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Home My WebLink AboutNorthside Neighborhood Plan - Final - 4-16-2012_FINAL2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 2 Page Intentionally Left Blank 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 3 Topics to be Discussed: I. Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………. Pg. 1 II. Neighborhood Plan Considerations – A Balance…………………………………………… Pg. 3 IIa. 2000 Northside Neighborhood Plan Overview…………………………………. Pg. 4 IIb. Northside Site Evaluation ………………………………………………………………. Pg. 6 IIc. Community Involvement & Prioritized Recommendations ……………. Pg. 9 III. Implementation Tools and Resources ………………………………………………………… Pg. 24 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 4 II Neighborhood Plan Considerations – A Balance A Neighborhood Plan Update is a delicate process that seeks to understand and provide a balance between three (3) the essential elements: 1) Past Plan Findings & Recommendations: Past plan findings and recommendations provide a firm base and history to where the community has been and where it is headed. Understanding what recommendations were prioritized and implemented indicate what measures were successful in the past while providing a list of possible recommendations that, although not considered a priority in the past, may now prove appropriate within the Community today. See Section IIa: 2000 Northside Neighborhood Plan Overview (below) 2) Site Evaluation Strengths and Weaknesses: Every community maintains certain features within its fabric that make it unique and a place to call home. Communities can vary in terms of race, income and other defining characteristics which do not hinder, but rather add and essentially enhance an areas overall identity. It is these defining characteristics as well as the ability to “live, work and play” within a community that measure’s a community’s true success. See Section IIb. Northside Neighborhood Site Evaluation (below) 3) Current Community Needs and Wants: The Community is an innate part of this process and the key to all final recommendations. Community involvement is continuous throughout this process where the Northside residents provide feedback and confirmation of findings provided in the first two (2) elements listed above as well as provides final calibration of recommendations to be prioritized in this 2012 Plan Update. See Section IIIb. Community Involvement & Prioritization of Recommendations (below) 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 5 IIa. 2000 Northside Neighborhood Plan Overview In order to understand the elements needed for continued improvement of Northside, it is important to first understand what elements were enacted during the last 12 years. With a unifying goal of neighborhood redevelopment and revitalization, four general areas of concern became the community’s focal point in 2000 including: 1) Better Quality of Life, 2) New affordable housing for Northside, 3) A More Beautiful Northside and 4) A Better Northside Infrastructure. Out of these unifying elements, nine were prioritized by area residents and became the primary focus of improvements within the community. Of the nine (9) prioritized recommendations, eight (8) were effectively implemented between a one (1) and twelve (12) year time frame as outlined in Table 1 below. The timeframe for implementation is important to remember when developing a Neighborhood Plan where not all prioritized elements can implemented at once. However, if provided within the community’s blue print as a prioritized element, recommendations are more likely to become enacted as funding becomes available where recommendations that take a longer time to fully implement usually require a greater level of preparatory work. Prioritized recommendations are summarized below. Table 1: 2000 Northside Neighborhood Plan – Prioritized Recommendations Priority Action Strategy Enacted (Y/N) If implemented, what actions were taken? If not, what were the inhibitors? 1 Promote the repair of deteriorating residences so they meet minimum code standards and to improve the quality of life of current residents. Seek financial assistance as necessary from external resources. (Help qualified, needy residents to repair homes.) Y From 1-2-2000 to 11-15-2011, 70 code enforcement cases were found on building maintenance in the Northside Neighborhood. Harris County has various Home repair programs for residents of the targeted areas. The City encouraged the residents to repair deteriorating structures through funding provided by the Harris County Community Services Department. Applications are available at Harris County website and can be picked from the La Porte City Hall. Applications will be made available at the Jennie Riley Center for the area resident convenience. 2 Investigate ways to increase transportation services to residents; assist the residents with information on public agency transportation. (Investigate ways to assist needy residents with transportation.) Y On October 11, 2010, The City of La Porte and Harris County Community Development entered into an agreement under which La Porte would provide matching funds to the county, which would provide certain fixed bus service to the citizen of La Porte. This bus route also includes Northside Neighborhood and residents are utilizing this public transport at will. Bus service is continuous and remains active till next year when up for renewal. Bus stop is located just across the Jennie Riley Center. 3 Through the City's Dangerous Buildings Program or with owner approval and participation, systematically remove residences and dilapidated, unoccupied structures over a period of time. (Remove buildings that can't be repaired with owner approval or through City's Dangerous Buildings Program.) Y Beginning from 1-1-2000 to 11-15-2011, 70 demolition permits were pulled for the removal of dilapidated structures in the Northside Neighborhood. 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 6 Table 1: 2000 Northside Neighborhood Plan – Prioritized Recommendations Priority Action Strategy Enacted (Y/N) If implemented, what actions were taken? If not, what were the inhibitors? 4 Install street lighting according to a lighting plan that provides adequate safety for the residents; enhance with private security lighting. (Install street environment lights where needed plus increase private lighting.) Y No record found on addition of the streetlights in the neighborhood however, street lights were continuously maintained throughout the 12 year period leading up to the 2012 Update. Residents noted that to date lighting is adequate, and additional lighting is no longer a prioritized concern – unless intended for aesthetic/decorative lighting. 5 Consider promoting E Street as a buffer between the residential and general commercial zoning districts of the Northside neighborhood Northside neighborhood. (Tum E boundaries. Street into public park space.) Y E Street Linear Park is in place which serves as a buffer between the residential and commercial/industrial uses along Barbour’s Cut Blvd. 6 Increase pressure on criminals by encouraging property owners to provide La Porte Police Department with affidavits approving their enforcement of trespassing ordinances on private property. ("No trespassing" affidavits for Police.) N No Police affidavits found for enforcement of trespassing ordinance. However, police beefed up patrol and their presence decreased places where crime occurs in the neighborhood. 7 Draft and construct a consistent plan for sidewalks. (Develop a plan for putting infrastructure 7 City, Civic Club sidewalks where needed.) Y The City constructed sidewalks at the following locations: A. 300 block of North 6th Street – 500 sq.ft. B. North 6th @ Madison – 600 sq.ft. C. 115 North 2nd – 548 sq.ft. D. 300-308 W. Main Street – 1,286 sq.ft. E. 400 block of North 6th - 1,524 sq.ft. Annual Sidewalk program is a continuous process and sidewalks will be added per plan or as needed. 8 Consider creating a community development corporation charged with the mission to develop businesses, jobs and new housing opportunities for the Northside area. (Create a Community Development Corporation to work on: jobs, training, housing, business, development, marketing) Y Main Street Advisory Board was created to develop businesses, jobs, and enhance economic development in the area. Northside residents, LA Porte Civic Club, religious and other business leaders were involved to work on strategies for providing more business opportunities, eventually create jobs for the area residents. Task force was created to get technical assistance and other funding resources from other governmental entities. 9 Encourage neighborhood property owners and tenants to maintain their properties, keeping them debris and litter free, lawns neatly trimmed and homes and garages repaired. (Reward people who keep their properties clean and tidy; give help to those who need help.) Y In an effort to clean up the area and have a safer/healthy environment, City registered 497 cases of weeds and 419 cases for debris removal. II b. N To better important as well as Study Are The north the study by Barbou This road surroundi land uses traditiona and little amenities 8th Street and West of the stu both resid industrial Broadway shares sim traits with where as more resi providing 146 and it road. Ma boarder’s half of the is domina which see Populatio According of La Port Northside roughly 1 Northside understand h t to evaluate the area’s ge ea Boundary: hern portion o area is borde ur Cut (Exhibi caters to ing industrial with ally wide lane to no pedestr s. Broadway provide the E ern boundari dy area servi dential and properties al y, however, milar roadway h Barbour’s C 8th street is dential in nat access to S.H ts related fee in Street s the Southern e study area a ated by comm eks to restore n Growth g to the 2000 te continued t e has remaine %. However, Neighbor how the need the basic cha eneral backgr of ered it 1). s rian and East ies cing like. y ut ture H eder n and mercial use pro e this once vib Plan, the Nor to see increas ed relatively c , evidence of hood Site ds of the com anges that hav round. operties and brant corridor rthside comm sed growth. constant, with new resident 20 Evaluatio munity have ve occurred w is part of the r as a thriving munity experi Over the last h an only sligh ts moving into Exhib 012 Northside n: changed ove within the co e La Porte’s hi g downtown c enced decline 10 year, how ht, but mode o the commu bit 1: Commun e Neighborhoo er the last sev mmunity ove istoric Main S community. e over the ye wever, the po rate decline o unity is appare nity Boundar od Plan Upda veral years, it er the last dec Street initiativ ears while the pulation of of 8 people, o ent as the ries ate | 7 is cade, ve e rest or communit other race Similarly, Census in working a and 3% of Another i the record Census w Census. Land Use As depicte further re active Jen area as w maintains linear par Northside the south residents The histor strong sen Students with the a pillar of p Medium D residentia character Riley Com Industrial line the o provide a all parcels were note As depicte uses – res number o ty continuous es within the demographic dicate a stron age populatio f person aged ndication tha ded number o hich rose by 5 & Zoning: ed in Exhibit einforces the nnie Riley Com ell as a prima s two (2) cent rk which runs e Neighborho ern half of th throughout t rical significan nse of heritag is located on advent of inte ride in the co Density Resid al boundary w istics of prop mmunity Cent and Light Ind utmost boun better indica s were invent ed, vacant or ed in Table 2, sidential and of vacant or u sly diversifies area (Exhibit c information ng retention a n with percen d 20‐34, 55‐64 at the commu of household 57 units betw 1, the Comm area’s comm mmunity Cent ary meeting fa tralized parks the length of od is home to he study area the City of La nce of the No ge. As report the corner of egration, the ommunity. ential makes while Low Den erties directly er; General C dustrial and t dary of the st ation of the st toried and, w unused parce , the study ar commercial – nused spaces s retaining its t 2). provided by among the co nt increase of 4 and 65+, res unity is growin s as provided ween the 2000 unity also off itment to con ter which hou acility for the directly adja f E Street and o not one (1), attracting pa Porte. orthside Neigh ed in the 200 f Tyler and N. school still sig up the perim nsity Resident y adjacent to Commercial, B he Main Stree tudy area (Ex tate of these here a lack of els of land we reas two (2) p – maintain a l s. 20 larger Africa the US ommunity’s f 16%, 33%, spectively. ng is seen in d by the US 0 and 2010 fers residents ntinued grow uses multiple La Porte Com cent to the Je d is a direct re , but seven (7 arishioners fo hborhood is a 00 Plan, the fi . 5th Street. A gnifies a meter of the tial is more the Jennie Business et District hibit 3). To land uses, f structure ere noted. primary land arge 012 Northside n American p s a number of wth and revita recreational mmunity Civic ennie Riley Co esult of the 20 7) vibrant chu rm within the also promine rst school de Although the Table 2: V Zone & Residenti Residenti Commerc Commerc Vacant Church School Parking Lo Park e Neighborhoo presence whil f residential a lization inclu activities for c Club. North ommunity Ce 000 Plan. Fin urches sprinkl e community nt and lends dicated to Af school cease Vacancy Inve & Status al al Vacant cial cial ot Exhibit 2: De od Plan Upda le incorporati amenities wh ding the high r the youth of hside also enter, as well nally, the led throughou as well as to the area’s frican‐Americ d to exist in 1 entory Count A 162 22 104 17 112 27 77 18 27 5 8 2 3 8 0 501 emographics ate | 8 ing ich hly f the as a ut can 1964 Acres 2.3265 7.8636 7.2445 8.5522 5.1472 2.9413 1.891 0.8609 Ex h i b i t 3: Noort h s i d e Ne i g h b o 2 orh o o d Zo n i n g M 01 2 No r t h s i d e Ne Map eig h b o r h o o d Plann Update | 9 II c. C The succe populatio reflection process, t of the pro wants and heart of t residentia who may Northside Sign‐in sh were noti available, posted on A summa A. K The purpo neighborh solicit fee done next To assist w main cate Transport a short pr were also concerns Kickoff me summariz themes em strengthe infrastruc Community ess of Norths on in which it of the neigh the project tim oject, b) recom d needs were he communit al households not currently e’s overall suc eets were us fied via emai fliers, as wel n the City’s w ry of the Com Kickoff Meet ose of the No hood plan, un dback from t t. with initial dis egories and in tation, Urban resentation, t o provided wh or recommen eeting discus zed in Table 3 mployed from ening of its cu cture as it rela y Involvem ide starts wit serves. As su borhood. To meline reflect mmendation e adequately r ty at the Jenn s, and provide y reside withi ccess. ed to track pa l regarding up l as summary ebsite. mmunity Proc ing orthside Neigh nderstand the he communit scussions, top nclude Land D Design and C he floor was here area resi ndations spat sion points w 3. Although a m the provide lture by inves ates to the ae ment & Pri th the continu uch, the 2012 ensure conti ts three key p development reflected. Si nie Riley Comm es for sufficie n neighborho articipation. pcoming mee y tables were ess is provide hborhood Kic e importance ty concerning pic areas wer Development, Community E open for disc dents were a tially. were compiled all comments ed list include sting in comm esthetic appea 201 ioritizatio ued interactio Northside N inued and am public meetin t, and c) final milarly, all ne munity Cente nt bus and pa ood boundari Where possib etings as well provided at t ed below: koff meeting of the 2000 P g what needs e divided into , Infrastructur ngagement. cussion. Map able to illustra d and are as were used to e the preserva munity youth, al and overal 2 Northside N on of Recom on, support a eighborhood mple participa ngs which wer recommend eighborhood er which is wi arking accom es but still m ble, residents as meeting m the Jennie Ril was to introd Plan as it rela to be o five re, After ps, ate o draft final re ation of the c , the adult wo l functionality I p Neighborhood mmendati nd motivatio Plan Update ation within th re timed to re ation approv meetings we thin walking modation for aintain a vest s providing em minutes. Whe ley Communi Nove duce the con ates to this Pla ecommendat ommunity’s h orkforce, and y of the neigh mage 1: Concern potential improvem d Plan Update ions n from the e serves as a d his planning eflect: a) the val to ensure p re held in the distance to a r those citizen ted interest in mail addresse ere email wa ty Center and mber 10, 20 cept of a an Update, an tions, the mai heritage and general hborhood. ed Citizens discuss ments for Northsid e | 10 direct start public e ll ns n es s not d 011 nd in s de. 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 11 Table 3: What We Heard – Kickoff Meeting Results Category Community Comments Land Development ‐ Alleviation from building code violations (use money towards building repair) ‐ Address impacts on property taxes associated with (re)development. Provide protection for existing residents ‐ Better develop the park at 5th and Tyler Infrastructure ‐ Add sidewalks for the entire length of 4th and 5th street (primary gateways) from Main to Madison ‐ Increase connectivity between: Schools, Churches, Parks & Community Center Transportation ‐ Better advertise buses by developing a brand or transit Logo & related, well-advertised route map ‐ Construct bus shelter ‐ Extend San Jacinto Trail to E Street Linear Park Urban Design ‐ Continue street light maintenance & enhance current appearance ‐ Continue to encourage home repair and maintenance ‐ Encourage infrastructure designs that increase neighborhood appeal and sense of “home” i.e. no barbed wire fences & screen dumpsters Community Engagement ‐ Continue to build relationship with city police department ‐ Provide more activities for the community youth (i.e. splash pad) ‐ Incorporate tutoring and vocational skill training at the community center Utilizing the information presented during the Kickoff meeting a series of site visits were conducted. The purpose of these visits were to: 1) Confirm some of the Land Development, Infrastructure, Transportation and Urban Design concerns 2) Get to know area residents and discuss some of the Community Engagement issues 3) Identify any additional area for improvement All concerns voiced during the kickoff meeting were confirmed during site visits, and as such rolled over to the next phase of the planning process. B. Prioritization Meeting January 24, 2012 Utilizing all data collected from the past plan evaluation, site evaluation and the Neighborhood Kickoff meeting, a list of 48 recommendations were developed based on the five (5) categories as previously discussed. Recommendations were evaluated by City Staff and confirmed by area District Council members to ensure adequate representation of community concerns. Similarly, all provided recommendations were evaluated to ensure compliance with the City of La Porte’s Comprehensive Plan which is currently in draft form and expected to be finalized within the 2012 timeframe. Each reco summariz intent of t list of pot sample of Appendix All recom Meeting w However, recomme forced pa but more recomme identificat Land Deve Com *The intentio recommenda prioritized re Prioritizat that need at City of Due to th Council M area resid Matrixes w A. El B. H C. 90 Final dead ommendation zed within a P the recomme ential respon f the Prioritiza x A. mendation p were accepte participants ndation by o rticipants to importantly, ndation again tion of those Catego elopment & Red Infrastructure Transportation Urban Design mmunity Engage Total on of this process w ations received the commendations – tion Matrixes ded more time La Porte offic e level of inte Members and dents for addi were made a lectronically v ardcopies ma 0 printed cop dline for subm n was discusse Prioritization endation, its r nsible parties ation Matrix i resented dur d and approv were also as rder of impor really unders compare and nst each othe recommenda Table ries development e n n ement was to prioritize o e same number of – as defined by the were turned e were allowe ces. erest and exc other local co itional feedba vailable by: via City Webs ade available pies distribute mission was M ed at detail, a Matrix which related benef for implemen is available fo ring the Priori ved by meetin ked to rank rtance. This a tand each rec d weigh the im er. With 48 re ations that ar e 4: Prioritiz Total Numbe nly 20 recommend votes, all resultin e pubic – is 25. in at the com ed to submit itement gene ommunity lea ack. To ensur site at the Jennie ed to area res March 5, 2012 201 and further defined the fit as well as a ntation. A or review in itization ng participant activity not on commendatio mportance of ecommendat re most impo zation Matri er of Recomme 14 5 6 10 13 48 dations based on v g recommendatio mpletion of th final hard cop erated by the aders, recomm re ample opp e Riley Comm sidents 2. 2 Northside N a ts. nly on, f tion insight, th rtant to the N ix Guideline endation votes received by ons were carried ov he January 24 pies of the m provided rec mended that portunity for f unity Center Image certa weak Neighborhood his activity re Northside Ne es Number Recommend (final the public. Howe ver. As a result, th 4, 2012 meeti atrixes to loc commendatio t additional ti feedback, Prio e 2: Maps were u in strengths, oppo knesses of the com d Plan Update esulted in the ighborhood. of Prioritized dations Allowe 5 2 2 5 6 20 list = 25*) ever, where one or he final number of ing. Participa cal planning st ons, area City me be provid oritization sed to demonstra ortunities and mmunity. e | 12 d r more f ants taff ded to te 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 13 C. Results Meeting March 29, 2012 The purpose of the Northside Neighborhood Results Meeting was to summarize selected recommendations the Prioritization Matrix as discussed during the January 24th meeting. Comments were summarized based on the five general categories as previously discussed including: Land Development & Redevelopment, Infrastructure, Transportation, Urban Design and Community Engagement. Results are summarized in Table 5, below. Results are summarized below: Table 5: Summary of Priority Matrix Findings Category Total Votes Top Ranked Recommendations Land Development & Redevelopment (LD & RD) 90 1. Community Attraction: Conduct feasibility study for Splash Pad Development (Rec. #4) 2. Historic Preservation: Incorporate historic African American School as a part of the proposed brochure to be produced by the La Porte Heritage Society and distributed at the Old Depot Museum and other locations around town (Rec. # 2) 3. Housing: Continue to Market Northside Community for affordable single-family residential development to responsible builders (i.e. Habitat for Humanity or Home Grant Programs by Harris County) (Rec. #6) 4. Commercial Development: Investigate the possibility of incorporating a keystone commercial business at the corner of 4th and Main to continue reinforcement of Main Street redevelopment efforts (Rec. #5) 5. Historic Preservation: Work with La Porte Heritage Society and the Order of Eastern Light to renovate and reestablish the historical significance of La Porte's first African American School (Rec. #1) Infrastructure 36 1. Drainage: Continue to maintain ditches and culverts on an as-needed basis (Rec. #19) Tie – 2nd Ranked Priority: 2. Bike Lanes: Extend San Jacinto Trail via a shared use path along 3rd and 4th St incorporating two-way bike traffic to and from the community center (Rec. # 18) 2. Sidewalks: Complete Sidewalk network on 3rd Street between Tyler and Madison Streets; continue sidewalk connections on 4th Street where appropriate on Tyler St for increased east-west connection (Rec. # 17) 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 14 Table 5: Summary of Priority Matrix Findings Category Total Votes Top Ranked Recommendations Transportation 35 1. Wayfinding: Establish wayfinding signs at key locations which indicate locations of the linear park (and associated parking), community center, Historical Landmark (1st African American School) and future area attraction (splash pad or other). Recommended locations include: Jennie Riley Community Center and primary corridor entrances along Main Street (Rec. #20) Tie – 2nd Ranked Priority: 2. Bus Shelters: Construct bus shelters at current bus stop locations (Rec. # 21) 2. Barbours Cut: Beautify median and right-of-way on Barbours Cut Blvd Cut Blvd with assistance from the Houston Port Authority and Harris County (Rec. #25) Urban Design 85 1. Landscaping: Eliminate the use of barbed wire fencing (i.e. La Porte ISD Properties & Industry) (Rec. #30) 2. Landscaping: Continue to clear underbrush and debris from vacant lots (Rec. #31) 3. Landscaping: Extend vegetative buffer at children's park at the corner of Tyler and 4th Street to incorporate park space leading up to Tyler and 5th St. Vegetative buffer to mimic event center parking which is located across the street from the park. (Rec. #27) 4. Rezone: Rezone residential properties to less dense R1 developments; allow for R2 demonstration projects for continued diversity of housing stock. Based on outcome of demonstration projects, re-evaluate future the potential of R2 developments (Rec. #34) 5. Landscaping: Incorporate minimum landscaping requirements in business industrial, general commercial and residential properties. (Rec. #26) 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 15 Table 5: Summary of Priority Matrix Findings Category Total Votes Top Ranked Recommendations Community Engagement 93 1. Youth Program: Encourage the establishment of a Child Safety/Dare Summer Camp to institutionalized as a yearly program in joint cooperation between the La Porte Police & Parks and recreation department (Rec. #41) 2. Continued Police Presence: Support the establishment of a "Police Drop-in Center" at the Jennie Riley Community Center as currently under development by the City of La Porte Police Department (Rec. #40) 3. Community Development Corporation: Expand Community Development Corporation to include the development of businesses, jobs and enhanced economic and development into the Northside Neighborhood (Rec. #45) 4. Workforce Training Program: Utilize the Three Track Training program offered by Harris County for Target Area Non-Profit Organizations (Rec. #46) 5. Community Outreach: Encourage community ownership and sense of responsibility for continued success and revitalization via a continuous "Adopt a Street Program” utilizing participation of local churches (Rec. #36) All prioritized recommendations were supported by meeting participants, and an excitement was in the air. With representation from the local multifamily development located within the neighborhood as well as long time neighborhood residents concerned about the preservation of the African American School, the intention of this meeting evolved as community residents started to brainstorm among themselves, taking renewed ownership of their community and now prioritized recommendations. III. R Prioritized Communi Northside 1) B 2) Id 3) O 4) U Each prio and based medium a A. Sh B. M C. Lo D. C Resulting recomme regarding Resulting d recommend ity. Although e, the speed in udget and Fu dentification a Overall size of rgency ritized recom d on the natu and long term hort Term (Ta a. Implem b. Amend c. Provid Medium Term a. Implem b. More c. High c ong Term (Ta a. Implem b. To be c. Contin d. Should ontinuous (Ta a. Are alr redeve implementat ndations incl g area benefit Recomm dations are a h all recomme n which each unding Resour and Participat projects and mmendation w re of the reco ms timeframe able 6 ‐ Green mentation go dable with ex de for the grea (Table 7 ‐ Ye mentation go in depth plan ommunity ba ble 8 ‐ Red) mentation go reevaluated w nuous d be in implem able 9) ready in pract elopment and tion timelines uding genera s, refer to Ap endation direct repres endations play recommend rces tion by Comm related prep was evaluated ommendation where: n): oals that can b xpected budg atest impact ellow) oals that can b nning/resourc acking/non‐co oals to be reac with next pla mentation tod tice today, an d revitalizatio s are summar al compliance ppendix A of t 201 s entation of th y a key role in ation is enact munity Champ aratory work d against the t n were catego be meet with et constraint (aka – bigges be meet with ces/coordinat ontroversial ched in 10+ y n update day and cont nd should be on effort. rized in Table with La Porte this Plan. 2 Northside N he needs and n the redevel ted depends pions, the Cit k required for three (3) rest orized for im in one (1) to f s st bank for yo in five (5) to t tion required years inued throug encouraged a 6‐9 below. F e’s Comprehe Neighborhood d wants of No opment and greatly on: ty, Non‐Profit r implementa trictive traits plementation five years (5) our buck!) ten years (10 ghout. as an essentia For a full desc ensive Plan a d Plan Update orthside revitalization ts, and the lik ation as defined ab n in the short . ). al part of this cription of nd more deta e | 16 n of ke bove, , s ail 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 17 A. Sh o r t Te r m Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s (1 ‐5 Ye a r Im p l e m e n t a t i o n ) : Th e ma j o r i t y of re c o m m e n d a t i o n s pr i o r i t i z e d by th e No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d fa l l wi t h i n th e sh o r t te r m im p l e m e n t a t i o n ti m e l i n e . Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s wi t h i n th i s ti m e f r a m e ar e in t e n d e d to make the la r g e s t im p a c t fo r th e co m m u n i t y in th e sh o r t e s t am o u n t of ti m e wh e r e ce r t a i n in f r a s t r u c t u r e pr o j e c t s – li k e th e ad d i t i o n of a bike lane or co m p l e t i o n of a si d e w a l k – pr o v i d e fo r si g n i f i c a n t vi s u a l im p a c t wi t h i n th e co m m u n i t y hi g h l i g h t i n g th e Ci t y ’ s co m m i t m e n t to the su c c e s s f u l im p l e m e n t a t i o n of th i s Pl a n . Ot h e r re c o m m e n d a t i o n s , su c h as th e ut i l i z a t i o n of th e ex i s t i n g Th r e e ‐Tr a c k Training Program, ta k e ad v a n t a g e of ex i s t i n g Ci t y pr o g r a m s an d pa s t do c u m e n t de v e l o p m e n t th a t , al t h o u g h no t cu r r e n t l y ut i l i z e d by th e community, can be ea s i l y im p l e m e n t e d at li t t l e or no co s t . Ho w e v e r , as st a t e d ab o v e , th e se n s e of Ur g e n c y wa s al s o us e d to ev a l u a t e wh i c h re c o m m e n d a t i o n s sh o u l d be su g g e s t e d for im p l e m e n t a t i o n wi t h i n th e sh o r t te r m . Th e fi r s t Af r i c a n Am e r i c a n Sc h o o l of La Po r t e is ho u s e d wi t h i n th e co m m u n i t y of Northside. It re p r e s e n t s th e hi s t o r i c a l si g n i f i c a n c e of no t ju s t th i s co m m u n i t y , bu t La Po r t e as a wh o l e . At th e ti m e of pu b l i c a t i o n of the 2000 Plan, the sc h o o l ho u s e st r u c t u r e wa s in ac c e p t a b l e co n d i t i o n . Ho w e v e r , af t e r on l y 12 ye a r s ro t is ap p a r e n t , th e ce i l i n g is st a r t i n g to sink, and the on c e ap p a r e n t si d e w a l k le a d i n g up to th e hi s t o r i c a l ma r k e r is an y t h i n g bu t ap p a r e n t ; if th e co m m u n i t y do e s no t ac t now, this key stone la n d m a r k wi l l no t su r v i v e to th e ne x t ph a s e of im p l e m e n t a t i o n . Ta b l e 6‐ be l o w pr o v i d e s a br i e f su m m a r y of ea c h re c o m m e n d a t i o n . Fo r fu l l ve r s i o n s , pl e a s e se e Ap p e n d i x A wh e r e benefits of each re c o m m e n d a t i o n ar e ex p a n d e d on an d re l a t i o n to th e Ci t y of La Po r t e ’ s Co m p r e h e n s i v e Pl a n ar e id e n t i f i e d . “R e c . ” , as identified within th e Ta b l e 6: Sh o r t Te r m Im p l e m e n t a t i o n Re c . * Sh o r t T e r m Ac t i o n R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s (1 - 5 Y e a r s ) Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Potential Partners 1 Wo r k w i t h L a P o r t e H e r i t a g e S o c i e t y a n d t h e O r d e r o f E a s t e r n L i g h t t o r e n o v a t e a n d r e e s t a b l i s h th e h i s t o r i c a l s i g n i f i c a n c e o f L a P o r t e ' s f i r s t A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n S c h o o l . LD & R D His t o r i c a l Pr e s e r v a t i o n La Porte Heritage Society, Order of Eastern Light, Economic Development Council 2 In c o r p o r a t e h i s t o r i c A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n S c h o o l a s a p a r t o f t h e p r o p o s e d b r o c h u r e t o b e p r o d u c e d by t h e L a P o r t e H e r i t a g e S o c i e t y a n d d i s t r i b u t e d a t t h e O l d D e p o t M u s e u m a n d o t h e r l o c a t i o n s ar o u n d t o w n . LD & R D His t o r i c a l Pr e s e r v a t i o n La Porte Heritage Society, Order of Eastern Light, Economic Development Council 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 18 Ta b l e 6: Sh o r t Te r m Im p l e m e n t a t i o n Re c . * Sh o r t T e r m Ac t i o n R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s (1 - 5 Y e a r s ) Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Potential Partners 3 Co n s i d e r u p d a t i n g t h e A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n s c h o o l h i s t o r i c a l m a r k e r i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h o t h e r hi s t o r i c a l m a r k e r s a s m a n a g e d b y L a P o r t e ' s H e r i t a g e S o c i e t y . LD & R D His t o r i c a l Pr e s e r v a t i o n La Porte Heritage Society, Order of Eastern Light, Economic Development Council 17 Co m p l e t e s i d e w a l k n e t w o r k o n 3 r d S t b e t w e e n T y l e r a n d M a d i s o n S t r e e t s ; c o n t i n u e s i d e w a l k co n n e c t i o n s o n 4 t h S t a n d w h e r e a p p r o p r i a t e o n T y l e r S t f o r i n c r e a s e d E a s t - W e s t c o n n e c t i o n . In f r a s t r u c t u r e Pe d e s t r i a n Am e n i t y City of La Porte 18 Ex t e n d S a n J a c i n t o T r a i l v i a a s h a r e d u s e p a t h a l o n g 3 r d a n d 4 t h S t r e e t i n c o r p o r a t i n g t w o - w a y bi k e t r a f f i c t w o a n d f r o m t h e c o m m u n i t y c e n t e r n e i g h b o r h o o d p a r k , b a s k e t b a l l c o u r t , a n d l i n e a r pa r k . In f r a s t r u c t u r e Pe d e s t r i a n Am e n i t y City of La Porte - Parks and Recreation 21 Co n s t r u c t b u s s h e l t e r s a t c u r r e n t b u s s t o p l o c a t i o n s Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n B u s S h e l t e r s City of La Porte ; Harris County Transit 22 De s i g n a b r a n d i n g l o g o t o b e p l a c e d o n c u r r e n t o p e r a t i n g b u s e s . G i v e n t h e r e l a t i v e i n f a n c y o f th e b u s s y s t e m , m a n y r e s i d e n t s a r e u n a w a r e o f t h i s c u r r e n t t r a n s p o r t a t i o n o p t i o n Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n B r a n d i n g City of La Porte - Public Works; Harris County Transit 23 Re c o g n i z e 4 t h & 5 th s t r e e t s a s p r i m a r y c o r r i d o r o f f o f M a i n S t r e e t a n d 1 s t & 8 t h S t r e e t s a s t h e pr i m a r y c o r r i d o r s o f f o f B a r b o u r s C u t Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n P r i m a r y C o r r i d o r City of La Porte - Public Works 27 Ex t e n d v e g e t a t i v e b u f f e r a t c h i l d r e n ' s p a r k a t t h e co r n e r o f T y l e r a n d 4 t h S t r e e t t o i n c o r p o r a t e pa r k s p a c e l e a d i n g u p t o T y l e r a n d 5 t h S t . V e g e t a t i v e b u f f e r t o m i m i c e v e n t c e n t e r p a r k i n g wh i c h i s l o c a t e d a c r o s s t h e s t r e e t f r o m t h e p a r k . Ur b a n D e s i g n L a n d s c a p i n g City of La Porte 34 Re z o n e r e s i d e n t i a l p r o p e r t i e s t o l e s s d e n s e R 1 d e v e l o p m e n t s ; a l l o w f o r R 2 d e m o n s t r a t i o n pr o j e c t s f o r c o n t i n u e d d i v e r s i t y o f h o u s i n g s t o c k . B a s e d o n o u t c o m e o f d e m o n s t r a t i o n p r o j e c t s , re - e v a l u a t e f u t u r e t h e p o t e n t i a l o f R 2 d e v e l o p m e n t s Ur b a n D e s i g n R e z o n e Planning and Zoning Commission 36 En c o u r a g e c o m m u n i t y o w n e r s h i p a n d s e n s e o f r e s p o n s i b i l i t y f o r c o n t i n u e d s u c c e s s a n d re v i t a l i z a t i o n v i a a c o n t i n u o u s " A d o p t a S t r e e t P r o g r a m . " Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co m m u n i t y Ow n e r s h i p Community Churches, Civic Club, Economic Development Corporation 38 In v e s t i g a t e t h e p o s s i b i l i t y o f a s s i s t i n g a p a r t m e n t re s i d e n t s t o o r g a n i z e a t e n a n t s a s s o c i a t i o n t o wo r k c o o p e r a t i v e l y w i t h t h e o w n e r / m a n a g e r t o i m p r o v e l i v i n g c o n d i t i o n s a n d r e d u c e c r i m e . ( H e l p ap a r t m e n t o w n e r s t o o r g a n i z e ) Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Mu l t i f a m i l y Im p r o v e m e n t Civic Club, Economic Development Corporation 39 Re c o g n i z e p a s t c o m m i t m e n t o f l a w e n f o r c e m e n t w i t h i n C o m m u n i t y . C o n t i n u e t o g r o w r e l a t i o n s h i p be t w e e n c o m m u n i t y r e s i d e n t s a n d t h e P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t c o n c e r n i n g t h e n a t u r e o f c r i m e s w h e n t h e y oc c u r , t h e s t e p s / a c t i o n s p o l i c e o f f i c e r s c a n a n d c a n n o t l a w f u l l y t a k e i n r e s p o n s e t o c r i m e s , a n d po s s i b l e c r e a t i v e c o o p e r a t i v e s o l u t i o n s t o p r e v e n t i o n a n d e r a d i c a t i o n i m p a s s e s . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co n t i n u e d P o l i c e Pr e s e n c e Civic Club, City of La Porte - Police Department, Economic Development Corporation 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 19 Ta b l e 6: Sh o r t Te r m Im p l e m e n t a t i o n Re c . * Sh o r t T e r m Ac t i o n R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s (1 - 5 Y e a r s ) Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Potential Partners 40 Su p p o r t t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t o f a " P o l i c e D r o p - i n C en t e r " a t t h e J e n n i e R i l e y C o m m u n i t y C e n t e r a s cu r r e n t l y u n d e r d e v e l o p m e n t b y t h e C i t y o f L a P o r t e P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co n t i n u e d P o l i c e Pr e s e n c e City of La Porte - Police Department; City of La Porte - Parks and Recreation 41 En c o u r a g e t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t o f a C h i l d S a f e t y / D a r e S u m m e r C a m p t o i n s t i t u t i o n a l i z e a s a ye a r l y p r o g r a m i n j o i n t c o o p e r a t i o n b e t w e e n t h e L a P o r t e P o l i c e & P a r k s a n d r e c r e a t i o n de p a r t m e n t . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Yo u t h P r o g r a m s City of La Porte - Police Department; City of La Porte - Parks and Recreation 46 Ut i l i z e t h e T h r e e T r a c k T r a i n i n g p r o g r a m o f f e r e d b y H a r r i s C o u n t y f o r T a r g e t A r e a N o n - P r o f i t Or g a n i z a t i o n s Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Wo r k F o r c e Tr a i n i n g City of La Porte, Interested Nonprofit organizations 47 In i t i a t e a C o d e E n f o r c e m e n t A m n e s t y P r o g r a m w h i c h h e l p t o a l l e v i a t e t h e p e n a l t y f e e s as s o c i a t e d w i t h p r i o r c o d e v i o l a t i o n s . W h e r e p r o p e r t i e s m e e t a l l C i t y C o d e s a n d O r d i n a n c e s a n d wh e r e p r o p e r t y i s n o t s u b j e c t t o f o r e c l o s u r e , e l i g i b l e p r o p e r t y o w n e r s w i l l b e r e q u i r e d t o p a y o n l y a p e r c e n t o f t h e t o t a l f e e o w e d . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co d e En f o r c e m e n t City of La Porte Planning Department – Code Enforcement “R e c ” i s r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o f t h e o r i g i n a l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a s p r e s en t e d w i t h i n t h e P r i o r i t i z a t i o n M a t r i x a n d a s r a n k e d b y t h e p u b l i c ( Ap p e n d i x A ). A l l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r fu r t h e r r e v i e w w i t h i n i n Ap p e n d i x A w h e r e a d d i t i o n a l b e n e f i t s o f e a c h r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a r e e x p a n d e d u p o n a n d r e l a t i o n o f t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n t o t h e C i t y o f L a P o r t e ’ s Comprehensive Pl a n a r e d i s c u s s e d . 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 20 B. Me d i u m Te r m Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s (5 ‐10 Ye a r Im p l e m e n t a t i o n ) : Me d i u m te r m re c o m m e n d a t i o n s ar e re p r e s e n t a t i v e of project types th a t wh i l e im p o r t a n t to th e co m m u n i t y , ma y re q u i r e ad d i t i o n a l re s e a r c h in te r m s of fe a s i b i l i t y an d su p p o r t in te r m s funding. For ex a m p l e , a Sp l a s h Pa d is a gr e a t am e n i t y pr o v i d i n g ne e d e d ac t i v i t y fo r th e co m m u n i t y yo u t h , is an at t r a c t o r of La Po r t e residents into the co m m u n i t y , an d en h a n c i n g ge n e r a l fe e l of th e pu b l i c re a l m . Ho w e v e r , wh e r e a Sp l a s h Pa d is co n s t r u c t e d de p e n d s greatly on existing ut i l i t i e s , su c h as wa t e r li n e s , an d sq u a r e fo o t a g e av a i l a b l e fo r co n s t r u c t i o n . Ho w e v e r , th a t is no t to sa y a Sp l a s h Pa d is not appropriate fo r sh o r t te r m im p l e m e n t a t i o n sh o u l d th e op p o r t u n i t y ar i s e . Ta b l e 7: Me d i u m Te r m Im p l e m e n t a t i o n Re c . * Me d i u m T e r m Ac t i o n R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s (5 - 1 0 Y e a r s ) Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Potential Partners 4 Co n d u c t f e a s i b i l i t y s t u d y f o r S p l a s h P a d D e v e l o p m e n t . D e v e l o p m e n t o f a s p l a s h p a d i s a n in t e g r a l p r o c e s s t h a t t a k e s c o n t i n u e d s u p p o r t f r o m t h e C i t y a n d p r i v a t e i n v e s t o r s a l i k e . T o m b a l l an d L o n g v i e w h a v e s u c c e s s f u l l y i m p l e m e n t e d s t e p s t o w a r d s f u l l d e v e l o p m e n t o f t h e s e t y p e o f fa c i l i t i e s a n d s h o u l d b e c o n t a c t e d f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n . LD & R D Co m m u n i t y At t r a c t i o n City of La Porte, Parks and Recreation, Economic Development Corporation 20 Es t a b l i s h w a y f i n d i n g s i g n s a t k e y l o c a t i o n s w h i c h i n d i c a t e l o c a t i o n s o f t h e l i n e a r p a r k ( a n d as s o c i a t e d p a r k i n g ) , c o m m u n i t y c e n t e r , H i s t o r i c a l L a n d m a r k ( 1 s t A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n S c h o o l ) a n d fu t u r e a r e a a t t r a c t i o n ( s p l a s h p a d o r o t h e r ) . R e c o m m e n d e d l o c a t i o n s i n c l u d e : J e n n i e R i l e y Co m m u n i t y C e n t e r a n d p r i m a r y c o r r i d o r e n t r a n c e s a l o n g M a i n S t r e e t . Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n W a y f i n d i n g City of La Porte - Public Works; Civic Club; Economic Development Corporation 5 In v e s t i g a t e t h e p o s s i b i l i t y o f i n c o r p o r a t i n g a k e ys t o n e c o m m e r c i a l b u s i n e s s a t t h e c o r n e r o f 4 t h an d M a i n t o c o n t i n u e r e i n f o r c e m e n t o f M a i n S t r e e t r e d e v e l o p m e n t e f f o r t s LD & R D Co m m e r c i a l De v e l o p m e n t La Porte Bay Shore Chamber of Commerce 45 Ex p a n d C o m m u n i t y D e v e l o p m e n t C o r p o r a t i o n t o i n c l u d e t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f b u s i n e s s e s , j o b s an d e n h a n c e d e c o n o m i c a n d d e v e l o p m e n t i n t o t h e N o r t h s i d e N e i g h b o r h o o d . T h i s e f f o r t i s in t e n d e d t o r e i n f o r c e r e j u v e n a t i o n e f f o r t s c u r r e n t l y t a k i n g p l a c e o n M a i n S t r e e t . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co m m u n i t y De v e l o p m e n t Co r p o r a t i o n City of La Porte; Main Street Advisory Board 47 In i t i a t e a C o d e E n f o r c e m e n t A m n e s t y P r o g r a m w h i c h h e l p t o a l l e v i a t e t h e p e n a l t y f e e s as s o c i a t e d w i t h p r i o r c o d e v i o l a t i o n s . W h e r e p r o p e r t i e s m e e t a l l C i t y C o d e s a n d O r d i n a n c e s a n d wh e r e p r o p e r t y i s n o t s u b j e c t t o f o r e c l o s u r e , e l i g i b l e p r o p e r t y o w n e r s w i l l b e r e q u i r e d t o p a y o n l y a p e r c e n t o f t h e t o t a l f e e o w e d . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co d e En f o r c e m e n t City of La Porte Planning Department - Code Enforcement “R e c ” i s r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o f t h e o r i g i n a l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a s p r e s en t e d w i t h i n t h e P r i o r i t i z a t i o n M a t r i x a n d a s r a n k e d b y t h e p u b l i c ( Ap p e n d i x A ). A l l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r fu r t h e r r e v i e w w i t h i n i n Ap p e n d i x A w h e r e a d d i t i o n a l b e n e f i t s o f e a c h r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a r e e x p a n d e d u p o n a n d r e l a t i o n o f t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n t o t h e C i t y o f L a P o r t e ’ s Comprehensive Pl a n a r e d i s c u s s e d . 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 21 C. Lo n g Te r m Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s (1 0 + Ye a r Im p l e m e n t a t i o n ) : Lo n g te r m re c o m m e n d a t i o n s re p r e s e n t th o s e im p l e m e n t a t i o n projects that th e Ci t y , co m m u n i t y an d ot h e r lo c a l en t i t i e s do no t ha v e di r e c t co n t r o l ov e r in te r m s of pr o j e c t im p l e m e n t a t i o n . In the case of Barours Cu t , th e be a t i f i c a t i o n of th i s co r r i d o r an d im p l e m e n t a t i o n of pe d e s t r i a n fr i e n d l y am e n i t i e s is de p e n d e n t up o n ap p r o p r i a t i o n s and project id e n t i f i c a t i o n by Tx D O T . As su c h th e lo n g e v i t y of th i s re c o m m e n d a t i o n mu s t be pr o f i c i e n t , an d if no t im p l e m e n t e d before the next plan up d a t e , sh o u l d be ca r r i e d ov e r to fu t u r e pl a n s an d re e v a l u a t e d as th e No r t h s i d e co n t i n u e s it s ev o l u t i o n a r y pr o c e s s . Ta b l e 8: Lo n g Te r m Im p l e m e n t a t i o n Re c . * Lo n g T e r m Ac t i o n R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s (1 0 + Y e a r s ) Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Potential Partners 25 Be a u t i f y m e d i a n a n d r i g h t - o f - w a y o n B a r b o u r s C u t B l v d C u t B l v d w i t h a s s i s t a n c e f r o m t h e Ho u s t o n P o r t A u t h o r i t y a n d H a r r i s C o u n t y . Ba r b o u r ' s C u t i s d o m i n a t e d b y l a r g e t r u c k t r a f f i c , a n d o f f e r s a p r e d o m i n a t e l y i n d u s t r i a l at m o s p h e r e . V e g e t a t e d m e d i a n s s i g n a l t o t r a f f i c t h a t t h e n a t u r e o f t h e s t r e e t i s i n t r a n s i t i o n f r o m a i n d u s t r i a l r o a d w a y t o o n e t h a t c a t e r s t o a m o r e r e f i n e d b u s i n e s s p a r k a t m o s p h e r e a n d re s i d e n t i a l c o m m u n i t y a t t h i s p a r t i c u l a r s t r e t c h a l o n g t h e c o r r i d o r . Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Ba r b o u r s C u t Bl v d . City of La Porte, Parks and Recreation, Economic Development Corporation “R e c ” i s r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o f t h e o r i g i n a l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a s p r e s en t e d w i t h i n t h e P r i o r i t i z a t i o n M a t r i x a n d a s r a n k e d b y t h e p u b l i c ( A p p e n d i x A ) . A l l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r fu r t h e r r e v i e w w i t h i n i n Ap p e n d i x A w h e r e a d d i t i o n a l b e n e f i t s o f e a c h r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a r e e x p a n d e d u p o n a n d r e l a t i o n o f t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n t o t h e C i t y o f L a P o r t e ’ s Co m p r e h e n s i v e P l a n a r e d i s c u s s e d . 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 22 D. Co n t i n u o u s Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s : Th e s e re c o m m e n d a t i o n s ar e ca r r i e d ov e r fr o m th e 20 0 0 Pl a n , an d ha v e be e n en a c t e d , but need to co n t i n u e an d im p r o v e up o n wi t h i n th e co m m u n i t y . Th e No r t h s i d e ar e a is tr a d i t i o n a l l y a co m m u n i t y co m p r i s e d of si n g l e family homes. Al t h o u g h re c o m m e n d a t i o n s ha v e be e n ma d e to im p r o v e up o n th i s id e a , th e em p h a s i z e s of th i s ar e a as a co m m u n i t y for the community is on e th a t wi l l no t be co m p r o m i s e d , an d as su c h th i s re c o m m e n d a t i o n s ha s be e n pr i o r i t i z e d an d ca r r i e d ov e r to th i s Plan Upate. Si m i l a r l y , th e co n t i n u e d ma i n t e n a n c e of di t c h e s an d cu l v e r t s as we l l as co n t i n u e d cl e a r i n g of un d e r b r u s h an d de b r i s from vacant lots is an es s e n t i a l in th e en h a n c e m e n t of th e ar e a ’ s ae s t h e t i c ap p e a l an d co n t i n u e d de t e r r e n t of un w a n t e d cr i m e . Ta b l e 9: Co n t i n u e d Im p l e m e n t a t i o n Re c . * Co n t i n u e d R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Potential Partners 6 Co n t i n u e t o m a r k e t t h e N o r t h s i d e c o m m u n i t y f o r a f f o r d a b l e , p r e d o m i n a t e l y s i n g l e r e s i d e n t i a l de v e l o p m e n t t o r e s p o n s i b l e b u i l d e r s s u c h a s H a b i t a t f o r H u m a n i t y LD & R D H o u s i n g C i t y o f L a P o r t e 19 Co n t i n u e t o m a i n t a i n d i t c h e s a n d c u l v e r t s o n a n a s - n e e d e d b a s i s . In f r a s t r u c t u r e D r a i n a g e C i t y o f L a P o r t e 28 Co n t i n u e t o c l e a r u n d e r b r u s h a n d d e b r i s f r o m v a c a n t l o t s . Ur b a n D e s i g n L a n d s c a p i n g Property owners, Civic Club, Service Organizations, Adopt-a-Street Program 39 Re c o g n i z e p a s t c o m m i t m e n t o f l a w e n f o r c e m en t w i t h i n C o m m u n i t y . C o n t i n u e t o g r o w re l a t i o n s h i p b e t w e e n c o m m u n i t y r e s i d e n t s a n d t h e P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t c o n c e r n i n g t h e na t u r e o f c r i m e s w h e n t h e y o c c u r , t h e s t e p s / a c t i o n s p o l i c e o f f i c e r s c a n a n d c a n n o t l a w f u l l y ta k e i n r e s p o n s e t o c r i m e s , a n d p o s s i b l e c r e a t i v e c o o p e r a t i v e s o l u t i o n s t o p r e v e n t i o n a n d er a d i c a t i o n i m p a s s e s . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co n t i n u e d P o l i c e Pr e s e n c e Civic Club, City of La Porte - Police Department, Economic Development Corporation “R e c ” i s r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o f t h e o r i g i n a l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a s p r e s en t e d w i t h i n t h e P r i o r i t i z a t i o n M a t r i x a n d a s r a n k e d b y t h e p u b l i c ( Ap p e n d i x A ). A l l r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r fu r t h e r r e v i e w w i t h i n i n Ap p e n d i x A w h e r e a d d i t i o n a l b e n e f i t s o f e a c h r e c o m m e n d a t i o n a r e e x p a n d e d u p o n a n d r e l a t i o n o f t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n t o t h e C i t y o f L a P o r t e ’ s Co m p r e h e n s i v e P l a n a r e d i s c u s s e d . 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 23 E. No n Pr i o r i t i z e d Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s : Th e r e ar e a nu m b e r of re c o m m e n d a t i o n s th a t ,a l t h o u g h im p o r t a n t , di d no t ma k e the prioritization li s t as id e n t i f i e d by th e th r e e ( 3 ) co m m u n i t y me e t i n g s pr e v i o u s l y de f i n e d . Ho w e v e r , th a t is no t to sa y th e s e re c o m m e n d a t i o n s are not wa r r a n t e d , an d in s t e a d sh o u l d be co n s i d e r e d wh e n ap p r o p r i a t e wi t h i n th e sh o r t , me d i u m or lo n g ‐te r m ti m e f r a m e . In fact, most of the no n ‐pr i o r i t i z e d re c o m m e n d a t i o n s di r e c t l y re l a t e or – in so m e ca s e s – ap p e n d e d to th o s e pr e v i o u s l y pr i o r i t i z e d . Th e following table wo r k s to id e n t i f y th i s as s o c i a t i o n as we l l as pr o v i d e a bl u e p r i n t fo r im p l e m e n t a t i o n of re c o m m e n d a t i o n s if so wa r r a n t e d during the life sp a n of th i s do c u m e n t . Ho w e v e r , if th e op p o r t u n i t y fo r im p l e m e n t a t i o n ne v e r ma t e r i a l i z e s it is re c o m m e n d e d th a t the below re c o m m e n d a t i o n be in c o r p o r a t e d or ca r r i e d ov e r to al l fu t u r e pl a n s wh e r e ap p r o p r i a t e . Te r m No n - P r i o r i t i z e d R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s Ca t e g o r y St r a t e g y Po t e n t i a l P a r t n e r s Associated Rec. Sh o r t En c o u r a g e c o n t i n u e d e f f o r t b y H a b i t a t f o r H u m a n i t y a n d o t h e r s t o b u i l d hi g h q u a l i t y , a f f o r d a b l e h o u s i n g w i t h i n t h r o u g h p u b l i c - p r i v a t e p a r t n e r s h i p pr o g r a m s . LD & R D Af f o r d a b l e Ho u s i n g Ba y o u H o u s i n g Pa r t n e r s , H a b i t a t f o r Hu m a n i t y , C i t y o f L a Po r t e . 6, 34 Me d i u m En c o u r a g e a m i x o f h o u s i n g o p t i o n s w i t h i n t h e c o m m u n i t y ( i . e . L o w In c o m e H o u s i n g , W o r k f o r c e H o u s i n g , M a r k e t H o u s i n g , e t c . ) LD & R D Div e r s e Ho u s i n g St o c k Ci t y o f L a P o r t e 34 Me d i u m In v e s t i g a t e p o t e n t i a l d e v e l o p m e n t p r o b l e m s o f v a c a n t l o t s s u c h a s t i t l e pr o b l e m s , l a n d c o n t a m i n a t i o n p r o b l e m s , e t c . LD & R D Ho u s i n g In v e n t o r y Ci t y o f L a P o r t e De p a r t m e n t o f U r b a n Pl a n n i n g ; D a y t o n , O H mo d e l P r o g r a m 6, 34 Sh o r t Se e k t o m a t c h l o t o w n e r s w i t h p r o s p e c t i v e h o m e b u i l d e r s a n d h o m e b u y e r s . LD & R D Aff o r d a b l e an d Wo r k f o r c e Ho u s i n g Ci v i c C l u b ( C o m m u n i t y De v e l o p m e n t Co r p o r a t i o n ) 6, 34 Co n t i n u e d Co n t i n u e t o p r o v i d e d o w n p a y m e n t a s s i s t a n c e t h r o u g h e x i s t i n g p u b l i c l y fu n d e d p r o g r a m s ( i . e . S E T H a n d H a r r i s C o u n t y ) . LD & R D Af f o r d a b l e a n d Wo r k f o r c e Ho u s i n g Co m m u n i t y De v e l o p m e n t Co r p o r a t i o n ; S E T H ; Ha r r i s C o u n t y Co m m u n i t y De v e l o p m e n t De p a r t m e n t 41 Lo n g Ex p l o r e p o t e n t i a l i n c o r p o r a t i o n o f v a c a n t L a P o r t e I S D p r o p e r t i e s i n t o t h e co m m u n i t y f a b r i c Ur b a n D e s i g n Ho u s i n g La P o r t I S D ; C i t y o f L a Po r t e 6, 34 20 1 2 No r t h s i d e Ne i g h b o r h o o d Plan Update | 24 Me d i u m In c r e a s e w a t e r i n f r a s t r u c tu r e f o r p o t e n t i a l d e v e l o p m e n t o f f u t u r e h o u s i n g an d / o r c o m m u n i t y a t t r a c t i o n s In f r a s t r u c t u r e Wa t e r In f r a s t r u c t u r e Ci t y o f L a P o r t e - P u b l i c Wo r k s 4 Me d i u m Po s i t i o n b i k e r a c k s o u t s i d e t h e C o mm u n i t y C e n t e r a n d w h e n b u i l t , t h e pr o p o s e d c o m m u n i t y a t t r a c t i o n ( T o m i m i c C h a r l e s W a l k e r C e n t e r b i k e ra c k s ) Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Bi k e R a c k s Ci t y o f L a P o r t e - P a r k s an d R e c r e a t i o n 17, 18, 21 Me d i u m En c o u r a g e t h e d e v e l o p m e n t o f c o m m u n i t y g a r d e n s t h r o u g h o u t t h e No r t h s i d e a s a m e a n s f o r r e c l a i m i n g p r o p e r t y t h a t i s c u r r e n t l y b e i n g ab u s e d b y t h e c r i m i n a l e l e m e n t f o r d r u g a c t i v i t y . ( P o t e n t i a l l o c a t i o n a t Ad a m s a n d S e c o n d S t r e e t ) Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co m m u n i t y Ow n e r s h i p Ci v i c C l u b , T e x a s Ag r i c u l t u r a l E x t e n s i o n Se r v i c e , U r b a n H a r v e s t , Ec o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t Co r p o r a t i o n , L a P o r t e Ch a m b e r o f Co m m e r c e , c h u r c h e s , fo o d p a n t r i e s a n d ot h e r s 36 Sh o r t Es t a b l i s h m e c h a n i s m t o i d e n t i f y c h i l d r e n o f s p e c i a l o r a t r i s k t e n d e n c i e s th a t w o u l d b e s t b e n e f i t f r o m c e r t a i n e d u c a t i o n a l a n d / o r m e n t o r i n g pr o g r a m s Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Yo u t h Pr o g r a m s La P o r t e I S D ; J e n n i e Ri l e y C o m m u n i t y Ce n t e r 40, 41 Lo n g De v e l o p s u m m e r l o n g c a m p i n c o o r d i n a t i o n w i t h t h e J e n n i e R i l e y Co m m u n i t y C e n t e r Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Yo u t h Pr o g r a m s La P o r t e I S D ; J e n n i e Ri l e y C o m m u n i t y Ce n t e r 41 Sh o r t Co n t i n u e t o u t i l i z e e d u c a t i o n a l m a t e r i a l s p r o d u c e d b y n o n p r o f i t s t o e d u c a t e fi r s t t i m e h o m e b u y e r s . T h e C i t y i n c o r p o r a t e t h i s e d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r a m wi t h i n o n e o f i t s e x i s t i n g d e p a r t m e n t s f o r c o n t i n u e d m o n i t o r i n g . . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Ho m e b u y e r s Ed u c a t i o n Ci t y o f L a P o r t e , C i v i c Cl u b 45, 46 Sh o r t In c o r p o r a t e a H o u s i n g A s s i s t a n c e a n d R e s o u r c e s o n C i t y ' s c u r r e n t we b p a g e W e b s i t e s h o u l d i n c l u d e : t o i n c l u d e l i n k s t o h o u s i n g a s s i s t a n c e pr o g r a m s o f f e r e d b y C i t y , C o u n t y a n d S t a t e ; e d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r a m s a n d tr a i n i n g t i m e , d a t e s a n d l o c a t i o n s ; a p p l i c a t i o n m a t e r i a l s w h e r e a p p r o p r i a t e . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t We b s i t e In c o r p o r a t i o n Ci t y o f L a P o r t e 45, 46 Sh o r t De s i g n a t e p r i m a r y c o n t a c t w i t h i n C i ty S t a f f t o m a i n ta i n a n d m o n i t o r ho u s i n g a s s i s t a n c e p r o g r a m s . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t St a f f De v e l o p m e n t Ci t y o f L a P o r t e 45,46 Sh o r t Tr a i n v o l u n t e e r c o d e e n f o r c e m e n t o f f i c e r s t o h e l p t r a c k c o d e v i o l a t i o n s a n d il l e g a l d u m p i n g , n o t i f y p r o p e r t y o w n e r s , a n d p r o v i d e i n f o r m a t i o n t o pr o p e r t y o w n e r s a b o u t b r i n g i n g p r o p e r t i e s i n t o c o m p l i a n c e . C o n t a c t C i t y of P e a r l a n d , T e x a s f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n r e g a r d i n g t h e i r e x i s t i n g p r o g r a m . Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Co m m u n i t y En g a g e m e n t Pl a n n i n g D e p a r t m e n t - Co d e E n f o r c e m e n t ; L o c a l Co m m u n i t y L e a d e r s ; C i v i c Clu b , C h u r c h e s a n d ot h e r s 47 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 25 III. Implementation Tools and Resources Defining recommendations in a short, medium, long term and continuous time frame helps establish a timeline for implementation. However, in addition to strong, community backed recommendations and a feasible timeline, implementation is dependent upon not only the continued interaction of the community, but also an array of tools to help get provided recommendations on the ground – besides, what good are these recommendations if we can’t use them! III a. Implementation Resource Examples Table 10, below, provides a brief introduction to types of tools available to solicit monies for identified projects, ensure protection and property rights of current residents as the community continues its continuous evolution of redevelopment and revitalization, as well as an introduction to potential partnering organization equipped with the means, experience and technical expertise required for the successful implementation of some of the more complex recommendations identified in the previous section. Table 10: Implementation Resource Examples Funding Options Existing New Description 1 Tax Freeze x Freezing the property taxes of longtime existing residents in gentrifying communities can help keep them from being driven out by escalating property taxes. A model program in the District of Columbia offers tax abatements tied to the production of a certain percent‐age of affordable housing and freezes the property taxes of longtime residents to stem the negative affects of gentrification. 2 Tax Increment Financing (TIF) x TIF directs the additional revenue that will be generated by new development in an urban area directly to that development, rather than back into the city’s general revenue stream. It provides an excellent method of financing needed infrastructure improvements. 3 Infrastructure Finance District (IFD) x Homeowners living in an IFD are assessed a fee that is used to finance infrastructure improvements in their community. An IFD is similar to a TIF district, except that homeowners fund the improvements. As a model program, the group cited Prince George’s County, Maryland, where certain areas have been designated as IFDs. Residents of these areas pay an additional assessed fee to fund infrastructure improvements. 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 26 Table 10: Implementation Resource Examples Funding Options Existing New Description 4 Personalized Pavers x Personalized pavers have been used as a fundraising mechanism for city funded projects across Texas and should be considered for certain recommendations such as the development of the local area attraction (i.e Splash Pad). The City of Kyle, Texas is similar to La Porte in many ways and has implemented such as program in the past. For more information see, http://www.cityofkyle.com/library/personalized‐library‐pavers‐ new‐library 5 Honor Plaques x Create eternal life monuments throughout the Northside area where recommended historic street lights, sidewalk improvements or other needed amenities can be contributed in part by concerned citizens in honor of a loved one with vested interest in the community or greater City of La Porte. 6 Housing Trust Fund x Increase or dedicate transfer/recordation taxes to pay for a housing trust fund. Property taxes or recordation taxes could be earmarked to pay for a housing trust fund dedicated to financing the construction of moderate income housing. (Housing trust funds normally dedicate their funds to the production of low‐ income housing.) Model programs include a housing trust fund initiated by the state of Florida and one being funded by the District of Columbia that will make money available for the production of housing for those earning up to 80 percent of AMI. 7 Consumer Good Tax x Assessing a consumer goods tax and directing the revenue into the production of workforce housing would provide a source of funding for workforce housing. One model program is St. Louis’s consumer goods tax on imported goods costing more than $2,000. The tax revenue is dedicated to affordable housing and health care. 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 27 Table 10: Implementation Resource Examples Funding Options Existing New Description 8 Property Tax Abatements x Construction of a new eligible facility in a “HUD‐Designated Low‐ Income Target Area” within the County, as determined on the application date, may enable CSD to recommend that Commissioners Court approve an additional tax abatement up to 10%. A qualifying project must nevertheless meet the three basic requirements to for an economic development tax abatement: (1) creation of at least $1 million in new tax roll value, (2) creation of at least 25 new permanent full‐time jobs, and (3) competitive siting. A specific “Target Area Project Site Incentive” provision must be contained in the Agreement approved by Commissioners Court and cannot be added at a later date. For more information, see http://www.ci.la‐ porte.tx.us/gov/econ/county/default.asp 9 HomeWorks‐ An Employee Assisted Program x Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of HomeWorks ‐ an employer assisted housing program. Employer assisted housing programs are aimed not only at providing an affordable financing product to homebuyers, but can aid employers in recruiting new employees by offering an incentive not offered by other employers. It acts as a downpayment incentive program, that offers up to $4,000 in matching funds for downpayment and closing cost assistance courtesy of the Corporation and the participating employer For more information, see http://www.tsahc.org/single/single_homeworks.php 10 Texas Foundation Fund x The Texas Foundations Fund provides grants to nonprofit organizations and rural governmental entities (or their instrumentalities) for (i) the construction, rehabilitation, and/or critical repair of single family homes for Texas residents of very low or extremely low income, with a particular emphasis on serving people with disabilities and/or those living in rural Texas and (ii) the provision of additional supportive housing services for very low or extremely low income residents of multifamily rental units. For more information, see http://www.tsahc.org/donations/foundations_fund.php 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 28 Table 10: Implementation Resource Examples Funding Options Existing New Description 11 Main Street Enchantment Grant x This grant is specific to commercial development on the Main Street Corridor as it relates to Northside’s Primary Corridors as previously defined. Grant monies may be use for Façade Rehabilitation/Enhancement, Beatification Project or general enhancement projects such as replacing, adding or repairing awnings, window signs, etc. For more information, visit: http://www.laportetx.gov/gov/mainst/grant/default.asp 12 Amy Young Barrier Removal Program X The Amy Young Barrier Removal Program will provide financial assistance in the form of grants to low income (80% AMFI) Persons with Disabilities to make their homes (rental or owner) more accessible. The program is designed to provide one time grants for up to $15,000 in home modifications specifically needed for accessibility, and up to an additional $5,000 in other rehabilitation costs correlated with the barrier removal project. Funds are targeted to allow for reasonable accommodation or modification for rental tenants, homeowners or a member of their household with disabilities needing assistance to fully access their home. For more information, visit: http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/htf/single‐family/amy‐young.htm 13 HTF Home‐ ownership Program X The Homeownership Program (formerly Supernofa) was first utilized in 2008 and demand has consistently exceeded available funding. The Homeownership Program allows flexibility for Nonprofit Organizations, including public housing authorities and units of local government. Funds are provided for down payment and closing costs in the form of zero interest, deferred forgivable loans up to $10,000. Funds may only serve households at or below 80% AMFI. For more information, visit: http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/htf/single‐ family/homeownership.htm 14 Home Investment Partnership Program x Grant ‐ Due July 12, 2012. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (“the Department” or “TDHCA”) announces the availability of approximately $2,342,589 in funding from the HOME Investment Partnerships Program for Community Housing Development 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 29 Table 10: Implementation Resource Examples Funding Options Existing New Description Organizations (CHDOs) to develop new and rehabilitate existing single family housing for low‐income Texans. HUD‐funded assistance connected to construction, rehab, demolition, or other public construction must comply with Section 3, a HUD requirement (24 CFR 135): HUD funds invested in housing and community development activities include among their purposes to give, to the greatest extent feasible, and consistent with existing Federal, State and local laws and regulations, job training, employment, contracting and other economic opportunities to Section 3 residents and Section 3 business concerns. Applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with all of the applicable state and federal rules that govern the program. For more information, visit: http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/home‐ division/docs/11‐SFD‐CHDO‐NOFA.pdf 15 Texas Bootstrap Program x The Texas Bootstrap Loan Program is required under Subchapter FF, Chapter 2306, Texas Government Code, to make available $3 million for mortgage loans to very low‐income families (60% Area Median Family Income) not to exceed $45,000 per unit. This program is a self‐help construction program, which is designed to provide very low‐income families an opportunity to help themselves through the form of sweat equity. All participants under this program are required to provide at least 65% of the labor that is necessary to construct or rehabilitate the home. All applicable building codes will be adhered to; under this program. In addition, nonprofit organizations can combine these funds with other sources such as those from private lending institutions, local governments, or any other sources. However, all combined loans cannot exceed $90,000 per unit. For more information, visit: http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/oci/bootstrap.jsp The provided list above provides a snap shot of the types of tools and resources available and is not way meant to serve as an exhaustive list. The provided changes on an annual basis and is subject to change 2012 Northside Neighborhood Plan Update | 30 based on the economy and the general state of financing where provided tools deemed appropriate today, may not prove useful in the future – and vice versa. III b. Implementation Resource Examples Entity Description Texas Foundation Fund 2200 East MLK Jr. Blvd. Austin, TX 78702 Main: 512‐477‐3555 Toll Free: 1‐888‐638‐3555 Fax: 512‐477‐3557 The Texas Foundations Fund provides grants to nonprofit organizations and rural governmental entities (or their instrumentalities) for (i) the construction, rehabilitation, and/or critical repair of single family homes for Texas residents of very low or extremely low income, with a particular emphasis on serving people with disabilities and/or those living in rural Texas and (ii) the provision of additional supportive housing services for very low or extremely low income residents of multifamily rental units. For more information, see http://www.tsahc.org/donations/foundations_fund.php San Jancinto College District – Small Business Development Center 4624 Fairmont Pkwy Pasadena, TX 77054 Main: 281‐998‐6325 San Jacinto College’s SBDC sponsors low‐cost workshops to assist small business including area’s of La Porte, Texas. Recent workshops include small business tax issues, business plans, starting a business and web page design. To obtain a Schedule of monthly workshops, contact San Jacinto SBDC. San Jancinto College – Continuing & Professional Development Hotline: 281‐478‐3636 Free job traning offered to local area business and potential employees. Areas of development include: E. Business (Payroll specialist, bank teller) F. Applied Technologies (Intro/Basic Welding, Commercial Truck Driving) G. Health Occupations H. Computers and IT Southeast Texas Housing Financing Corporation 12621 Featherwood Suite 280 Houston, TX 77023 281‐484‐4663 A Texas public non profit organization which receives funds from a variety of sources, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, SETH offers programs such as: I. Home Buyer Education J. Multifamily Development K. Multifamily Rentals The City of La Porte is a Purchasing Area of the South East Houston Financing Corporation and therefore should be eligible for participation in example programs specified above. Southeast Texas Housing Financing Corporation Austin, Texas 78767 Houston, TX 77023 512.472.7832 Organization committed to renew and rejuvenated downtowns across Texas For more information, see http://www.texasdowntown.org/