Avonlea Sustainable Building Patterns

Introduction

 

Sustainability requires that we use our resources efficiently. This includes natural and manmade resources during construction and operations of our communities. This efficiency has been a primary goal of the Avonlea Plan. Avonlea has a unique location at the convergence of existing roads, utilities and drainage infrastructure. This is combined with the diverse mixture, of old and new neighborhoods and land uses (Residential/Commercial/Industrial) which surround the Avonlea Village, allowing it to be a model for infill development.

The goals for long term sustainability include:

1. The functional integration and enhancement of the existing neighborhoods, infrastructure and  environment.

2. Emphasizing the importance of people in design.

3. The demand for quality and efficiency.

4. Inspiring diversity and creativity while maintaining harmony.

5. Providing for flexibility to insure long term success.

Integration and enhancement of the existing environment.

The Avonlea site is part of a larger drainage basin and included significant wetlands which were severely degraded due to historic road and drainage efforts. An extensive study was done and the functionality of this system has been improved by raising the water level  back to it's historic levels thereby improve the water quality, wetland sustainability and recharge. Additionally the significant invasion of exotic species was removed and the wetlands replanted and grouped with a variety of upland habitat for preservation.

Improvement and enhancement of existing streets.

The Avonlea plan will Improve traffic resources in three ways. 1. Improve the flow of traffic by installing a roundabout at Baker Rd. and Cardinal Ave. and  providing for 2 way traffic on Baker Rd between Cardinal and Savanna Roads. 2. Get people out of their cars by rebuilding the streets for pedestrian comfort and safety and providing a mixture of uses allowing people to live, shop and recreate in one local. 3. Offer a local alternative to busy US1 and Jensen Beach Blvd. for the provision of neighborhood goods and services. Additionally the compact nature of The Avonlea Village lends itself to the use of public transportation.

Integration into the existing neighborhoods.

The creation of the functional Village Center will provide an attractive transition between the surrounding residential, commercial and industrial uses and provide opportunities to walk to restaurants and shops for neighborhood residence and workers

Emphasizing the importance of people in design.

People want to live in an interesting, safe, orderly and high quality environment.

Avonlea provides an extensive pedestrian network, which includes wide protected sidewalks, nature paths, restored natural areas,  neighborhood greens, treelined boulevards, a commercial square and an interesting mix of uses, entertainment options and architectural styles.

To insure quality, efficiency and creativity while maintaining harmony.

Avonlea's proposed Pattern Book includes:

Patterns for street and landscapes, the land use mix, parking, building green , energy efficiency, telecom needs, quality standards and styles.

The Avonlea Association structure will reward resident participation.

To insure long term success.

 The pattern for Avonlea's commercial area addresses the factors needed for success on a traditional main street including diversity of uses, compactness, intensity, balance, accessibility and linkages. It demands a mix of architecture in a compact setting, encouraging vibrant activity. To insure sustained consistency and overall opportunity there will be no required separation from any surrounding uses for businesses selling alcoholic beverages. The commercial patterns safeguard economic and physical balance, without monotony. Avonlea's location provides easy access, and will include many unique features which will promote the building of a positive community identity.  Including the Avonlea Plan's respects for the environment by preserving and restoring the best quality natural habitats and installing predominantly native, low maintenance plantings.