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POLICY 12: Connected development

This policy states:

Prioritize planning policies and practices that support mixed-use development, walkable neighborhoods, easy access to transit, and enhanced connectivity through biking and other sustainable transportation options. (Local Government)

What is a policy?
Policies are statements of intent and approach to regional issues or topics, independently and with partners.

Actions

(Met Council) or (Local Government) or (Met Council/Local Government) are tags indicating responsibility for implementing the activity. 

Develop transportation, land use, and open space plans with features and amenities scaled for human use and comfort in both urban and rural environments. (Local Government) 

Integrate new ideas and variety in design of public rights-of-ways in collaboration with other transportation partners. (Local Government) 

Consider form-based zoning codes to ensure that new developments enhance neighborhood aesthetics, increase walkability, and strengthen community cohesion. (Local Government) 

Consider incorporating Complete Streets or Living Streets design frameworks, which seek to improve mobility, safety, and aesthetics of the transportation system for all users, into land use and transportation planning, policies, and practices. (Local Government) 

Consider incorporating Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles, or similar approaches for design features in the built environment that discourage crime, in local controls and encourage integration of these principles into new developments. (Local Government) 

Track and monitor the level and type of residential and commercial components in mixed-use districts, with assistance or guidelines provided by the Met Council. The information facilitates effective evaluation of system impacts and regional trends. (Local Government) 

Support a comprehensive pedestrian network assessment, coordinated with transportation planning, and incorporate it into development projects to address network connectivity gaps. (Local Government) 

Support small-scale, locally driven development projects that reflect and serve diverse needs of residents, particularly in underserved areas. (Met Council/Local Government) 

What is an action?
Actions are the specific activities to implement policies and achieve the goals and objectives.