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Village Area Policy Review Memo Page: 13 2013 Lake Elmo Branding and Theming Study Purpose: The Lake Elmo Branding and Theming Study seeks to establish a kit of parts that will create a strong visual identity for the gateways, streets, sidewalks and open spaces of Lake Elmo that reinforces the unique agricultural and open space heritage of the community. Design Principles: • Elements and furnishings will reflect a connection to the land through material and form. • Elements and furnishings will be detailed and placed with a simplicity of purpose and function that pays tribute to the Lake Elmo agrarian heritage. • Landscapes will reflect the native prairie, lakes and big woods that help define Lake Elmo as a special community within a metropolitan area. • Elements and furnishings will be comfortable and functional. • The Kit of Parts must have an authenticity that creates a memorable and lasting impression for visitors, residents and business owners. Regulatory Impact: The City’s Zoning Ordinance currently contains a reference that requires elements of the Lake Elmo Theming Study must be incorporated in to developments within the village districts where applicable. The City has design standards for the Village Parkway which will connect existing areas of the Village and with the current terminus in Easton Village. Buildout will be required with future development. The 2013 Theming Study: The 2013 Theming study primarily focuses on the public right of way, and streetscape improvements that the City can implement, or require to be implemented, in existing or newly platted areas of the Village. The Theming Study generally touches on the following areas: • Placement and Pattern in the Streetscape o Placement of lighting and trees in the streetscape o Creating a pattern in the streetscape o Maintenance and community commitment • Streetscape requirements o Sidewalks o Parking o Corners and intersections • Streetscape Components • Street Furniture • Implementation Considerations: • This document is not available online, it is recommended that it be added to the list of design standards on the City’s website. • The City should conduct plan reviews, particularly for newly proposed developments on the undeveloped east side of the current Village Area with this theming study in mind. • A discussion by the City as to the relevancy and priority of theming may be helpful. Is this document still valid?