Successful town centers are built upon fundamental elements of city building which are evident in the most beloved cities and towns in the world. Successful cities do not just happen, they must be continually shaped and guided. The guiding principles of the charrette team’s work should be followed by the city of Centerville in the development of any new town center concept.

A. Utilize compact building design

Require buildings to front streets & public spaces, with parking in the rear
Buildings should share party walls with their neighbors
Multi-story buildings are encouraged
Allow developers to share the cost of stormwater abatement in lieu of on site mitigation.

B. Create a walkable, connected community

Invest in sidewalks & crosswalks
Reduce street widths to slow traffic and encourage pedestrian crossing
Line streets with trees, providing shelter, cooling sidewalks, and separating walkers from automobile traffic
Buffer sidewalks with on street parking
Encourage pedestrian-friendly connections to adjacent neighborhood areas
Capitalize on green space

C. Mix building uses

Create a range of housing opportunities and choices
Reserve special sites for civic buildings
Invest in special public spaces

D. Insist on a network of interconnected streets

Build a street grid by avoiding cul-de-sacs
Reduce traffic congestion through an interconnected grid of streets
Leave a legacy for future generations, by making Centerville adaptable for transit opportunities