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Properly designed alleys can provide several advantages over direct access from the street. <br /> * Alleys can substantially reduce the number of driveway entrances onto the street. When <br /> garages and driveways are placed at the rear of the property, rather than the front, the <br /> streetscape is improved by eliminating curb cuts. Elimination of curb cuts and driveways <br /> improves the pedestrian environment, allows for efficient on -street parking layouts, and <br /> reduces pedestrian- vehicle conflicts. <br /> * Alleys provide for flexibility in platting small lot subdivisions; particularly those with <br /> lots less than 50' in width. Increases in density can also be achieved by providing alley <br /> access to larger, underdeveloped parcels. <br /> * *INSERT PHOTO ** <br /> * Alleys provide an alternative location for utilities and garbage collection services. <br /> Placement of utilities along the rear yards of properties allows for efficient utility layouts; <br /> removal of trash cans from the curb further improve streetscape appearance. <br /> * Use of alleys also provides for the potential of reducing front yard setbacks along the <br /> street, providing additional flexibility for developers and designers who wish to create <br /> small lot developments and fine- grained, intimate residential settings. <br /> * *INSERT PHOTO ** <br /> Sidewalks Sidewalks are an integral part of the transportation system. As future traffic <br /> congestion and its related side effects increase, the commitment to encourage walking as an <br /> alternative to driving is essential. To promote pedestrian use, a continuous sidewalk is <br /> needed. Sidewalks can serve as a sole transportation mode or function as a link in a multi - <br /> modal trip. Sidewalks promote transit use by providing the link from home to bus (and vice <br /> versa). <br /> To encourage walking as an alternative transportation mode, sidewalks should not only <br /> functionally serve as a pedestrian corridor, but should also be regarded by pedestrians as a safe <br /> haven from vehicle traffic. Without the feeling of safety, sidewalks will have limited use and <br /> do little to promote walking. Sidewalks widths and setbacks can strongly influence pedestrian <br /> comfort and safety. <br /> This P lan proposes construction of setback sidewalks on all streets. Setback sidewalks provide <br /> for physical separation of pedestrians from vehicle traffic, providing a safe and comfortable <br /> environment for pedestrians, and are more compatible with Americans with Disabilities Act <br /> (ADA) requirements for curb ramps and driveway aprons. <br /> • <br />