PORT OF VANCOUVER WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT

URBAN DESIGN STANDARDS & GUIDELINES

Terminal No. 1 Concept Development Plan

FINAL May 2017

Port of Vancouver USA
3103 NW Lower River Road
Vancouver, Washington 98660
i
...artistic & pleasing
to the eye ... that the
buildings fit in with
the local flavor.
Open House Citizen Comment
Acknowledgments PORT OF VANCOUVER, PORT COMMISSION
Commissioner Jerry Oliver, President
Commissioner Brian Wolfe, Vice President
Commissioner Eric LaBrant, Secretary

PORT EXECUTIVE STAFF

Julianna Marler, CEO/Chief Financial and Administrative Officer
Michelle Allen, Executive Services Manager
Kent Cash, Chief Operations Officer
Jonathan Eder, Director of Human Resources
Ryan Hart, Chief External Affairs Officer
Alastair Smith, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer

PORT CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT PLAN CORE TEAM MEMBERS

Patty Boyden, Director of Environmental Services
Rick Cline, Contracts Manager
Monty Edberg, Director of Engineering and Project Delivery
Jonathan Eder, Director of Human Resources
Jack Flug, Senior Financial Analyst
Jim Hagar, Economic Development Project Manager
Matt Harding, Environmental Project Manager
Mike Schiller, Director of Business Development

CONSULTING TEAM
NBBJ - Lead Consultant
AINW
Berger/ABAM
Hargis
HDR
Integral Group
JLA
Rick Williams Consulting
Walker Macy
Table of Contents 1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PORT COMMISSION GUIDING PRINCIPLES 03
1.2 REGIONAL CONTEXT 04
1.3 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT  05
1.4 DESIGN GUIDELINES STRUCTURE 06

2.0 WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN

2.1 WATERFRONT DISTRICT VISION 12
2.2 DESIGN PRINCIPLES 13
2.3 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 17

3.0 URBAN DESIGN STANDARDS & GUIDELINES

3.1 OVERALL SITE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS 26
3.2 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS 27

4.0 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

4.1 PREFACE 60
4.2 BACKGROUND 61
4.3 PURPOSE 61
4.4 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT DEFINED 61
4.5 IMPLEMENTATION AND MANAGEMENT 63
4.6 PERFORMANCE TARGETS  63
4.7 ROLE OF THE PORT OF VANCOUVER  63
4.8 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK PRINCIPLES 64

5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES

5.1 HABITAT AND ECOLOGY  70
5.2 WATER MANAGEMENT 74
5.3 THRIVING COMMUNITY  76
5.4 URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE 78
5.5 ENERGY AND CARBON 82
5.6 MATERIALS AND WASTE 86
5.7 HEALTHY PLACE 88
5.8 ECONOMY AND VALUE 91

6.0 APPENDIX
6.1 SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING 97
6.2 PUBLIC ART 119
6.3 LIGHTING 121
6.4 PREFERRED NATIVE AND ADAPTIVE PLANTING PALETTE 135
6.5 COST OF GREEN 141
6.6 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES 145
6.7 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES: PORTLAND COMPARISON 155
Figure List
FIGURE 1: VICINITY MAP 02 FIGURE 24: CLIENT FEEDBACK 99
FIGURE 2: PROPOSED BREAKDOWN OF USES 16 FIGURE 25: KEY WORDS 100
FIGURE 3: ILLUSTRATIVE CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT PLAN 19 FIGURE 26: SCHEMES BASED ON KEYWORDS 102
FIGURE 4: ENLARGED PIER SITE PLAN 21 FIGURE 27: TYPOGRAPHIC INSPIRATION FOR SCHEME A 102
FIGURE 5: BUILDING HEIGHT DIAGRAM 22 FIGURE 28: SIGN TYPES 103
FIGURE 6: BUILDING ENVELOPE DIAGRAM 22 FIGURE 29: WAYFINDING KEY 104
FIGURE 7: PROPOSED BUILDING MASSING 23 FIGURE 30: TYPE A LANDMARK IDENTIFIER  106
FIGURE 8: INTEGRATED ABOVE-GRADE PARKING 34 FIGURE 31: VARIATIONS OF TYPE A LANDMARK IDENTIFIER 107
FIGURE 9: BUILD-TO LINES 38 FIGURE 32: TYPE A LANDMARK LOCATIONS 108
FIGURE 10: PUBLIC REALM DIAGRAM  42 FIGURE 33: TYPE B DIRECTIONAL MARKER 109
FIGURE 11: STREET SECTIONS 43 FIGURE 34: TYPE B DIRECTIONAL MARKER LOCATIONS 110
FIGURE 12: PUBLIC-PRIVATE TRANSITION SPACE 46 FIGURE 35: TYPE C INTERPRETIVE MARKER 111
FIGURE 13: STEPPING DIAGRAMS 47 FIGURE 36: TYPE C INTERPRETIVE MARKER LOCATIONS. 112
FIGURE 14: ACTIVE GROUND-FLOOR USE RATIO  48 FIGURE 37: SCHEME B KEYWORDS, INSPIRATIONAL IMAGERY 114
FIGURE 15: BLOCK D DESIGN EXAMPLE 49 FIGURE 38: VARIATIONS LANDMARK SCULPTURE 115
FIGURE 16: TRANSPARENCY DIAGRAM 50 FIGURE 39: LANDMARK SCULPTURE MATERIALS 116
FIGURE 17: VIEW CORRIDOR DIAGRAM 52 FIGURE 40: INFORMATION ON LANDMARK SCULPTURE 117
FIGURE 18: PROPOSED CONCEPT FOR WAYFINDING 54 FIGURE 41: VARIATIONS OF DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE 118
FIGURE 19: TYPE A LANDMARK IDENTIFIER  55 FIGURE 42: PUBLIC ART LOCATIONS 120
FIGURE 20: WATER INTEGRATION-WATER SYSTEM 74 FIGURE 44: LIGHTING ZONES 128
FIGURE 21: SITE DIAGRAM 97 FIGURE 45: DIAGRAM OF POTENTIAL SITE USES 129
FIGURE 22: VEHICULAR ROUTE MAP 98 FIGURE 46: FIXTURE AESTHETIC SUGGESTIONS 133
FIGURE 23: PEDESTRIAN ROUTE MAP 98 FIGURE 47: SECTIONAL ILLUSTRATION SITE ILLUMINANCE 134

Table List
TABLE 1: SITE PARCELS07
TABLE 2: ANTICIPATED USES BY BLOCK17
TABLE 3: DEVELOPABLE SITE AREA BY BLOCK18
TABLE 4: PROPOSED MASTER PLAN PROGRAM – BUILDOUT20
TABLE 5: PROPOSED PUBLIC REALM PROGRAM – BUILDOUT20
TABLE 6: TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES AND R.O.W.29
TABLE 7: IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES62
TABLE 8: BUILDING ENERGY TARGETS83
TABLE 9:STREET TREES135
TABLE 10: TURF GRASS/LAWN135
TABLE 11: EROSION CONTROL135
TABLE 12: LOW BANK135
TABLE 13: UPPER BANK137
TABLE 14: UPLAND PLANTINGS138
Source: Waterfront Development Master Plan;
November 2015
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

1.0
INTRODUCTION

01
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 1: Vicinity Map

1.0
I-5
Introduction
Located within the Columbia West Renaissance District of the • Create an urban high activity waterfront character.
Vancouver City Center Vision (VCCV) Subarea Plan, the Port
of Vancouver Terminal 1 Waterfront Development (Waterfront • Create tangible connections to the waterfront, connecting
Development) will serve as an extension of downtown Vancouver’s city center businesses, neighborhoods, and parks
Vancouver, connecting the Esther Short Neighborhood and the to a vibrant waterfront district that is accessible to all.
central business district to the Columbia River. As proposed, the • Design streets to enhance the District’s ability to function
Waterfront Development will be consistent with the principles, as a pedestrian-oriented urban neighborhood, encourage
goals and policies of the VCCV and City Center (CX) Waterfront pedestrian activity, and create a lively active district.
Standards for mixed-use development and connections to
the waterfront. The following Design Standards (Standards) • Extend the Columbia River Renaissance Trail to the west.
have been developed to ensure that development within • Encourage water-oriented uses along the shoreline area.
Waterfront Development is consistent with the VCCV and other
development standards established by the City. • Encourage environmentally friendly site and development
design and construction.
The following City Center (CX) Waterfront Design Standards are
intended to: • Secure public access to or along the shoreline, to include
waterfront public spaces.
• Implement the principles, goals, and policies of the VCCV
subarea plan for mixed-use development and connections to Source: VMC Section 20.630.080 City Center Waterfront
the waterfront.
• Build to the highest density that is financially viable and
achievable within the allowable height restrictions and grid
dimensions.

02
 Terminal 1 Building, 1928
Source: Port of Vancouver
USA
1.1
PORT COMMISSION GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The Waterfront Development Master Plan defines a vision for the
Columbia River waterfront that is consistent with the Port’s mission
to provide economic benefit to the community through leadership,
stewardship, and partnership in maritime-related development. The
Master Plan serves to attain the necessary entitlements with the City
of Vancouver in order to prepare the site for future development.
The Port intends all site development to be guided by the
following principles:
Provide public access to the Columbia River waterfront
The Waterfront Development is intended to attract people to
the waterfront and ensure connections between the city center,
waterfront, and Columbia River Waterfront Park.
Develop public assets in a financially responsible manner
The Waterfront Development shall integrate existing public
infrastructure investments (pier structure, small boat dock, utilities,
and Columbia Way) with minimal additional costs.
Utilize sustainable development practices
The Waterfront Development shall reflect the Port’s policies and
standards by promoting sustainable development best practices and
long-term economic development.
Interpret the Port’s history as an economic development
engine for Southwest Washington
The Waterfront Development shall integrate the history and culture
of the Port as an important regional and national job producer; and
embrace the physical presence of the Port through design and the
adaptive reuse and re-purposing of the Terminal 1 Building as an
active public use.
Create a development that supports the community through
economic growth and job creation
The Waterfront Development shall support the broader City
of Vancouver and regional efforts to create job growth and
economic vitality.
Port Commission: Waterfront Development Master Plan; November
13, 2015
03
 Port leases land to shipbuilder G.M. Standifer 1918
1918 land from the port. Their Panasonic plant turns 1972 Drivi
Riviera Motors signs a
Construction Corporation, whose shipyards out a million television/video cassette recorderRiviera M
Volkswagens, Porches
build wooden and steel ships to support
World War I efforts.
1912 Port
1912 Established
Port Established
combinations by decade’s end. Volkswag
Today, Subaru Americ
Today, Su
Clark County residents establish the port by a vote automobiles annually.
Clark County residents establish the port by a vote automobi
of 631 to 182.
1933PortThe Grain Train
of Vancouver Waterfront Development
of 631 to 182. 1996 Infrastructure Upgrade
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1986 1986 HighmajorTech
Washington Governor Mike Lowry signs a bill funding
H
Urban Design
Port leases Standards
property & Guidelines
to the Spokane, Portland &
1918 The ShipsThe
Roll In Roll In the Mill Plain Extension, which relieves
1964
High
truck
Seattle Railway for a grain facility. Today, more
Portthrough
1918 Ships
leases land to shipbuilder G.M. Standifer
1964 American Kotobuki El
1940
congestion and improves import and export American
capabilities.
than 16% of U.S. wheat is exported land from the port. T
Port leases land to shipbuilder G.M. Standifer land 2003
from
the port. Construction Corporation, whose shipyards out a million televisio
Construction Corporation, whose shipyards out a mill
build wooden and steel ships to support combinations by deca
build wooden and steel ships to support combinat
Port History World War I efforts.
World War I efforts.
1948 1948 1948

1935 Great Western Malting

Source: Port of Vancouver
1933 The Grain
At the end of Prohibition, port leases property to
Train 199619411996
Infrastructur
Infras
USA PORT 1919 TERMINAL
Great 1
1945 Shipyard Expansion
Western Malting. 1933
75 years later, the GWM The
company Grain Train
SIGNS
Kaiser Shipbuilding comes to Vancouver to produce
1960
HARBOR CRANE Washington Governor
Washingto
Port leases property
ships for the U.S. Navy during World War II and to theproperty
Port leases Spokane, toPortland &
the Spokane, Portland & 2003

ESTABLISHED ACQUIRED
is the oldest malting concern in the western United LEASE PURCHASED the Mill Plain Extensio
employs 14,000 workers at its peak.
1930s

Seattle RailwaySeattle
for a grain facility. the Mill P
States and one of theCrane
port’s longest-standing tenants. Railway for aToday, more Today, more
grain facility.
1959 First ‘Whirley’ Harbor
1948 congestion and improv
congestio
than 16% of U.S. wheat
than 16%isofexported
Port purchases its first ‘whirley’ crane, named for its
ability to rotate 360 degrees. The crane can lift up U.S. wheat through
is exported through
1940

1912 1950s
1925 to 50 tons. Today, the port has two of North America’s
largest mobile cranes, each capable of lifting the port.1935 the port. 1959
140 metric tons.

1940
1963 Terminal Status Granted
The port is recognized for its ability to accommodate

1945 Shipyard Expansion 2

1935 Great
1935Western Malting Malting
major cargos and gives Vancouver preferred status

Great Western
for shippers making West Coast stops. 2010

1945 Shipyard Expansion Kaiser Shipbuilding comes to Vancouver to produce

1918 1972 Driving The Future

Kaiser Shipbuilding comes to Vancouver to produce1945 Shipyard Expansion
At the end of Prohibition, port
At the end of leases property
Prohibition, to property
port leases to
ships for the U.S. Navy during World War II and
2001 Blown Away
employs 14,000 workers at its peak.
1960
Riviera Motors signs a lease with the port bringing 1930s
1912 Port Established
Volkswagens, Porches and Audisships for the
from Germany. U.S. Navy during World War II and Kaiser Shipbuilding comes to Vancouver to produce 1960
Wind energy arrives in the form of 40 windmills from
1919 Great Western Great
Malting. 75 years later, the company
Today, Subaru America offloads close to 60,000
Clark County residents establish the port by a vote 1930s 1919 employs 14,000 workers at its peak. Western Malting. 75 years later, the company
1959 First ‘Whirley’ Harbor Crane
automobiles annually.
of 631 to 182. ships for the U.S. Navy during World War II and Denmark destined for a wind farm near Walla Walla.

1940s 1986 High Tech Happens is the oldest malting concern

is the oldest
1940 in the concern
malting western inUnited
employs the western
14,000 United
workers at its peak. 1918 Infirst
Port purchases its 2009, the U.S.crane,
‘whirley’ Censusnamed
Bureaufor
declares
its the Port of
1918 The Ships Roll In 1964 1930s1959 First ‘Whirley’States
American Kotobuki Electronics Industries leases
Harbor Crane 2003
ability to rotate Vancouver
360 degrees.
theThe crane
nation’s can lift
leading up for
port handling
Port leases land to shipbuilder G.M. Standifer land from the port. Their Panasonic plant turns and oneStates
of theand
port’s
one longest-standing tenants.
of the port’s longest-standing tenants. to 50 tons. Today, the port has two of North America’s
wind energy cargo.
1968
Construction Corporation, whose shipyards Portrecorder
out a million television/video cassette purchases its first ‘whirley’ crane, named for its 1948 largest mobile1948
cranes,
1960 each capable of lifting
build wooden and steel ships to support combinations by decade’s end. 1950s 1968

World War I efforts. ability to rotate 360 degrees. The crane can lift up 140 metric tons.

1933 The Grain Train 1996 Infrastructure Upgrade

Washington Governor Mike Lowrylargest
1950s
to 50 tons. Today, the port has two of North America’s
mobile cranes, each capable of lifting
1959 First ‘Whirley’ Harbor Crane 2009 Terminal 5 Dedication
1963 Terminal Status Granted
signs a bill funding
Port leases property to the Spokane, Portland &
Seattle Railway for a grain facility. Today, more 140 metric tons.
the Mill Plain Extension, which relieves major truck
1948 Port purchases its first ‘whirley’ crane, named for its
1948
than 16% of U.S. wheat is exported through
congestion and improves import and export capabilities. The port
The port is recognized forcompletes
its abilitythe
to purchase of 218
accommodate acres formerly
the port. ability to rotate 360 degrees. The crane can lift up major cargos and gives by
owned Vancouver preferred
Evergreen Aluminimstatus
LLC and Alcoa
for shippers making West Coast stops.
1935 Great Western Malting 1963 Terminal Status Granted to 50 tons. Today, the port has two of North America’s Aluminim, allowing the port to develop its newest
At the end of Prohibition, port leases property to The port is recognized for its ability to accommodate marine terminal. 2003
1960 1941 1950s
1950s largest mobile cranes, each capable of lifting
1919 Great Western Malting. 75 years later, the company
is the oldest malting concern in the western United major cargos and gives Vancouver preferred status 1918 1968 1972 Driving The Future
1960s 2009
States and one of the port’s longest-standing tenants.
for shippers making West Coast stops. 140 metric tons. Riviera Motors signs a lease with the port bringing

1912 Port Established 2010 Terminal 5 Rail Loop Track

Volkswagens, Porches and Audis from Germany.
Today, Subaru 1948
America offloads close to 60,000
1940s 1940s 1940 1940 1918 1918
1972 Driving The Future Clark County residents establish the port by a vote
2003 automobiles annually.
The new rail loop adds 35,000 feet of new rail capacity
1918
1963 Terminal Status Granted
of 631 to 182.
Riviera Motors signs a lease with the port bringing and is part of a $150 million West Vancouver Freight
1940s 1940 1918 1920
Volkswagens, Porches and Audis from Germany. 1986 High TechAccess
Happens
project that will reduce regional rail congestion
1912 Port Established The port is recognized for its ability to accommodate
1918 1934
1918
Today, Subaru America offloads close to 60,000 The Ships Roll In 1942
Port leases land to shipbuilder G.M. Standifer 1948 1940
1964 by asElectronics
American Kotobuki
1963
much as 40Industries
percent. leases
Clark County residents establish the port by a vote automobiles annually. major cargos and gives Vancouver preferred status land from the port. Their Panasonic plant turns
Construction Corporation, whose shipyards out a million television/video cassette recorder
of 631 to 182.

SHIPBUILDING GRAIN EXPORTING

1986 High Tech Happens SHIPYARDS
build wooden and steel ships to support
World War I efforts.
for shippers making West Coast stops.
TERMINAL STATUS
combinations by decade’s end.
2012 Centennial Celebration
2010
1918 The Ships Roll In COMMENCES 1964
BEGINS
American Kotobuki Electronics Industries leases
1933 The Grain1940
Train EXPAND 1996 Infrastructure Upgrade GRANTED
The Port of Vancouver USA turns 100 and celebrates
a century of service as an economic anchor for
1972 Driving The Future
Port leases land to shipbuilder G.M. Standifer land from the port. Their Panasonic plant turns Washington Governor Mike Lowry signs a bill funding
Port leases property to the Spokane, Portland &
Construction Corporation, whose shipyards out a million television/video cassette recorderSeattle Railway for a grain facility. Today, more Vancouver,which
the Mill Plain Extension, Clark County and
relieves Southwest
major truck Washington.
1918 congestion and improves import and export capabilities.
build wooden and steel ships to support combinations by decade’s end. than 16% of U.S. wheat is exported through Riviera Motors signs a lease with the port bringing
World War I efforts. the port. 2010 2003
Volkswagens, Porches and Audis from Germany.
1912TrainPort
1933 The Grain
1.2 Established 1996 Infrastructure Upgrade 1935 Great Western Malting Today, Subaru America offloads close to 60,000
Washington Governor Mike Lowry signs a bill funding
Port leases property to theClark County
Spokane, Portland &residents
establish the port by a vote automobiles annually.
At the end of Prohibition, port leases property to
the Mill Plain Extension, which relieves majorGreat
truck Western Malting. 75 years later, the company 1960 1941 1950s 2
REGIONAL
to 182.
than 16% of U.S. wheat is exported through CONTEXT
Seattle Railway for a grain facility. Today, more
of 631
1919
congestion and improves import and export capabilities.
is the oldest malting concern in the western United
States and one of the port’s longest-standing tenants.
the port. 1960

1986 High Tech Happens

1918
1935 Great The
Western The PortRoll
Ships
Malting of Vancouver
In USA is a 103-year-old independent public
1964 American Kotobuki Electronics Industries leases
Port agency
leases land towith theG.M.mission
At the end of Prohibition, port leases property to
shipbuilder Standifer of providing economic benefit to the 1960 1941 1950s land from the port. Their Panasonic plant turns
1919 Great Western Malting. 75 years later, the company
Construction Corporation, whose shipyards 1960
out a million television/video cassette recorder
community through
to supportleadership, stewardship and partnership in
is the oldest malting concern in the western United
1940s 1940 1918 1920
States and one of the port’s longest-standing tenants.
build wooden and steel ships combinations by decade’s end. 2

marine and industrial development. Today, the Port manages and

World War I efforts.

1933 Thedevelops approximately 2,100 acres of public property with the 1996 Infrastructure Upgrade 1968 1960s 2009
Grain Train
Port primary
leases propertypurpose
to the Spokane,of marine and industrial development. Washington Governor Mike Lowry signs a bill funding
Portland &
1940s 1940 1918 1920 the Mill Plain Extension, which relieves major truck
Seattle Railway for a grain facility. Today, more
congestion and improves import and export capabilities.
than 16% of U.S. wheat is exported through
1968 1960s 2009 2
the port.

1935 Great Western Malting

At the end of Prohibition, port leases property to
1960 1941 1950s
1919 Great Western Malting. 75 years later, the company
is the oldest malting concern in the western United
States and one of the port’s longest-standing tenants.

04

1940s 1940 1918 1920

 2010
2009 Terminal 5 Dedication
Terminal 5 Rail Loop Track
1948 The port completes the purchase of 218 acres formerly
2003 The new rail loop adds 35,000 feet of new rail capacity
owned by Evergreen Aluminim LLC and Alcoa
and is part of a $150 million West Vancouver Freight
Aluminim,
Access project that will allowing
reduce regional the port to develop its newest
rail congestion
marine terminal.
by as much as 40 percent.
1948

2012 Centennial
2010 Celebration
Terminal 5 Rail Loop Track
The Port of Vancouver USA turns 100 and celebrates
2003 The new rail loop adds 35,000 feet of new rail capacity
a century of service as an economic anchor for
and is part of a $150 million West Vancouver Freight
Vancouver, Clark County and Southwest Washington.
Access project that will reduce regional rail congestion
by as much as 40 percent.
1948 2010 2003

2012 Centennial Celebration

2009
The Port of Vancouver USA turns 100 and celebrates
a century of service as an economic anchor for
AUTO TRANSPORTATION PROPERTY
Vancouver, Clark County and Southwest Washington. WATERFRONT
IMPORTING 2010
IMPROVES 2003
RESOLUTION REACHED MASTER PLAN
BEGINS
1960
1972 1996 2003 2015
2000 2009

1960
1960s 2009 2009

2000

1960s 2009 2009

1986 2001 2009 2016

WELCOME WIND ENERGY TERMINAL 5 WATERFRONT CONCEPT

HIGH TECH ARRIVES DEDICATION DEVELOPMENT PLAN

1.3
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Port of Vancouver plays a key role in the local, regional and
national economy through investments in facilities and leveraging
improvements with private investment and other funding to attract
jobs and development in Vancouver. The Port facilities are leased to
customers and tenants that generate jobs, infuse business into the
economy, contribute to state and local taxes and provide the region
with access to the global marketplace.
Port of Vancouver is home to more than 50 businesses that employ
over 3,200 employees. Port employees and direct Port businesses
earn nearly $160 million in total annual personal income for over
300 port-related businesses. These are local jobs, with 75 percent
of employees living in Clark County. Additional jobs are projected
over the next 15-20 years as additional maritime and industrial land
is developed.
More than 20,000 jobs in this region are related to maritime
and industrial activities at the Port. Some jobs are created by
manufacturers sited on the Port’s industrial property. Others are
related to the maritime and shipping industries. It is estimated that
Port activities inject $1.1 billion into Clark County business revenue
annually, with a total economic impact of $2.9 billion to our local
and regional economy.
Source: Port of Vancouver

05
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Port of Vancouver floating

dock and I-5 Bridge

Source: NBBJ

1.4
DESIGN GUIDELINES STRUCTURE
1.4.1
Intent
The Standards are intended to integrate the Waterfront The Standards are intended to provide a comprehensive approach
Development with future developments within the CX zone to site development, building design, public realm and landscapes
and along the Columbia River. A fundamental design objective to ensure the long-term viability of the Waterfront Development.
is the creation of a pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use waterfront The Standards provide developers, architects, constructors, and
development combining pedestrian-oriented urban streets, managing entities with the tools to ensure high-quality design
distinctive architecture, integration of the Port of Vancouver’s standards are applied throughout the Waterfront Development.
unique history and culture, and progressive sustainable The Standards are consistent with the City’s Planned Development
development strategies that will guide development at Waterfront Chapter 20.260, Concept Development Plan Submission
Development as it develops over the next 20 years. The purpose Requirements (Section 20.260.070) and the City Center Waterfront
of the Standards is to govern the urban form of the Waterfront Section 20.630.080 waterfront design standards.
Development by establishing a set of Standards intended to
organize, manage, and integrate a variety of mixed-uses within the
development.

06
Table 1: Site Parcels

PARCEL SIZE (ACRES) TOWNSHIP, RANGE, SECTION, 1/4 SECTION

48843-000 4.01 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E and SE 1/4,S28,T2N,R1E

48841-000 2.25 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E
48844-000 1.35 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E
502240-000 2.00 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E
502245-000 0.24 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E
502246-000 0.69 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E
502250-000 1.58 SW 1/4,S27,T2N,R1E

1.4.2
Location and Applicability
The Waterfront Development encompasses the parcels shown in
Table 1; all are owned by the Port.
In addition to the parcels noted in Table 1, the project area includes
aquatic land1 that is owned by the State and managed by the Port
through its port management agreement with the Washington
State Department of Natural Resources. The street addresses of the
existing hotel and the existing office building are 100 Columbia
Street and 110 Columbia Street, respectively. These Standards
apply to all of the Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development as
defined.
Includes lands that are landward of the ordinary high water mark (OHWM)
1.
1.4.3
Process and Use
The Standards will be applied to individual development activities
to implement the overall Waterfront Development objectives.
These Standards are supplemental to and in addition to other
applicable city codes and regulations except as specifically noted
herein. Compliance with the Standards contained herein will be
determined by the City of Vancouver through the detailed plan
review process required for the Waterfront Development.
Deviation from or modification to Standards may be requested
through the detailed site plan review process. Such requests are
not considered to be variances per VMC Chapter 20.290 and shall
be presented in the detailed site plan review process. Deviations or
modifications would equally or better meet the intent and purpose
of the Standards. The following must be shown for deviation or
modification to be granted:
1. The deviation or modification can be granted without
substantial detriment to the adjacent properties.
2. The deviation or modification can be granted without
substantially impairing the intent and purpose of the
Standards.
3. The benefits of the deviation or modification would
substantially outweigh any detriment.
07
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Terminal 1 Building plans,

1928.

Source: Port of Vancouver

USA

1.4.4
Design Guidelines & Conditions, Covenants & Restrictions (CC&Rs)
The Guidelines will guide the design and development of
The Port of Vancouver is responsible for the creation of a private
all structures and landscapes within the District and shall be
internal governance system to administer the elements of the
administered in concert with the City Codes and Development
Waterfront District Design Guidelines (Guidelines) including
Standards to ensure the Guidelines are implemented in an
enforcement of CC&Rs, lease agreements, maintenance, and
effective manner. The Guidelines are intended as a discretionary
Design Review Committee (DRC) process. The Master Declaration
tool defining the architectural styles and character, building types,
of CC&Rs, and reservation of easements for the Waterfront District
massing, materials and color for a range of mixed-use commercial,
(District) shall establish the Waterfront District Business and/or
civic, and residential uses, as well as public and private landscapes
Residents Master Association with governance authority of the
for the District. The Guidelines are to be reviewed and applied
DRC and its administration of the District Design Review Process in
by each applicant as required to ensure individual projects meet
accordance with the Guidelines.
acceptable design principles established for the District.

08
Inn at the Quay, 1950.
Source: Port of Vancouver
USA
1.5
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
The POV Waterfront Sustainable Development Program (Program)
provides a comprehensive approach to sustainable development
strategies for the benefit of present and future generations. The
Program presents a balanced approach to meet environmental,
social, and economic needs of the District while accommodating
the financial commitments and realities of the Port of Vancouver
and its partners. The policies, guidelines, and standards provide
a wide range of strategies that are reinforced by complementary
urban design elements outlined in Chapter 3.0, Urban Design
Standards & Guidelines, as well as the project Concept
Development Plan (CDP), and other supporting documents
such as; Development Agreements, CC&Rs, and tenant lease
agreements. These documents are developed use by the Port of
Vancouver, selected developers, and future residents and tenants.
The District DRC shall be comprised of three voting members
including representation from each of following disciplines/
agencies: City of Vancouver Planning and Community
Development Department, Port of Vancouver, and an outside third
party consulting architect.
The City of Vancouver shall work in collaboration with the District
DRC for the purpose of reviewing and approving development
plans throughout the District. All projects are subject to a review
by the DRC using the regulations established as reference and
specifically the design principles defined in the Guidelines. In
addition, the Port of Vancouver shall create additional CC&Rs to be
administered by the proposed Waterfront District Business and/
or Residents Master Association, as applicable. Decisions of the
DRC are subject to call-up provisions as defined in the Guidelines.
Decisions of the DRC relative to City Improvements/Projects may be
appealed in accordance with the Waterfront District Development
Agreement.
The Waterfront District CC&Rs and Business and/or Residents
Master Association establish the governance, enforcement of
architectural controls, and maintenance of common areas.
09
Source: Waterfront Conceptual Development Plan;
December 2016
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

2.0
WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
MASTER PLAN
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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INTRODUCTION
PLAN
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Artist rendering -
Waterfront Development
and downtown
Vancouver.

Source: Waterfront
Conceptual
Development Plan,
December, 2016

2.0
Waterfront Development Master Plan
2.1
WATERFRONT DISTRICT VISION
The Waterfront District (District) is envisioned as a highly Vision Statement
engaging, 24-hour active mixed-use urban waterfront destination. “The Port of Vancouver’s waterfront development will represent
The District will integrate an active mix of office, hotel, our community’s aspirations, rich history, and culture. As a gateway
commercial, retail, residential, and flexible use spaces, organizing to Washington State and a vibrant urban waterfront, the Port’s mix
around the central Terminal 1 Marketplace (Marketplace) and of commercial, residential and civic development will welcome
waterfront pier, that celebrate local culture, diversity, innovation, the public to the banks of the Columbia. It will contribute to the
and regional character. In addition to being a vibrant place of region’s economic prosperity and promote a healthful, sustainable
business, the District is envisioned as a public gathering place space where the community feels a sense of pride and ownership.”
where community members, residents, workers, and visitors are Port Commission: Waterfront Development Master Plan; November
drawn to a place to shop for everyday needs, have a meal, or 13, 2015
take a leisurely stroll down the Columbia Renaissance Urban Trail,
along Columbia Way, or the alleyways that access the waterfront.
The pedestrian-friendly orientation of the District will provide
an attractive and uniquely different destination for Vancouver
residents and its visitors and will attract residents and visitors alike
to the Vancouver city center, downtown, and the Columbia River.
The vibrant Waterfront Development will provide universal access,
encourage innovation, and promote a sustainable and healthy
environment, as well as convey the rich cultural and community
values of the region.

12
Left: Public space as open
market and event space.
Source: NBBJ
Right: South Waterfront,
Portland, OR.
Source: Walker Macy
2.2
DESIGN PRINCIPLES
Connectivity
The District aspires to raise the quality of life for Vancouver
residents and its visitors by presenting a culturally rich,
environmentally sensitive, and well-designed waterfront that
captures the essence of Vancouver, Washington and the Columbia
River Basin. The District is an integral part of the downtown and a
seamless extension of the surrounding neighborhoods. The pattern
of small blocks, streets and alleyways, as well as the Columbia
River Renaissance Urban Trail, provide direct pedestrian and bike
connections, making it a five-minute destination to the downtown
Vancouver business district and the future Columbia Waterfront LLC
to the west.
Walkability
As the principal link between the District and the Columbia
Waterfront LLC, Columbia Way is designed as a tree-lined corridor
with wide sidewalks. The buildings and uses along Columbia Way
are marked by retail uses, seasonal outdoor dining and a variety of
small businesses, shops and galleries. The intersection of Columbia
Way and Daniels Way is the welcoming focal point of the public
space in the District defined by a tabled, concrete cross-walk that
also serves as a civic plaza. The Columbia Way and Daniels Way
intersection marks the core of the District, providing direct access
to the Columbia River waterfront to the south via Daniels Way.
Daniels Way is designed as a woonerf, a curb-free and material-
rich pedestrian corridor. While primarily intended for pedestrian
circulation, this narrow, shared-street allows service access as
needed.
13
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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1.0 MASTER
INTRODUCTION
PLAN
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Left: Children engage in

water feature.
Source: GGLO.com

Right: Port of Vancouver,

1956
Source: Port of Vancouver
USA

Diversity
The District is far more than a place to shop or work. With its mix
of work-force and market rate housing, live/work, apartments, and
offices, the District is a place to enjoy with activities or gathering
places for visitors, residents, and employees who work in the area.
The diversity found within the urban waterfront itself allows for and
encourages community activities, events, and social interaction. The
highly programmed waterfront civic plazas and small park spaces
offer public gathering and community open spaces combined
with educational and teaching opportunities as a part of the urban
waterfront experience of the District.
Authenticity
Using cues from the historic Terminal 1(T1) Building and Pier, and
the early cultural underpinnings of Native American and maritime
settlements, the District offers an opportunity to celebrate its
unique character. Adaptive reuse of the 1923 T1 Building and
Pier provides for a range of flexible uses supporting creative
makerspace, commercial kitchens, wineries and local breweries,
shopping, and incubator start-up space. The timber-framed
structure is envisioned as the key destination on the waterfront
supporting a range of uses, local community needs, entrepreneurial
interests, and visitors with direct access to the Columbia River
waterfront. Authenticity encourages design solutions that embody
genuine economic and social diversity, accommodating people
with different daily schedules. Local retailers, restaurateurs, and
other homegrown businesses are encouraged within the District to
help instill a distinctive style unique to the Vancouver Waterfront.

14
Bioretention cell, often
called raingardens,
collect, slow, and filter
stormwater runoff.

Source: Puget Sound

DJC

Sustainability
A comprehensive Sustainable Development Program (Program)
outlines long-term sustainable development objectives for the
District. The Program provides the Port, developers, architects,
builders, tenants, and managing entities with integrated planning
guidelines for sustainable development and for ecological
and social planning practices. Programs such as Leadership for
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Salmon-Safe Program,
Sustainable Best Practice Sites, and the Audubon Society Bird-
Friendly Design Standards are integral to addressing sustainable
site design, energy efficiency, water conservation, wise material
use, and healthy indoor environments. (Refer to the Section 4.0,
Sustainable Development Program).

Source: http://www.vickiscuri.com/
15
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Figure 2: Proposed breakdown of uses for the T1

Waterfront Development. 9%
105,500 SF
(160 Rooms)

7% 20%
87,000 SF 245,500 SF
HOTEL RESI
DEN (355 Units)
IL* TIA
A L
ET

16%

OFFICE
200,000 SF

PAR

K
*

I
*

N
LM

G

REA
LIC
PUB

26%
22% 310,500 SF
*Retail includes restaurants and T1 Building. 260,064 SF (808 Stalls)
** Includes ROW, public trail and civic space, Daniels
Way and shoreline area.

16
Left to right: Examples of
adaptive reuse, live/work
units, and apartments
above retail.

Source: www.archdaily.
com; columbiacity.
wikidot.com; flickr.com

2.3 Table 2: Anticipated Uses by Block

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
AREA ANTICIPATED USES
New development at the Port of Vancouver waterfront site will be
constructed in multiple phases over several years. Table 2 identifies Mixed-Use (ground level retail, live/work,
the programmatic uses that are proposed and their distribution Block A apartment residential, office, and structured
across the site by block. The development program also identifies parking)
parking requirements based on a shared demand parking estimate.
The Guidelines encourage a safe pedestrian experience, with Multi-Purpose (multi-purpose/civic gathering,
Block B
active uses, and passive recreational opportunities along the office, retail, residential, and structured parking)
Columbia River waterfront pier. The type and distribution of uses
recommended as part of the Waterfront Development is organized Mixed-Use (residential, retail, and structured
Block C
around four blocks of varying size (Block A-D) and the Waterfront parking)
Pier (Pier).
Hospitality (hotel, event space, ground level
Block D
restaurant, retail, and structured parking)

Marketplace, retail, high dock Pier, visitor center,

outdoor civic gathering space, lower floating dock,
Waterfront
Columbia Renaissance Trail, shoreline and park
Pier
connections, public gathering event space, and
pier moorage for tourism river cruise vessels.

17
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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1.0 MASTER
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PLAN
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Retail stands add richness

to a neighborhood.

Source: Richard Taylor

2.3.1 Table 3: Developable Site Area by Block

Project Site
Conceptual Totals (Build Out) SF Acres Percent
The project site is located in the Columbia West Renaissance
subarea planning area of the downtown City Center (CX) and Block A (Mixed-use) 48,777 1.11 10%
encompasses the T1 Building and wooden pier located at the Block B (Mixed-use) 55,005 1.26 12%
foot of Columbia Street at the Columbia River and adjacent to the
Interstate 5 (I-5) Bridge. The 10.37 acre project site is bounded Block C (Mixed-use) 51,850 1.19 11%
by the Columbia River on the south, Columbia Street on the Block D (Hospitality) 36,256 0.83 8%
east, Access Way 5 on the west, and the Burlington Northern Pier (Marketplace) 79,625 1.84 18%
Santa Fe (BNSF) tracks on the north. Historically, the waterfront
Subtotal Developable Area 271,513 6.23
provided a prime location for trade along the Columbia River,
establishing Vancouver as a vibrant city that was instrumental in the Rights-of-Way 102,799 2.36 23%
development of the west. The Master Plan includes a mix of uses Open Space 77,840 1.78 18%
distributed throughout the waterfront over-water pier area. Table 3
describes the block area for the project site. TOTAL DEVELOPABLE AREA 452,152 10.37 100%

18
Figure 3: Illustrative
Concept Development
Plan

North Access Way

Way 5
BLK. 1

Co
lu
Pedestrian Alleyway

und
mb
Access
BLK. C

thbo
BLK. A

ia S

ou
tre

nd
C S
et

bou
R

orth
re C

CN
Futu

R
re C
Columbia
Way

Futu
BLK. 2
BLK. D BLK. B
Daniels Way

City Park
Renaissance Trail
Waterfront Park

Pier T-1 Building

COLUMBIA RIVER

19
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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1.0 MASTER
INTRODUCTION
PLAN
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Table 4: Proposed Master Plan Program – Buildout

Proposed Amount
Development Type Target SF Unit Percent Blocks
Marketplace 25,000 4% Pier Area
Office Buildings 200,000 21% A,B,C,D
Retail (including restaurant) 62,000 6% A,B,C,D
Hotel 105,500 160 rooms 12% D
Residential (Apartments) 245,500 355 units 25% A,B,C
SUBTOTAL GSF 638,000
Parking 310,500 808 stalls 32% All
TOTAL DEVELOPABLE AREA 948,500 SF 100%

Table 5: Proposed Master Plan Public Realm Program – Buildout

Proposed Amount
Development Type Target SF Acre Percent Blocks
Rights-of-Way
North Access Way 34,736 0.80 13% A,C
Columbia Way 48,912 1.12 19% All
Access Way 5 19,083 0.44 7% C,D
Waterfront Pier 76,175 1.75 29% -
Shoreline 15,015 0.34 6% -
Renaissance Trail/Daniels Way 66,143 1.52 25% B,D
TOTAL PUBLIC REALM PROGRAM 260,064 SF 5.97 100%

20
Figure 4: Enlarged pier BLK. D BLK. B
site plan.
Renaissance Trail
Waterfront Park

Daniels Way

nd
hbou
Open Space Open Space T-1 Building

Sout
CRC
Moorage Waterfront Promenade

re
Futu
COLUMBIA RIVER

2.3.3
Waterfront Public Space and Pier Improvements
The Waterfront Development encompasses a variety of public The Pier should include outdoor civic and entertainment spaces,
use areas designed at varying scales and for different purposes. visitor center, landscape areas, lower floating dock access
The public realm includes; upland street rights-of-way, Daniels improvements, Columbia River Renaissance Trail and waterfront
Way woonerf, the Columbia River Renaissance Trail, the Pier, park connections, and emergency service access areas.
shoreline, and a series of internal block passageways connecting
streets, plazas, and building entries (Table 5). The Renaissance Trail
runs parallel to the Columbia River and connects to the City of
Vancouver Waterfront to the west and a small public open space to
the east.
Two principle design features and destinations are the existing
over-water pier structure and open waterfront shoreline area along
the Columbia River. The over-water pier structure is proposed
for multiple programmed spaces and activities with a focus on
providing public access to the waterfront. The Pier includes the
proposed adaptive reuse of the T-1 Building as a marketplace
with water-related retail uses, small food outlets supporting local
food and crafts, and wine tasting and/or local breweries from the
immediate region. The Marketplace is envisioned as an active
center that can support entertainment, retail, and a visitor center.

21
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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PLAN
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Left:
Figure 5: Building height
diagram.

Right:
Figure 6: City of
Vancouver site building
envelope diagram.

SITE

2.3.4
City of Vancouver Building Envelope Requirements
Suggested building massing and mix of uses are intended to include
both a horizontal and vertical mix of uses with taller structures
oriented toward the north portion of the site (Blocks A & C) and
lower structures fronting the Columbia River edge (Pier).
New development at the site will be implemented over several
phases. Site development and infrastructure upgrades will be
coordinated with each block’s development improvements
scheduled over a 5-20 year period. Tables 4 identifies the
programmatic uses that are proposed and their distribution across
the site in terms of square foot targets for the project.

22
Figure 7: Proposed
building massing.

23
Source: Waterfront Development Master Plan;
November 2015
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

3.0
URBAN DESIGN
STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Children play in an
interactive water fountain.

Source: flickr.com

3.0
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

3.1
Overall Site Development Standards
The following Waterfront Design Development Standards • Extend the Columbia River Renaissance Trail to the west;
(Standards) are derived from the City of Vancouver Land Use
• Encourage water-oriented uses along the shoreline area;
Development Code Section 20.630 Planned Development and the
City Center (CX) Waterfront Standards (Sec 20.630.080). The intent • Encourage environmentally friendly site and development
of the Standards is to: design and construction;
• Implement the principles, goals, and policies of the • Secure public access to or along the shoreline, to include
Vancouver City Center Vision Subarea Plan for mixed-use waterfront public spaces.
development and connections to the waterfront;
Source: City of Vancouver Municipal Code
• Build to the highest density that is financially viable and
achievable within the allowable height restrictions and grid
dimensions;
• Create an urban high activity waterfront character. Create
tangible connections to the waterfront, connecting Vancouver’s
City Center businesses, neighborhoods, and parks to a vibrant
waterfront district that is accessible to all;
• Design streets to enhance the District’s ability to function
as a pedestrian-oriented urban neighborhood, encourage
pedestrian activity, and create a lively active district;
26
Left: American Empress
Source: www.cruiseline.com

Right: Pedestrian only

alley with shops and
restaurants.
Source: joannethomas
photography.com

3.2
Design Development Standards
The Standards further list the following to be addressed as part of Each Standard assumes that:
any development within the CX Zone: a. The design and implementation of the District will evolve
3.2.1 Street Grid with further participation of developers, users, and tenants.
3.2.2 Traffic Calming Individual building projects should be consistent with the
3.2.3 Sidewalk overall design theme established for District.
3.2.4 Street Lights b. A contemporary composition should reflect an architectural
3.2.5 Parking character that enhances the urban waterfront, streetscape,
3.2.6 Bike Parking and pedestrian experience by emphasizing a variety of
3.2.7 Link to City Center materials textures, forms, colors, and transparencies. The
3.2.8 Pathways, Open Spaces & Connections District built form represents an urban composition that
3.2.9 Landscape Plans reinforces the Columbia West Renaissance District as an
3.2.10 Building Design extension of the downtown. Varying building typologies front
3.2.11 View Protection the Columbia River to create a diversity of building forms
3.2.12 Sustainability and urban spaces adjacent to the shoreline. This may be
3.2.13 Wayfinding* and Signage accomplished by:
3.2.14 Public Art*
• configuring the building’s mass to be perpendicular to the river;
*These items are in addition to the identified City Center Waterfront Design and
Development Standards.
• articulating the façade plane to step down to the
shoreline;

27
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
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Left: Pybus Market

interior, Wenatchee, WA
Source:.www.pacificnw.
cityvoter.com

• articulating building façades that face the Columbia River d. The T1 Building/Pier will be surrounded by vertically
with human scale elements; integrated mixed uses, including retail and customer-oriented
services at the ground level and residential and/or office uses
• breaking up the building’s mass to develop a variety of above ground-level functions. The combination of uses is
volumes and developing a varied set of horizontal plane designed to promote vitality and diversity of activity within the
and vertical façade shifts; and/or District.
• using divisions inherent to the building type to break up e. New building projects and additions to existing projects
potentially monolithic building forms. shall be reviewed and approved through an internal Port of
c. The Pier and Marketplace are the principle public destinations Vancouver design review process on a case-by-case basis.
within the Waterfront Development. The Marketplace is
connected by a series of pedestrian passageways, alleyways,
and plazas with a mix of office, residential, and local and
regionally-based retail uses throughout the District. Local
crafts, food, and specialty retail uses should anchor the Pier
and T1 Building as a place for commerce, social interaction,
special events, dining, entertainment, and community-based
uses that encourage the citizens of Vancouver to visit and
enjoy their waterfront.

28
Table 6 - Existing and Proposed Transportation Facilities and Roadway Designations
On-Street
Roadway Classification Cross Section Speed Limit Sidewalks? Bicycle Lanes? Median?
Parking?
Columbia
Minor Arterial 2 lane 25 mph Yes Partial None No
Street
Columbia Way Minor Arterial 2-3 lane 25 mph Yes Shared No Yes
Esther Street Minor Arterial 3 lane 25 mph Yes Yes Partial No
North Access Local Access
2 lane 25 mph South side only No No No
Way -Option B
Access Way 5 Minor Arterial 3 lane 25 mph Yes No No Yes
a. A left-turn lane is provided northbound on Columbia Street at Columbia Way.
b. Striped bicycle lanes are provided northbound and southbound on Columbia Street north from the Columbia Way intersection.
c. On-street parking provided north of the BNSF Railroad Bridge along the east side of the roadway, ending between West Fourth Street and West Fifth Street.

3.2.1 S-04  Daniels Way, from Columbia Way to the Columbia River
Streets and Street Grid
Intent
Develop a well-connected neighborhood integrating multiple
transportation modes.
Standards
S-01  The design and treatment of thoroughfares shall be
consistent with the thoroughfare types defined by the City
of Vancouver Development Standards and as illustrated in
the approved Waterfront Conceptual Development Plan
(CDP) and the City Center Vision Subarea Plan as shown in
Table 6.
S-02  Columbia Way will be the primary thoroughfare through the
Waterfront Development.
S-03  The street system shall be based on a grid pattern and
pedestrian system similar to the existing CX grid of 200-foot
blocks. Based on site and environment constraints the City
may approve a limited number of smaller or larger blocks.
Where blocks are 300 feet or longer on a face, mid-block
pedestrian connections shall be provided.
Renaissance Trail, shall serve to separate buildings on
block B and block D. The corridor shall serve primarily as
a pedestrian corridor and be designed to accommodate
emergency vehicle access. This corridor shall be no less
than 26 feet wide at its narrowest point to accommodate
fire apparatus access as required, and shall open up
wider closer to the Columbia River Renaissance Trail to
accommodate views to the River, adjacent active uses, and
outdoor seating along the corridor.
S-05  For blocks A and C, an activated pedestrian alleyway shall
separate the structures on each block. The pedestrian
alleyway shall include a continuous vertical separation
above grade and activated ground uses such as retail or
residential entries. The width of the alleyway shall vary to
add interest. At the narrow point, the alleyway shall be no
less than 16 feet wide.
Guidelines
G-01  Each secondary thoroughfare should be designed to
emphasize pedestrian access and gathering spaces
oriented to a variety of ground-level retail uses whenever
feasible.
29
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Left: Woonerf style

pedestrian street.
Source: flickrhivemind.
net

Right: C-Tran stop in

downtown Vancouver.
Source: NBBJ

3.2.2
Traffic Calming

Intent The corridor accommodates pedestrian and bicycle

Create a safe waterfront neighborhood that accommodates
pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles alike.
Standards
S-01  On-street parking shall be provided on all public streets
except North Access Way, Daniels Way, and Columbia
Street.
S-02  The intersection of Daniels Way and Columbia Way may be
re-constructed to provide a strong visual crosswalk with a
raised or tabled pedestrian crossing at the intersection.
S-03  Daniels Way between blocks B and D will be designated
as a woonerf. Primarily a pedestrian corridor, the space will
be shared with service and emergency vehicles. The street
design features an open corridor with no vertical curbs.
Street trees, pavement materials, outdoor seasonal seating,
and public art enrich the corridor.
circulation, and access to retail shops while establishing a
safe comfortable experience for all users. Refer to Street and
Street Grid 3.2.1. Standard 4.
S-04  Sidewalks shall be provided on all streets consistent with
the standards in VMC Section 20.630.080. (D)(3). Refer to
Sidewalk 3.2.3, S-01.
Guidelines
G-01  Provide other measures such as traffic bollards, roll curbs,
flashing pedestrian crossings ,or other techniques as may
be appropriate to ensure public safety.
G-02  Bollards should be provided at rolled curbs or at wide
accessible curb ramps where vehicular traffic is anticipated
to be in conflict with pedestrian movement.

30
Sidewalk cafes provide
interest and activity on
the street.

Source: www.
sfbetterstreets.org

3.2.3
Sidewalk

Intent
Provide a safe and well-connected pedestrian oriented community.
Standards
S-01  Columbia Way and Columbia Street are designated as
primary corridors. Daniels Way, Access Way 5 and North
Access Way are secondary corridors. For primary corridors,
vertically separated sidewalks will be provided and shall be
a minimum width of 12-15 feet based on City development
standards. Access Way 5 and North Access Way sidewalks
will be a minimum of 8 feet in width. As a pedestrian design
feature, the design intent for Daniels Way is to maintain a
cross section that may not include a vertically separated
sidewalk. For this corridor, the cross section would include
a continuous flat surface (with allowance for surface
drainage) with variable paving materials to delineate the
emergency access lane as required.
S-02  Enhanced pavement materials will be provided at
intersections of Daniels Way and the Columbia River
Renaissance Trail.
S-03  City of Vancouver paving and curb standards and street tree
planting details shall apply to all streets with the exception
of Daniels Way. No vertical curb sidewalk separation is
anticipated for Daniels Way south of Columbia Way to the
Columbia River Renaissance River Trail. Street trees, flush
mounted tree grates, and seating areas are anticipated for
this section of Daniels Way.
S-04  Where outdoor seating is anticipated, ensure that a
minimum sidewalk clearance of 5 feet, or as determined by
local code, is maintained for pedestrian circulation.
Guidelines
G-01  Outdoor café seating and other activities are encouraged to
define and activate the public realm.
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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Examples (left to right) of

building, public realm,
and wayfinding lighting
which add to pedestrian
experience.

Source: NBBJ

3.2.4
Street Lights

Intent S-05  Street and sidewalk fixtures shall be designed to prevent

Develop a comprehensive and sustainable lighting system to upward illumination and limit light pollution.
provide a safe and enjoyable environment.
Building Lighting
Standards S-06  All building mounted or façade lighting (in-grade, façade
S-01  Street and urban trail lighting shall be provided consistent mounted, and entry lighting) should be carefully selected
with the street lighting Standards established for the overall for scale, finish, appropriate light output, and consideration
District and Columbia Way. of light pollution reduction and should not create hazards
for birds or other wildlife.
S-02  Pedestrian scale poles, bollards, pathway lights, or
architecturally integrated fixtures such as catenary S-07  In-grade and up-lighting shall be minimized.
supported fixtures or wall sconces may be used for lighting
pathways.
S-03  Lighting for the Columbia River Renaissance Trail shall
reflect, but need not be identical to, the lighting utilized by
the City for the adjacent Vancouver Waterfront Park.
S-04  Lighting poles along the waterfront shall have a height
between 10 and 15 feet and shall not impose upon views of
the water from main corridors and destinations on the site.

32
Use of light can add to
the waterfront experience.

Source:
www.wtoutiao.com

Guidelines Accent Lighting

G-01  Design a lighting system, with the users in mind, which will
draw people through space to points of interest or unique
architectural elements.
G-02  Color changing or animated/dynamic lighting which detract
from natural views is discouraged.
G-03  Consider lighting strategies that will respond to different
intended uses on different areas of the site, while
maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.
G-04  Design horizontal and vertical illuminance levels to industry
standard appropriate Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)
recommended levels.
G-05  Effective wayfinding is supported by lighting that reveals a
simple, clear, and uncluttered landscape and environment
with visual cues accented by light to reinforce a path or
hierarchy of information.
G-06  Coordinate the need for lighting of public art and signage
with the design team in order to have a positive impact in
helping the user navigate the site and provide appropriate
light levels for the overall site.

33
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 8: Above-grade .
parking integrated into
the whole building
design.

3.2.5
Parking

Intent S-04  Existing surface parking lots will be allowed to be

Provide a dispersed, shared parking strategy through a combination of
below-grade, at-grade, and above-grade mixed-use parking structures
that meet the demand of residents, visitors, and employees.
Standards
S-01  Parking will be provided to meet the City of Vancouver
standards for the CX zoning district:
• Residential: 1 space/Dwelling Unit
• Transient Lodging: 1 Space/Living Unit
• All Other Uses: 1 Space/1,000 SF of Floor Area
S-02  No standalone parking structures are permitted. All
structured parking shall be accessory to and integrated into
a building housing another permitted use in the Waterfront
Development.
S-03  Interim surface parking may be developed as a part of the
development. New interim surface parking lots shall meet
City development standards as required.
34
maintained until replaced by development of the lots.
S-05  Access to structured parking on blocks A, C and D shall
be provided from North Access Way and Access Way
5, respectively. Access to structured parking on block B
is anticipated to be from Columbia Way consistent with
the existing driveway access location or another location
consistent with City of Vancouver standards or approved
road modification.
S-06  Design at-grade structured parking, with exception
of garage entrances, such that it will not be visible to
pedestrians along sidewalks, pathways, or other pedestrian
connections.
S-07  Screen structured parking and integrate into overall building
design. Screening provides an opportunity to enhance
building design through the use of art, green walls, and
innovative materials.
Left: Architectural design
and detailing blends
the structured parking
into the overall building
design.

Right: Plantings are

incorporated into
elevation of parking
structure to add visual
appeal and filter the air.

Source: NBBJ

S-08  Structured parking located at or above grade on blocks B

and D shall be designed and located within the building
such that active building space (usable square footage) is
located between the structured parking and the shoreline.

Guidelines
G-01  Provide, to the degree feasible, parking on each block.
G-02  Provide valet parking for restaurants, hospitality, or visitors in
a way that is legible for the user.
G-03  Provide and/or maintain on-street parking where feasible.
G-04  Trash and service loading docks should be grouped with
vehicle entrances where feasible.
G-05  Include sustainable design strategies in parking lots,
including the use of bioswales and permeable paving
to manage stormwater, and use of trees and other plant
materials to reduce the urban heat island effect.

35
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Long-term bicycle
parking.

Source:
seattlebikefriendlybiz.com

3.2.6
Bicycle Parking

Intent
Provide a system of long- and short-term bicycle parking that meets S-03  Long-term bicycle parking shall be provided in an
the demand of residents, visitors, and employees and encourages use accessible and safe location that is convenient to building
of bicycles to access the Waterfront Development. occupants. Signage shall be provided where the location is
not clearly evident from public ways providing access to the
Standards building.
S-01  Bicycle parking shall be provided for long-term (residents S-04  Short-term bicycle parking may be provided within or
and employees) and short-term (customers and visitors) outside the building at the following rates:
within each block and building.
• Residential: 1 space/20 Dwelling Unit
S-02  Long-term bicycle parking shall be provided (per VMC
Bicycle Parking Standards and Guidelines) within the • Transient Lodging: 1 Space/20 Rooms
building at the following rates:
• All Other Uses: 1 Space/3,000 SF of Floor Area
• Residential: 1 space /4 Dwelling Units
• Transient Lodging: 1 Space/20 Rooms
• All Other Uses: 1 Space/3,000 SF of Floor Area

36
Short-term bicycle
parking.

Source: www.nacto.org

S-05  Short-term bicycle parking shall be positioned in visible

areas with appropriate lighting, where not subject to
vehicle traffic and within 50 feet of the building entrance.
At least 50% of the spaces shall include rain protection.
Bicycle parking shall be provided consistent with the City of
Vancouver Bicycle Parking Standards and Guidelines.
S-06  Short-term bicycle parking shall be provided for visitors as
required throughout the Waterfront Development and other
open space areas along the Columbia River.

Guidelines
G-01  Bike parking provides an opportunity to engage public art.
Creative bike parking solutions should balance form and
function and meet the standards of the City of Vancouver
Bicycle Parking Standards and Guidelines.

37
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 9: Build-to lines on

POV Waterfront site. North Access Way

Co
lum
b
BLK. C

ia S
BLK. A

tre
Way 5

et

und
thbo
Access
Columbia
Way

Sou
BLK. D

CRC
Daniels Way
BLK. B

re
Futu
3.2.7
Link to the City

Intent
The principles of the Downtown Plan District sub-sections S-02  A building’s enclosed occupiable space shall not encroach
20.630.020, Building Lines; 20.630.030, Rain Protection; into the right-of-way with exception of bay windows or
20.630.040, Blank Walls; 20.630.050 C, Maximum Building Heights; balconies. Bay windows and balconies are not to exceed
and Parking Control, 20.630.060 shall apply to the Columbia West 4 feet in depth and 30% of the width of residential units or
Renaissance District waterfront area zoned CX. 50% of the width of hospitality units.

Standards Rain Protection

S-03  Overhead weather protection shall be provided along
Building Lines all streets with a minimum clear height of 10 feet and
S-01  Buildings constructed along Columbia Way, Columbia maximum clear height of 13 feet consistent with the
Street, Access Way 5, and Daniels Way shall comply with the provisions of VMC 20.630.030. This standards shall not
provisions of VMC 20.630.020 that describe building lines apply to buildings on Block B along Columbia Street, due
provisions for street frontages. With exception for block B, to the potential for a future I-5 bridge replacement, or along
where future building frontages may not meet the standard North Access Way.
for Columbia Street due to the potential for a future I-5 Waterfront
bridge replacement project. Park

38
Right: Blank wall on
New York City building
detracts from the
pedestrian environment.
Source: preservenet.
blogspot.com

Left: Pedestrian rain

protection integrated into
the building design.
Source: NBBJ

Blank Walls Guidelines

S-04  Buildings constructed along Columbia Way, Columbia
Street, Access Way 5 and Daniels Way shall comply with the
provisions of VMC 20.630.040.
S-05  At least 75% of the width of any new or reconstructed
ground-level building wall facing a street should be
devoted to pedestrian-oriented features or material
variation, pedestrian entrances and/or windows affording
views into retail, storefront, office or lobby space.
G-01  Determine if Columbia River Renaissance Trail is a dedicated
public ROW to determine applicable design standards.
Rain Protection
G-02  Rain protection is encouraged for all active first floor uses.
G-03  Rain protection should be integrated into the building
architecture and complementary to the overall design.

S-06  Continuous blank walls shall not exceed 20 feet in length.
Where blank walls are present, incorporate a range of
design approaches such as green walls, façade articulation,
art, or other approved applications to create interest at the
adjacent pedestrian area.
Blank Walls
G-04  Blank walls are generally discouraged, especially along
corridors intended to be active pedestrian use area. Vitrines
(glass display cases and transparent advertising display
cases), or show windows allowed only with approval.

Building Heights
S-07  Building heights shall be determined based on consistency
with City standards.

39
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Food trucks as a
destination and
pedestrian amenity.

Source: NBBJ

3.2.8
Pathways, Open Spaces and Connections

Intent
Establish and reinforce a vibrant and active waterfront.
Standards
S-01  The Columbia River Renaissance Trail shall be constructed
through the Waterfront Development site and shall run
parallel to the Columbia River from Columbia Street on the
east to the Waterfront Park on the west. The shared-use trail
shall vary in width to accommodate east-west connections.
The Renaissance Trail, adjacent to blocks B and D, is
envisioned to be a shared-use promenade with a minimum
of width of 28 feet to accommodate fire apparatus access
lanes where required. Refer to Streets and Street Grid 3.2.1,
S-05.
S-02  The Columbia River Renaissance Trail shall be designed as
a shared-use pedestrian path for bicycles, pedestrians, and
other non-motorized modes of travel.
S-03  Access to the Columbia River shoreline and the Columbia
River Renaissance Trail will be provided from adjacent
streets and public spaces from Access Way 5, Daniels Way
and Columbia Street.
S-04  The majority of the existing pier structure may remain (but
may be repaired and/or replaced), and may be open to
the public and devoted to active and passive uses.
S-05  The existing floating small boat moorage will be
maintained.
S-06  At least 10% of the gross square foot area of the site
will be devoted to open space accessible to the general
public.

40
River front trail with
vegetated shoreline
filtering runoff.
Source:
www.skyscrapercity.com
S-07  Daniels Way, from Columbia Way to the Columbia River
Renaissance Trail, will serve as a pedestrian connection with
a minimum clear width to meet emergency vehicle access
requirements. This corridor is envisioned to include planting
areas, trees for shade, rain protection, site furniture, and
other opportunities for interaction in the public realm. Refer
to Streets and Street Grid 3.2.1, S-04.
S-08  A pedestrian alleyway connection shall be included
between block A and block C. This pedestrian alleyway may
vary in width and be a minimum width of 16 feet and shall
accommodate ground level residential and retail uses as
required. Refer to Streets and Street Grid 3.2.1, S-05.
S-09  Pedestrian connections throughout the Waterfront
Development shall be designed to encourage walk trips to
Columbia and Esther Streets with access beyond the project
to downtown and Esther Short Park.
Guidelines
G-01  Vendor carts, food trucks, or kiosks should be encouraged within
public plaza and pier areas. Their design must be of high quality
and complementary to the surrounding areas. Vendor cart
and kiosk design, hours of operation, and associated storage
facilities are subject to DRC review and approval.
G-02  Urban civic spaces may include a variety of formal public
spaces including pier, plazas, passageways, and courtyard
spaces. Each space should integrate appropriate materials
to accommodate people and various activities. Plazas
should be designed to create opportunities for seating and
gathering with benches, turf lawns, shade trees, and be
flexible in design to accommodate multiple purposes.
G-03  Quality durable paving materials that provide interesting
qualities of color and texture to distinguish different paths
or functional uses in the rights-of-way will be used.
41
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 10: Public Realm

Diagram
Blk. 2
A-A¹ Open
Blk. D Blk. B
Space

Daniels Way
Active Public Space

Passive Public Space Renaissance Trail

Open
Primary Pedestrian Corridors Open
Space T-1
Space
Renaissance Trail - Shared-Use

C-C¹ B-B¹

G-04  Intersection of Daniels Way and Columbia River
Renaissance Trail should be designed with a high attention
to detail as the two primary pedestrian paths connecting to
the waterfront.
G-05  Maintain existing over-water coverage where feasible.
G-06  Encourage highly programmed public realm space
including weekly, monthly, and/or special events.
G-07  Encourage creation of a community non-profit for open
space management and maintenance.
G-08  Outdoor furnishings (such as trash receptacles, planters,
bicycle racks, bollards, clocks, and drinking fountains) and
accessory structures shall be consistent in design and used
to reinforce a District character. The District may adopt
standards for furnishings at a later date.
G-09  Breezeways, pathways, and alleys should be designed as a
part of the pedestrian circulation network. These corridors
shall be well maintained and designed to be functional yet
inviting spaces.
G-10  Daniels Way is intended to open up views to the waterfront,
reinforce adjacent retail, provide space for flexible pop-up
retail, public gatherings, and for street furniture and outdoor
dining.
G-11  Service access to the T-1 Building should have
predetermined hours of operations for deliveries to
minimize pedestrian-vehicle conflicts in the vicinity of the
Columbia River Renaissance Trail. Refer to Streets and Street
Grid 3.2.1, S-04.

42
Figure 11: Street Sections

Hospitality

Daniels
Way Future Retail

Section A-A¹: Daniels Way

Terminal 1 Columbia River

Building Renaissance Trail

Section B-B¹: Columbia River Renaissance Trail Block B

Columbia River Hospitality

Renaissance Trail

Section C-C¹: Columbia River Renaissance Trail Block D

43
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Tree allee of white birch

provide shade for
passive use.

Source: Walker Macy

3.2.9
Landscape Plans
Intent
Define and enhance the outdoor experience and environment. Guidelines
G-01  Planting design should be incorporated to complement
Standards overall project and incorporate Crime Prevention Through
S-01  Incorporate low-impact development strategies, such as Environmental Design (CPTED) best practices.
vegetated roofs, permeable pavement, and bioretention G-02  In all public spaces, care should be taken to exclude plants
cells (raingardens), where feasible. that may be toxic or injurious.
S-02  Use the Preferred Native and Adaptive Plant Species List G-03  Tree grates should be provided where high pedestrian
(see Tables 9-14 in 6.0, Appendix) as a primary resource for activity and/or on-street parking is present; otherwise,
all at-grade planting areas. under-canopy planting is encouraged.
S-03  Shoreline areas not devoted to the existing pier structure
shall be enhanced through removal of non-native invasive
species and replacement with appropriate native riparian
species.

44
 BANK AND RIVERFRONT PLANTING SUMMARY

Typical
end some of the
plant
palette.
verbank with adaptive
orm and interest, and
nt. This is a portion
n use will occur, so
aintain views, and tree
al interest.

UPLAND PLANTINGS EMERALD SUNSHINE ELM - ULMUS PROPINQUA B L A C K G U M - N Y S S A S Y LVAT I C A

REDPOINTE MAPLE - ACER RUBRUM ‘REDPOINTE’ L AV E N D E R - L AVA N D U L A S P P. D WA R F M A I D E N G R A S S - M I S C A N T H U S S I N E N S I S ‘ A D A G I O ’ B L U E O AT G R A S S - H E L I C T O T R I C H O N S E M P E R V I R E N S

EDDIE’S WHITE WONDER DOGWOOD - CORNUS ‘EDDIE’S H U M M I N G B I R D S A G E - S A LV I A S PAT H A C E A S H O R E J U N I P E R - J U N I P E R U S C O N F E RTA C O A S TA L S T R AW B E R RY - F R A G A R I A C H I L O E N S I S

WHITE WONDER’
the upland urban
sense of identity, as
nt’s commitment to
e plant selections
ncluding lower
ees to provide shade

S T O R M WAT E R S WA L E S J U N C U S PAT E N S

Waterfront Development Master Plan Planting Palette Summary November 10, 2015

45
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 12: Public-Private

T-1 BUILDING PUBLIC REALM PUBLIC - PRIVATE
transition space TRANSITION
SPACE

3.2.10
Building Design

Intent
Provide well-proportioned and memorable buildings that contribute to
the District and enhance the experience of users both in- and outside.
Standards
General
S-01  Building heights shall step down from blocks A and C to the
waterfront to provide views to the waterfront from these
blocks. Use terraces as an active amenity for the building
occupants and/or landscape vegetation.
S-02  Façade articulation should reinforce human scale by conveying
occupancy types using strategies such as balconies, bay
windows, and operable windows for residential and hospitality
uses, solar screening and rhythmic windows patterns and
spacing for office, clear glass and signature entries for retail.
S-03  All building elevations should be addressed in the
architectural design with the same degree of detail,
proportion, and materials.
S-04  Locate loading docks and service areas, including trash
collection facilities, utility transformers, and truck parking,
internal to buildings. The single exception is the loading
and service area of the proposed Marketplace. Loading and
service areas for the proposed Marketplace may be located
outside but shall be designed and screened to minimize
visual impacts along the Columbia River Renaissance Trail
and waterfront edge.
S-05  For the following locations: north elevation of Columbia
Way, and east and west elevations adjacent to Daniels Way,
building façades should be a minimum of 25 feet and a
maximum of 45 feet in height and shall include a horizontal
step back of a minimum of 10 feet above 45 feet. (See
Figure 13: Stepping Diagram)

46
Figure 13: Stepping
Diagrams

MIN.
10'-0"

Pedestrian Alleyway

t
tree
BLK. 1
BLK. C

ia S
BLK. A

b
um
Col
ay 5
Access W
Columb
ia Way

BLK. 2

Daniels Way
MAX. BLK. D BLK. B
45'-0"

T-1

Columbia River
Façade Stepback Section S-05: Façade Stepback Diagram

BLOCK B BLOCK A

Terminal 1 Columbia River Columbia Way

Building Renaissance Trail

Stepping of the Building Massing 47

 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 14: Active ground-

floor ratio diagram:
minimum ratio of active
ground floor uses.

RESIDENTIAL LOBBY/
RETAIL
25%
INACTIVE:
INACTIVE: BLANK WALL/EMERGENCY EGRESS
GARAGE/SERVICE ENTRANCE

LIVE/WORK OR TOWNHOME RESTAURANT/RETAIL 50%

30% ENTRANCES

20% RESTAURANT/RETAIL

S-06  The Waterfront Development encourages the design of
urban spaces and a diversity in architecture with varying
building typologies, massing, and scale along Columbia
Way and the waterfront edge. This may be accomplished in
many ways, including the:
a. Configuration of the building orientation and mass to be
perpendicular to the river;
b. Step down of building façades from blocks A and C, to
blocks B and D and down to the shoreline;
c. Incorporation interesting building materials and human-
scale proportions and design elements at the street level
and along the Columbia River Renaissance Trail and
shoreline;
d. Development of a variety of building volumes to break
down the visual appearance of taller structures and
building mass and/or;
e. Expression of different uses within the building to break
up potentially monolithic building forms.
Ground Floor Uses
S-07  Buildings should be designed to have a minimum 60%
ground level façade transparency between 2 feet and 8 feet
above sidewalk grade (Figure 16).
S-08  Active ground floor uses should be provided at the
following ratios: a minimum of 75% along Columbia
Way, Daniels Way, Columbia River Renaissance Trail, and
Columbia Street; a minimum of 50% along Access Way 5.
See S-10 for description of active ground floor uses.
S-09  Blank walls of more than 20 feet in length are not permitted
without prior approval. Refer to 3.2.7. Link to City; Blank
Walls.
S-10  A continuous frontage of active ground level uses, such as
building lobbies and/or individual residential entrances,
restaurant or pedestrian-oriented retail uses shall be built
to the parcel line (back of sidewalk) and shall include a
minimum floor-to-floor height of 16 feet.

48
Figure 15: Example
application of design HOTEL
guideline standards on Building Design S-05
block D. Stepback buildings above 45’
along Daniels Way HOTEL

Building Design S-08

Daniels Way should have 75% HOTEL
active ground floor uses
Link to City Center S-05 Blank
walls a maximum of 20’ in length PARKING
Parking S-06 At-grade structured
parking shall not be visible to
pedestrian pathways PARKING

Lobby/
Support RETAIL

Left: Parking above

ground level with active
ground level uses.
Source: Flickr.com

Right: Accessory retail

storefronts and outdoor
seating activate the
street
Source: NBBJ.

49
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Left:

Figure 16: Transparency

diagram. 8’-0”

Right: High-quality
materials can add to
the richness of a users
experience.
Compiled by NBBJ
2’-0”

FFE

10-14’ per COV

Entries
S-11  Residential unit ground floor entrances shall include
elements that provide transitional space between the public
and private realms such as landscape spaces, low walls,
stoops, porches, or recessed entry.
Material & Color
S-12  The following are prohibited exterior building materials:
plastic laminates, glossy or large expanses of acrylic or
Plexiglas, pegboard, mirror, highly polished or plated
metals (except as trim), mirrored glass, vinyl, fabric or paper
wall coverings, plywood or particle board, sheet or modular
vinyl, shingles, shakes, and rustic siding.
S-13  Building materials shall not present a hazard to birds or
other wildlife.
Guidelines
Form & Mass
G-01  Design well-proportioned and memorable buildings which
take advantage of views to the Columbia River and Mt. Hood.
G-02  Where feasible, provide service truck turning movements
internal to the building.
G-03  Take advantage of solar exposure and natural ventilation
when possible. Maximize daylight for interior and exterior
spaces while controlling solar heat gain.
G-04  Reinforce the street edge and seek opportunities to
enhance open space through the articulation of the
building at the transition to the public realm.
G-05  Buildings on corner lots should address both thoroughfares
with thoughtfully designed architectural features, materials,
and colors.
G-06  Buildings should use thoughtfully designed architectural
features to help frame views and highlight terminating views
along corridors.

50
Left: Retail storefront
with color, lighting and
graphics create interest
Source:
bicycleretailer.com

Center: Ground floor

units with stoop provide
a transition from public to
private.
Source: NBBJ

Right: Planted rooftop.

Source: NBBJ

Ground Floor Uses Material & Color

G-07  Windows and doorways shall provide functional
transparency between the interior and exterior of the
building and create enhanced pedestrian connections at
the street level.
G-08  Vitrines (glass display cases and transparent advertising
display cases) or show windows allowed only with approval.
Roof Space
G-09  Inviting and functional outdoor spaces encouraged.
G-13  Building exteriors should be constructed of durable and
maintainable materials that are attractive even when viewed
up close. Materials that have texture, pattern, or develop a
patina overtime are encouraged.
G-14  High quality accent materials should be employed at
pedestrian contact areas and particularly along the ground
level at entry ways, walkways, courtyard, and plaza areas.
G-15  Use of reclaimed materials and materials with recycled
content is encouraged.

Entries
G-10  Front entries elevated from grade up to 2.5 feet are
encouraged for residential units which are accessed from
the ROW or primary pedestrian way.
G-11  Design primary to commercial, hospitality, and retail entries
shall be identifiable and distinctive with clear lines of sight and
lobbies visually connected to the street.
G-12  Trash and service loading docks should be consolidated within
parking structures and away from vehicle parking areas where
feasible.

51
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Left: Columbia River is

North Access Way
popular for its historic,
recreational and

Co
lu

und
environmental qualities.

mb
BLK. 1

thbo
Source: NBBJ

ia S
BLK. C

Way 5

tre
BLK. A

Sou
et
Right:

CRC
Access
Figure 17: View Corridor

re
Diagram Columbia
Way

Futu

und
BLK. 2

thbo
Daniels Way
BLK. D
BLK. B

Nor
CRC
City Park
Renaissance Trail

re
Waterfront Park

Futu
Pier
T-1 Building

COLUMBIA RIVER

3.2.11
View Protection

Intent
Provide and enhance views to natural features.

Standards
S-01  Buildings shall be arranged and designed to maximize and
preserve views of the shoreline and Columbia River from
the site by stepping down building heights to the river from
north to south and not exceeding a floor plate of 12,000
square feet for all floors higher than 90 feet on blocks A and
B and higher than 120 feet for blocks C and D.

Guidelines
G-01  Shoreline vegetation should be designed and maintained to
enhance views from upland locations to the river corridor.
G-02  Outdoor seating areas are encouraged to be oriented
toward the south and west and to optimize view to the river.

52
Bioretention cells
(rain gardens) are
incorporated in to
the streetscape and
celebrated through an
integrated water feature.

Source: SDOT

3.2.12
Sustainable Site and Development Design

Intent Guidelines
Incorporate sustainable design concepts as integral components G-01  Incorporate sustainable building practices including 2030
to the site. Refer to Section 5.0, Sustainable Implementation Challenge, net-zero, and Living Building Challenge.
Strategies.
G-02  Incorporate as many bird- and wildlife-friendly design
strategies as feasible.
Standards
S-01  All new buildings are to be constructed to a minimum LEED For additional information, refer to Section 4.0 Sustainable
Gold Certification, or similar equivalent. Development Program and 5.0 Sustainable Implementation
S-02  Incorporate low-impact development strategies, such as Strategy.
vegetated roofs, permeable pavement, and raingardens,
where feasible.
S-03  Integrate ecological landscape elements in site designs.
S-04  Remove invasive species and restore shoreline habitat
consistent with the Shoreline Master Program where
applicable.

53
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 18: Proposed

concept for wayfinding.

P MAP
TRAIL TRAIL

MARKET

Lorem ipsum dolor sit Suspendisse in eros

amet, consectetur
adipiscing elit. Vestibulum
vehicula imperdiet justo
quis auctor. Suspendisse
laoreet a ante a dictum.
Aenean iaculis, tortor non
sodales vestibulum, ipsum
sollicitudin, consequat odio
sed, ultricies nisi. Sed
consectetur volutpat metus,
ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend
lobortis. Etiam rutrum
fringilla dictum.
Pellentesque euismod

HOTEL
ante pretium ipsum, et
vulputate augue libero sed
sem. Donec id eros vitae
lectus mollis accumsan.
vestibulum eros id facilisis.
Cras felis velit, porta vitae
nisl

CITY

INTERPRETIVE (END) INTERPRETIVE (FRONT)

PARKING MAP DIRECTIONAL REGULATORY SMALL DIRECTIONAL
3.2.13
Wayfinding and Signage

Intent Development Signage Program (MSP) for individual

Provide cohesive and intuitive system of signage, wayfinding, and
branding.
Standards
S-01  All signage shall comply with the provisions of VMC 20.960
for number, location and size restrictions. Free-standing
sidewalk signs and monument signs intended to advertise
uses within the development are prohibited. Kiosk,
wayfinding, and interpretive signage intended to promote
a comprehensive Waterfront Development Wayfinding
Program shall be allowed upon review from the Port.
S-02  Signage on the T1 Marketplace and within the shoreline
jurisdictions shall comply with signage provisions of the
Shoreline Master Program. Develop a signage program to
manage temporary and permanent district signs.
S-03  A comprehensive Waterfront Development Wayfinding
Program will be developed, as well as a Master
buildings as part of the site plan review process.
S-04  Individual buildings that accommodate multiple businesses
and require signage for each business shall produce a MSP
that defines the size, number, and locations of signs. The
design of signs shall be reviewed and approved by the Port
as a part of the MSP and building design review process to
ensure the signage is integrated into the architecture and
overall development.
S-05  Signs shall be constructed of high quality, durable
materials and follow the design aesthetic as outlined by the
Waterfront Development Wayfinding Program.
S-06  Signage shall be appropriate for its intended use such as
residential, office, and retail.

54
 Figure 19: Type A
Landmark Identifier

MARKET
LONG-DISTANCE IDENTIFIER

ART
Guidelines
G-01  Reclaimed materials should be prominently used throughout
the signage program.
RECLAIMED WOOD PIER
G-02  Emphasize the history of the city, project site, and Port
throughout the design and its concept.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
Vestibulum vehicula imperdiet justo quis auctor.
Suspendisse laoreet a ante a dictum. Aenean iaculis,

HISTORY
tortor non sodales vestibulum, ipsum ante pretium ipsum,
et vulputate augue libero sed sem. Donec id eros vitae
lectus mollis accumsan. Suspendisse in eros sollicitudin,
consequat odio sed, ultricies nisi. Sed consectetur
volutpat metus, ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend lobortis. Etiam
rutrum fringilla dictum. Pellentesque euismod vestibulum
eros id facilisis. Cras felis velit, porta vitae nisl

MAP/DIRECTORY

MULTI-USE IN
55
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
3.0 STANDARDS & GUIDELINES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Public art featuring

lighting elements.

Source: flickr.com

3.2.14
Public Art

Intent d. Temporary Art Exhibit Space: Activate site through short-

Create a vibrant community through the integration of art and
involvement of artists throughout the built environment as an
expression of the cultural, historic, social, and environmental values
of the Waterfront District.
Standards
S-01  The following types of public art and artist involvement shall
be incorporated into the Waterfront Development project:
a. Artist Collaborative Lead: At significant sites in the
development, the landscape and architectural design
teams are encouraged to collaborate with artist(s) in
fundamental way to incorporate art concepts into the
design.
b. Significant Artwork: Install a major, permanent anchor
project in significant location.
term exhibits by artists-in-residence, local artists, or open
call.
S-02  Acquisition, purchase, and placement of private art
collections for the interior of private buildings shall be
administered by the entity for which the building is leased
or managed, and shall not be a part of the overall Port Arts
and Culture Program. Artwork proposed for the exterior of a
private building shall be reviewed and approved by the Port
through an Arts and Culture Committee to be established
by the Port.
S-03  Public art initiatives on City rights-of-way and land within
the Port Waterfront Development area shall be coordinated
jointly through the City of Vancouver and Clark County
Public Art Program as required with participation by the Port
representatives.

c. Other Permanent Artwork: Strengthen the site

experience with diverse scales and concepts.
56
Left: Interactive
pneumatic art resembles
maritime activities.

Right: Site specific art

engages time, place and
space.
Source: flickr.com

Guidelines G-05  Maintenance and upkeep of all public artwork should

G-01  Public art is strongly encouraged as an integral component be considered and budgeted for during the selection,
of the public and private realm throughout the Waterfront acquisition, and procurement process.
District.
G-06  Commercial signage should not obscure public art features
G-02  Temporary public art exhibit space is important to the overall nor impede access to such features.
public space programming plan. Coordinate art installation
locations and processes for optimal use and activation.
G-03  Public art opportunities are encouraged to serve and
celebrate local and tribal artisans from the Columbia River
Region maritime community. Nationally recognized artists
may also provide for a range of cultural, historic, social, and
environmental artwork design elements.
G-04  Public art may include a range of media such as two-
dimensional murals or mosaic tile works, three-dimensional;
works of art (permanent acquisitions or rotating artwork)
and/or visual and performance arts.

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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Source: Seattle Tilth

58
Port of Vancouver Terminal 1 Waterfront Development
Sustainable Development Strategy

4.0
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAM

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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Eagle perch on the

Columbia River.

Source: NBBJ

4.0 Sustainable Development Program

4.1
Preface
The Waterfront Development Sustainable Development Program • Integration of work-force and live/work housing to meet
(Program) is intended to establish the general principles, desired outcomes for market price points for both affordable
guidelines, and standards for a comprehensive sustainable and attainable housing;
program for the Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
(Waterfront Development). The program is also intended to provide • Access and parking requirements;
model guidelines for the City of Vancouver regarding site best • Increasing construction costs, and;
practices, green building, and energy performance programs
and policies. The Program is designed as an incremental system • Associated development impact fees.
to develop over time to balance the changing environmental,
The creation, ongoing development, and success of the Program
social, and economic needs of the community. Furthermore, it
relies on the active participation of varying interests and
is understood that elements of the Program must be financially
partnerships such as the Port of Vancouver, selected developers,
viable to the participants to contribute effectively as a successful
the City of Vancouver, and other agencies and organizations. The
model. Both the design and development of the waterfront are
management and operations of the Program assume the need for
challenged to seek a balance among the following commitments
ongoing funding support through the Port of Vancouver, donations
and conditions:
and contributions, additional matching grants, and coordination
• New and improved infrastructure serving the area; with local governments and initiatives.

• Commitments for shoreline restoration, open space,

community garden, and Columbia River Renaissance Trail
improvements;

60
View of I-5 bridge on the
Columbia River.
Source: NBBJ
4.2
Background
The Waterfront Development Conceptual Development Plan
(CDP) outlines the proposed development program and phasing
for the 10.37-acre Waterfront Development. As part of the CDP,
the Port is required to address urban design standards and an
overall sustainable development strategy. The Program outlines
the key sustainable development strategies and requirements for
development to, “promote sustainability in the design, construction,
tenant improvements, and maintenance and operations of facilities
and improvements” for the Waterfront Development.
The Program is intended to be used hand-in-hand with the
Urban Design Standards and Guidelines. Refer 3.0 Urban Design
Standards and Guidelines.
The Program presented herein is based upon:
• Requirements set forth by the Port of Vancouver T1 Waterfront
Development Concept Development Plan (CDP);
• Elements of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design-Neighborhood
Development (LEED-ND);
• Elements of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design – New Construction
Building Design + Construction (LEED NC BD+C) standard.
• The Well Building Standards that may apply to hotel and
residential uses.
4.3
Purpose
The Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development Sustainable
Development Strategy provides developers, architects,
constructors, and managing entities with integrated planning
guidelines for sustainable community development, and ecological
and social planning practices. The Program is intended to provide
a comprehensive approach to ensure the long-term sustainability
and vitality of the Terminal 1 Waterfront Development.
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Table 7: Implementation Strategies

Strategy Goal Target

Create a district that enables a thriving • Landscape a minimum of 25% of open space with plantings that
Habitat & Ecology ecological community that supports a support native wildlife.
thriving human community. • Design outdoor lighting to minimize habitat impacts.

Treat water as a precious resource that will • Reduce landscape potable water use by at least 50%.
Water Management
have increasing value in the future. • Reduce indoor water use by at least 30%.

Design urban infrastructure such as

transportation and site utilities and • Provide Level 2 EV charging for 1% of parking spaces.
Urban Infrastructure
infrastructure to improve human and • Provide bicycle parking for 5% of building occupants.
environmental performance.

• Prioritize strategies with value.

Plan and execute each project to respect
Economic Value the legacy of the Port and maximize the • Track participation of local companies during design and
value of the property over its lifetime. construction. Meet and certify to LEED Gold performance
standard except for tenant spaces within buildings.

• Establish energy targets and adjust and monitor accordingly

over time.
• Commission all projects at a basic level minimum.
Build a project that is preparing for a
Energy & Carbon • All buildings shall be “solar ready”, and buildings over 5000
carbon-neutral future.
square feet shall generate renewable energy on site.
• Purchase Renewable Energy Credits, green power or carbon
offsets for a minimum of 50% of annual electricity usage.

Materials & Waste

Consider full impact of materials use. • Divert a minimum of 50% of construction waste from landfill.
Reduction

Embrace local residents, business and

Thriving government to create a successful • Develop construction and ongoing communication plans for the
Community sustainable district in which all are community.
welcome.

• Meet ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2010 for indoor air quality and

Create a place that maximizes human and Standard 55 for Thermal Comfort (except residential).
Healthy Place
ecological health and enjoyment.
• Provide operable windows in all buildings.
62
Left: Food truck in
Vancouver, WA
Source: The Columbian
Right: Bertschi School
Science Building
Source:
www.living-future.org
4.4 4.6
Sustainable Development Defined
Sustainable Development is that, “which meets the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future generations to
meet their own needs” (U.N. World Commission on Environment
and Development). Sustainable development recognizes the
complex balance for accommodating human needs without
diminishing the health and productivity of natural systems of the
shared world.
4.5 Role of the Port of Vancouver
Implementation and Management
The Sustainable Development Program is recognized as a formal
program and shall be administered by the Port of Vancouver or
its designated partner. The Port shall designate a Sustainability
Program Manager to coordinate and implement Program strategies
and annual reviews. The Program will evolve over time and be
reviewed and revised on an annual basis to meet changing
technologies and environmental, social, and economic conditions
of the community.
Performance Targets
The Program strategies include; identified targets, desired
outcomes and ongoing operational programs aimed toward
energy efficiency, water conservation, construction standards, and
trip reduction, and are an essential part of the Program. Proposed
targets and performance measures will be reviewed and assessed
annually as part of an ongoing effort.
4.7
The Port of Vancouver assumes leadership for the economic,
sustainable development of the Waterfront District by adopting
specific policies, guidelines, and standards based on:
• Practical applications of sustainable development moving
away from extractive and disposable practices;
• Integration of restorative practices balancing quality of life,
community well-being, and economic growth;
• Development and maintenance of long-term partnerships
in the Vancouver community supporting and furthering
sustainable development practices, and;
• Extension of the model for profitable sustainable projects for
future development in the region.
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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Left: Floating wetland.

Source: Port of Vancouver

Right: Low flow fixture

provide water savings.
Source: Sloan fixtures

4.8 4.8.2
Sustainable Development Framework Principles Water Management
The following principles are essential to the formation of Water is a finite and precious resource, and has often not been
a comprehensive and integrated sustainable Waterfront treated as such. The Waterfront District design approach will take a
Development. more deliberate and value-based approach to water use, targeting
efficiency strategies, seeking to use water for its highest and best
4.8.1
use and metering and monitoring water use over time. This may
Habitat and Ecology
mean, for instance, that city-provided potable water is designed
A thriving ecological community is key for the thriving human out of the landscape plan, and that landscapes are designed either
community envisioned by the Port for the Waterfront Development. to use available rainwater for irrigation or to require no irrigation at
The waterfront will be developed through a restorative lens, all. In all cases, the most important factor is being conscious of how
creating healthy patterns of water use and flow, encouraging local much water and from what source it is used.
and appropriate plantings that are attractive to wildlife such as
birds and insects, and creating a lush and enticing environment
for the local community. Designing with bird-friendly design
standards helps to ensure that both wildlife and human life will
thrive. The development's multi-level building massings provide
the opportunity for planted roofs and outdoor living space.
Living roofscapes can serve as a visible marker of the Waterfront
District from the I-5 bridge attracting visitors and residents to the
waterfront.

64
Vancouver farmers
market.
Source: NBBJ
4.8.4
Urban Infrastructure
Consideration for the built environment begins with best site
development practices that center on a range of strategies
intended to optimize the relationship of buildings, natural
systems, and human experiences. The District's mixed-use design
encourages diversity in building design and creative opportunities
for living and working in the waterfront community.
Site development best practices may include:
• Water Quality and Stormwater Management Program;
• On-site drainage and rain garden enhancements;
• Selection of appropriate native and non-native trees and
vegetation;
• Landscape irrigation conservation measures;
• Water treatment and reuse, natural shoreline restoration, and
reduction of over-water coverage;
• Cultural and historical evaluation and interpretation, and;
• Air quality measures through trip reduction strategies.
Pedestrian and bike trails, bike storage areas, and showers with
changing facilities at work encourage the use of non-motorized
modes of transportation and help capture local trips within the
District. Employment and entertainment located within easy access
to public transit can also reduce vehicular use to and from the
waterfront. The District currently benefits from several routes on
Columbia Street that would be extended to provide frequent public
transit service to the waterfront.
A planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line will connect Downtown
Vancouver with East Vancouver, specifically the Vancouver Mall
Transit Center. The BRT line is planned to terminate at the 7th Street
Station, just a few blocks north of the Port site. With increased
capacity and connectivity of the transit network, City Center and
East Vancouver residents will be able to quickly access downtown
and the Waterfront Development using a variety of travel modes.
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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Left: Materials
Source: NBBJ
Right: Malmo, Sweden.
Source: NBBJ
4.8.3 4.8.5
Thriving Community
A sustainable community is a thriving community, where people
interact and grow together. For the Waterfront Development, a
wide variety of community activities, events, and programs will
help strengthen social networks, wellness, and health initiatives.
The Port of Vancouver will likely provide long-term management
of community programs with flexible and multi-use areas to
facilitate social planning and business networking. In addition,
ongoing education and awareness are central to building a long-
term sustainable waterfront. Newsletters, campaigns, initiatives,
events, forums, demonstration projects, and stewardship programs
provide residents, workers, and visitors an understanding of
sustainable living practices. Ensuring a better-built environment
also involves training and collaborating with designers, builders,
and tenants regarding integrated design, evolving technologies,
and construction practices.
66
Energy and Carbon
In a rapidly evolving energy landscape, the District is planned to
optimize its resiliency for the future. Design and construction will
focus on providing long-term viability and maximizing the passive
design characteristics of each building so the built environment
will use less energy and be ready to take advantage of renewable
energy options as they become available and economically
viable. It is also essential that buildings are operated to realize the
expected performance, and that design strategies are realistically
determined based on operability. Design and construction is
guided by energy-performance and green building rating systems
based on established principles and practices including; LEED,
Living Building Challenge, and other programs.
4.8.6
Materials and Waste
The selection of building materials, construction methods, and
thorough operational practices are important parts of the life
cycle of the development. Each decision impacts the carbon and
ecological footprint throughout the life cycle and can contribute
to the waste created by the local community. Through planning,
design, construction, and through operational awareness, the
Waterfront District can reduce health and environmental impacts.
LEED Plaque
Source: usgbc-ie.org
4.8.7 4.8.8
Healthy Place
The success of the District relies on the creation of a diverse,
healthy, and social community. This can be achieved by engaging
stakeholders representing varying interests within the Vancouver
community. Viable long-term partnerships are necessary to
promote the vision and projects for sustainable living both in the
Waterfront Development and the larger community.
Vibrant, livable urban waterfronts are characterized by the density
and a successful mix of ground floor uses to create an active,
interesting environment throughout the day and night, seven
days a week. Uses that help to activate pedestrian streets and
sidewalks include: coffee shops, restaurants, retail stores, and
other commercial services. These retailers and services attract
customers and activity. When several such uses are located in close
proximity, shoppers and residents can complete multiple errands in
a single trip. Convenient destinations encourage shorter walks and
bicycle trips and typically offer a variety of uses and a high level of
walkability.
Economy and Value
Decisions made during design and construction can have a positive
effect on the local community for years to come. Encouraging local
small business and startups as tenants as well as making sure local
companies are included in contract opportunities are two ways the
Port will help to support local economic development. Determining
strategies for their long-term value as well as initial cost is another
way the Port can continue its long history as a steward of public
resources. Designing to meet LEED Gold as a minimum standard
for high performing buildings will help to ensure rigor in the
stewardship among all properties developed on the site.
Finally, research and development of ongoing sustainable
construction practices, post-occupancy assessments, and
monitoring of annual operational costs will help to measure the
effectiveness of the standards and practices over time. Waterfront-
wide targets will be used to evaluate performance and costs
while assisting to identify emerging technical resources for future
applications. Baseline models created with key partnerships will
establish and monitor average household water and energy
use, waste production, vehicle miles traveled, air quality, and
maintenance and operational costs at the waterfront.
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Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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5.0
SUSTAINABLE
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES

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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Bioretention cells as
a design feature of
development.

Source: flickr.com

5.0 Sustainable Implementation Strategies

5.1 5.1.2
Habitat and Ecology
Create a district that enables a thriving ecological community that
supports a thriving human community.
5.1.1 Both land and water species are affected by the development that
Open Space
Objective: Provide a combination of vegetated space and
pedestrian hardscape that enhances public interaction and
enjoyment.
Standards
S-01  Provide a minimum of 10% of total gross area as open
space (per COV). Open space landscape areas may consist
of a combination of small park areas, shoreline overlook
and seating area, pedestrian promenade, pier and civic
space, community garden, rain gardens, and/or street
landscape areas.
Guidelines
G-01  Provide open space greater or equal to 30% of the total
site area, with at least 25% of provided open space to be
vegetated. Meet LEED v4 SS Credit: Open Space.
70
Shoreline Habitat
Objective: Protect and enhance shoreline and related habitat areas
along the waterfront.
takes place on the site; creating and restoring habitat contributes to
the richness of the ecological mix and health of the place.
Standards
S-01  Develop and implement shoreline management plan to
protect habitat over time. (Note: LEED 4 ND SSL Credit:
Long-term Conservation Management of Habitat or
Wetlands and Water Bodies provides a good model for
implementing this standard).
Guidelines
G-01  Pursue Salmon-Safe certification and/or Bird-Friendly
programs to ensure that water and land ecosystem quality is
not impaired by the development.
Left: Gates Foundation,
Seattle
Source: NBBJ

Right: Long-term
maintenance plans help
to ensure optimum
ecological health.
Source: www.garden.
lovetoknow.com

5.1.3 5.1.4
Site Water Management
Objective: Maintain healthy watershed patterns and integrate
natural and urban water (drainage) systems.
Note: Low Impact Development (LID) Vancouver is expected to
adopt LID standards by December 2016. Existing LID projects in
Clark County can be found at http://www.stormwaterpartners.com/
lid/index.htm
Standards
S-01  Use low impact development strategies such as increased
landscape cover, vegetated roofs, raingardens, and
permeable pavement.
Guidelines
G-01  Use of permeable paving materials is encouraged for
specific uses such as parking, access, loading and staging
areas, and emergency access.
G-02  Manage a 95th percentile (or better) rainfall event through
LID strategies to replicate natural site hydrology. Meet LEED
v4 SS Credit: Rainwater Management.
Construction and Operations
Objective: Maintain and manage the site to ensure that intended
habitat and site landscape strategies continue to succeed.
Standards
S-01  Meet LEED v4 SS Prerequisite: Construction Activity
Pollution Prevention.
S-02  Develop and implement sustainable landscape
management strategies—such as, but not limited to;
pruning, replanting, and irrigation−to address long-term
maintenance and operations for optimum ecological health.
Guidelines
Provide periodic construction updates to help inform interested
community members on the status of the waterfront development.

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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
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Left: Fall maple leaf,

optimal plant health
requires long term
maintenance and
operations plan.
Source: NBBJ

Right: Bertschi School

Science Wing
Source: GGLO.com

5.1.5
Wildlife and Human Life
Objective: Design for native wildlife compatibility with human uses. S-06  Lighting levels should be carefully evaluated and kept
dimmer near the river, in order to preserve the natural
Standards nighttime character of the river environment and reduce
S-01  Ensure landscapes are designed, constructed, and disturbance to flora and fauna.
maintained in a manner that protects our region’s natural
resources and public health. S-07  No light should shine directly into the water in order to
minimize disturbance to aquatic life.
S-02  Promote environmentally sensitive landscape pest and
vegetation management by phasing out the use of the most S-08  Lighting should be spaced at the maximum distance
potentially hazardous herbicides and insecticides to protect between fixtures to ensure the waterfront area is not overlit.
health and ensure public safety.
S-03  All structures shall include a minimum 15% of the roof
area as planted green roof and amenity space. Note: Roof
garden space does not count toward 10% city-required
open space.
S-04  Landscape a minimum of 25% of provided open space.
S-05  Minimize unnecessary architectural lighting. Blue-rich white
light should be minimized on exterior applications; no
fixtures should exceed a CCT of 3,000 Kelvins.

72
Spiderwebs have UV
properties that ensure
their visibility to birds in
flight. Bird-friendly glass
has been developed
by mimicking these UV
properties.

Source: Ornilux Arnold

Glass

Guidelines
G-01  Implement Bird-Friendly Building Design (American Bird
Conservancy) and/or LEED pilot credit for Bird Safe Design
for building and fenestration strategies, glazing options,
restrictions on wind generators, and best practices in
lighting design.
G-02  Meet LEED v4 SS Credit: Light Pollution Reduction, which
contributes to bird safe design.
G-05  Celebrate the Port's maritime history by highlighting the
ecological preservation and water conservation strategies
that look towards the future.
G-06  Use native/adapted plant species compatible with urban
conditions and habitat needs, especially those that provide
food for local wildlife. Refer to 6.0 Appendix, Tables 8-13 for
plant species list.

G-03  Provide shade, open-grid pavement, or paving solar

reflectance values of at least .28 for non-roof hardscape
and use high-reflectance (high SRI) or vegetated roofs. Meet
LEED v4 SS Credit: Heat Island Reduction.
G-04  Protect or restore habitat (restore 30% of previously
disturbed site area; includes building footprint.) Meet LEED
v4 SS Credit: Site Development. (Note: this area includes
vegetated roofs.)

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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Figure 20: Water

Integration-Water System
Connectivity

5.2
Water Management
Treat water as a precious resource whose value will increase in the
future.
5.2.1 rainwater for irrigation.
Water Use – Quantity and Quality
Objective: Use all water sources for their highest and best use and
conserve available resources.
Standards
S-01  Create a site-wide water budget, allocating resources by
use. Each project shall operate within the budget based on
use and need.
S-02  Design and install landscapes that do not require a
permanent irrigation system, or design landscapes to
require 50% less irrigation. Meet LEED v4 WE Credit:
Outdoor Water Use Reduction, Level One.
S-03  Use 30% less indoor water than baseline, including fixtures
and fittings, appliances and process water. Meet LEED v4
WE Credit: Indoor Water Use Reduction.
Guidelines
G-01  Maximize greywater reuse on site; use shower and
appliance drain water for toilet flushing where feasible and
G-02  Use no potable water in landscape beyond plant
establishment. Meet LEED v4 WE Credit: Outdoor Water
Use Reduction.
G-03  Evaluate alternative water sources such as condensate,
rainwater, and greywater. Use a water balance to match uses
with sources in the most cost-effective, useful way to reduce
potable water consumption.
G-04  Use 35-50% less indoor water than baseline, including
fixtures and fittings, appliances, and process water. Meet
LEED v4 WE Credit: Indoor Water Use Reduction higher
performance levels.

74
Track water usage
carefully.

Source: www.
balkanplumbing.com

5.2.2
Monitoring and Management
Objective: Design water systems and meters to enable proactive
water management.
Standards
S-01  For residential developments, install separate meters to
monitor cooling tower, landscape, common area, and
residential water uses separately on each site.
S-02  For commercial developments, install permanent water
meters for at least two of the following uses: irrigation,
indoor plumbing fixtures and fittings, domestic hot water,
reclaimed water, boilers using 100,000 gal/year or more,
or other processed water. Meet LEED v4 WE Credit: Water
Metering.
Guidelines
G-01  Separately meter individual residents and commercial lease
space for water consumption.
G-02  Consider, in residential developments, setting up a system
to bill residents for individual suite water use based on
metering data.
G-03  In residential developments, consider setting up graphic
interface in lobby, or other prominent common areas, to
display dynamic whole building water usage comparisons
for buildings within the development.

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Waterfront Development
community meeting

Source: NBBJ

5.3 5.3.2
Thriving Community Community Participation
Invite community members to use the space indoors and out.
Objective: Invite community members and groups to use the space
5.3.1 indoors and out.
Diverse Uses
Objective: Ensure that the District serves a socially and economically Standards
diverse community. S-01  Assemble a Design Review Committee and Public Art
Committee representative of community members, design
professionals, and stakeholders.
Standards
S-01  Add amenities that are attractive and valuable to a diverse S-02  Establish a project Design Review and Public Art policy
community. to clarify project review procedures as part of the design
process for all projects on the site.
Guidelines
G-01  Provide workforce and/or affordable housing that allow Guidelines
people with a diversity of incomes to live on the waterfront. G-01  As programming is developed for the T1 Building, allocate
G-02  Provide a minimum percentage of qualified affordable space for community group use: meetings, workshops,
or low income housing as required — TBD per the Project and potential activities. Develop options and investigate
Development Agreement. feasibility and potential popularity. Support community
groups by providing meeting space.
G-02  Engage the local community in the creation of the
Waterfront Development to ensure success and community
supports in future years.
76
Pedestrian oriented
accessory retail.

Source: Dunn & Hobbes

5.3.3 5.3.4
Communication and Feedback T1 Marketplace/Multi-purpose Building
Objective: Design and implement communication opportunities for Objective: Center sustainable development leadership and
community outreach and feedback to improve the development of demonstration efforts on the most public of the facilities.
the District.
Standards
Standards S-01  Design and construct T1 Marketplace to meet a high
S-01  Develop a regular communication vehicle aimed at standard of sustainability.
community members to ensure that the permitting, design,
and construction process is transparent. Guidelines
G-01  Prioritize locally-owned small businesses as the core value
S-02  Develop permanent public communication signage, kiosk, set for the T1 Marketplace.
or other vehicle
S-03  Build on-site signage for information on progress of the
development.
Guidelines
G-01  Communicate building performance and sustainability
elements to residents and visitors.
G-02  Establish a virtual community information framework to
promote engagement and interaction among waterfront
tenants, residents, employees, and visitors.
G-03  Promote a socially responsible message as part of the
Waterfront Vision Statement. 77
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5.4 Urban Infrastructure
5.4 5.4.2
Urban Infrastructure
Design urban infrastructure such as transportation, site utilities, and
infrastructure to improve human and environmental performance.
5.4.1
Electric Vehicles
Objective: Plan for electric vehicle infrastructure needs.
Standards
S-01  Provide Level 2 EV charging stations for 1% of parking
spaces. See LEED v4 BD&C LT Credit: Green Vehicles.
S-02  Provide 1 Level 3 EV charging station for shared parking.
Guidelines
Consider providing additional “Level 2 EV Ready” infrastructure
beyond the required 1% of parking spaces, with charging stations
to be installed as the demand is proven. LEED v4 BD&C LT Credit:
Green Vehicles.
78
Electric vehicle charging
station.
Source: NBBJ
Rainwater Management
Objective: Manage site rainwater discharge quantity and quality for
ecological benefit to river.
Standards
S-01  Provide for water quality measures on-site.
Guidelines
G-01  Create a site-level water balance/hydrology model that will
include the whole development and determine both the
overall water flow patterns and each block’s contribution
requirements.
G-02  Manage development parcel rainwater holistically through
low impact development strategies such as rain gardens,
permeable surfaces, and runoff filtered through landscape.
G-03  Consider rainwater collection as a shared resource and
amenity.
Children’s drawing.

Source: wabikes.org;
drawing by Akasha Durr,
Hough Elementary,
Vancouver, WA

5.4.3
Human-Friendly Transportation
Objective: Make human-friendly transportation attractive and easy
to choose. Establish an attractive and safe pedestrian network that
encourages walking within the development area and connects to
the downtown Vancouver area.
Standards
S-01  Provide conveniently located, obvious, and welcoming bike
parking for visitors (Class II). Incorporate this into the shared
public infrastructure design for consistency and create bike
parking “zones”.
S-02  Provide facilities to encourage bicycle commuting (Class
II), including easily accessible, long-term, covered, secure
parking, and shower and changing facilities.
Guidelines
G-01  Provide short-term bicycle parking for each building to
serve 2.5% of peak visitors to each building.
G-02  Provide long-term bicycle parking for 5% of building
occupants and showers for regular building occupants.
Meet LEED v4 BD&C LT Credit: Bicycle Facilities for the
specific building use as noted in the credit.
G-03  Prioritize pedestrian experience on site with landscape,
walking paths and amenities designed to encourage
pedestrian activity over vehicular.
G-04  Develop incentive programs to encourage alternative
modes of transportation.

S-03  Follow urban design guidelines for prioritization of pathways

to encourage pedestrian-friendly connections to adjacent
city areas.

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5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
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Low-Impact Design, such

as bioretention cells,
are part of an overall
rainwater management
strategy.

Source:Seattle DJC

5.4.4
Parking/Transportation Management
Objective: Encourage efficiency and reduction of Single Occupant
Vehicle (SOV) parking.
Standards
S-01  Utilize City of Vancouver shared parking reduction credits
for the CX Zone as a strategy to reduce the overall parking
supply as reasonably as possible.
Guidelines
G-01  Provide reduced SOV parking. See LEED v4 LT Credit:
Reduced Parking Footprint and test what it would mean to
project as designed.
G-02  Designate a location on the site for a transit stop and work
with C-Tran to develop a plan to serve the area with at least
two bus lines over the next few years. Locate the stop in a
convenient and lively location and make it inviting to attract
potential riders. Plan to meet LEED v4 BD&C LT Credit:
Access to Quality Transit when complete.
G-03  Provide carpool (2+ people) preferred parking for 5% of any
provided staff/tenant off-street parking.
80
G-04  Develop a travel demand management program for
employers and tenants on-site. Carpool preferred parking,
bike parking, showers, and subsidies or incentives to limit
driving are suggested components.
5.4.5
Synergies and Shared Benefits
Objective: Leverage strategies that create multiple benefits and
seek strategies that serve multiple constituents.
Standards
S-01  Promote an inclusive process that engages a wide range of
stakeholders in the Waterfront District.
Guidelines
G-01  Highlight a range of sustainable development strategies
and educational measures throughout the Waterfront
District.
G-02  Create a community composting system that serves to
enrich an on-site community garden and turn a waste
stream into an asset.
Wind turbines are
delivered to the Port of
Vancouver USA.

Source: Port of Vancouver,

USA

5.5 5.5.2
Energy and Carbon Shared Resources
Build a project that is prepared for a zero net carbon future.
Objective: Share energy resources between buildings on the same
5.5.1 block to create greater efficiency.
Future Ready
Objective: Develop projects that are both financially viable now Standard
and prioritize energy investments that make the development more S-01  Research current best practices as required to achieve
viable and competitive in the future. optimal results.

Standard Guidelines
S-01  Research current best practices as required to achieve G-01  Within each block, consider the mix of building uses and
optimal results. energy demands to take advantage of “waste” heat or
opportunities to share resources for greater efficiency.
Sharing between buildings is highly encouraged where
Guideline
there is an energy advantage to do so. This includes
G-01  Consider future climate projections in designing building
recovering heating for residential use from uses that
envelopes that are passively optimized, and plan
produce large amounts of waste heat such as grocery stores
for comfort systems that are low-energy use and are
and food service retail.
modularized to be able to adapt over time.
G-02  Utilize CO2 based refrigeration technology for large-scale
G-02  Prioritize strategies that allow for passive uses and
refrigeration uses in grocery or food service retail.
operations, and for backup power (including energy
storage) for emergency use.

81
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
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Left: Wind turbines at

Logan International
Airport, Boston MA.
Source: AeroVironment

Right: Building energy

dashboard
Source: leadinggreen.
com

5.5.3
Design for Effective Operation
Objective: Implement best practices in design and construction that
will enable high performance building management.
Standard
S-01  All buildings shall meet the requirements of LEED v4
BD&C EA Prerequisite: Fundamental Commissioning and
Verification.
Guideline
G-01  All projects are encouraged to meet the requirements of
LEED v4 BD&C EA Credit: Enhanced Commissioning.
G-02  Including envelope commissioning is highly encouraged
to ensure that the longest-lived portions of the building
function to their highest potential.
G-03  Periodic re-commissioning is highly encouraged to ensure
that buildings continue to operate with full efficiency and
that all opportunities for increased efficiency are considered
and can be implemented effectively.
G-04  Meet the requirements of LEED v4 BD&C EA Credit:
Advanced Energy Metering to ensure that both building
managers and tenants are able to track energy and use the
information to monitor and improve energy performance.
G-05  In addition to the submetering requirements laid out above,
buildings with a gross conditioned floor area over 20,000
square feet shall be equipped to measure, monitor and
display consumption data for each energy source and end
use category to enable effective energy management.
(See Section 409 2015 Seattle Energy Code for specific
language.)
G-06  Developers are encouraged to implement best practices
in integrative design process to ensure high energy
performance.
G-07  Require energy modeling (to inform design) for all projects.
G-08  Prioritize building strategies that optimize integrated value.

82
Table 8: Building Energy Targets
* These EUI targets were designed so that the standards are the
Type of Requirement T-EUI *(KBtu/sqft/yr) TEDI (KBtu/sqft/yr)
Washington State Energy code while adding no added cost. The stretch
Multi- Standard 45 15 targets are designed to be equivalent with the “Net Zero Ready” levels of
Family Stretch Target (Guideline) 35 6 performance identified within the Architecture 2030 framework.
Standard 35 9
Office
Stretch Target (Guideline) 30 6
Standard 55 7
Retail
Stretch Target (Guideline) 55 5
Standard 60 7
Hotel
Stretch Target (Guideline) 60 5

5.5.4
Renewable Energy
Objective: Plan for the transition to renewable energy sources and
implement what is realistic now.
Standard
S-01  All buildings shall be solar ready, including structural
support, location, and infrastructure space within the
building, to implement solar PV or thermal energy systems.
S-02  Buildings over 5,000 square feet shall incorporate
renewable energy generation on site. Note: this
requirement can be waived if site shadow analysis reveals
that the solar panel will be significantly impacted by
overshadowing by the bridge, trees, or other buildings.
S-03  Offset non-renewable energy use by purchasing green
power. Purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), green
power or carbon offsets for a minimum of 50% of annual
electricity usage.
Guideline
G-01  Incorporate photovoltaics as a visible sign of commitment to
renewable energy futures.
G-02  Consider incorporating vertical axis wind turbine(s) into
the pier as a reminder that POV is a magnet port for wind
energy technology shipping.
5.5.5
Energy Conservation
Objective: Reduce each building’s energy consumption to increase
future resilience, make the development competitive over the long
term, and advance the transition to a renewable energy future.
Standards
S-01  Establish energy targets and adjust and monitor accordingly
over time.

Guidelines
G-01  Energy Targets by Building Type (Table 8)

83
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
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PV panels
Source:

www.solar-voltaics.com

Resilience is about surviving and

thriving, regardless of the challenge.
www.100resilientcities.org

5.5.6 5.6
Passive Survivability and Resilience
Objective: Improve the resilience of the buildings and the overall
site by incorporating passive design principles such as an optimized
envelope, operable windows and adequate daylight to enable
buildings to operate in times of emergency.
Standard
S-01  Design for access to usable daylight to allow lights to be
turned off during daytime hours. Benefits include energy,
health, and resilience.
S-02  The overall thermal envelope of each building must not
achieve less than an effective ‘R’ value of R9 including
balconies, windows and all other thermal bridges.
Guidelines
G-01  Prioritize strategies that allow for passive survivability and
operations.
84
Materials and Waste
Consider the full impact of materials use.
5.6.1
Human Health Impact
Objective: Reduce concentrations of chemicals that can damage air
quality, human health, productivity and the environment.
Standard
S-01  Meet LEED v4 EQ Credit: Low-emitting materials for at least
2 categories (1 point level). Categories include interior
paints and coatings, adhesives and sealants, flooring,
composite wood, insulation and furniture.
S-02  Meet LEED v4 EQ Credit: Construction IAQ Management
Plan.
Guideline
G-01  Material transparency and product ingredient disclosure
are highly encouraged as best practices. Consider meeting
LEED v4 MR Credit: Building Product Disclosure and
Optimization: Material Ingredients first tier for material
ingredient reporting.
Earth Tub commercial
composting system is
an example of simple,
easy to use nutrient
recycling. www.
compostingtechnology.
com.

Source: www.oakpark.
com

5.6.2
Material Life Cycle
Guidelines
Objective: Design for optimal efficiency of material use and G-01  Meet LEED v4 MR Credit: Building Product Disclosure and
consider full life of materials. Optimization: Sourcing of Raw Materials.

Standard G-02  Meet LEED v4 BD&C MR Credit: Building Product Disclosure

S-01  Meet LEED v4 BD&C MR Prerequisite: Construction and
Demolition Waste Diversion Planning.
S-02  Meet LEED v4 BD&C MR Credit Construction and
Demolition Waste Management. Divert 50% including three
waste streams from landfill.
and Optimization: Environmental Product Declarations
G-03  Seek out local and regional products and those with less
transportation impact to the site.
G-04  Prefabricate wherever possible to reduce waste and
increase precision. During construction, landfill only as a last
resort after reuse, recycling and composting options have
been investigated.
G-05  Meet LEED v4 BD&C MR Credit Construction and
Demolition Waste Management. Divert 75% including four
waste streams from landfill.

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Recycling program is
part of an overall waste
management strategy.

Source:
www.concertproperties.
com

5.6.3
Operational Materials Waste
Objective: Encourage community awareness and participation in
waste reduction.
Standard
S-01  Meet LEED v4 MR Prerequisite: Storage and Collection of
Recyclables.
S-02  Track and seek to minimize ongoing operational waste. Set
regular reduction targets (% of waste stream) and publicize
goals so tenants and occupants can participate.
Guideline
G-01  Create a community culture of “reduce, reuse, recycle” and
reinforce by making all three easy. Consider incorporating
a location for “trades” along with a recycling location,
especially in a residential building.
G-02  Create a compost center associated with a community
garden to which residents and tenants (especially
restaurants) can bring their compostable materials.
G-03  Explore piloting a container take-back/token system for
food services, such as grocery, restaurants, food truck, and/
or kiosk vendors, to engage regular customers in a waste
reduction program.
G-04  Explore ways of advancing Vancouver’s waste reduction
options, potentially collaborating with adjacent
development to create more critical mass for advancement
of options.

86
Left: Yoga in the Park:
Combining work and
fitness can make both
more fun and successful.
Networkingout.com is
launching an app that
connects people through
common interests for
both business and fitness
networking accountability.
Source: www.
barclayscardtravel.com

Right: South Waterfront

Source: Walker Macy

5.7 5.7.2
Healthy Place Active Lifestyles
Create a place that maximizes human and ecological health and
enjoyment. Objective: Create a place that encourages a healthy, active lifestyle.

5.7.1 Standard
Healthy, Enjoyable Experiences S-01  Include messaging or articles in the District’s communication
Objective: Choose sustainable strategies that ensure vibrancy, to inform and reinforce the opportunities available.
livability, and enjoyability. S-02  Provide bicycle infrastructure (parking and changing/shower
rooms). See 4.4 Urban Infrastructure.
Standard
S-01  Research current best practices as required to achieve S-03  Ensure that walking paths are accessible to allow people of
optimal results. all ages and abilities to participate.
S-04  Provide and encourage the use of alternative commuting
Guideline options for more active daily patterns. See 4.4.3 Parking/
G-01  Prioritize health and wellness strategies that improve / Transportation Management. Car-pool preferred parking,
positively influence human health and wellbeing. bike parking, showers and subsidies or incentives to limit
driving are suggested components.
Guideline
G-01  Promote Renaissance Trail, biking, playing and non-
motorized movement.
G-01  Provide or enable a bicycle sharing system.
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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Garage door creates

indoor-outdoor space for
a restaurant

Source: www.houzz.com

5.7.3 5.7.4
Air Quality Food
Objective: Apply best practices to ensure high indoor air quality to Objective: Promote and encourage healthy eating.
all spaces.
Standard
Standard S-01  Support locally-grown foods whenever feasible.
S-01  Meet ASHRAE Standard 62.2 - 2010 Indoor Air Quality for
Ventilation. (Except residential) Guideline
S-02  Provide operable windows in all buildings unless G-01  Host a thriving community organic garden.
functionally undesirable. G-02  Encourage residents, vendors, and restaurateurs to grow
and purchase local food.
Guideline
G-01  Follow Port guidelines BMPS for construction IAQ, water G-03  Consider creating a composting facility associated with a
quality. community garden that also incorporates compostable
materials from all projects in the development. Devise a
G-02  Adopt operational policies and plans that provide high cooperative method of collecting compostable materials on
indoor and outdoor air and water quality. a regular basis to feed and enrich the site itself over time.
(see www.compostingtechnology.com for low-tech options
for Earth Tub, an in-vessel composting system that can be
scaled to fit individual sites).

88
Interbay P-Patch

Source: City of Seattle

5.7.5 5.7.6
Comfort Demonstration
Objective: Create comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces Objective: Make sustainable strategies visible to promote greater
conducive to work, play or relaxation. community sustainability.

Standard Standard
S-01  Meet ASHRAE Standard 55 for Thermal Comfort, either S-01  For select projects (Waterfront Blocks), meet a higher
Standard or Adaptive comfort for naturally ventilated standard as a demonstration—LEED Platinum, Living
buildings (except residential). Building Challenge Petal certification or other.

Guideline Guideline
G-01  Incorporate the use of indoor/outdoor seating areas. G-01  Seek public private partnerships for a range of sustainable
development demonstration opportunities.
G-02  Promote natural daylighting as a design strategy.

89
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Active streets and locally

owned small businesses
contribute to a thriving
economy.

Left Source: blog.

signpost.com

Right Source: flickr.com

5.8 5.8.2
Economy and Value Local Economic Development
Plan and execute projects to respect the legacy of the Port and
Objective: Encourage economic development of local companies
maximize the value of the property over its lifetime.
and industries.
5.8.1
Long Term Value Standard
S-01  Promote job creation in the Waterfront District.
Objective: Plan, design and construct all projects as long-term
investments, ensuring that a broad and holistic approach to S-02  Developers/contractors shall track and report to POV the
sustainable design is incorporated. percentage (by $ volume) of design and construction
contracts that are filled by Portland metro area companies.
Standard
S-03  Involve community in ongoing activity and improvement of
S-01  Incorporate a thorough due diligence review process
project performance.
maximizing the Port’s interest as an economic development
agency. S-04  Consider designating a zone for food trucks that support
local restaurant incubation or entrepreneurs.
Guideline
S-05  Explore piloting a container take-back/token system to
G-01  Prioritize strategies with enduring value, passive over active
engage regular customers in a waste reduction program.
strategies.
S-06  Implement building and development performance
G-02  Invest in strategies with clear value (economic and/or
monitoring and communicate to residents and visitors
environmental) and return for the property beyond first cost.
via building information kiosks and the feedback
G-03  Create incentives or rewards for tenants based on energy communication platform.
90 saving thresholds.
Pybus Market,
Wenatchee, WA..
Source: NBBJ
S-07  Prioritize locally-owned small businesses as the core value
set for the T1 Marketplace.
S-08  Establish a virtual community participation framework and
discuss series to promote engagement and interaction
among waterfront tenants, residents, employees and
visitors.
S-09  Promote a social responsible message as part of the
Waterfront Mission Statement.
Guideline
G-01  Encourage local growth by reaching out to make sure
local companies are included in contract opportunities
as well as seeking out local small business or startup
tenants. Maximize opportunities for local small business,
organizations and groups to make the district “home”.
5.8.3
Design Decision Priorities
Objective: Plan, design and construct all projects to prioritize
strategies with long-term holistic value.
Standard
S-01  Require design energy modeling for all projects.
S-02  Meet LEED v4 Credit: Integrative Process discovery and
implementation steps for energy-related systems and
water-related systems.
Guideline
G-01  Consider strategies in integrated performance bundles to
maximize benefits.
G-02  Develop systems and strategies that capitalize on shared
benefits and costs to amplify the value to the overall
development.
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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
5.0 SUSTAINABLE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Children play in an
interactive water
fountain Source:
flickr.com

5.8.4 5.8.5
Leadership Comprehensive Performance Standards
Objective: Model sustainable performance and stewardship of Objective: Meet a universal comprehensive performance standard.
public resources.
Standard
Standard S-01  All parcels shall be certified to LEED Gold performance
S-01  Identify areas or projects for intentional sustainability standard or higher.
leadership.
Guideline
Guideline G-01  Use relevant strategies in West Coast sustainable
G-01  Operate the Waterfront Development in a way that is development guide.
consistent with high performance sustainable values.
G-02  Set & hold accountable project performance targets.

92
Inn at the Quay, 1950.
Source: Port of Vancouver,
USA
5.8.6
Operations
Objective: Develop and implement operational policies and plans
that ensure sustainable performance over time.
Standard
S-01  Incorporate best practices for all operations, management
and administration at the Waterfront District.
S-02  Develop operational policies and plans to maintain desired
performance.
S-03  Develop and implement shoreline management plan to
protect habitat over time. (Note: LEED v4 ND SSL Credit:
Long-term Conservation Management of Habitat or
Wetlands and Water Bodies provides a good model for
implementing this standard).
S-04  Develop and implement a sustainable landscape
management policy and plan to address long-term
maintenance and operations for optimum ecological health.
S-05  Develop and implement a water management policy and
plan for each project through building management.
S-06  Develop a regular communication vehicle aimed at
community members to ensure that the entitlement, design,
and construction process is transparent.
S-07  Develop a travel demand management program for
employers and tenants on-site. Car-pool preferred parking,
bike parking, showers to support and encourage alternative
transportation to single occupancy vehicles.
S-08  Develop a waste reduction program for materials used
within the buildings. Utilize a targeted approach so that
participants can specifically acknowledge their progress
towards goals.
S-09  Adopt operational policies and plans that provide high
indoor and outdoor air & water quality.
Guideline
G-01  Create a community participation framework and platform
that can operate during the design and implementation
process and throughout ongoing operations.
93
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development

Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

6.0
APPENDIX
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
6.0 APPENDIX
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 21: Site Diagram

6.0
Appendix
6.1
Signage and Wayfinding
An effective wayfinding system is memorable and intuitive.
Traditional wayfinding is purely informational (i.e., street signs and
directionals), whereas the foundation of the proposed wayfinding
system is landmark-based. Creating impressionable nodes by which
people can navigate through the space allow new visitors to quickly
go from point A to point B and back without confusion. Landmarks
can include public art, murals, quirky signs, and/or sculptures.
Incorporating directional information into these landmarks help MARKET
create a holistic and memorable wayfinding system. Research in
neuroanthropology supports landmark-based wayfinding as a
more intuitive and effective way for people to navigate a space. Key
points in research include:
• Cells in the hippocampus and medial temporal lobes map
boundaries, landmarks, direction and distance;
• The brain is constantly monitoring direction and speed of WATER FRONT
movement relative to starting point;

96
Left:
Figure 22: Vehicular
Route Map

Right:
Figure 23:Pedestrian
Route Map

• Our brain is well equipped to make mental maps of our Intent

environment via geometry and episodic memory and, in general,
we find broader success in finding our way through landmarks;
• Art in wayfinding encodes an area with culture and
personality, and connects people to physical space on an
emotional level.
A simple way to summarize these findings is to say art creates
memorable points in space. These points allow people to easily
remember where they are going or where they have been. Turning
right at the pink elephant is easier to remember than turn right on
Madison Avenue.
Goal
Provide a simple, intuitive, and memorable wayfinding system
to seamlessly guide people throughout the Port of Vancouver
Waterfront Development site. Incorporating art into landmark
identifiers and directionals will create memorable and thus effective
nodes by which people can easily navigate.
Create a cohesive and appropriately scaled signage plan for both
vehicles and people. See Figures 22 and 23 for vehicular and
pedestrian routes to be taken into consideration in designing a
wayfinding system for the site.
Standards
• Primary markers should allow for maximum visibility for
oncoming traffic. The primary markers will be the largest of
the signs.
• Secondary markers will be the directional markers; carrying
the bulk of information such as maps, directories and
directionals.
• Tertiary markers do not contain any directional information;
they display the history of the site.

97
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
6.0 APPENDIX
WHAT WE HEARD:
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 24: Client

Feedback
NATURE ORIENTED SOCIALLY ORIENTED

STAND-OUT INTEGRATED

HISTORIC MODERN

PLAYFUL PROFESSIONAL

CASUAL REFINED

Approach to Design
A workshop with clients uncovered inspiration and intent for the
Port of Vancouver waterfront site. Figure 24 depicts the atmosphere
of the new waterfront as social, playful, and casual with a nod to the
history of the place. In addition, key words were compiled to help
guide the design of the wayfinding system. This information was
then translated into two different design schemes discussed in the
next few pages, Figures 25, 26, and 27.

98
 Figure 25: Key Words

WHAT
WHAT
WHATWE
WE
WEHEARD:
HEARD:
HEARD:

ENERGETIC
ENERGETIC
ENERGETIC CLEAN
CLEAN
CLEAN PACIFIC
PACIFIC
PACIFIC
NORTHWEST+++
NORTHWEST+++
NORTHWEST+++
ACTIVE
ACTIVE
ACTIVE RETRO-MODERN
RETRO-MODERN
RETRO-MODERN TONETONE
TONE
HERITAGE
HERITAGE
HERITAGE
ENERGY
ENERGY
ENERGY
LIVELY
LIVELY
LIVELY COLORFUL
COLORFUL
COLORFUL ENVIRONMENTALLY
ENVIRONMENTALLY
ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY
FRIENDLY
FRIENDLY
EXCITING
EXCITING
EXCITING INTERESTING
INTERESTING
INTERESTING WHERE
WHERE
WHEREHISTORY
HISTORY
HISTORY
MEETS
MEETS
MEETS
FUTURE
FUTURE
FUTURE
FUNFUN
FUN VISUALLY
VISUALLY
VISUALLY
APPLEALING
APPLEALING
APPLEALING
SERINE
SERINE
SERINE VIBRANT
VIBRANT
VIBRANT LOGISTICS
LOGISTICS
LOGISTICS
A PLACE
AAPLACE
PLACE
TOTO
EXPLORE
TOEXPLORE
EXPLORE
AESTHETICS/
AESTHETICS/
LOOKLOOK
AND
AESTHETICS/
LOOK
FEEL
AND
ANDFEEL
FEEL UNIQUE
UNIQUE
UNIQUE WALKABILITY
WALKABILITY
WALKABILITY
INVITING
INVITING
INVITING MEMORABLE
MEMORABLE
MEMORABLE
WELCOMING++
WELCOMING++
WELCOMING++ MULTI-FACTED
MULTI-FACTED
MULTI-FACTED PoV BRAND
PoV
PoVBRAND
BRAND
PORT-CENTRIC
PORT-CENTRIC
PORT-CENTRIC
FRIENDLY
FRIENDLY
FRIENDLY WOWWOW
WOW
FACTOR!
FACTOR!
FACTOR! RECONGIZABLE
RECONGIZABLE
RECONGIZABLE
ASAS
PoV
ASPoV
PoV
PLACE
PLACE
PLACE
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY MAGNETIC
MAGNETIC
MAGNETIC
SOCIAL
SOCIAL
SOCIAL
NEIGHBORHOOD
NEIGHBORHOOD
NEIGHBORHOOD REFLECTIVE
REFLECTIVE
REFLECTIVE GOOD
GOOD
GOOD
FOOD
FOOD
FOOD
SOCIAL
SOCIAL
SOCIAL GREEN
GREEN
GREEN
IN IN
THE
INTHE
THE
CITY
CITY
CITY NOTES
NOTES
NOTES
GOOD
GOOD
GOOD
VIEWS
VIEWS
VIEWS
A PLACE
AAPLACE
PLACE
OFOF
CONNECTION
OFCONNECTION
CONNECTION PICTURESQUE
PICTURESQUE
PICTURESQUE
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE FOCUS
FOCUS
FOCUS
ONONWATER
ONWATER
WATER
SAFE
SAFE
SAFE
“CHEERS!”
“CHEERS!”
“CHEERS!”

99
 REFERENCE:
6.0 APPENDIX SCHEME A Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Reference imagery for

Scheme A

6.1.1
Scheme A (Recommended)
Scheme A proposes to reuse building materials from the
construction site or other local sources to preserve the character,
atmosphere, and history of the site.
The design of the signage system takes inspiration from forms
(above) found at the pier while the typographic inspiration (Figure
30) is taken from ships and shipping containers. Juxtaposing
industrial stencils with more expressive typefaces help create
energetic, and vibrant signage with a respect to the site's history
and culture. Fabrication of the signs will imitate life. Instead of
applied vinyl graphics, or similar, text will painted directly on the
sign just as is done for ships and shipping containers.

100
Figure 26: Schemes
based on keywords from SCHEME A SCHEME B
Figure 25.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST+++ SERINE
ENERGETIC SAFE
EXCITING COMMUNITY
FUN NEIGHBORHOOD+
WELCOMING++ HERITAGE
FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
SOCIAL PICTURESQUE
“CHEERS!” FOCUS ON WATER
PORT-CENTRIC GREEN IN THE CITY
WOW FACTOR! REFLECTIVE
MAGNETIC WHERE HISTORY MEETS FUTURE
COLORFUL CLEAN
TYPE/COLOR/MATERIAL:
RETRO-MODERN
VIBRANT
INTERESTING++
UNIQUE
MULTI-FACTEDA
SCHEME MEMORABLE

Figure 27: Typographic

inspiration for Scheme A

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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
6.0 APPENDIX
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Figure 28: Sign Types

Sign Types
The system is composed of three sign types. Type A is a large
landmark identifier for easy visibility by vehicles and pedestrians.
Type B is a directional marker for miscellaneous close-up
information like parking and/or directories. Type C is a special
historic marker that runs along the waterfront to tell the history of
the site, a sort of "mile markers into the past."
While the system is cohesive in form, and function, there are
opportunities to incorporate more expressive and memorable
elements to each sign.

P P MAP MAP
TRAIL TRAIL TRAIL TRAIL

MARKET MARKET

Lorem ipsum dolor sit Suspendisse in eros

amet, consectetur
adipiscing elit. Vestibulum
vehicula imperdiet justo
quis auctor. Suspendisse
laoreet a ante a dictum.
Aenean iaculis, tortor non
sodales vestibulum, ipsum
ante pretium ipsum, et
vulputate augue libero sed
sem. Donec id eros vitae
lectus mollis accumsan.
sollicitudin, consequat odio
sed, ultricies nisi. Sed
consectetur volutpat metus,
ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend
lobortis. Etiam rutrum
fringilla dictum.
Pellentesque euismod
vestibulum eros id facilisis.
Cras felis velit, porta vitae
nisl

HOTEL HOTEL

CITY CITY

ART PARKING ARTTYPE A: LARGE

PARKING MAPID A.1
MAP A.1 TYPEA.2
DIRECTIONAL
DIRECTIONAL A.2
INTERPRETIVE (END)
B: DIRECTIONAL REGULATORY REGULATORY A.3 A.3
INTERPRETIVE (FRONT)
SMALL
TYPE DIRECTIONAL
C: SMALL DIRECTIONAL
INTERPRETIVE
102
Figure 29: Wayfinding
Key
TYPE A

TYPE B

TYPE C

VIEWING RADIUS

103
REFERENCE:
SCHEME A Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
6.0 APPENDIX
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Reference imagery for

Scheme A

Large Landmark Identifier (Type A)

These large-scaled pier-like reclaimed lumber sculptural signs
serve as landmarks that define the Waterfront District boundary
as well as provide directional information to visitors. Each sign is a
different combination of long-distance identifier, art, history/other
information, and/or directory depending on the location.

Objective
Allow instant visibility for on-coming traffic and directing visitors to
and around site.

Guideline
• At least 25 feet tall by 2 feet diameter.
• Reclaimed material from local source.
• Top section should include place identifier (Market, Hotel,
Farmers Market).
• No logos.
• Art by local artists.

104
Figure 30: Type A
Landmark Identifier

MARKET
LONG-DISTANCE IDENTIFIER

ART

RECLAIMED WOOD PIER

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Vestibulum vehicula imperdiet justo quis auctor.
Suspendisse laoreet a ante a dictum. Aenean iaculis,

HISTORY
tortor non sodales vestibulum, ipsum ante pretium ipsum,
et vulputate augue libero sed sem. Donec id eros vitae
lectus mollis accumsan. Suspendisse in eros sollicitudin,
consequat odio sed, ultricies nisi. Sed consectetur
volutpat metus, ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend lobortis. Etiam
rutrum fringilla dictum. Pellentesque euismod vestibulum
eros id facilisis. Cras felis velit, porta vitae nisl

MAP/DIRECTORY

MULTI-USE IN
105
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Figure 31: Variations of

the Type A Landmark
Identifier

LONG-DISTANCE IDENTIFIER LONG-DISTANCE IDENTIFIER

ART

Lorem ipsum dolor sit

amet, consectetur
adipiscing elit. Vestibulum
vehicula imperdiet justo
quis auctor. Suspendisse
laoreet a ante a dictum.
Aenean iaculis, tortor non
sodales vestibulum, ipsum
ante pretium ipsum, et
vulputate augue libero sed
sem. Donec id eros vitae
lectus mollis accumsan.

Suspendisse in eros

DIRECTORY INFORMATION/HISTORY
sollicitudin, consequat odio
sed, ultricies nisi. Sed
consectetur volutpat metus,
ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend
lobortis. Etiam rutrum
fringilla dictum.
Pellentesque euismod
vestibulum eros id facilisis.
Cras felis velit, porta vitae
nisl

LANDMARK + MAP LANDMARK + HISTORY ART

106
Figure 32: Locations of
Type A large landmark
identifiers

LONG-DISTANT ID

ART

DIRECTIONAL
A.3

LONG-DISTANT ID

ART

LONG-DISTANT ID DIRECTIONAL
A.3
ART

DIRECTIONAL
A.3

A.2

LONG-DISTANT ID

A.3
ART DIRECTIONAL

HISTORY

INTERPRETIVE

107
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Figure 33: Type B

Directional Marker
MAP
TRAIL TRAIL
P MAP

MARKET

HOTEL

CITY

MAP DIRECTIONAL REGULATORY SMALL DIRECTIONAL PARKING MAP DIRECT

Directional Markers (Type B)

Type B signs are scaled much smaller than Type A for directional
information. Placement of directional markers should consider:
viewing distant, density and frequency, be able to direct users from
the site’s perimeter towards the market and waterfront.

Objective
Use as platform for secondary information: maps, directories, directionals.

Guideline
• At least 8 feet tall by 2 feet in diameter.
• Reclaimed material from local source.
• All text/symbols are painted.
• No logos.
• Small directionals are only used for textual information.

108
Figure 34: Locations of
Type B large Landmark
Identifiers Directional
Markers

B.1 DIRECTIONAL DIRECTORY

B.2 DIRECTIONAL

MAP
B.2 DIRECTIONAL

MAP
DIRECTIONAL B.2

MAP
B.2 DIRECTIONAL

B.2 MAP B.2 DIRECTIONAL

DIRECTIONAL

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Figure 35: Type C

Interpretive Marker

Lorem ipsum dolor sit Suspendisse in eros

amet, consectetur
adipiscing elit. Vestibulum
vehicula imperdiet justo
quis auctor. Suspendisse
laoreet a ante a dictum.
Aenean iaculis, tortor non
sodales vestibulum, ipsum
ante pretium ipsum, et
vulputate augue libero sed
sem. Donec id eros vitae
lectus mollis accumsan.
sollicitudin, consequat odio
sed, ultricies nisi. Sed
consectetur volutpat metus,
ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend
lobortis. Etiam rutrum
fringilla dictum.
Pellentesque euismod
vestibulum eros id facilisis.
Cras felis velit, porta vitae
nisl

INTERPRETIVE (END) INTERPRETIVE (FRONT)

Interpretive Markers (Type C)

Type C signs are interpretive markers. One use is as a timeline
running along the waterfront that tell the history of the site, a kind of
“breadcrumbs” and “mile markers” into the past.

Objective
Use for tertiary information that link to the history of the site or any
other information that may be needed.

Guideline
• At least 3 feet tall by 2 feet in diameter.
• Reclaimed material from local source.
• Meant for pedestrians only.

110 33
Figure 36: Locations
of Type C Interpretive
Markers.

INTERPRETIVE
HISTORY

111
 TYPE/COLOR/MATERIAL:
6.0 APPENDIX SCHEME B Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

Typographic imagery for

Scheme B

6.1.2
Scheme B
Scheme B is differentiated from Scheme A by taking a more
material-based theme. Materials are inspired by ships, boats, and
raw material found within the area.
Typographical inspiration is based on old serif typefaces found in
vintage maps.
The signs are themselves abstract sculptures that invite
contemplation. This system has two types of signs—one large
landmark and one smaller directional sign.

112
 REFERENCE:
SCHEME B
Figure 37: Scheme
B Keywords and
Inspirational Imagery
SERENE
SAFE
COMMUNITY
NEIGHBORHOOD+
HERITAGE
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
PICTURESQUE
FOCUS ON WATER
GREEN IN THE CITY
REFLECTIVE
WHERE HISTORY MEETS
FUTURE
CLEAN
INTERESTING++
UNIQUE
MEMORABLE
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Figure 38: Variations of

the Landmark Sculpture

Landmark Sculptures (Type A)

Scheme B signs are made of different raw materials left to weather
in the elements. Different combinations of materials can be used
within the district.

Objective
Allow instant visibility for on-coming traffic and directing visitors to
and around site.

Guideline
• At least 25 feet tall .
• Reclaimed material from local source.
• No logos.
• Art by local artists.

END FRONT
PERSPECTIVE

114
Figure 39: Variations of
the Landmark Sculpture
in different materials

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Figure 40: Information on
Landmark Sculpture
ART
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
Vestibulum vehicula imperdiet justo quis auctor.
Suspendisse laoreet a ante a dictum. Aenean iaculis, tortor
non sodales vestibulum, ipsum ante pretium ipsum, et
vulputate augue libero sed sem. Donec id eros vitae lectus
mollis accumsan. Suspendisse in eros sollicitudin,
consequat odio sed, ultricies nisi. Sed consectetur volutpat
metus, ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend lobortis. Etiam rutrum
fringilla dictum. Pellentesque euismod vestibulum eros id
facilisis. Cras felis velit, porta vitae nisl
END FRONT “A”
116
ART ART
Vestibulum vehicula imperdiet justo quis auctor donec
vitae. mollis accumsan. Suspendisse in eros sollicitudin,
consequat odio sed, ultricies nisi. Sed consectetur volutpat
HISTORY HISTORY
metus, ut ullamcorper nisi eleifend lobortis.
Etiam rutrum fringilla dictum. Pellentesque euismod
vestibulum eros id facilisis. Cras felis velit, porta vitae nisl
Suspendisse laoreet a ante a dictum. Aenean iaculis, tortor
non sodales vestibulum, ipsum ante pretium ipsum, et
vulputate augue libero sed sem. Donec id eros vitae lectus
FRONT “B”
Figure 41: Variations of Directional Signs (Type B)
directional sign Scheme B signs are made of different raw materials left to weather
in the elements. Different combinations of materials can be used
within the district.

Objective
Allow instant visibility for on-coming traffic and directing visitors to
and around site.

Design Guide
• At least 7 feet tall.
• Reclaimed material from local source.
• No logos.
• Art by local artists.

P
PUBLIC
PARKING
PUBLIC POST
MAP MARKET
TRAIL

DOWNTOWN
MARKET
HOTEL

MARKET
TRAIL

DOWNTOWN
HOTEL

REGULATORY MAP PUBLIC POST DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE (END VIEW)

117
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Left: Public art doubling

as Baltimore, MD bus
stop.
Source: www.nextcity.org

Right: Visually interesting

faÇade on parking
structure.
Source: www.pinterest.
com

6.2
Public Art

Goal
Draw people to the market and towards the waterfront using nodes
and/or touch-points throughout the site.
The combination of distinct landmarks, engaging art pieces, and
clear direction will act like trails of breadcrumbs enabling users to
explore the surrounding environment effortlessly.
The following types of public art and artist involvement shall be
incorporated into the Waterfront project:
a. Artist Collaborative Lead: At significant sites in the
development, artist collaborates with design team in
fundamental way to incorporate art thinking and concepts in
to the design.
b. Significant Artwork: Major, permanent anchor project in
significant location.
c. Other Permanent Artwork: Strengthen the site experience
with diverse scales and concepts.
d. Temporary Art Exhibit Space: Activation of site through short
term exhibits by artists-in-residence, local artists, or open call.
118
Figure 42: Public Art
Locations

North Access
Way

treet
Esther S

Col
Blk. 1

6
Access Way

um
bia
Blk. C Blk. A

Stre

und
et

hbo
Sout
C

CRC
Columb
ia Way

C
Blk. 2 B
D
Blk. D Blk. B
A

und
C

hbo
Columbia Renaissance Trail

Nort
C

CRC
D A A
B

COLUMBIA RIVER

0 50 100 200
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 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
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Diffused lighting in public
plaza.
Source: Coughlin Porter
Lundeen
6.3 6.3.1
Lighting
This master plan for the exterior lighting of the Port of Vancouver
Waterfront Development provides a framework of required and
recommended lighting design standards and guidelines for all
landscape, building mounted, or site lighting for the development.
This document is to be referenced and adhered to in designing
the landscape, site, and faÇade lighting for all developments on the
Waterfront Development. These guidelines will ensure a cohesive
aesthetic across all blocks, and uphold the Port of Vancouver’s
desire for an environmentally friendly site. Sustainable design and
environmental stewardship are a priority for the Port of Vancouver
and are addressed in this Master Plan.
120
Lighting Design
Quality site lighting is the result of a layered and modulated
lighting system that is strategically designed to accentuate areas
of interest while addressing visual tasks and the perception of
safety. Careful and deliberate planning is necessary to provide a
system that supports the beauty and integrity of the site, creates an
enjoyable and safe environment for users, enhances performance,
and adheres to sustainability measures.
This plan includes prescriptive requirements as well as
aspirational recommendations for the aesthetics and function of
the various site areas.
Objectives
• Code compliance
• Appropriate Illuminance Levels
• Sustainability
• Light Pollution Reduction
• Glare Control
Left: Lighting highlights
architectural features.
Source: www.
hassellstudio.com

Right: Avoiding
uplighting reduces light
pollution.
Source: www.
outdoordesign.com

• Perception of Safety
• Effective Wayfinding
• Aesthetics
• Hierarchy of Light
It is important to balance the aesthetic design of the site with the
requirements to meet energy code and industry best practices,
such as minimizing uplight to reduce the site’s impact on local
wildlife. Suggestions for how to achieve this balance can be found
throughout this document, and should be strongly considered
when designing the lighting for the site.
With the many functions, tasks, and use types on the site, it is
important to categorize areas and to design each separately
without detracting from an overarching cohesive design.
Residential areas should not be given the same lighting
treatments or controls as public areas of higher activity. However,
the lighting design should have a recognizably consistent
aesthetic across the entire site. This can include using consistent
Correlated Color Temperature throughout, using similar strategies
to light surfaces, and using fixtures that relate to one another, just to
name a few. A detailed breakdown of uses by block can be seen in
Table 2.
Summary of Area Uses
• Block A | Mixed-Use/Office
• Block B | Mixed Use/Office
• Block C | Mixed-Use/Residential
• Block D | Hospitality
• Waterfront Pier | Marketplace/Multi-Purpose Space
• Public Open Space
Because the blocks of the site will be developed by multiple
tenants, consider lighting strategies that will unify the different
buildings, rather than display their differences. Also consider how
lighting needs differ from one tenant to another. Residential areas
will have different requirements for lighting function than the
hospitality or public areas of the site.

121
 Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
6.0 APPENDIX
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Left: Artful lighting for a

public patio.
Source: www.lighting.
xcyyxh.com

Right: Colorful lighting for

tunnel in Holland.
Source: www.slate.com

6.3.2
Codes
Code compliance on the Waterfront Development is required. MINIMUM REQUIREMENT
This includes local and state energy codes, and Washington State’s • Meet current energy and building codes.
International Building Code and appendices. Washington’s National
Green Building Standard is voluntary, but should be considered. ASPIRATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
All provisions required by codes, regulatory agencies, and industry • Reduce site and exterior lighting power density (LPD) by 10%
practices for high quality installations shall be met. or greater from current energy code.
Local and state codes and applicable sections include, but are not • Meet National Green Building Standard.
limited to:
• Washington State adopted energy code with amendments
and additions by the state of Washington
• Washington State adopted International Building Code (IBC)
• National Electric Code as published by the National Fire
Protection Association with amendments and additions by the
Vancouver Municipal Code (VMC)
• City of Vancouver adopted National Green Building Standard
ICC 700 is to be used on a voluntary basis.

122
 Limit accent up-lighting.
Source: www.pinterest.
com
6.3.3
Sustainability Guidelines
Many aspects of lighting systems should be investigated when
developing an environmentally sustainable lighting solution. These
include; energy consumption of fixtures, sustainable materials,
appropriate lighting controls, and consideration of the impact
lighting has on external factors such as wildlife and neighboring
areas. The following are suggestions for strategies to reduce the
lighting system’s environmental impact:
• Use of new energy efficient technologies;
• Use of sustainable materials when selecting fixtures and sources;
• Use of local solar panels to power lighting on the site;
• Use of occupancy sensors or similar technology to reduce
energy consumption;
• Reduction of light pollution, light trespass, and skyglow;
• Consideration of impacts of lighting on local wildlife;
• Consideration of impacts of lighting on human circadian
systems and health;
• Consideration of following LEED guidelines;
• Consideration of following National Green Building Standard
ICC guidelines.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENT
• Meet minimum light pollution reduction requirements. Refer
to Section 3.2.4, Street Lights.
• Use sources with 70 picograms per lumen-hour of mercury or less.
• All exterior lighting, except luminaires specifically designated
to be decorative (i.e., decorative sconces, pendants, etc) shall
have a minimum of 60 lumens per watt.
• All fixtures on the site shall have a minimum rated life of
50,000 hours to L70 or 20,000 hours for non-LED sources.
ASPIRATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
• Meet aspirational recommendations for light pollution
reduction. Refer to Section 3.2.4, Street Lights.
• Dim all site lighting by more than 30% after curfew hour.
Provide motion sensors to bring lighting to full output in
critical areas. Maintain code required light levels for all egress
paths.
• Use local solar panels to power street, parking lot, or other
site lighting.
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Accent and area lighting

with minimal disruptive
impact.

Source:www.archello.com

6.3.4
Light Pollution
Strategies to reduce light pollution on the site should be strongly
considered, to reflect the Port's environmental mindfulness and
to follow industry best practices. A guideline to consider is the
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES)/International Dark-Skies
Association (IDA) Model Lighting Ordinance (MLO). The Port may
choose to set a curfew time for which the lighting will be reduced by
at least 30% or extinguished in accordance with the MLO.
The MLO recommends the use of maximum B-U-G (backlight,
uplight, glow) ratings1 for different site areas. This strategy should be
adhered to for the Waterfront Development site. Over-lighting the
site will negate many of the positive impacts of B-U-G ratings due to
reflection off ground surfaces. Additionally, energy consumption for
the site will be higher than necessary if over-lit. Suggestions listed
in IES RP-33 for Exterior Environments should be considered when
designing the exterior lighting on the site2. Art or accent, facade,
and landscape lighting will be required to extinguish or dim after a
curfew hour set by the Port to minimize impact on the surrounding
B-U-G Rating Diagram
wildlife, circadian rhythm, and reduce sky glow.
Source: IES/IDA MLO

124
Dim nighttime accent and
wayfinding lighting.

Source: www.
cooperindustries.com

MINIMUM REQUIREMENT
One strategy that can be used to help with the impact on both • Meet B-U-G rating limits as required by the MLO.
wildlife and humans is consideration of the Correlated Color
Temperature (CCT). Several studies have shown that blue-rich • Use warm white light with good color rendering (3000K CCT
light sources impact migratory and reproductive patterns of or warmer, 70+ CRI).
waterfowl3, and can contribute to circadian rhythm disruption 4.
Warm-white LEDs (with CCT < 3000K; S/P ratio < 1.2)5 should be • Turn off all exterior lighting that is decorative in nature after
used throughout the site, and are particularly important near the curfew hour.
waterline.
ASPIRATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Illuminating Engineering Society, International Dark-Sky Association. “Model Lighting
Ordinance (MLO).” 2011. • Dim all site lighting by more than 30% after curfew hour.
2. Illuminating Engineering Society. “Recommended Practice (RP)-33: Lighting For Exterior
Provide motion sensors to bring lighting to full output in
Environments.” 2005. critical areas. Maintain code required light levels for all egress
3. Rich, Catherine, Longcore, Travis. Ecological Consequences of Artificial Night Light. paths.
Island Press, 2006.
• Design lighting to minimize horizontal and vertical light level
4. American Medical Association. “Human and Environmental Effects of Light
Emitting Diode Community Lighting”. Publication. 2016. at edge of the Columbia River to 0.01 fc.
5. International Dark-Sky Association. “The Promise and Challenges of LED Lighting:
A Practical Guide.” Publication. 2016.

125
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Figure 43: Horizontal and

vertical illuminance
Vertical Illuminance (fc)
avg : min ratio

Vertical Illuminance (fc)

avg : min ratio

Horizontal Illuminance (fc)

avg : min ratio

6.3.5
Illuminance Levels
Appropriate light level targets for different areas of the site should
be chosen based on their intended function. Figure 44 highlights
different areas of function with references to the IES Lighting
Handbook, 10th Edition. These suggestions are for guidance in
designing the lighting for the site according to the current plans.
The designer should assign appropriate functions for the final
design of the site.
The majority of the Waterfront Development site can be classified
as Lighting Zone 2 (LZ2) which the IES handbook defines as, “Areas
of human activity where the vision of human residents and users is
adapted to moderate light levels. Lighting may typically be used
for safety and convenience but it is not necessarily uniform or
continuous. After curfew, lighting may be extinguished or reduced
as activity levels decline.” However, the open spaces and plazas
should be considered as LZ1, and the terrace area as LZ0, to reduce
light levels approaching the river.
The flexible performance area may use light levels higher than the
IES recommends for LZ1 for temporary installations. Temporary
installations shall have well shielded, purposeful, and aimed fixtures
for when the space is being used for performance. Lighting should
126
be designed to meet adequate levels during performances for the
necessary tasks, but should be returned to normal when not used
for performance.
It is important to consider both horizontal illumination (at the
ground plane to light the walking surface) and vertical illumination
levels (Figure 43). Vertical illumination is crucial to facial recognition
and the perception of safety when walking along paths on the
site. Use the LZ category to determine horizontal and vertical light
levels, and contrast ratios that are appropriate for different areas of
the site. Suggested activity levels and tasks are outlined in Figure
45.
All calculated illuminance levels should be maintained with
consideration of light loss factors including lamp lumen depreciation,
luminaire dirt depreciation, and other relevant factors.
Street and sidewalk lighting exists for portions of the site. These
existing fixtures should be taken into consideration when designing
and calculating light levels in these areas.
Figure 44: Lighting zones

LZ2

LZ0 LZ1

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Figure 45: Diagram of

potential site uses

North Access
Way

t
tree
5

Daniels Breezeway

ia S
Access Way

lumb
Co

und
hbo

und
Sout

hbo
CRC

Nort
Columb

CRC
ia Way

Daniels Way
Renaissance Trail

Referencing the 10th Edition IES Handbook,

Chapter 26 | Lighting for Exteriors, light level
criteria can be determined for the various tasks
on the site including, but not limited to:

Primary Ped. Lighting

Secondary Ped. Lighting

COLUMBIA RIVER
Tertiary Ped. Lighting

Primary Street Lighting * These suggestions are for guidance in designing the lighting for the site
according to the current plans. The designer should assign appropriate functions
Secondary Street Lighting for the final design of the site.
Bikeways

Outdoor Plazas

Flexible Performance Areas

128
Left: Nighttime lighting
on the Highline.
Source: www.pinterest.
com

Right: Lighting as public

art in Vancouver, B.C.
park.
Source: www.vcbf.ca

6.3.6
Glare
Three types of glare can reduce lighting quality:
• Veiling glare is caused by the reflection of bright surfaces or
light sources that “veils” or shields the view (e.g., direct glare
reflected on a specular surface).
• Disability glare is glare directly on a task plane that reduces
visual performance and visibility, affecting the ability to
perform the desired task.
• Discomfort glare is an annoying and uncomfortable light
source directly in the field of view, causing eye fatigue and
pain.
Direct glare is caused by bright light sources in the field of view.
Glare is a visual issue, particularly at night, because the human eye
adapts to a lower light level, and becomes more sensitive to bright
light sources. When a source is overly bright compared to other
areas in the field of view, those darker areas appear to be even
darker than they are in contrast to the bright source, and the light
can be perceived as glary. This may reduce an occupant's feeling
of safety and is the primary reason that shielding of light sources is
important when a sense of security is a priority.
Using light fixtures with specialized optics, lensing, or louvers,
or strategically placing fixtures to be shielded by architectural
elements will help minimize glare and maximize the perception of
safety. Carefully balancing luminance contrast also helps ensure low
glare and a comfortable environment.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENT
• Meet B-U-G rating limits as required by the MLO.
• Meet contrast maximum/minimum ratios recommended by
the IES handbook, for various site areas.
ASPIRATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
• Use all architecturally integrated, concealed, shielded, and
cut-off light fixtures.

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GOOD AVOID

ADDITIONAL NOTES ON GLARE AVOIDANCE

Pathway Lighting

Choose fixtures where the light source is well shielded to avoid

a bright, glary source in the pedestrian’s field of vision. Space
pathway lighting appropriately to avoid high luminance contrast on
the path.
Choose well shielded, cut-off fixtures rather than a “glowy” object
for street lighting. This is important both for visual comfort of
drivers, as well as light pollution reduction. This lighting will not be
Street Lighting

required to turn off or dim at curfew, and should be considerate

of light pollution reduction efforts as a result. Coordinate any new
street lighting to be added to the site with the City of Vancouver
street lighting standards, but consider asking for a variance in an
effort to be sustainably considerate, where necessary.
Avoid over-lighting the facade. Chose to accent areas of
architectural interest, or elements that will aid in wayfinding. Avoid
using uplight or floodlighting on the facade, as these will be
Facade Lighting

required to dim or turn off at curfew, as they will be considered

decorative in nature. If uplight is used, ensure that it is purposeful,
and accentuates the architecture. If there are small openings in
the faÇade, consider allowing views through to interesting interior
lighting rather than lighting the building facade.
Use low level lighting for the terraced landscape lighting rather
than overhead lighting. Light levels should trail off towards the
water, to preserve outward views to the water.
Terrace

Ensure that fixtures used to light the terrace do not cause glare to
occupants.
Avoid using uplight or glowing sources (unless they fall within
acceptable B-U-G rating limits) for the landscape and plaza lighting,
as it is suggested that any such fixtures turn off or dim at curfew.
Green Spaces/Plazas

Use low glare sources, and illuminate areas of interest, while

allowing light levels in other areas to taper off, to create a hierarchy
of areas on the site.

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Lighting highlights
wayfinding signage.
Left Source: www.
pinterest.com
Right Source: www.
idsignsystems.com
6.3.7
Fixture Guidelines
All fixtures used on the Waterfront Development should be energy
efficient LED, excepting reasonable deviation. Convenient means
must be provided for relamping, repairing, or replacing fixtures.
Installations shall meet high standards of quality, comfort, and ease
of maintenance. Fixtures shall have durable, high quality finishes.
Street Lighting
Adhere to City of Vancouver street lighting standards which say that
street lighting fixtures are mounted at 20-35 feet above street level.
Street lighting should not exceed IES recommended maximum
spacing determined by photometric calculations. Lower output,
lower wattage fixtures with a closer spacing may help to reduce
glare due to lower contrast ratios.
Pathway Lighting
Pedestrian scale poles, bollards, pathway grazing lights, or
architecturally integrated fixtures are all acceptable approaches
for lighting pathways on the site. Pedestrian poles should have a
height between 10 and 15 feet and should imposes upon views of
the water from main corridors and destinations on the site. In areas
where pedestrian poles may impede outward views, lower level
lighting such as bollard or turtle lights should be used.
Lighting for Buildings
FaÇade lighting should be designed thoughtfully and minimally.
Lighting should not encompass the entire building. Rather,
faÇade lighting should be used to accent architectural features,
entries, and wayfinding points. Refer to IES RP-33 for additional
recommendations.
Ground-mounted or building-mounted lighting which floodlights
building faÇades should be kept to a minimum to reduce the
amount of light pollution. While vertical light levels are important
at building entries for facial recognition, consider using carefully
placed cut-off fixtures. The use of color changing, animated, or
dynamic lighting on faÇades is discouraged, as these may detract
from the natural views. Consider using downward oriented faÇade
lighting rather than ground-mounted floodlights or building-
mounted uplights.
In-grade Lighting
The use of in-grade lighting and uplighting should be minimized
on the project. Any uplights used must meet MLO B-U-G ratings.
Beyond sustainability, however, maintenance of in-grade fixtures
can be more complex than with surface mounted or pole mounted
fixtures. This should be balanced with the need to reduce the
potential for theft or vandalism of fixtures.
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Figure 46: Fixture

aesthetic suggestions
NATURE ORIENTED SOCIALLY ORIENTED
STAND-OUT INTEGRATED
H I S T O R I C M O D E R N
P L A Y F U L PROFESSIONAL
C A S U A L R E F I N E D

Materials 6.3.8
Long lasting, durable materials and finishes are important Lighting Hierarchy
considerations when selecting lighting fixtures for the Waterfront
A hierarchy of lighting across the site can help to reveal the form of
Development site. With the close proximity of the site to salt water,
the landscape, enhance wayfinding, improve security, and preserve
it is suggested to use materials such as marine grade aluminum,
views to the water. Overall illuminance levels should lessen towards
concrete, and UV and mildew resistant treated woods. The use
the water while meeting COV lighting code. Lighting levels should
of materials with galvanized or corrosion resistant finishes is
be higher and more visually present in areas of high public activity,
discouraged, as the life cycle of these finishes often is outlived by
and lower in residential areas, as well as areas near to the waterline.
the fixture itself. A minimum 25-year life span for fixture materials
Figure 47 graphically depicts the relative levels of overall illumination
and finishes should be striven for.
throughout the site.
Fixture and Design Aesthetic
The lighting design for the Waterfront Development site should Wayfinding
engage the landscape and architecture of the site, as well as the Effective wayfinding is supported by lighting that reveals a simple,
public who will be using it. The site should be designed with the clear, and uncluttered environment. In outdoor environments
users in mind, creating a lighting design that draws them through in particular, this supports the natural habit of seeking prospect
the space, to points of interest or destinations where they have and refuge. Visual cues accented by light help to reinforce the
views of the water, of public art, or of unique architectural elements layout of the network of pathways, and create a hierarchy of visual
on the site. information for the user to process. By establishing a memorable
identity for a particular place and helping direct occupants to a
The Port has established general aesthetic guidelines for the site
specific area or task, wayfinding can become much simpler for
which can be seen outlined in Figure 46. The overall design for
occupants who are unfamiliar with the landscape.
the lighting of the site, as well as the aesthetics of specified light
fixtures should follow these guidelines, as laid out by the members
of the Port.
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Figure 47: Sectional illustration of relative
illuminance across the site

Small peak in illuminance

Relative illuminance level

level at trail where activity
level is high

Levels fall off as the site

Nears the water

Four effective strategies for designing wayfinding lighting are: Security

• Defining path edges to lead people to a destination;
• Using repetition as a signal for people to follow;
• Lighting a destination point to can be seen from afar,
attracting users with color, direction, varying light levels, etc;
• Lighting wayfinding points, such as signage, to help guide
people towards a destination that is out of their view.
Prospect and refuge are natural human instincts which can be
supported by a clear hierarchy of light and wayfinding. Creating
areas for people to go to, as well as areas where they feel safe,
and can see the environment around them are critical to creating
a sense of safety for pedestrians in the space. Proper vertical
illumination to clearly light faces and surrounding areas is an
easy way to achieve a sense of security for people on the site.
A perception of safety is not necessarily the result of high light
levels, but rather the way that objects on the site are lit.

Signage & Public Art

Coordinate the need for public art or signage lighting, whether
integrated or external, with the design team. Lighting may not be
necessary at all signage locations, so consider where lighting would
have a positive impact in helping a user navigate the site at night.
Use effective lighting strategies for wayfinding that do not conflict
with or distract from site signage or environmental wayfinding
strategies.
Consider the materials, colors, shapes, and textures of any public art
on the site, when determining a strategy to light it. Create a unique
visual experience that clearly shows the intent of the art, and does
not detract from it.

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Left: Emerald Sunshine

Elm
Source: www.jfschmidt.
com

Right: Black Tupelo

Source: www.
thegrowingplace.com

6.4
Preferred Native and Adaptive Planting Palette

Bank and Riverfront Planting Zones

The intent of the bank and riverfront planting areas is to create
habitat, maintain river views, and to encourage sustainability
through the use of native and adaptive plant species that require
limited water and supplements for survival.
The ecological condition at the edge of the Columbia River has
been degraded over time. Establishing ecological health at the
river’s edge within this urban corridor will rely on a balance between
establishing diverse habitat opportunities, while maintaining visual
and physical access to the river.
Based on known habitat types for region and the Columbia River,
planting recommendations (Tables 9-14) may be considered based
on the following bank positions:
• Street Trees: Apply to street frontages, exclude bioswale areas.
• Lawn: Not considered habitat type. Should only be specified
for active uses where habitat re-naturalization is not needed.
• Erosion Control: Applies to work in all habitat types, wherever
there is earthwork or soil disturbance.
134
• Low Bank: Applies to habitat areas on the lower portions
of the re-naturalized bank zones. These are areas that will
receive regular inundation.
• Upper Bank: Applies to habitat areas on the mid to upper
portions of the re-naturalized bank zones. These planting
zones occur above the Low Bank zone to the top of bank.
• Upland Plantings: This category applies to planted areas
above the top of bank. This area encourages the use of both
native and adaptive plant species to achieve a welcoming
urban landscape zone that balances habitat opportunities with
the uses of visitors and residents in the area.
• Bioswales: In the urban upland zones, the project will include
infiltration and flow-through bioswales to help improve water
quality in the district. Plantings in these areas should be clean
and contemporary, but must withstand period of drought as
well as inundation.
Left: California Brome
Source: www.
bugwoodcloud.com

Right: Spanish Clover

Source: www.nathistoc.
bio.uci.edu

Table 9:Street Trees Table 11: Erosion Control

Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Common Name

Columbia Way Bromus carinatus California Brome

Acer rubrum ‘Redpointe’ RedPointe Maple Elymus glaucus Blue Wild Rye

Daniels Way Festuca rubra ‘ communtata’ Chewings Red Fescue

Nyssa Sylvatica Black Tupelo Gilia capitate Common Gilia

East-West Connections Hordeum brachyantherum Meadow Barley

Ulmus propinqua 'JFS-Bieberich' Emerald Sunshine Elm Lotus purshiana Spanish Clover

Table 10: Turf Grass/Lawn Table 12: Low Bank

Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Common Name

Festuca diruscula Hard Fescue Trees

Festuca rubra 'communtata' Chewings Red Fescue Fraxinus latifolia Oregon Ash

Salix lasiandra (lucida var. Pacific Willow

lasiandra)

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Left: Red Osier Dogwood

Source: www.
natureiscalling.ord

Right: Yellow Monkey

Flower
Source: www.
watershednursery.com

Table 12: Low Bank, Cont.

Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Common Name

Shrubs Glyceria ssp Mannagrass

Cornus sericea Red Osier Dogwood Hordeum brachyantherum Meadow Barley

Physocarpus capitatus Pacific Ninebark Juncus ensifolius Dagger-Leaf Rush

Rosa pisocarpa Swamp Rose Leersia oryzoides Rice Cutgrass

Salix piperi (hookeriana) Hooker’s Willow Lycopus americanus Bugleweed

Salix sitchensis Sitka Willow Mimulus guttatus Yellow Monkey-flower

Viburnum edule Viburnum Paspalum distichum Knotgrass

Herbaceous Sagittaria latifolia Wapato

Aster subspicatus (douglasii) Douglas Aster Scirpus ssp Bulrushes

Carex obnupta Slough Sedge Solidago gigantea Giant Goldenrod

Carex ssp.. Other Sedges Solidago (Euthamia) Grass-leaved Goldenrod

occidentalis
Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted Hairgrass
Veronica americana American Brooklime
Eleocharis ssp Spikerushes
136
Left: Swamp Rose
Source: www.flickr.com

Right: Maidenhair Fern

Source: www.wikipedia.
com

Table 13: Upper Bank

Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Common Name

Trees Salix sitchensis Sitka Willow

Acer circinatum Vine Maple Spirea douglasii Douglas Spirea

Alnus rubra Red Alder Symphoricarpos albus Common Snowberry

Crataegus douglasii Black Hawthorn Viburnum edule Viburnum

Malus fusca Western Crabapple Herbaceous

Prunus emarginata Bitter Cherry Adiantum pedatum Maidenhair Fern

Rhamnus purshiana Cascara Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted Hairgrass

Shrubs Hordeum brachyantherum Meadow Barley

Cornus sericea Red Osier Dogwood Juncus ensifolius Dagger-Leaf Rush

Mahonia nervosa Low Oregon Grape Polystichum munitum Sword Fern

Rosa pisocarpa Swamp Rose Scirpus microcarpus Small-Fruited Bulrush

Rubus spectabilis Salmonberry Viola glabella Yellow Wood Violet

Salix lasiandra Pacific Willow Viola sempervirens Trailing Yellow Violet

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Left: "Eddies White

Wonder" Dogwood
Source: www.
waimeanurseries.com

Right: Spikerushes
Source: www.nature.org

Table 14: Upland Plantings

Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Common Name

Trees Lagerstroemia sp. Crape Mrytle sp.

Acer circinatum Vine Maple Nyssa sylvatica Black Tupelo

Acer japonicum sp. Japanese Maple Styrax japonicas Japanese Snowbell

Acer macrophyllum Bigleaf Maple Zelkova serrata Japanese Zelkova

Acer truncatum x A. platanoides 'Warrenred' Pacific Sunset Maple Shrubs

Arbutus menziesii Pacific Madrone Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted Hairgrass

Calocedrus decurrens California Incense Cedar Eleocharis ssp Spikerushes

Cedrus deodara Deodar Cedar Glyceria ssp Mannagrass

Cornus ‘June Snow’ June Snow Dogwood Hordeum brachyantherum Meadow Barley

Cornus ‘Eddies White Wonder’ Eddie’s White Wonder Juncus ensifolius Dagger-Leaf Rush
Dogwood
Leersia oryzoides Rice Cutgrass
Fagus sylvatica European Beech
Lilium occidentale Western Lily
Fraxinus pennsyl. 'Cimmzamm' Cimmaron Ash
138
Left: Compact Oregon
Grape
Source: www.
oaklandnursery.com

Right: Hummingbird
Sage
Source: www.
matilijanursery.com

Table 14: Upland Plantings, cont.

Scientific Name Common Name Scientific Name Common Name

Mahonia aquifolium ‘compacta’ Compact Oregon Grape Heuchera sanguinea Coral Bells

Mahonia nervosa Low Oregon Grape Juniperus conferta Shore Juniper

Philadelphus lewisii selections Selections of Mock Orange Juniperis horizontalis Creeping Juniper

Potentilla spp Cinquefoil Lavendula spp Lavender

Ribes Sanguineum Flowering Currant selections Miscanthus Sinensis ‘Adagio’ Eulalia

Salvia greggii Autumn Sage Pennisetum Alopecuroides Fountain Grass

Symphoricarpos ssp Cultivated Snowberry Salvia chamaedryoides Blue Chichuahuan

Symphoricarpos mollis Trailing Snowberry Salvia spathacea Hummingbird Sage

Herbaceous/Groundcovers
Fragaria Chiloensis Beach Strawberry

Heloctotrichon Sempervirens Blue Oat Grass

Hemerocallis spp Daylily

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APPENDIX
INTRODUCTION

Cost of Green: LEED Certification and Energy

Performance
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development
August 22, 2016

“How much more will it cost for a LEED certified building?” is a common question, and a
LEED Certification

seemingly simple one at that. The answer is not quite as simple as the question. The short
version boils down to “it depends”, and “less than a few years ago”.
The costs for a LEED building can be broken down like this:

• Registration and certification costs to USGBC – $.03 - .05/sf

• Project administration and submittals – this varies based on the experience level of
the administrator. Someone needs to manage and oversee the process, and design
professionals, contractors and owners must fill out and submit documentation of
credits.
Cost of Green: LEED Certification and Energy Performance Memorandum
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines

• Design services – the project may include scopes that the owner was not otherwise
including, but they typically lead to a better building, not just “administrative effort”.
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development

For instance, commissioning provides an ongoing benefit in a better-functioning

building with less complaints and lower energy costs, but it could be considered
“extra” and attributed to the LEED certification. Energy modeling might add $20 -
$50,000 to soft costs, but also is required to validate low-energy design strategies.
• The last category is construction costs in addition to a non-LEED budget. This is
where the bulk of the conversation lies.

So how much more will it cost for a LEED building? Over the past decade a variety of studies
have been undertaken to answer that simple question. One of the most thorough was done
by cost consultants Davis Langdon in 2004 “The Cost of Green” and updated in 2007 “The
Cost of Green Revisited”. The studies were based on extensive cost data for real building
projects. Both times, the conclusion was similar: there is no clear statistical correlation
between LEED certification and project cost, for certification levels up through Gold
certification. The analysis showed that LEED building costs could fall anywhere in the cost
spectrum of projects analyzed.

• Most projects accomplished their green goals within their original budget.
• Where there were added costs, they tended to be for specific line items, such as
photovoltaic systems.
 In each study time period, the “leading edge” of innovation is where additional costs tend to
show up – and now that leading edge is in Net Zero Energy and Living Buildings.

The short version summary on how to keep the cost of LEED down?
• An experienced team that focuses on passive design and an integrated approach
from the very beginning.
• A reductive approach to consumption – for energy as an example, less used is less to
offset or purchase (think reduce, reuse, recycle).
• Design to the budget and prioritize green performance in the decision hierarchy. In
an integrated project
• Select high-value, low-cost strategies first and ask “why are we doing this?” often,
including about conventional design and construction approaches.

When sustainable design goals are integrated into the design process from the beginning, the
outcomes can be both cost effective and enriching.

Prepared by: Dave Ramslie

Integral Group LLC
Costing for Energy Performance Targets

Hard Costs: (Construction)

Integral Group undertook a high level costing assessment of the proposed building energy
efficiency targets for the Port of Vancouver. This included setting a base-line for the project
for which costing could be referenced off of. This was a building that was judged in opinion of
the consultant team, as the most economical way a building would meet the current
Washington State Energy Code requirements. Four separate typologies that were developed
for the purposes of energy and financial modelling.

Each variant at each level of performance was then compared to this baseline and the
construction costs were expressed as a “percentage increase” in hard costs.

A greater level of costing analysis was done at the initial performance levels to give greater
confidence in the assessment of what the impacts of what the immediate steps of the
rezoning policy would be. This included costing 8 variations on the first proposed
performance step and 4 variations on the second level of performance. In all cases three
options were assessed for their costing impacts. This included

• Electric Fuel Source for all forms of heating

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• Approaching projects as an integrated whole – not as a series of “green add-ons”

leads to higher levels of performance with lower cost impacts, and experienced
teams are most likely to achieve higher performance with less budget.

The latest study, published in 2014 and co-authored by Integral Group, also included LEED
Platinum projects and Net Zero Energy / Living Building projects as well. In this study, it’s
clear that the industry now knows how to design LEED buildings, and even how to design
LEED Platinum buildings within a normal spectrum of cost budgets. A key to cost reduction is
to not simply overlay “green criteria” onto an existing building scheme (as it will surely be
costly that way), but to integrate the goals from day one.
Urban Design Standards & Guidelines
Port of Vancouver Waterfront Development

Figure 3 Low Rise Office Building Costs - "The Power of Zero" study
 • Natural Gas and Electric combined solutions
• High performance heat pump (geo or air source solution)

This parametric analysis allows the design team to assess the most cost effective way to
achieve the proposed outcomes. In all cases either the electric fuel source, or the high
performance heat pump option were the most costs effective ways to achieve the proposed
targets. The natural gas based solutions required a great investment in the envelope in order
to meet the same level of performance. See chart below for the summary of findings.

Figure 1 Costing Impacts of High Performance Design:

Estimated
T-EUI TEDI
Type of Requirement Percentage
(KBtu/sqft/yr) (KBtu/sqft/yr)
Cost Increase
Standard 45 15 0%
Multi Family
Stretch Target (Guideline) 35 6 3.75%

Standard 35 9 0%
Office
Stretch Target (Guideline) 30 6 2.75%

Standard 55 7 0%
Retail
Stretch Target (Guideline) 55 5 2.5%

Standard 60 7 1.25%
Hotel
Stretch Target (Guideline) 60 5 3.75%

Soft Costs (Design)

With regards to soft costs, no discernable differences were forecast in the design stage by
the consultant teams. While the overall costs of mechanical engineering design fees may be
reduced due to the reduced need for complicated mechanical systems, these costs may be
offset by an increase in envelope consulting fees and or architecture to compensate for
increased due diligence on the envelope. Typically building designs fees are a factor or
percentage of construction costs, so with project costs remaining relatively constant, there
would be no reason to forecast an increase in design fees or soft costs.

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6.6
Sustainable Development Guidelines: Cost and Value of LEED/Green

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6.7
Sustainable Development Guidelines: Portland Comparisons

Workshop #4 July 13, 2016

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