As an implementation piece to the Downtown Winters Master Plan, PMC was retained to develop two special zoning districts incorporating form-based code standards and design guidelines that focus on creating a lively, architecturally complementary, and pedestrian-oriented commercial district and infill residential area. Standards for land use, density, setbacks, and design are set out in both text and graphics in a format that can be referenced easily by project applicants and designers and cited easily by City staff and officials.
The Downtown Code included:
- A regulating plan illustrating the location of uses and their relationship to streets, alleys, and other public paths.
- Building form standards governing basic building form, placement, and fundamental elements to ensure that all buildings complement historic neighboring structures and the street. These standards were based upon study of building types appropriate for the Winters region, climate, and community vitality.
- Architectural standards guiding exterior materials and quality to preserve and enhance the historic downtown character.