This section applies to a traditional streetscape, subject to the limitations set forth herein, that includes one or more of the following elements:

1.

Hexagon block sidewalks;

2.

Brick streets;

3.

Brick alleys; and

4.

Granite curbs.

(Ord. No. 166-H, § 11, 5-21-2015)

Hexagon block sidewalks, brick streets, brick alleys and granite curbs add to the historic and architectural character of our community. The purpose of this section is to preserve these desirable elements.

(Ord. No. 166-H, § 11, 5-21-2015)

A.

Definition. For the purpose of this section:

1.

"Hexagon block sidewalks" shall mean any sidewalk surface which is currently constructed of hexagon-shaped paver block.

2.

"Sidewalk" shall mean the paved area in the right-of-way that is intended for use by pedestrians and is the minimum width required by the subdivision section.

3.

"Parkway" shall mean that area, whether paved or not, between the sidewalk and curb, and between the sidewalk and property line.

4.

The right-of-way (not including the vehicular driving area) immediately fronting a subject property may include both a sidewalk and a parkway.

B.

Applicability. Hexagon block sidewalks shall be repaired and replaced, in the manner set forth in this section, in the following areas:

1.

All local and National Register historic districts, including districts that have received official designation or have applied for local or National Register designation and which contain hexagon block sidewalks which are identified as a contributing element. Property which is included in an active designation request is only subject to this section after the POD has determined that the application is complete and hexagon block sidewalks are identified as a contributing element of the proposed district. If the request is denied, the property shall no longer be subject to this section;

2.

Old Southeast Hexagon Block Preservation District;

3.

Sidewalks abutting local landmarks.

C.

Sidewalk preservation. In areas regulated by this section, where hexagon blocks currently exist as part of the public sidewalk, the City and the adjoining property owner(s) shall maintain and preserve the hexagon blocks and are prohibited from installing any alternative construction material that is different from the existing hexagon block sidewalks. The use of a decorative hexagon block surface pattern is prohibited at these locations.

D.

Sidewalk replacement. In areas regulated by this section, when the City is replacing an existing sidewalk and assessing the property owner, the City shall install hexagon block sidewalks at no additional charge to the property owner (over the cost of installing a concrete sidewalk) when the following conditions are met:

1.

The subject area has had an approved historic survey or has been determined eligible for designation as a National Register Historic District and/or a Local Historic District;

2.

Hexagon block sidewalks are identified as a contributing historic element in a historic district or a specific block face in a historic survey area;

3.

Hexagon block sidewalks were the original sidewalk material;

4.

At least one entire block face of concrete sidewalk is scheduled for replacement; and

5.

The property owners of at least 50 percent plus one foot of the lineal footage abutting the sidewalk request that the concrete sidewalk be replaced with hexagon block sidewalk in writing.

E.

Exemptions. Exemptions to the requirements of this section are discretionary, legislative actions and are not appealable. Exemptions may be initiated by City Council or an abutting property owner. Requests for an exemption shall be made to the Community Planning and Preservation Commission who shall hold a public hearing after providing mailed notice to abutting property owners and at least one posted notice on each block face.

(Ord. No. 166-H, § 11, 5-21-2015; Ord. No. 203-H, § 19, 11-23-2015)

A.

Definition. For the purpose of this section, "brick streets" shall mean any street surface constructed of brick and shall include any existing granite curbing.

B.

Applicability. All unpaved brick streets or any portion thereof, within the City, shall remain and be maintained as brick streets, unless an exemption is granted or is specifically identified in this section.

1.

Traffic safety. When a non-brick street or alley within the City intersects with an existing brick street or alley, and the non-brick street or alley is being reconstructed or resurfaced, the intersecting area of the existing brick street or alley may be reconstructed or resurfaced with the materials of the non-brick street or alley in order to create a smooth transition between street surfaces for vehicular safety. The intersecting area to be resurfaced or reconstructed shall be limited to the minimum area necessary to create the smooth transition to the existing brick street or alley and to promote safety as determined by the POD.

2.

Pedestrian safety. When a brick street or alley within the City intersects with an existing non-brick street or alley, and the non-brick street or alley is being reconstructed or resurfaced, the intersecting area of the existing brick street or alley may be reconstructed or resurfaced with the materials of the non-brick street or alley in order to create or enhance a safe pedestrian crossing. The intersecting area to be resurfaced or reconstructed shall be limited to the minimum area necessary to promote and enhance pedestrian safety when crossing the existing brick street or alley as determined by the POD.

3.

Traffic calming devices on all unpaved brick streets within the City are exempt from the requirements in this section. For the purposes of this section, "traffic calming devices" shall mean changes in street alignment, installation of barriers and other physical measures to reduce traffic speeds and/or cut-through volumes, in the interest of traffic safety, liability or other public purpose and shall include, but not be limited to, speed humps, speed bumps and plateaus.

C.

Brick street restoration. Brick streets which have been paved with an alternative surface material may be converted back to brick by resolution of the City Council on its own motion or if 50 percent plus one of the owners of abutting properties petition the City for such conversion. As set forth in City assessment policy, abutting property owners shall be assessed the total cost of converting the street back to brick, less any cost that might be incurred if the existing street needs repair. City Council may approve the petition if it determines that it is in the best interest of the City.

D.

Granite curbing preservation. All existing, granite curbing throughout the City shall be repaired or replaced in-kind whether or not the curbing is located adjacent to brick streets. Use of concrete curbs along radii, curb cuts, and handicapped ramps to replace existing granite curbs is allowed.

E.

Exemptions. Exemptions to the requirements of this section are discretionary, legislative actions and are not appealable. Exemptions may be initiated by City Council or an abutting property owner. Requests for an exemption shall be made to the Community Planning and Preservation Commission who shall hold a public hearing after providing mailed notice to abutting property owners and at least one posted notice on each block face.

(Ord. No. 166-H, § 11, 5-21-2015)