SITE SETTING    

 

Sensitive site development can go a long way toward preserving and enhancing the regional character which attracts residents and visitors to this area. Thorough site assessment and careful design can be economically beneficial to the developer while protecting the region’s natural character.
 

  


 
When Conducting a Site Assessment:
  • Determine soil types present
  • Analyze existing vegetation for preservation
  • Examine topography for most suitable development areas
  • Protect sensitive areas (e.g., steep slopes, wetlands, shorelines, dunes)
  • Provide access and connectivity to adjacent sites
  • Determine climate/micro-climate impacts on development (e.g., air drainage, prevailing winds, sun angles)
  • Examine opportunities and impacts relating to adjacent land uses
  • Analyze view opportunities from the site and minimize the development's visual impact on surrounding areas
  • Design landscaped islands to break up the mass of parking areas
  • Evaluate the site's historic and existing land uses
Key Points:
  • Conduct a site assesment to determine irreplacable natural resources and the most appropriate building sites.
  • Explore potential connections to adjacent properties, including trials, open space, parking, wildlife corridors, and access.