Urban core locations include the highest level of density with mixed residential and commercial uses accommodated in high-rise structures. There is commonly on-street parking, although it is usually time restricted. Most parking is in multi-level structures attached or integrated with other structures. The area is accessible to automobiles, commercial delivery vehicles, biking, walking, and public transit.
Urban core characteristics also include:
- Sidewalks and pedestrian plazas are present
- Bicycle facilities and transit corridors are common
- Typical land uses are mixed commercial, residential, with some government or similar institutions present
- Commercial uses predominate, including financial and legal
- Structures (predominantly high rises) may have multiple uses
- With the highest land value of any category, setbacks from the street are small
The urban core context applies to many performance measures and metrics (summarized in the tables below). Note that the urban core context is relevant for practical solutions beyond those focused on mobility and economic vitality. Additional performance measures and metrics will be developed to evaluate how WSDOT projects advance WSDOT’s goals around the environment, preservation, safety, and stewardship.