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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPLANNING REFERENCE MATERIALa rI V THE PROPER MULTI- STORY QgORiil VALUES �*QA KINi QVBL/c VALUES VALUES tbaoO PLACE OF STRUCTURES IN AN URBAN COMMUNITY actions in urban land market 4 actions taken in the interest of living Y conditions 4 0 0 actions to preserve or advance customs, traditions and beliefs five or inaction / ANp\ ErM I L PATTERN vsF / SPECIAL STUDY 17 • PLANNING DEPARTMENT • CITY OF SANTA ANA • OCTOBER, 1961 10 r CITY COUNCIL A. Allen Hall, Mayor Royal E. Hubbard, Vice Mayor Dale H. Heinly Bob Brewer Henry H. Schlueter CITY MANAGER Carl J. Thornton f PLANNING COMMISSION W. B. Moore, Chairman ' Theo W. Jessee, Vice Chairman Ora K. Heine Thomas N. McMichael Lee Smith Carl Lewis Philip Reilly PLANNING DEPARTMENT James G. Toepfer, Director Paul Van Stevens, Senior Planner, Advance Planning Dean Evans, Assistant Planner, Current Planning e e TABLE OF CONTENTS PART PAGE I SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . 1 II BACKGROUND OF THE PROBLEM . . . . . . . . . . . 4 III SCOPE OF THE PROBLEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 IV APPROACH TO THE PROBLEM . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 VLOCATIONAL FACTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 VI INDIVIDUAL SITE CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . 13 x VII REGULATORY TECHNIQUES . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 VIII SANTA ANA TODAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 IX THE FUNCTION AND FUTURE OF SANTA ANA . . . . . . 21 X APPLICATION OF LOCATIONAL FACTORS . . . . . . . 24 XI RECOMMENDED MODIFICATIONS OF SANTA ANA'S ZONINGORDINANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 XII WHAT OTHER PEOPLE SAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 XIII BIBLIOGRAPHY AND SOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 r I SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The following report is designed to provide a rational basis for determining the proper location of multi -story structures in an urban community. It explains how and why the problem developed, the significance of the problem from both the general public and private developer points of view and the urban planning considerations relevant to the subject. Genera] reasons for selecting certain areas are outlined along with a survey of regulatory techniques utilized through- out the United States so that ultimate development will not destroy the physical assets of any given area existing prior to that development. included also is an analysis of the function of Santa Ana as a city, suggestions concerning the future of Santa Ana as the primary urban center between Los Angeles and San Diego, and a brief discussion of potential developmental problems that will probably accompany the city's growth. The locational considerations are applied to selected areas of the city, and specific areas as indicated by the analysis are considered to be immediately suitable for multi -story structures. Along with this designation of general areas are specific recommended modifications of the Zoning Ordinance of 1960 to eliminate some current inconsistencies and to provide for the continued maintenance of open space during the city's more intensified development. Included in the recommended modifications of the Zoning Ordinance is a regula- tory technique designed to minimize the inherent conflict between multi -story structures and single -story residences located outside of the area most suitable for immediate multi- story development. This is assuming the practice of strip commercialization of major streets is to continue. The conclusions that are implicit in and can be drawn from this report are: 1. There is a rational basis for permissive legislation allowing multi -story structures in certain areas and prohibiting them in others. 2. A basic source of the current problem is directly traceable to incompatibilities of use due to the placement of the various land -use districts. 3. The Zoning Ordinance of 1960 does not contain adequate provisions to minimize conflict between tall and low structures and the effect to inhabitants and occupants thereof. 4. There is an excessive amount of strip commercial zon- ing along arterial streets that will lead to future 1 11 conflicts that can be minimized by site regulations but prevented only by extensive rezoning to residential districts. 5. That individual site regulations are as important as the actual selection of areas considered suitable for multi -story structures. 6. If conflicts of land use are inevitable due to a changed function of an area then the transition period should be as short as practical and ultimate compati- bility probable. 7. An adopted land use element of the General Plan of Com- munity Development (Master Plan) designating the gen- eral distribution of land uses would have helped to avoid conflicts between uses of land. 8. That permissive public legislation alone will not result in multi -story structures being erected. 9. That the property owners of the areas selected for multi -story structures should realize the importance of formulating a plan for the development of these areas so as to make it possible for Santa Ana to better its relative position in the county and greater region. Based on the data, reasoning and assumptions explained in greater detail in the body of the report the Planning Depart- ment recommends: 1. That the zoning Ordinance of 1960 be amended as out- lined in Part XI, establishing HEIGHT DISTRICTS I and II. 2. That the area designated on Plate A be declared to be in HEIGHT DISTRICT II. 3. That any change in the designated Height Districts be allowed only after a meticulous application of the locational factors. 4. That a projected land use element receive priority attention so that a guide to future land use may exist. 5. That the property owners of areas declared suitable for the location of multi -story structures should carefully evaluate the function and future of Santa Ana and develop and carry out a plan to encour- age the construction of an orderly developed multi- story service, commercial, professional, residential and governmental complex. The Planning Department presents these recommendations with knowledge of two important omissions which are, first, that there is no recommendation to rezone strip commercial areas to higher density residential districts; and second, that there is no recommended density control limiting maximum population density in high density areas. The first omission is explained because such a recommendation has been repeatedly made and not accepted. When the land use element of the general plan is complete, a similar recommendation will undoubtedly be made again. The second omission is explained because the Planning Depart- ment feels that to limit total population concentration without relating population to space needs and municipal services and facilities would be both arbitrary and indefen- sible. After completion of the population element of the General Plan such recommendations will be more appropriate. it is sincerely hoped by the Planning Department that any solution arrived at in this, and all urban problems with which the city will be confronted in the future, will be solved in such a manner that Santa Ana becomes a community distinguished among communities. 3 II BACKGROUND OF THE PROBLEM In the recent past, the Planning Commission and the City Council were confronted with vigorous protest from home- owners over the proposed location of multi -story structures. Since the issue developed in widely separated areas of Santa Ana it was clear that the problem was basic to the entire city. As a result of the increasing concern shown by many Santa Ana residents the Planning Department was requested to submit a report designed to show the effect, if any, of the location of multi -story structures to near and adjacent single family residences and to the entire city. A preliminary study presented at subsequent Planning Commis- sion and City Council meetings served to illustrate the many considerations involved and to demonstrate the necessity of a more precise, detailed study prior to a major policy deci- sion. The City Council, accepting the recommendation of the Plan- ning Commission, declared a ninety -day moratorium on build- ings in excess of two stories in areas of greatest possible conflict. The City Council then instructed the Planning Department to refine the preliminary study and submit it to them within the ninety -day period, along with recommended modifications of the Zoning Ordinance should the results of the study s III SCOPE OF THE PROBLEM The original problem concerning the effect of multi -story structures on nearby and adjacent single family homes was expanded to include the proper location of tall buildings in general. This question required an examination of the existing height limitations and led to the further question of what specific requirements, if any, should be imposed on multi -story developments regardless of where they are allowed to locate. Thus the initial impetus of three neighborhood problems has resulted in two major questions - where, in an urban commu- nity, should tall buildings be allowed?, and under what conditions or restrictions should they be allowed? These, obviously, are questions crucial to the future of Santa Ana. In effect, they are part of the single question every commu- nity should ask and seldom does - namely, what kind of a place should this city become. It is hoped that any legislative report does not make Santa Ana". inhabitants constantly dream to symbol of man's highest cultural *Josiah Royce. action resulting from this . . a place from which all escape, but (rather) a proud achievement"*. 5 IV APPROACH TO THE PROBLEM N Once the basic questions were identified their immensity was clear to the Staff. It was also clear that the final report " would have to represent the best opinions and logical solu- tions available. For this reason a procedure for developing this report was formulated that provided four weeks of basic research designed to result in a preliminary report in sixty days. This timing allowed one month for review, revision, and printing of the final report prior to the ninety -day deadline. 0 The first step in any research task, once the problem is identified, is to collect reference materials to take advan- tage of previous work on the same subject. To accomplish this, personal correspondence was sent to twenty-three of America's largest cities, all of which have a considerable number of tall buildings. The cities contacted were: New York Miami Cleveland Philadelphia Chicago Tulsa Dallas Houston Pittsburgh Oakland Omaha Indianapolis Boston San Francisco St. Louis Cincinnati Columbus Detroit Kansas City Los Angeles Salt Lake City San Diego Honolulu In addition, requests for similar information and opinions were sent to the following planners, architects and devel- opers, each of whom enjoy national reputation in their fields and all of whom have valuable experience to share with the people of Santa Ana: Victor Gruen & Associates Simon Eisner & Associates William L. Pereira & Associates Welton Becket & Associates Ted Adsit (Quinton Engineers, LTD) Livingston & Blayney Janss Corporation Irvine Company David D. Bohannon Organization Louis Mumford Believing in the contribution of universities to basic research, the following schools were asked for reference material and opinions: University of Southern California Cornell University University of California at Berkeley Columbia University N Massachusetts Institute of Technology Harvard University University of Wisconsin University of Illinois Then, since any regulation of buildings affects building design, the Orange County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects was invited to participate in the formulation of materials for this report. The American Society of Planning Officials, through the Plan- ning Advisory Service, to which the City subscribed, was kind enough to release materials not normally circulated to add to the compilation of basic data. The various departments of the city administration participated to the extent that they provided analyses of the effect multi- story structures in various locations could have on the serv- ices they are required to provide. Finally, all of the nearby school and public libraries were combed for relevant information and written materials. The second step of the preparatory process was to sort, select and analyze the material for inclusion in the final report which follows. 1 V LOCATIONAL FACTORS The factors that should be considered prior to permissive public legislation that would allow the construction of multi- story buildings, both commercial and residential, are as follows: 1. Land prices. it is frequently argued that "economics" is the sole cause and final rationale for any decision affecting urban development. This opinion, of course, is based on the definition of "economics" in its broadest sense. There is'little question that all of the factors that will be discussed in this Part can be shown to be "economic" depending only upon one's frame of reference. For purposes of clarity and brevity the 4: .-4-�, r 4: 11 cnnnincll Inc 190an CPnn T'.%'Fprl from the other of multi -story structures. This was considered necessary because of the immensity and complexity of the subject of Economics and the many connotations of the word "economics". In this more narrowly defined sense of "economics" it can be shown that sound economic justifi- cation for the construction of multi -story structures sometimes coincides with and sometimes conflicts with the other locational factors classified under the broad heading of public necessity. It is considered that multi -story structures are desir- able to assure normal investment return. High land valuation is traceable to several sources. One of these is the market demand for certain facilities (more apartments, office or whatever). The demand is usually a result of a need for such facilities due to population increase, business expansion or the develop- ment of a unique facility such as a civic center. Another source of high land valuation is the "prestige" of a given area which is usually due to the quality (worth) of existing and adjacent development. Prestige areas can be occupied by business activities which have few locational preferences. That is, the particular business activity is such that it could be conducted in one of several areas. Thus, high land prices, caused by demand for facilities and business activities which have strong location pref- ences such as a desire to locate near a specialized center or the "prestige" of a given area caused by the quality of previous development is an "economic" consid- eration for the legislative designation of areas as suitable for multi -story construction. 2. Site or area accessibility. The area should be acces- 0 sible by both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The purpose and result of multi -story buildings is the concentration of people. It must be possible or prac- tical as the concentration of population increases for the inhabitants of the buildings to move physically to and from each structure and to travel by automobile, mass transit systems or on foot from other areas to the area of concentration. This means that streets, mass transportation systems, existing or possible, must be able to handle traffic in increasing volumes. The experience of other cities*indicates that tall buildings result in increased population concentration to the degree that the automobile alone cannot provide sufficient transportation which further suggests that tall buildings will probably result in a need for mass transportation systems. Thus, the factor of site and area accessibility would indicate that multi -story buildings should be located at or near major arterial intersections, freeway inter- changes and transportation and mass transit terminals or major stops. 3. Off-street parking and loading areas or taciiities. Space for the parking or loading of vehicles used by occupants of multi -story structures must exist or be reasonably obtainable. If the street system of a city is to accomplish the primary purpose of moving vehicles from one part of the city to another or entirely through the city then streets must cease being used as parking lots and loading areas. If the necessary off-street parking and loading facilities are not provided by the developers of each structure then some other form off-street parking facilities, including multi -story and subterranean parking garages, will be necessary to prevent congestion. To emphasize the importance of terminal facilities it should be noted that the ratio of car ownership to population has increased steadily and is currently one car to 2.4 persons (men, women and children)in Orange County. Thus, adequate off-street parking and loading facilities must exist or be practically obtainable as a condition requisite to the designation of an area as logical for the construction of multi -story buildings. 4. Municipal services and facilities. Public services, facilities and utilities, other than the street system, must be available or must be constructed as the need arises to support the increased population densities. Such services include water systems, storm drains, sewers, parks, schools, police and fire protection, and gas and electric power. Obviously, if a given level or standard of service is to be provided on a per capita basis, then the municipality and the private utility 9 companies must accept the fact of increased costs for land, materials and personnel in proportion to the increased population densities possible with multi- story structures. The developer of multi -story struc- tures should not receive an indirect subsidy from the ' general public in the form of higher taxes from all taxpayers to defray the cost of enlarging or replacing municipal services and facilities necessary for an individual project. Thus, various municipal facilities, services, and public utilities must be existing or the municipality must be able and willing to pay the cost of creating the neces- sary services and facilities to adequately serve the high population densities which result from multi -story construction. S. Public necessity. The concentration of population, by allowing increased building heights in particular areas, should be considered in terms of the general public necessity rather than a single developer's desire to construct a multi -story building. For instance, depend- ing upon the function of a particular city it could be necessary to allow high population concentration for various reasons such as: a) especially desirable areas due to spectacular topographical features (beaches, bays, mountains, canyons, lakes, etc.); b) proximity to man-made special resources like marinas, golf courses, large parks; c) Proximity to areas of prime importance to the economy such as governmental centers, universities, regional shopping centers, banking and institutional centers, the courts, airports, etc.; d) proximity to terminal points of major rapid transit systems to other cities or other areas of regional importance so that commuter traffic does not require many changes in modes of transportation (from train or bus to car to walk- ing - all of which increase commuting time, which is unproductive, frustrating, and economically a waste. e) to raise the total population to a point that will allow the development of those special urban resources that constitute part of the "good life" such as civic operas, legitimate theatres, orchestras, professional athletic centers (tennis, golf, baseball, football, etc.), zoos, museums, etc. The point here is that city population must reach a particular level so that income and pur- chasing power is sufficient to support such activities on an urban level. 10 (f) to make possible a concentration and grouping of interrelated activities so that transporta- tion costs in time and money can be minimized for both goods and people. Thus, the public necessity or convenience is a justifica- tion and rationale for the placement of multi -story struc- tures. The justification may be to make it possible for more people to enjoy a natural or man-made resource; to concentrate business activity around a governmental or business center for economy and efficiency of operation; due to area proximity to transportation terminals; or simply to make a population increase containable within the relatively fixed limits of a city. 6. Ultimate compatibility of use. The use of land is the activity being engaged in upon the land. One of the underlying bases of the public planning -function is the elimination or minimization of conflicts be- tween various uses of land to assure maximum enjoyment of all properties to their owners: Conflicts in land use can cause damage to the dollar value of property as well as to the health and safety of the occupants of property. Therefore, one of the primary locational factors is a determination that the construction of multi -story structures will not result in permanent or prolonged incompatibility of use. It is obvious that changes in the function of a city or the relo- cation of a strategic facility such as a civic center can cause a period of incompatibility. This transition period is usually acceptable to the affected areas because of the anticipation of profit by being (within a reasonable time) absorbed by the new and usually more intense use. However, if the transition period is exceedingly long or the adjacent properties are so located as to enjoy little probability of a change to the more intense use, then there is damage, both finan- cial and psychological, to the less intense use. A characteristic of most Southern California communities is an unrealistic belief in dynamic everlasting expan- sion. This belief has resulted in over -zoning and scattered uses of land which constitute an unending transition period for many areas. The possibility of ultimate compatibility of use should be reflected in adopted elements of a community general plan so that a basis for individual and public investment will exist. Thus, ultimate compatibility of use with the shortest practical transition period should constitute a consid- eration prior to permissive public legislation desig- nating areas for multi -story construction. 11 7. Local public opinion. Public opinion resembles the sixth sense of human beings in that it can be over- whelmingly apparent or can be indiscernible. In any case in a democratic society the aspect of local public opinion must be rated as a locational factor. Legislative action or inaction should be the culmi- nation of various interests and views representing sound local public opinion. The necessary locational factors may exist to the degree that all that stands between the developer and his construction of a high- rise building is a local ordinance created by local public opinion. The very important "optimum planning goals" have occasionally been eclipsed by a lack of consideration of this seventh factor. It is, in effect, the undeniable right of the general public to determine its own living environment even without regard to other considerations. Thus, local public opinion is paramount in the deter- mination of proper locations for tall buildings. As a locational factor it may prove equal to all the aforementioned factors or may be indiscernible. All of the foregoing, in the broadest sense, can be consid- ered economic factors in that all of them can create value or become the basis of price. The price or value established is one aspect which must be weighed against the other consid- erations such as the general good to the public in terms of maintaining minimum standards of light, open space, air, preventing undue congestion and not allowing the use of one property to the detriment of another. In urban areas it is sometimes necessary to restrain by public legislation the desire to maximize returns in order to assure maximum equity to all property users. 12 VI INDIVIDUAL SITE CONSIDERATIONS In determining the proper location of multi -story buildings the corollary question of - under what conditions or restric- tions should they be allowed? - must be•answersd. Government should not control development or any aspect of society without valid and politically acceptable reasons. The restrictions placed on building construction in terms of height and bulk limitations were found necessary through- out urban history because individual did not respect the rights of individual. In the perfect market, "natural zoning would result, land uses of similar or complimentary character would naturally group themselves with maximum benefit to the property owners and to the community. But the market is not perfect; hence the city planner, having determined on the most advan- tageous grouping of uses, must enforce this grouping through a zoning ordinance. Without such enforcement, the natural pattern will greatly be disturbed by the accidents of owner- ship, the poor judgment of owners, the fact that for some uses location is a matter of relative indifference, and the short-term advantage taken by a few individuals acting on self-interest, without regard to the community".* The object of controlling building bulk and height is to protect the rights of each individual to light, air, open space and to protect the man-made environment for all. I£ a site is chosen because it can be demonstrated that a majority of the locational principles apply, then after the building is constructed, (or buildings, since all properties in the same district must by law enjoy the same privileges) the locational principles must still be found to apply. By way of further explanation assume a site at the intersec- tion of two major freeways (site accessibility); adjacent to an institutional and commercial complex of regional importance (public necessity for concentration); with ample municipal services (municipal services factor); where lending institu- tions will finance tall buildings (demonstration of market demand forecasted); and the majority agree that tall build- ings are desirable on this site (local public opinion). Now assume that each property is developed without particular site limitations: no required open space, no density maximum, no required parking, in effect, much like the development in many downtowns across the country. The result is congestion *Ratcliff, R.V., Urban Land Economics (McGraw-Hill Book Co., Inc. 1949), p. 385. 13 of the highways and general area, a partial elimination of view (total for non -occupants of tall buildings), an over- loading of existing municipal facilities and, in general, the destruction of the environment. The result, obviously, is that the very reasons for the selection of the particular area have been nullified by virtue of unrestricted develop- ment. Thus the site restrictions should be such that the reasons the site was originally desirable remain intact after total development. Because the primary locational factors will vary, it follows that particular area site limitations should vary. Perhaps in one area, for the efficient and economic operation of specific business enterprises, it is desirable to concentrate employee population. The resulting site limitations may allow high densities but require substantial amounts of off- street parking. in still another area it may be that a par- ticular view prompts permissive legislation to assure that as many people as possible can enjoy that view. In such a case densities again may be high but maximum ground coverage may be low or required yards large in order to assure that all persons concentrated in the area will be physically able to enjoy the view without blocking the view of others. Thus the second consideration of specific site restrictions would indicate that it is necessary to have flexible regula- tions or different sets of regulations tailored to protect the principal assets of any given area. To accomplish the goals of the two general principles of site consideration detailed regulations should be developed taking into consideration the following site factors: a) open space in terms of yards, building bulk, building shape and percentage of lot coverage; b) visual impact in terms of extent and size of signs, landscaping, building materials, and architecture as contrasted with views created by natural happen- stance (topography, geography); c) population density_ including both employee and permanent resident; d) traffic generation from each particular structure; and e) terminal storage facilities for automobiles. 14 VII REGULATORY TECHNIQUES There are many regulatory techniques practiced in the United States to assure the maintenance of adequate open space, light, air and to prevent congestion. For the most part, existing ordinances were written in response to par- ticular problems and after the fact. In some cases ordi- nances were especially designed to carry out the purposes of a general plan. Unfortunately, in a few cases, ordi- nances developed in one city were indiscriminately used by other cities with questionable beneficial result. Usually legislation affecting property use and development represents an amalgamation or synthesis of many regulatory techniques. While many recently adopted ordinances repre- sent a reluctance to depart from the established, it is necessary for each community to formulate developmental regulations with great care since each city while substan- tially alike, is nevertheless in many ways unique. In the preceding Part of this report it was suggested that in order to properly accomplish the goals of the two facets of site consideration it was necessary to specifi- cally regulate open space, visual impact, population density, traffic generation, and terminal parking facilities. Except for off-street parking requirements and architec- tural control, which are excluded from this report, the r regulatory techniques affecting the other site factors have a considerable degree of overlap. In many cases more than one technique is used in conjunction with one or more of the other techniques. Thus, in considering the follow- ing list, keep in mind that they are primarily intended to assure the maintenance of adequate light, air, open space and to prevent congestion. The techniques in most general use throughout the United States are: 1. Fixed Yards usually expressed in feet and in terms of minimum front, side and rear; often found in conjunction with a fixed height limit that results in the elimination of certain areas of a property for purposes of construction; a very rigid but prevalent technique whose results are shown by Diagram 1. 2. Flexible or sliding yards also expressed in feet and in terms of minimum front, side and rear. A deviation of Number 1 above to increase flexibility of design and building placement. Generally there is a minimum total yard and one side or the other or the front or back has an individual minimum. This allows the building to be placed toward one 1 15 lot line or the other but provides for certain yards as illustrated in Diagram 2. 3. Fixed height limits usually expressed in terms of a maximum number of feet or stories or both. The effect of this type of control is a uniform limita- tion district by district. Incongruities and incom- patible uses can be created by an ill-considered zoning pattern resulting from promiscuous zone changes. The usual effect of fixed height limits by district is demonstrated by Diagram 3. 4. Height control plane is a more recent inovation to allow greater freedom of design and building place- ment than the fixed yard and height techniques. The plane is in terms of a maximum allowable build- ing height expressed by a predetermined degree inclined plane measured from a vertical at each lot line toward the interior of the lot. For instance, any structure could be erected that would not inter- sect a 450 inclined plane as illustrated in Diagram 4. Note that the taller the structure the greater the distance from the property lines. 5. Bonus or premium provisions have been written into some ordinances to provide sufficient incentive in terms of greater allowable floor area and height in return for open space. For example, there may be a fixed height limit of 35 feet but as an open space bonus additional height is allowed for each "x" feet the structure is set in from all property lines. The bonus must be greater than the amount of floor area lost to open space if incentive is to be created. This system is illustrated by Diagram 5. 6. Floor area ratio is a method of establishing total allowable floor area based on total lot area or a factor thereof. For instance, the maximum permis- sible floor area, may be x times the total lot area. This system allows considerable variations in design as shown by Diagram 6. 7. Bulk control is much like number 6 above but is expressed in terms of allowable cubic feet of build- ing as a ratio of building site area. For example, the cubic feet (volume) of a given structure cannot x times the lot area. This type of provision is usually combined with a regulation that determines the placement of the permitted bulk on any particular site. Great freedom of design is possible with the bulk control technique as is illustrated by Diagram 7. 8. Maximum lot coverage usually expressed as a fixed percentage of the total lot. Since this is a fixed open space requirement, it is usually used in conjunc- tion with other height and setback regulations. Diagram 8 represents the application of the maximum lot coverage technique. 16 9. Lot area ratio is generally expressed in terms of a maximum number of residential units, offices or suites per square foot of land. This method, like other density limitations, can result in total lot coverage unless combined with open space require- ments as demonstrated by Diagram 9. 10. Conditional use permit, as a technique, probably requires little -explanation. But primarily it is combined with a fixed height limit and requires Plan- ning Commission or City Council approval, after public hearing, for any structure in any area above the fixed limit. No diagram is provided since the result would be buildings of any height approved by conditional use permit. 11. Angle of light obstruction is a technique that was developed in Great Britain which is used most generally as a test to determine the amount of light and view available at any required window. It is primarily useful in high-rise residential development and to protect a specific view. The technique employs the use of an arc or fan which is 700 on both sides of the centerline of a window. The arc is sub- divided into 28 equal segments; 14 segments must be unobstructed above a 450 vertically inclined plane; 14 remaining on each side of the window are unregu- lated. The principle here is the recognition that light does not only originate overhead but can be available at several points around the building in question. Diagram 10 demonstrates the angle of light obstruction technique. The foregoing are regulatory techniques used to assure the maintenance of light, air, open space and to prevent con- gestion in a high density urban area. It is essential to understand that the various techniques are frequently used in conjunction with other regulatory devices such as off- street parking requirements, architectural controls, re- striction of access to public roads, etc. The underlying reason for the existence of such techniques is the historical evidence that man will not adequately regulate himself. Thus various legislative groups have found it necessary to regulate the use of property to make it possible for each individual to enjoy the use of his property without undue interference with the rights of others to equal enjoyment of their properties. 17 • Diag.1 FIXED YARDS SAMPLE ORDINANCE There shall be a side yard of not less than five feet• There shall be a front yard of not less than ten feet. There shall be a rear yard of not less than ten feet. Diag• 2 FLEXIBLE YARDS SAMPLE ORDINANCE: There shall be combined side yards of not less than fifteen feet but in no case shall either side yard be less than five feet. Diag• 3 FIXED HEIGHT SAMPLE ORDINANCE: In no case shall the height of any structure exceed six stories or seventy feet. O 10 oQ �c c � 5 •;a` 5 !Q 10 street 10 l Diag. 4 HEIGHT CONTROL PLANE SAMPLE ORDINANCE: In no case shall any structure intercept a plane making an angle of forty-five degrees from the horizontal towards the interior of the lot and originating at each property line. Diag• 5 THE BONUS OR PREMIUM SYSTEM SAMPLE ORDINANCE: No structure shall exceed thirty-five feet. Provided how- ever, two additional feet of height are allowed for each one foot the structure is set back from all property lines. r Y Diag. 6 SAMPLE In no case amount Top View FLOOR AREA LIMIT ORDINANCE: shall the gross floor area of a structure exeed an equal to the area of the lot it is constructed on. Lot A 1000 sq. ft. Front View Bldg. A 1000 sq. ft. per floor ONE FLOOR Diag.7 BULK CONTROL Lot B 1000 sq. ft. SAMPLE ORDINANCE: In no case shall the volume of any structure exceed the product of the width of the narrowest street on which the lot fronts and lot area. Max. Volu mi 50,000 Cubic Ft. 0 5 Lot Area =1000 Sq.Ft. Bldg. JB 50sq. fel per H TWO FLOORS . Diag.8 MAXIMUM LOT AREA COVERAGE SAMPLE ORDINANCES: In no case shall any struc- ture occupy more than 30% of the total lot area. ( lot A) In no case shall any struc- ture occupy more than 50 % of the total lot area. ( lot B ) Diag• 9 LOT AREA RATIO SAMPLE ORDINANCE: In no case shall any structure contain more than one dwelling unit per thousand square feet of lot area. FRONT VIEW TOP VIEW 10,000 sq ft J a Dia Legal Requiv SAMPLE ORDINANCE: No building shall be permitted unless from the centerline of each legally required window an arc of 140 degrees may be con- structed horizontally, such arc being divided into 28 equal segments such that at least 14 of these segments are free of obstruction above a 45 degree plane inclined from the vertical axis of said window, VIII SANTA ANA TODAY Santa Ana is currently experiencing a substantial growth period. The condition of various regulatory devices when the growth spurt occurs determines in large part the re- sultant type of city after the growth rate has subsided. Few cities in California were fortunate in anticipating the rapid rate of growth. As a result, many regulatory devices were inappropriate on entirely lacking. Interim ordinances, stop gap measures and various hastily con- ceived devices help to ease the growth strain but none can match the stability and comfort of a carefully drawn, publicly accepted general plan of community development. A cause of concern to many property owners in Santa Ana, as expressed at various meetings, has been the direction- less growth of the city. More than once has it been pointed out that change is not necessarily progress. in response to the public concern the Planning Department has been instructed by the Planning Commission and City Council to prepare various studies as well as the various elements of a general plan. The Streets and Highways element and the Drainage Phase of the public facilities element have been adopted. The water and sewer phases of the same element are nearing completion. A capital improvement schedule and budget is also nearing completion. All of these represent an active planning program. During the course of the preparation of the various general plan elements decisions must be made in respect to new development trends. When possible, these decisions are based on as much valid information as is obtainable. As other elements of the general plan are adopted a firmer basis for legislative judgment will come into being. The land use pattern (the way properties are currently being used) reflects the many developmental decisions that have been made in the past. The miles of zoned but unused com- mercial and industrial properties demonstrate that Santa Ana too, has failed to properly assess its actual potential. The zoning pattern (the way land is currently zoned) reflects a source of use incompatibilities that is just beginning to be a point of concern to property owners. In the zoning pattern there are seeds of conflict that can potentially generate sufficient public interest to cause a major modification of the existing zoning pattern. For instance, there are in excess of 1300 single family homes abutting properties zoned for business purposes. The problem of where multi -story buildings should locate would be academic if most major streets, with their shallow depth lots, were not stripped with commercial zoning. Currently there are approximately 117 street frontage miles of property zoned for business purposes. Only 38 miles are 18 developed as zoned and this figure includes 14 miles in the downtown and shopping centers. (Special Study #16 is an analysis of Santa Ana's commercial zoning and development). The amount of unused business zoning demonstrates the present adequacy of the shopping centers and downtown area to provide retail services and business locations necessary for the functional efficiency of Santa Ana. Since the current problem of building heights is directly traceable to incompatibilities of use allowed by the zoning pattern, it is obvious that changing the zoning pattern will alleviate the problem. However, since the various permitted heights vary by district it is conceivable that two adjacent properties may be properly zoned in terms of use but not in terms of permissible heights. Therefore it is further obvious that some change in height regulations may be necessary. Since the growth of the city and the evolution of its function can create sufficient justification for a change of use in an area (for example, the civic center area) it follows that certain periods of transition are inevitable. The transitional friction created by a more intense use being interjected into an area of less intense use (apart- ments into a single family residence area) can be minimized by slowly expanding the intense use areas rather than wholesale rezoning with the resultant sporadic, leap frog type of development. Areas selected for multi -story structures should be suit- able and clearly necessary for today and the immediate future, not for the next twenty or thirty year needs of the city. Changes of zone should be based on similar con- siderations. It is unlikely that a movement exists in Santa Ana to prevent progress. What is desired is appar- ently a conservative transition to a reasonably acceptable predetermined goal. A review of the height regulations of each district with reference to their effect, one upon another, reveals rather glaring inconsistencies. For instance, the four parallel streets - Broadway, Sycamore, Main and Bush (going west to east) - are zoned as follows: Broadway, professional with a maximum height limit of six stories; Sycamore, multiple family residential with a maximum height limit of six stories; Main Street, commercial with a maximum height limit of two stories; and finally, Bush, zoned as Broadway with again a six story maximum height limit. What logic would limit Main Street to two stories? The logic was that many streets were stripped with commercial zoning and in most cases backed up to residentially zoned property. It was further reasoned that as the demand for taller buildings increased the ordinance could be amended or the individual project granted by variance or as an exception to the rule. This logic provided protection for many homeowners in 19 Santa Ana. What logic would permit six story apartments or offices between commercial districts and residential districts limited to two stories? There is none that could be ascertained by the Planning Department. At most, it is an example of a misplaced zoning district originally designed to act as a transitional buffer between commercial and residential districts limited to two stories. The result of such inconsistent zoning practice jeopardizes one of the primary purposes and intent of zoning. n North Broadway is an example of such an area zoned for professional uses in order to provide a transitional buffer between the commercial activities on Main Street and the residences on Victoria Drive and streets west. But the effect of the six story height permitted in the professional district could nullify the beneficial results of the use buffer, while illustrating the inconsistencies of the various height limitations. At the time of the zoning ordinance revision in 1960, the permitted heights were not reviewed since few, if any, multi -story buildings existed. The demand grew more rapidly than anticipated and as a result threat of conflict exists on Broadway north of 17th Street and in other areas. These, and many other possible examples indicate the need for a revision of certain developmental regulations in Santa Ana. 20 IX THE FUNCTION AND FUTURE OF SANTA ANA Part V of this report was an attempt to provide a rational basis necessary to answer the question: where, in an urban community, should tall buildings be allowed? The specific location or locations selected in a particular community should represent a legislative judgment that a sufficient number of the locational principles do, indeed, justify the designation of a given area for high-rise construction. There is no magic number or percentage of applicable factors that must, of necessity, exist. Nor will permis- sive public legislation cause tall buildings to be erected. But a combination of the locational factors, coupled with permissive public legislation, will allow the construction of tall buildings in any area so designated and preclude them from any other area. PART VI of this report was an attempt to provide a rational basis necessary to answer the question: under what condi- tions or restrictions should tall buildings be allowed regardless of where they locate? It is hoped that the individual site considerations are sufficient to provide principles that, if adequately and properly considered, will result in a reasonable amount of light, air, open space and a minimum of congestion. Cities throughout the United States provide vivid testimony of unplanned, unguided and unrestric- ted development. It is not coincident that these are the same cities undergoing massive federal urban renewal pro- jects. To avoid the subsequent rebuilding of various areas within a city, other than by private developers, experience indicates that sufficiently restrictive developmental requlations should exist before the fact if they are to prove very useful. In order to apply the locational principles and site con- siderations to a particular community it is necessary to know and understand that community and the forces that are involved in the evolution of that community. Santa Ana, like all communities, plays a particular role in the greater context of county and region. A city's role or function does not remain static but changes with the times as does each element comprising the total function of that city. To anticipate the needs of Santa Ana as a potential location for high-rise construction it is necessary to understand the past development and changing character of this city. Historically, Santa Ana was a rural village which provided a focal point for a predominantly agrarian society. At the same time Santa Ana was the retail shopping center for the county. With the construction of more vehicular path- ways to larger cities in Los Angeles County, more and more 21 people discovered its rural charms and selected it as a place of residence, commuting to and from their place of employment. As the population gradually increased the various activities conducted within the city increased. Since Santa Ana was the county seat, the activities of various governmental units, both legislative and judicial, acted as a magnet for the various professions. Soon Santa Ana was n9t only a retail and residential complex, but became the governmental center of the county. With the completion of the Santa Ana Freeway vehicular access was facilitated and Orange County, including Santa Ana, was "discovered" by the incoming migrants from the east. The relatively low cost of land, the climate and the generally pleasant living conditions combined to make orange County a subdivider's paradise. Industry soon followed the labor pool creating more jobs locally which made possible a greater concentration of people. The growth of the industrial district of Santa Ana provided another perceptible shift in the economic base of the commu- nity. In the relatively short span of ten years Santa Ana has grown from a rural town, retail center, bedroom town to the governmental and institutional headquarters of orange County with a diverse and expanding industrial base. Santa Ana's function should be the more obvious as surround- ing cities develop their distinctive characteristics. Anaheim, with Disneyland, is becoming a focal point for tourists, con- ventions and the like. The beach cities are developing choice residential and recreational areas. The Irvine Com- pany is proceeding to make possible the establishment of a major university which should result in an increasing sophis- tication and urbanization of the entire county. Santa Ana remains the governmental, institutional and retail center it slowly became. But more recently there is increasing emphasis on service businesses and the professions as the population continues to increase. The various business activities must be housed and places of residence constructed for the workers of sundry colored collars. That is, this must be done if Santa Ana is to con- tinue to serve as the "headquarters" city of the county. The role or function, then, of Santa Ana is that of a head- quarters. To maintain its relative position among cities of the county and the greater region, it follows that office facilities, residential facilities, and community facilities in general, must be allowed to expand by permissive public legislation to absorb the population and business activity increase. But in so allowing the expansion, it is the respon- sibility of the City Council to assure that the necessary uses of land remain functional, economic and socially accept- able in their relation, one to the other. 22 it is the thesis of this report that expansion of various uses of land can come about without conflict, without lengthy and unacceptable transitional periods and without resulting in the blight, congestion and confusion found in many urban areas across the land. 23 X APPLICATION OF THE LOCATIONAL FACTORS TO SANTA ANA It was shown in the preceding Part that the nature of cities evolves or changes with time. In applying the locational factors discussed in Part V in order to select proper areas for the construction of multi -story buildings it is important to keep in mind the fact that Santa Ana twenty years in the future will be a different city. It is not inconceivable that some day the entire city will serve as a governmental and business nucleus for a large part of Southern California. The purpose of this section�.;;s to suggest areas suitable now and for the immediate future. At a later date the facts may indicate a need for substantial expansion or perhaps a total revision of the theory involved. As implied in Park IX the city and county civic center is the heart of governmental activity in Santa Ana. The surround- ing office facilities combine with it to make the general area the high command of this headquarters city. The adopted Streets and Highways Element of the general plan was geared to get vehicles (hence people) into, out of and through the central business district. The widening of some streets has been accomplished. The widening of others has been planned. Nevertheless, when the arterial street system is complete, including necessary one-way couplets, the downtown area will be the most accessible area, from any direction, in the entire city (factor of accessibility). Currently there are terminal off-street parking facilities available downtown. These will have to be better located and increased by the construction of multi -level or subterranean garages to handle the number of automobiles possible on a completed arterial street system (factor of terminal facilities). In order to continue pro- viding municipal services at the same level now being pro- vided in the central business district it will be necessary to reconstruct sewer facilities (general plan of sewer facil- ities will soon be completed and more police and fire depart- ment personnel will be required, in accordance with the resultant concentration of population. Storm drain and fresh water facilities should prove adequate with changes as speci- fied in existing plans. Thus, if multi -story construction occurs in the central busi- ness district it will be necessary to provide additional facilities to continue with the same level of municipal serv- ices now provided (factor of municipal facilities). According to the factor of public necessity for the concen- tration of population there are various justifications from a public point of view for permissive legislation allowing the concentration of population. As applied to the central business district it is obvious that there are no spectacular views or natural topographical features which it would be desirable for as many people as possible to enjoy. By con- 24 trast, this was a principal reason for allowing high-rise apartments on a hill overlooking Mission Bay in San Diego as well as the basis for high-rise apartments on the seven hills of San Francisco. There is also no man-made resource in terms of a large park, marina, or etc. However, the factor of proximity to an area of prime import- ance to the economy is overwhelmingly present. It is this factor that dictates the selection of the civic center -down- town area as a multi -story district. Concurrent with the justification for more concentrated office facilities is the necessity of providing apartment units to house the many workers staffing those office facilities. From a transportation point of view a rapid transit system is justified only between areas of high population density. Thus it is reasonable to assume that the civic center -down- town will be the terminal point for any major transit sys- tems ultimately developed (factor of proximity to terminal points of transit systems). The desire to raise the population to a point that justifies the urban niceties would lead to increased densities in the central core since so many of the other factors are present (the "good life" factor). As previously explained the factor of economic necessity created by market growth will assure the construction of tall structures assuming permis- sive public legislation exists. An expanding population will expand the activities conducted in the civic center - downtown. The expansion of those activities will economi- cally justify the construction of tall structures to make more compact and directly link those related activities for more efficient operation. Actual construction will result in ultimate compatibility of use in the area (compatibility of use factor). The difficult seventh factor of local public opinion seems to favor the downtown as the site of multi -story structures over all others. In any case no large scale opposition to zone changes or ordinances affect- ing height developed concerning the core area. Therefore it would appear that the locational factors indi- cate the civic center -downtown area as one very probable and logical location for multi -story structures. The parti- cular size of the area as well as the individual site con- siderations depend to a great extent on how far into the future it is desirable for the district to anticipate. Nevertheless, the function of Santa Ana as a city and the locational factors developed in this report combine to provide a rational basis for the designation of one area of concentration. How do other areas of the city measure up against the prin- ciples of site selection? One beginning would be to find a focal point of regional importance. The Fashion Square complex is such a focal point. It is currently bounded on 25 the south by the Santa Ana Freeway (with off and on ramps) along the east by Main Street (a principle north -south arterial), and when the Garden Grove Freeway is completed will be bounded on the north by a freeway. Thus there is unquestionable site accessibility. In the immediate area there are acres of available offstreet parking. The parking lots are of sufficient size to provide adequate area for the construction of multi -story or subterranean off-street park- ing facilities should the need arise. The Fashion Square complex has probably the best terminal off-street parking facilities in Santa Ana. Municipal facilities are adequate and can be reasonably expanded in the Fashion Square complex because of its recent development to a high standard. The public necessity for the concentration of population in the Fashion Square complex is somewhat apparent because of the regional proportions of the business activities.' This factor will be more obvious after completion of the offices planned for the Union Square development immediately north of Fashion Square. There will be a corresponding need for housing for the employees who desire to live close to6their place of employment. in addition, the various services and goods offered for sale in the immediate area adds°incentive for the construction of apartments. The Fashion Squa3Ze area, ' because of its quality of development, provides an opportu- nity for permissive public legislation allowing higher density apartment units which take advantage of the open space and • pleasant environment maintained at nonpublic expense. The result can be a general increase in population with a minimum of conflict with single family areas, that will.eventually provide the basis for the "good life" of urban areas mentioned previously. Economic necessity can be found to exist because of the high land valuation of the general area. The current high prices are partially a result of the prestige created by Fashion Square and the market demand for facilities near such a com- plex. Since the Fashion Square area will be surrounded by two free- ways and a major street it seems reasonable to assume that local public opinion will not result in legislation preventing further vertical growth of that area. Thus it appears that an application of the locational factors would indicate that the Fashion Square complex could reason- ably be designated as an area generally acceptable for high- rise construction. Potentially, there are other areas of the city where it seems logical to anticipate the development of a nucleus of activity which would satisfy the requirements of the locational factors. The best indication is obtainable from an analysis of the 26 Streets and Highways Element of the general plan. Since site accessibility is one locational factor which must exist those areas most accessible contain inherent possibilities as high- rise areas, especially if a sufficient number of the other side factors can be found subsequently to apply. The more obvious areas are at 17th and Tustin which will also have an adjacent full interchange with the Newport Freeway. Another is Bristol and the Santa Ana Freeway which will become the area of interchange of Bristol, Santa Ana Freeway, Garden Grove Freeway and the Pomona Freeway. Still another could ultimately be the triangle formed by the Newport Freeway, Main Street and Dyer Road. All of these and probably others exist as reasonably potential sites for high-rise buildings dependent on type of development and growth of the city in the light of the locational principles developed in this report. In Santa Ana there have been proposals for multi -story struc- tures in areas not meeting the locational factors to the degree of the civic center -downtown and Fashion Square loca- tions. It is obvious that some basis must exist to justify proposals for multi -story buildings on Broadway north of 17th Street; 17th Street and Bristol; 17th Street and Mabury; and Warner Avenue (Delhi Rd) and Bristol Street. Taking one of these as an example and measuring it against the locational factors, results in a determination of the desirability of the area as a site for high-rise construction, in the light of the benefit to be derived to the general public. For example, Broadway north of Seventeenth Street measures up as follows: Economic necessity - must exist due to requests but directly traceable to one reason for increase of land valuation - that of prestige. In effect, the high valuation homes to the west, the zoning limitation to professional activity and the required front yards combined to make the North Broadway area a "prestige" area. Thus, if development is such that the area become less desirable as a place to live (in terms of dollar value the greatest investment is in single family homes) due to congestion, tall buildings or what- ever, the "prestige" of the area will be destroyed. It is obviously tye threat of an extended transition period, with little likelihood of the residential prop- erties west of Broadway changing to a more intense use, that concerns the homeowners. Since there is no general plan which indicates substantial future change in the area there is good probability that the transition period will become permanent. That is, that the incompatibility of use between multi -story buildings on Broadway and single story residences to the west will exist unless one ' or the other is removed. 27 Site accessibility - poor, best feature -along an arterial with off -ramp connections to the Santa Ana Freeway. Little probability of new interchange or more east -west major streets. After completion of the Garden Grove Freeway the use of North Park Blvd, will probably decrease. Terminal parking and loading facilities - limited due to small lots and type of recent construction, can be im- proved by construction of joint use facilities but required off-street parking, unless waived by variance, should prevent construction of many tall structures, especially on the west side of the street. Municipal facilities - available to the degree authorized by the City Council and the willingness of the public to assume the costs of those facilities. Public necessity - no spectacular views other than of the high quality homes in the area, outstanding topographical features or man-made resources. Business primarily profes- sional types that could be conducted in any business dis- trict; no nearby stops of major non -automotive transit facilities and not sufficient area to anticipate substan- tial population shifts due to its development profession- ally. Local public opinion as observed at public hearings concerning aspects of North Broadway is substantially in opposition to multi -story construction at least on the west side of Broadway north of 17th Street. Thus, all factors considered, it appears that there is not overwhelming support in fact for the selection of the north Broadway area as an area suitable for high-rise construction. This is not to suggest that Main Street activities will not eventually absorb the properties on the east side of Broadway north of 17th Street or the west side of Bush Street in the same area. A similar analysis of the other sites mentioned results in much the same conclusion. An element of confusion enters when a specific proposal is made seemingly in direct opposition to the locational principles. The reason is usually, unless there is some specialized activity centered nearby, one of speculative economics. For example, high land valuation can result from the construction of a multi -story building for those properties whereon similar structures can be built and to the property on which the first multi -story structure is built. This "reverse" economics has been known to work as follows: property is purchased at a reasonable figure (com- paratively less than the most obvious locations for high-rise structures); some inflation ensues, population increases causing increased land valuation but not to the point where reasonable dollar return absolutely demands taller structures. Money is acquired to finance a multi -story structure and it is built. The area increased in prestige value and actual m value. This spontaneous appreciation accrues as equity to the owner of the multi -story structure. Adjacent lands, provided they too can be used by high-rise structures, experience a similar appreciation. However real the profit is to any individual there is predominantly false apprecia- tion to most surrounding properties. Especially if these properties are devoted to a use of less intensity. Since there will be constructed only a limited number of high-rise structures in any area in a fixed period of time the result- ant long transition period will amount to a form of property confiscation to those who wish to remain in a less intense use category or those whose properties are so situated as to be effected by but not included in the more intense use category for many years, if at all. A noticeable failing of many communities has been an unshakeable belief in ever- lasting expansion. This belief has resulted in overzoning to a fantastic degree. For example, Santa Ana's practically unlimited commercial and industrial properties that have been available but undeveloped for years. Most probably, smaller areas than herein recommended would result in the same total number of high-rise structures as would occur with the elimination of all heights limits, in a given period of time. However, their locations would vary creating period of long transition wherever they locate. Further, the ultimate development of Santa Ana will probably be the same if accomplished stage by stage or all at once. For example, since the area recommended as suitable for multi -story construction contains 1684 potential building sites, it would take over four and a half years to reach total development, if one multi -story building were construc- ted per day. The reason for permissive public legislation is to make easier the transition period and to shape the City to a desired end. That end result of Santa Ana, in terms of multi -story struc- tures, can either be a pleasant, efficient urban complex or a duplication of most existing urban areas. While the future must remain unknown, it need not be ignored. M XI RECOMMENDED MODIFICATIONS OF SANTA ANA'S ZONING ORDINANCE The numerous considerations presented in this report show, in the opinion of the Planning Department, a definite need for the revision of the height limitations contained in the Zoning Ordinance of 1960. The recommended modifications are designed to apply to the land use configurations and zoning pattern found in Santa Ana which, it is assumed, will not be substantially altered. As a result of this assumption the proposed changes are necessarily complicated to compensate for the placement of various districts. Were strip commercial zones along major streets eliminated the task of ordinance writing would be much simplified. In any case, the primary goals of the modifications are: 1. To minimize the effect of multi -story structures on adjacent and nearby residential uses of land. 2. To make possible greater flexibility of building design and placement. 3. To assure a certain minimum amount of open space in all multi -story developments. it should be noted that there is no direct limitation on population concentration provided in the recommended ordi- nance. Such a limitation will eventually be necessary to avoid congestion and the overloading of municipal facilities. However, any limitation of population concentration should be the result of an analysis of the maximum possible densi- ties related to the space needs of the city as determined by the standards adopted as part of the population element of the General Plan of Community Development. To make such a recommendation without study would be arbitrary and inde- fensible. It is also the opinion of the Planning Department that most multi -story buildings will be constructed in the recommended area of high concentration due to the existence of the pre- requisite locational factors. However, a substantial portion of the recommended ordinance is designed to minimize conflict that will occur between multi -story structures and single story residences, should any multi -story structures happen to be constructed outside of the area of greatest concentration. That such is a possibility is demonstrated by the proposals that created the impetus for this study. In any case, it should be understood that the particular amount of open space, expressed as a minimum standard, is a value judgment that must be made. It is obvious that some- where between no open space, which is like a cave, and total open space, which is like outer space, lies a minimum stand- ard acceptable to the majority of inhabitants of Santa Ana. 30 It is recommended that the following modifications of the Zoning Ordinance of 1960 be made at this time: 1. Amend the Al, RE, R1, R2 and R3 District regulations so that the Building Height Section reads as follows: "No structure shall exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height." 2. Amend all other Districts except the R4 District, so that the Building Heights Section reads as follows: "No structure shall exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height except as provided in Section 9242." (Note: The R4 District provisions would remain unchanged.) 3. Amend Section 9242 (Height) to read as follows: "Section 9242. Height. (a) There is hereby established separate and distinct Height Districts I and II in which are contained special provisions allowing structures to exceed the maximum height per- mitted in the applicable Land Use Districts. (b) Unless otherwise designated on the appropriate Sectional District Maps all land within or subsequently annexed or incorporated into the City of Santa Ana is hereby declared to be in Height District I. (c) All lots within Height District I shall be subject to the following height exceptions and regulations: (1) On any lot or portion of a lot in the Al, RE, R1, R2, R3, R3H and R4 Dis- tricts no structure shall exceed the height therein specified. (2) On any lot or portion of a lot in the P, CD, Cl, C2, C4, C5, Ml, M2, LM and CM Districts: a. No structure shall exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height within one hundred and forty (140) feet of any property in the Al, RE, R1, R2, R3 or R3H District. b. Any structure on a lot or por- tion of a lot contiguous to or f 31 separated by a street, alley, flood control channel or ditch, pedestrain walkway, or rail- road right-of-way, from prop- erty in the Al, RE, Rl, R2, R3 or R3H District may exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height, provided that no part of said structure exceeding thirty-five (35) feet in height intercepts a plane that rises one (1) foot in every four (4) lineal feet drawn from the nearest point of each property in the aforemen- tioned Districts toward the interior of the building site whereon it is proposed to erect a structure in excess of thirty- five (35)feet in height. Further, there shall be provided and maintained along all such property lines or zone boundary lines mentioned hereinabove, a fifteen (15) foot landscaped strip. When said landscaped strip is contiguous to or is separated from a property in the Al, RE, R1, R2, R3 or RM District by any of the afore- mentioned ways other than a street, said landscaping shall include not less than one (1) tree for every ten (10) lineal feet of said landscaped strip, not less than ten (10) feet high at time of planting, of trees of any of the following species: Ficus Benjamina Ficus Elastica Ficus Nitida Ficus Retusa Schinus Teribinthifolia Harpephyllum Caffrum Cupania Anacardioides Pittosporum Undulatum Pinus Halepensis Pinus Radiata Pinus Pinea Pinus Torreyana Pinus Thunbergi olea Europaea 32 Myoporum Laetum Podocarpus Elongata Pyrus Kawakami Bauhinia Purpurea Adacia Pendula Acacia Baileyana Acacia Longifolia Magnolia Grandiflora Persea Borbonia Fraxinus Uhedi Eugenia Paniculata Cedrus Deodora Pinus Canariensis Cupressus Sempervirens Tristania Conferta Eucalyptus Citriodora Prunus Caroliniana c. When a and b above are not applicable then each part of any structure exceeding thirty- five (35) feet in height shall be set in from one or the other or from both side property lines not less than a combined total distance equal to one- half (-Z) of the overall height of the structure, signs in- cluded. Further, each part of any structure exceeding thirty- five (35) feet in height shall be set in from the front or back or from both the front and the back property lines not less than a combined total distance equal to one-half ('h) of the overall height of the structure, signs included. (d) All lots within Height District II shall be subject to the following height exceptions and regulations: (1) Any structure may exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height if both of the following provisions are complied with: a. Each part of any structure exceeding thirty-five (35) feet in height shall be set in from one or the other or from both side property lines not less than a combined total distance 33 equal to one-half (h) of the overall height of the struc- ture, signs included. b. Each part of any structure exceeding thirty-five (35) feet in height shall be set in from the front or the back or from both the front and the hack mmnerty lines not PLATE A RECOMMENDED HEIGHT DISTRICTS Height District I - All area within the Santa Ana City Limits except the area outlined below, which shall be con- sidered Height District M. XII WHAT OTHER PEOPLE SAY The following is a cross-section of opinions received in response to the inquiry: Where is the proper place of multi- story structures in an urban community? They are not verbatim quotations but rather rewritings, in the interest of brevity. Massachusetts Institute of Technology F. S. Adams, Professor of City Planning Up to local opinion - difficult to apply general principles without local knowledge. The application of general principles would require professional judgment, based on experience. American Society of Planning officials J. R. Allaire, Senior Planner High-rise structures should be allowed where it is desirable that high density patterns of employment and residence are to be encouraged. other aspects to consider are visual impact, economic feasibility and, in earthquake prone California, the substratum of the soil. Janss Investment Corporation V. H. Palmieri, Executive Vice President Provided that street capacity is sufficient and off- street parking is adequate, conflicts between high-rise structures and single family homes should, in the name of progress, be resolved in favor of the high-rise structures. Victor Gruen and Associates R. D. Berry, Associate Any answer must be related to the general plan. Primary justification is one of pure economics. When intensification of land use reaches demand then high- rise becomes necessary. The increase in land valuation can come from two sources: 1) The demand from a market growth such as a strong need for housing, hotel, offices, or other uses; and 2) The necessity to build high-rise because of the location of certain areas of the city, 35 waking it highly desirable for reasons of prestige, ease of accessibility or convenience for business or recreational purposes. Any attempt to superimpose high-rise zoning over an exist- ing use not justified by one or both of the above economic pressures stands no chance of being integrated into a comprehensive plan for the entire city no matter how desir- able or beneficial the planning objectives might be. Even though there is a market growth for high-rise apart- ments in Southern California, experience has shown that only those areas with a particular market appeal can ever be considered as realistic sites - those with spectacular views, certain prestige areas, near high concentration business areas, next to parks, marinas, golf courses, etc. Any areas selected must be accessible by traffic carriers. Regardless of the "optimum planning ideals" careful atten- tion should be given to the economic and political impli- cations of the problem.' University of Southern California (City and Regional Planning Department) Professor Arthur L. Grey, Jr. Frequently decisions concerning the proper location of high-rise structures are based on sentimental concerns - dividing into the "low density" and "high density" people, like the conflicting philosophies of Le Corbusier on the one hand and Louis Mum£ord on the other. Density and in; tensity of use should be based somewhat on an understand- ing of the "good life" which raises the question of what total level of population is necessary to allow the devel- opment by government or private enterprise of the special- ized resources of an urban area. (These the Planning De- partment interprets to be civic operas, little theaters, ball parks, etc.). The needs or desires of the general public in terms of living environment should be considered. The number of single family homes sold in Southern Califor- nia indicate that if apartments are to be community assets they must provide an equally attractive package of amen- ities (which can be done with high or low densities). The argument of transition to a higher and better use through increased intensities by permissive public ordi- nance is not sufficient, in itself, to produce a rapid transition. In many instances the result has been scat- tered development with prolonged detrimental effects on the properties that remain at former pre-existing use intensities. A program for projecting the proper placement of multi -story structures shouid be based on the required quantity, balancing 36 all the space resources and uses of the community, one against the other. Offices constitute one type of need and multi -family housing another. Concerning the first, the question of how much space is essential, the answer will vary community to community. Opportunities may come from the ability of the city to attract administra- tive headquarters (which is often greatly exaggerated). High-rise apartment needs should be based similarly on the probable population, cost per square foot of unit, rent paying potential, etc. The essential requirement is to forecast a "level" of effective demand. As for specific location, apartments are too often rele- gated to sites considered (1) inferior for single family development, (2) too costly for single family develop- ment and (3) not likely to be'used for commercial devel- opment. It appears that the apartment has not been accepted as a mode of housing for the normal American family and is assumed to be for transients. Typically apartment dwellers have more complaints against their neighboring environment - traffic, noise, hazards - than do dwellers in single family houses, so that most apartments are not good places to stay for long. Thus there are two considerations concerning the location of high-rise apartments; one is the effect which the apartments will have upon the amenity of apartment living as a way of life, and the other is that the location should not adversely effect other land uses. This caution is particularly important when apartments (and the Plan- ning Department assumes offices also) intrude into exist- ing areas of lower densities. What happens to the utility of houses located on lots adjacent to an apartment building? This problem is liable to be overlooked in the usual ebullient expectation of continuous growth. In many neighborhoods, it is years before the market will assimilate the substantial part of the land zoned for denser use. In the meantime the livi- bility of those single family homes that remain is most certainly reduced. This is a kind of confiscation of private property from the occupier who does not care to move or who is not holding his property as a long -run investment. It is a difficult position to assemble serious answers to your inquiry with a ninety -day deadline attached to your deliberations. Welton Becket and Associates MacDonald Becket Strategic geographical location to the growth areas of 37 Orange County has made Santa Ana not only a governmental center but also an increasingly important service, finan- cial and commercial center. These activities are impor- tant to the community in terms of tax revenue and income sources for residents. Thus it is suggested that one of the primary goals of the city policy should be the reten- tion and the enlargement of the above operations within the city. Generally, high-rise buildings are necessi- tated due to the tendency toward grouping of activities, convenience of vertical over horizontal internal move- ments, inherent prestige, quality, and land cost. Our studies indicate the coming growth of Orange County to be more urban in character which would create a need for high-rise commercial structures and apartments. Much has been written about cities which failed to foresee their traffic, parking and land use dynamics. These cities, due to a lack of realistic planning and zoning policy, have and are still losing middle and high income residents, as well as commercial and industrial establishments. We believe that•a well conceived zoning policy which per- mits high-rise structure in selected areas should not create conflict with the traditional city environment. Such a policy would also tend to rejuvenate the decaying areas of the city and broaden its tax base. of course, the revised zoning ordinance should contain adequate safeguards, including minimum requirements for density, parking and setbacks. Selection of areas for multiple structures should be made after a careful study of prevailing conditions, including traffic, utility systems and direction of land use. Where possible, wishes of the residents in the affected areas should be taken into account, but a sub -section of the city should not be allowed to retard the overall progress of the community. In short, a long range zoning plan should be developed. Simon Eisner and Associates Simon Eisner Regardless of where multi -story structures are allowed to locate an essential consideration is the spatial relation- ships between structure and structure, and structure and environment. To begin with, a multi -story structure should be no closer than one-half its height to any prop- erty line. only with such open space requirements will cities begin to avoid the mistakes of the past. m Louis Mumford Ford Research Professor Institute for Urban Studies (Visiting professor at the University of California at Berkeley, Fall, 1961) The most useful studies of height regulation I know are those done by the London County Council. Instead of establishing heights they establish densities. These permit total coverage of a plot in business areas if the building is under three stories: but provide that additional stories shall not increase the overall den- sity: thus a ten story building must occupy only a fraction of the lot. This is superior to any building height regulation or any specific indication of setbacks; apart from establishing front and back building lines, for it permits changes in height to meet functional needs, whilst it ensures minimum standards of light and insolation. One of the things that makes rational building standards difficult is that just as people who have loud speakers usually tend to turn their radio up to the loudest volume, so people who want high-rise buildings usually want to jump from two stories to ten or twenty. This brings about excessive densities, which in turn generate traffic that cannot be taken care of at the center of the city. What you need, possibly in a city, as big as Santa Ana threatens to be, is sub -business centers at the outskirts, with reasonable densities, instead of permitting exces- sive densities to gild up at the center - the ultimate result of which is to promote random suburban dispersal. Livingston and Blayney Lawrence Livingston, Jr. Having visited Santa Ana earlier this year and noted the degree of urbanization there, I would guess your city is ready for high-rise development, provided it is concen- trated rather than scattered. This thought is based on the assumption that the alternative is more of the uneco- nomic, massive urban sprawl that has made the Los Angeles Metropolitan area what it is today. William L. Pereira and Associates Jack Bevash, A.I.A. For us to be helpful we would have to have before us a substantial program with the following elements: 1) Development of a broad master plan for the city in relation to regional or county master plans which, in general terms, sets out the destiny of the city in the most optimistic terms. 39 2) A central city plan which sets out the destiny for the "heart" of the city organism. 3) A traffic and transportation plan to serve as a guide in the development of an efficient, intelli- gent, economic system for the movement of all means of essential traffic. 4) A comprehensive district parking plan related to projected growth in population and projected demands for basic land uses. 5) Preparation of a Parks and Open Space Plan geared to serve the long range needs of the citizens of Santa Ana. With the above studies I am sure it would be possible to establish height limit districts within which control of building volumes could be maintained and protection guar- anteed to other land uses. The following is a verbatim copy of a letter pertinent to this report prepared by a group of resident Santa Ana architects. It is included in full because the Planning Department re- quested an opinion from the group. Many contributed hours were spent in its preparation and, in the opinion of the Plan- ning Department, represents the attitude that is necessary if Santa Ana is to fully fulfill its destiny. "The megapolis that will extend from Los Angeles to San Diego is not a dream but a reality. The population of Orange County is increasing at a rate and density never before realized by any of the founding fathers. Santa Ana with its historical heritage as the major metropolitan area, home of the County Administrative and Judicial Seat, is held liable for orderly County leadership in forms of planning. Leadership implies responsibility and courage to accept the challenge and to apply with expedience the direction for all. This leadership can only be as great as the concepts and objectives of the leaders. We as professional leaders set forth this challenging concept. Santa Ana has been and shall continue to be the greatest metropolitan community between Los Angeles and San Diego. The dynamic orderly growth of Santa Ana shall be an example for all the nation. The program for success is to carry the story of this single civic purpose to all the people and to excite them to become a part of the concept. Physical Planning can now flourish in a mind that is in tune with a concept. This greatest of all conceived Metropolitan Area must have first a direction by an immediate adopted "Master Plan of Total Physical Growth". This master plan must contain all the elements visioned in a "Great Metropolitan Commu- nity" (the dwelling, the office, the factory, the cultur- al center of environmental learning, the civic center of administration and justice, the central and satellite commercial trade centers, parks, playgrounds and circula- tion, etc.). Now that we have a direction the way is clear to study any factors that may arrive to deviate or implement the original concept. The program to be established should be as follows: 1. The Administrative Cultural and Judicial Center The city of Santa Ana derives part of its his- torical heritage from the fact that it is the seat for the County. It is important to Santa Ana that this center remains and develops here. There- for there should be a coordinated effort to estab- lish and adopt an Administrative, Cultural and Judicial Center Master Plan by the County of Orange and the City of Santa Ana. Without this coordinated effort there cannot be syllogistical planning. 2. Commercial Trade Centers a. Revitalization of the existing trade center to become the center for the county. b. Satellite Trade Areas. There should be supple- mentary facilities to the central business center for convenience. 3. Industrial development. 4. Residential Development. 5. Public and Special Facilities 6. Circulation and Parking We realize that the Planning Department of the City of Santa Ana has a limited time in which to suggest to the City Council the place of Multi -story structures in an urban community. As a group of architects that reside in the City of Santa Ana, we wish to express our recom- mendation for a possible solution to the problem. The problem can only be thoroughly solved by the adoption of a Master Plan. Therefore we recommend that the City of Santa Ana immediately engage an Architectural or Plan- ning Firm to prepare a "Master Plan of Total Physical Growth of the City". During the preparation of the mas- ter plan, an advisory committee should be established to make recommendations to the Planning Department on spe- cific problems that may arise. This Advisory Committee W 41 Is should be staffed with the following type personnel: a planner, an architect, an attorney, a realtor, an econo- mist or financial advisor; a member of the clergy, and a business man. Each of these groups should select their representative for this committee. We further recommend that: the firm engaged by the City to prepare the Master Plan shall review all variances to the existing zoning ordinance prior to?;any action taken. Sincerely, Architects Resident in Santa Ana Charles P. Kennedy (signed) Wm. L. Paulkner (signed) dam T..L3rk" (signed) Robert M. Hernandez (signed) Robert S. Lowrey (signed) Gates W. Burrows (signed) S. P. Grillias (signed) Everett E. Parks (signed) T. D. MacBird (signed) Donald A. Honer (signed) 42 XIII BIBLIOGRAPHY AND SOURCES f Books h Local Planning Administration International City Managers Association Third Edition 1959 Urban Land Economics McGraw-Hill Book Company Richard U. Ratcli£f 1949 Urban Land Use Planning Harper & Brothers F. Stuart Chapin, Jr. 1957 Urban Planning and Municipal Public Policy Harper & Brothers Donald H. Webster 1958 Real Estate and City Planning Prentice -Hall Nelson and Aschman 1957 Periodicals 1 America "The Urban Evolution" David O'Shea Vol. Cl No. 17 July 1959 Horison Magazine "The Flowering of San Francisco Allen Temko Vol. 1 No. 3 Jan. 1959 "Metropolis Regained" Grady Clay Vol. 1. No. 6 July 1959 "The Dawn of the 'High Modern'" Allen Temko Vol. II No. 1 Sept.1959 Journal - Stanford Research Institute "Problems Facing the City in Transition" Frank W. Barsalou, Vol. 4 1960 Menlo Park, California. Science "Economic Implications of Urban Growth" Coleman Woodbury, Vol. 129 No. 3363 June 1959 The Rotarian "Shapes of Cities to Come" William L. C. Wheaton,Vol. XCVII No. 4 Oct. 1960 .v H Reports Accomplishments Los Angeles City Planning Density Zoning - U. L. I. Bulletin 42 Lovelace and Weismantel E4%F'i3 Facts Pertaining to the Protection and Development of TOURIST FACILITIES within all Counties Hawaii State Planning office and Harland Bartholomew and Associates March 1961 General Policy Study for Tulsa Segoe and Associates (Cincinnati) Oakland Preliminary General Plan Planning For Apartments ASPO No. 139 Proposed Zoning City Planning Board, Boston May 1958 Report to the Zoning Advisory Commission " of the City of Philadelphia Geddes-Brecher-Qualls, A.I.A. Zoning - Proposed Bulk Controls for Philadelphia Cities City of Boston City Planning Board City of Cincinnati H. W. Stevens Director of City Planning City of Columbus Jack B. Bachtel Planning Director City of Dallas James B. Good Zoning Administrator State of Hawaii Frank Lombardi Planning Director State of Indiana, Marion County Metropolitan Planning Department C. D. Smith ME City of Houston Ralph S. Ellifrit Director of City Planning a City of Los Angeles Tracy H. Abell Principal City Planner, Master Plan Division Thomas W. Golden Special Studies Section City of New York City Planning Commission James Felt, Chairman City of Oakland Norman J. Lind Assistant Director of City Planning City of Philadelphia Marcia J. Rogers Chief, Redevelopment Section Division of Land Planning City of Pittsburgh C. Ronal Woods " Planning Director Edwin B. Forrest ' Zoning Engineer Salt Lake City Corporation A. Dean Barney Assistant Planning Director City of San Diego Harry C. Haelsig City Planning Director City and County of San Francisco James R. McCarthy Director of Planning Edward I. Murphy Assistant Director of Planning City of Tulsa Clyde W. Forrest Planning Analyst Consultants, Architects and Developers American Society of Planning Officials Jerrold R. Allaire Senior Planner 45 Welton Becket and Associates MacDonald Becket David D. Bohannon Organization William H. Piercy Property Manager Victor Gruen Associates Richard D. Berry Associate Janss Investment Corporation Victor H. Palmieri Executive Vice President Livingston and Blayney City and Regional Planners Lawrence Livingston, Jr. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Department of City and Regional Planning Frederick J. Adams Professor of City Planning Louis Mumford Ford Research Professor Institute for Urban Studies Visiting Professor, University of California, Berkeley, California. Orange County Chapter, American Institute of Architects William L. Pereira and Associates Planning and Architecture Jack Bevash, A.I.A. Quinton Engineers, LTD. Ted B. Adsit Director, Urban Development Planning Santa Ana Architects Simon Eisner and Associates Planning and Architecture Simon Eisner Universities Cornell University College of Architecture K. A. Parsons Associate Professor of City and Regional Planning m Y e Harvard University Graduate School of Design Department of City and Regional Planning Reginald R. Isaacs, Chairman. University of Southern California Department of City and Regional Planning Arthur L. Grey, Jr. Associate Professor, Chairman. Massachusetts Institute of Technology F. S. Adams Professor of City Planning. University of Illinois, Urbana Department of City Planning and Landscape Architecture Robert D. Katz Assistant Professor of City Planning s 47