low priority. Do not want to include so many signs as to create sign clutter – be focused in use. Can be incorporated with new developments in some locations
Pedestrian Enhancements – very important to preserve and further improve pedestrian connectivity, amenities and crossings.
Parking – close by parking is useful for families with little children.
Street Furniture – benches and trash/recycling receptacles are already in place; need to continue to provide and maintain street amenities to ensure business districts invite users to stay and hang out.
NEXT STEPS: Join us on Tuesday May 31st for the ‘Land Use and Regulatory Process Findings” Steering Committee Meeting | 7pm @ Village Hall
