Vision SMTX Appendix Adopted 2024

APPENDIX E: PREFERRED GROWTH SCENARIO DEVELOPMENT

DRAFT PREFERRED SCENARIO Overview When developing the preferred scenario, we considered certain elements from the previously adopted preferred growth scenario. The previously adopted growth scenario promoted growth to the east and provided general direction on land use intensity, however, did not provide any direction in terms of land use. Additionally, the existing and proposed neighborhoods in that scenario would not be enough to support projected housing needs. The draft preferred scenario looks to intensify new growth east of IH 35 and along corridors and provides better direction on land use while allowing flexibility. The draft preferred scenario also looks to minimize the development of environmentally sensitive areas and reduce the pressure of development in existing established neighborhoods and historic zones. The proposed mixed-use activity center would also help alleviate development pressures by capturing and accommodating much of the future housing and employment needs. The scenario centers around the notion of providing equitable access to amenities. With the creation of a mixed-use activity center east of IH-35, access to amenities and services will be provided to an area that is currently lacking access to these types of services. The addition and enhancement of amenities and services in other parts of the city will also be analyzed to achieve equitable access throughout. Similarly, strategic infill development will be distributed throughout the community to help minimize adding further unnecessary building footprints. Vacant or under-utilized parcels will be considered for future infill development. The draft preferred scenario proposes to establish high-capacity corridors that are interconnected to sidewalk and bike lane networks and help connect people to destinations. The establishment of high-capacity corridors is essential to creating transit supportive development patterns. Lastly, the scenario would help advance the introduction of a diverse mix of housing types and missing middle housing such as townhomes, carriage houses, courtyard apartments, duplexes, etc.

140

SAN MARCOS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2024