Lewes proposes changes to open space
“Where will they throw a ball?”
That question is attributed to former Lewes Planning Commissioner Bob Heffernan. It was a guiding factor as the panel’s environmental subcommittee drafted an ordinance aimed at changing the amount and spirit of open space in the city.
Mayor and city council held a public hearing Feb. 12, to take comment about the proposed changes. The ordinance proposes changes to the definitions of active, passive and commercial open space.
The new regulations would apply to residential subdivisions and commercial parcels. They would not impact areas already zoned as open space.
The ordinance would increase open-space requirements in subdivisions from 20% to 25%, excluding landscape and perimeter buffers.
New commercial properties would be required to have 10% open space, excluding buffers. But, roof rain gardens, landscaping and other things could contribute to the total.
Planners proposed the changes after recent subdivision plans that, while meeting code for the amount of required space, had areas that were not contiguous and were deemed too small to throw a ball.
“What we found is that developers were taking advantage of every little quirk that they could find to develop up to the maximum amount possible and it was very much going against the spirit,” said Commissioner Rich Innes. “We can refine this even further so we don’t end up with developments where you can’t throw a Frisbee or a ball.”
Councilman Tim Ritzert said the city might want to consider having first consideration when it comes to open space, even before a developer designs their development.
Councilwoman Amy Marasco said another option is pocket parks.
“They are a way urban areas, not just subdivisions, can address open space,” she said. “I’m not talking big parks. Pocket parks are cool; they’re a break; they’re great for the environment.”
Mayor and city council have left the comment period open until 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28. They are expected to consider the ordinance at their March regular meeting.
