197 Genesee St Auburn, NY 13021-3397

D Downtown. A. Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to provide regulatory standards governing building form and related urban design principles for new development and redevelopment projects in Downtown Auburn. These standards are intended to ensure that proposed development is consistent with the vision, goals and objectives of "Building a Sustainable Future," the City of Auburn Comprehensive Plan and other City planning and development initiatives. Downtown is the City's financial, entertainment, governmental and institutional center for public services, social activity and employment. As such, the intent of this section is to maintain the distinctive character of Downtown and enhance relationships between buildings and streets and other public spaces by considering their visual compatibility with surrounding areas. B. Guiding principles. These standards are based upon a number of guiding principles, including to: (1) Implement the City of Auburn Comprehensive Plan; (2) Protect and reinforce the unique and historic character of Downtown neighborhoods; (3) Encourage adaptive reuse and desirable forms of development at infill locations and underutilized properties; (4) Re-establish walkability and strengthen the historic circulation patterns of walkable areas; (5) Encourage reinvestment and revitalization by promoting mixed-use development; (6) Discourage less compatible suburban styles of development in the Downtown; (7) Enhance the visual character and quality of the public realm and improve pedestrian comfort; and (8) Promote diversity and compatibility in the design and use of urban buildings and public spaces. C. Applicability and use. This section applies to all buildings and the interface of buildings with the public realm and public realm amenities within the boundaries of the Downtown district. The provisions of this chapter are implemented by use of the words "shall" when meeting such provisions are required; "should" when the actions are recommended; and "may" when actions are considered optional. Action Applicable Subsection