DRAP Final Plan

City of Chandler — Regular Meeting (2025-10-16)

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Downtown 
Region
Area Plan
CITY of CHANDLER
September 2025

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A special thank you to all participants involved in creating the City 
of Chandler Downtown Region Area Plan.
Plan Prepared by:
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS   
Mayor & City Council
•	 Mayor Kevin Hartke
•	 Vice Mayor Christine Ellis
•	 Councilmember Angel Encinas
•	 Councilmember OD Harris
•	 Councilmember Jennifer Hawkins
•	 Councilmember Matt Orlando
•	 Councilmember Jane Poston
Planning & Zoning Commission
•	 Chairperson Rick Heumann
•	 Vice Chairperson Sherri Koshiol
•	 Commissioner Charlotte Golla
•	 Commissioner Kyle Barichello
•	 Commissioner Michael Quinn
•	 Commissioner Tom Bilsten
•	 Commissioner Ryan Schwarzer
 City Staff
•	 John Pombier, Acting City Manager
•	 Tadd Wille, Assistant City Manager
•	 Leah Powell, Deputy City Manager 
•	 Andy Bass, Deputy City Manager (former)
•	 Kevin Synder, Development Services Director
•	 Kim Moyers, Cultural Development Director
•	 Kevin Mayo, Planning Administrator
•	 David de la Torre, Planning Manager
•	 Alisa Petterson, Senior Planner – DRAP 
Project Manager
•	 Lauren Koll, Downtown Redevelopment 
Program Manager
•	 Dana Alvidrez, City Transportation Engineer
•	 Jeremy Abbott, Acting Public Works & Utilities 
Director
•	 Gina Ishida-Raybourn, Public Works & 
Utilities Principal Engineer
•	 Bryan Chapman, Chief of Police
•	 Tom Dwiggins, Fire Chief
Consultants
•	 Logan Simpson
•	 Kimley-Horn
•	 Elliot D. Pollack & Company
•	 Upfront Planning & Entitlements

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW
01.
DISCOVERY
02.
REGION
03.
DESIGN  
THEMES & 
PRINCIPLES
05.
APPENDICES
A-C
DISTRICTS
04.
IMPLEMENTATION
06.
EXECUTIVE  
SUMMARY

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY      
Chandler’s important Downtown Region 
is the vibrant heart of the City of Chandler. 
This area is comprised of 2.4 square miles, 
approximately 3% of the city’s Municipal 
Planning Area (MPA), and has a population 
of 15,140 residents, approximately 5% of the 
city’s total population. 
For over 38 years, development within this 
area has been guided by three plans: the 
Redevelopment Area Plan (1995), the South 
Arizona Avenue Corridor Area Plan (2006) 
and the associated Design Guidelines (2010). 
While these plans have been instrumental in 
transforming downtown into the successful 
destination that it is today, Chandler 
recognized that the plans were in need of an 
update to align with changing development 
patterns within the area and to guide its 
growth into the future. Thus, the Downtown 
Region Area Plan (DRAP) was created with the 
community to define an updated vision for 
Chandler’s Downtown Region, to assist future 
development in the area, and to allow the 
downtown region to continue to thrive and 
grow in a way Chandler residents can support.
The DRAP was developed over 18 months, 
from Winter 2024 to Summer 2025, and was 
adopted by City Council in September 2025. 
The planning process featured innovative 
technology to deliver a highly collaborative 
process with the community and collected 
extensive stakeholder input. Together, 
community members and the project team 
created a shared vision for the downtown 
region, comprised of five districts: Northern 
District, Eastern District, Southern District, 
Downtown District, and San Marcos District. 
They also developed goals and policies for 
each of the districts, identified future land 
uses and circulation, established design 
themes and principles for the entire region, 
and articulated one hundred and four (104) 
action items across the region and specific to 
the districts. 
The DRAP continues many of the policies 
from the previously adopted plans, mainly 
encouraging redevelopment of properties 
along Arizona Avenue into high density 
residential or high density residential with 
integrated uses, providing transitional 
developments such as the ‘missing middle 
housing’, and planning for an extension of 
Washington Street in the Southside Village 
neighborhood. Notable policy changes can be 
summarized in six main objectives that were 
identified and refined through a combination 
of both planning initiatives and community 
input as indicated on the following page. 
Main Objectives
1.  Adaptive Reuse: Provide policies, design 
guidance, and actions to allow adaptive reuse 
for new and redevelopment projects.
2.  Industrial Commerce Routes: Establish 
industrial commerce routes to reroute 
industrial truck traffic in the downtown 
region.
3.  Integrated-Uses: Provide future land 
use designations and policies to allow 
new developments with integrated uses, 
comprised of any mix of residential, 
commercial or office uses, or any of these 
three as a single use development, at existing 
employment designated areas and throughout 
the downtown region.
4.  Alley Activation: Establish policies, design 
guidance, and actions for alley activation 
as pedestrian areas on select alleys in the 
downtown region. 
5.  Downtown Gateways: Create policies, 
design guidance, and actions to identify 
enhancement opportunities for gateways into 
the downtown region. 
6.  Districts or Character Areas: Develop 
character area guidance for established 
neighborhood and future development areas. 
Vision Statement
Chandler’s downtown region celebrates its rich history while 
embracing an innovative future with safe, well-connected 
districts featuring robust arts, entertainment, and recreation 
opportunities as well as thriving businesses and variety in 
housing options to ensure the economic vitality of the region.

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OVERVIEW I DISCOVERY I
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1.
OVERVIEW
The Overview 
Chapter orients the 
reader by providing 
a compendium of 
plan details about the 
Chandler Downtown 
Region Area Plan 
(DRAP) including the 
purpose of the plan 
and main objectives as 
well as summarizing 
the process, providing 
context for the 
region, and outlining 
the structure of the 
document.

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The DRAP districts 
along with prominent 
historic district, 
historic buildings, 
and the city’s public 
housing sites are 
highlighted on this 
map.
OVERVIEW
PURPOSE 
An area plan is a policy document designed 
to serve as a community-led roadmap for 
growth and development with a specifically 
defined area of a city. ARS 9-461.08 allows 
for the creation of specific (area) plans and 
details the breadth and purview of area plans 
which are generally considered to be policy 
documents with an allowance for limited 
regulation.
The DRAP provides a community derived 
vision for the city’s future development in 
this area. The DRAP consolidates two area 
plans, the Chandler Redevelopment Element 
(1995) and the South Arizona Entry Corridor 
Study (2006) as well as the South Arizona 
Avenue Design Guidelines (2010), reflecting 
an amended planning area and significant 
changes over the last 30 years. The bulk 
of these plans have not seen any major 
updates since they were adopted whereas 
the downtown region has been through 
many changes in the overall development, 
population, and demographics. The 
DRAP ensures alignment with the current 
community vision and values, providing for 
both existing and future needs.
The DRAP encompasses five geographical 
districts or character areas with distinct 
boundaries: Northern, Eastern, Southern, San 
Marcos, and Downtown.  Additionally, the 
DRAP also includes several prominent historic 
districts and buildings including:
1.	 Historic Downtown 
2.	 Silk Stocking Historic Preservation District 
3.	 Southside Village Historic Conservation 
District
4.	 Historic Chandler High School
5.	 Historic San Marcos Hotel
These items along with the city’s three public 
housing sites are shown on the following 
map.

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Main Objectives
The six main objectives for the DRAP that were refined through planning initiatives and 
community input are shown below. For each objective, the why and rationale are provided as 
well as the key benefits or outcomes. An overarching goal for the DRAP update, and addressed 
via the six main objectives collectively, is to bolster the strength of Chandler’s thriving 
downtown in a way that will support on-going economic success and growth, support existing 
businesses, and attract new businesses. These six objectives have been infused into the DRAP’s 
vision statement, goals, policies, design themes and principles, and actions. 
1.	 Adaptive Reuse. Provide policies, 
design guidance, and actions to 
allow adaptive reuse for new and 
redevelopment projects.
•	 Why:
	»
Planning initiative: current and 
projected development patterns are 
different than what was expected 20 
years ago
	»
Less land consolidation and big 
developments
	»
Current zoning is difficult for smaller 
projects
•	 Benefits:
	»
Preserve and enhance Chandler’s 
unique historic character
	»
Expand revitalization across all areas of 
the downtown region
	»
Create a more vibrant and culturally 
rich community environment
2.	 Industrial Commerce Routes. 
Establish industrial commerce routes 
to reroute commercial truck traffic in 
the downtown region.
•	 Why:
	»
Planning initiative: current and future 
development on Frye Road, such as 
the new protected bike lane and future 
Grayhawk Residences will challenge 
existing roadway capacity with the 
current semi-truck traffic.
	»
More people expected downtown - 
more traffic, pedestrian and bike safety 
concerns
	»
Better downtown environment and 
enhanced resident satisfaction
•	 Benefits:
	»
Improved user experience and comfort 
for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers 
by eliminating potential conflicts with 
large semi-truck traffic
	»
Protection of built infrastructure 
(curbs, gutters, and sidewalks)
	»
Improved efficiency and driving 
experience for semi-truck traffic
3.	 Integrated-Uses. Provide future land 
use designations and policies to allow 
new developments with integrated 
uses, comprised of any mix of 
residential, commercial or office uses, 
or any of these three as a single use 
development, at existing employment 
designated areas and throughout the 
downtown region.
•	 Why:
	»
Planning initiative: changing 
development trends
	»
More efficient land use planning long-
term
	»
Provide policy to allow new uses now 
before a potential loss of existing 
industrial uses
	»
Achieve greater housing diversity 
within the downtown region
•	 Benefits:
	»
Live/work/play uses and development 
scale – a better fit for the downtown 
environment
	»
More available and diverse housing in a 
range of middle housing developments, 
stand-along residential or mixed-use 
developments
	»
More vibrant, walkable, and sustainable 
community
4.	 Alley Activation. Establish policies, 
design guidance, and actions for alley 
activation as pedestrian areas in the 
downtown region. 
•	 Why:
	»
Community input: create a more 
vibrant local identity with art & public 
gathering spaces
	»
Community input: provide additional 
landscaping & neighborhood 
beautification 
	»
Staff initiative: assess condition of 
existing water and sewer infrastructure 
in alleys
•	 Benefits:
	»
More pedestrian space for community 
events 
	»
Expand downtown character 
and landscape enhancements to 
underutilized alleys 
	»
Ability to prioritize beneficial 
improvements before lower priority 
areas

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5.	 Downtown Gateways. Create policies, 
design guidance, and actions to 
identify enhancement opportunities 
for gateways into the downtown 
region. 
•	 Why:
	»
Community input: add more landscape, 
visual beautification and protected 
multi-modal paths
	»
Similar to Chandler Airpark gateway 
areas
	»
Consistent with “Downtown South” 
improvements 
•	 Benefits:
	»
Roadway beautification with new 
landscaping in medians and rights-of-
way (similar to Chandler Blvd) 
	»
A downtown core that is connected to 
adjacent neighborhoods
	»
A sense of place and  arrival to the 
downtown core
6.	 District Character Areas. Develop 
character area guidance for 
established neighborhood and future 
development areas. 
•	 Why:
	»
Community input: provide unique 
landscaping, lighting and signage 
within neighborhoods
•	 Benefits:
	»
Enhance existing neighborhoods by 
creating a sense of place
	»
Create better pedestrian connections to 
the downtown core
	»
Honor the unique historic characteristic 
of established neighborhoods
	»
Develop enhancement opportunities 
across the region
	»
Create more diverse housing and 
supportive commercial areas
PROCESS
Over the course of 18-month schedule punctuated with multiple meaningful community 
touchpoints, the DRAP was developed with care and awareness of the unique aspects of each 
district within the downtown region itself.  Between the Project Kickoff and the Final Plan, 
there were four phases. 
1.	 Project Start Up 
•	 Identified key stakeholders, a public 
participation plan, and the study area with 
five districts, and launched the project 
website with informational material and an 
online questionnaire.
2.	 Input Gathering
•	 Multi-pronged effort to reach the community 
and learn their priorities. The results of 
community interviews, questionnaires, in 
person and virtual community workshops and 
meetings with city boards and commissions 
all coalesced with a draft plan.
3.	 Drafting the Plan 
•	 Combined community and stakeholder 
comments with the city’s objectives ensuring 
a well-rounded draft plan for the downtown 
region.
4.	 Finalizing the Plan 
•	 Provided a community driven draft plan to 
Chandler Planning & Zoning Commission to 
recommend adoption to the City Council.

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CONTEXT
This section introduces the geographic, 
historic, demographic, market, and policy/
regulatory context for the downtown region.
Geographic
Chandler’s incorporated area is 66 square 
miles in size and nestled in the southeast 
valley on the Maricopa and Pinal County 
line. Chandler is a bustling, mid-sized 
community with a significant employment 
base that draws many families with the lure 
of quiet neighborhoods, a lively historic 
downtown, an acclaimed school system and 
numerous parks, museums, and recreation 
opportunities. The Municipal Planning Area 
(MPA) is 71.5 square miles which includes 6.5 
square miles or 4,156.5 acres unincorporated 
county islands. No annexation opportunities 
exist beyond the current MPA, and the city is 
approximately 94% built out; placing future 
focus on redevelopment, infill, and adaptive 
reuse.  The current population of Chandler as 
of August 1, 2025 is estimated to be 291,572.
The downtown region covers 2.4 square miles 
that is primarily built out. This represents 
a unique opportunity for the city to connect 
and transform this area through creative 
approaches to adaptive reuse, redevelopment 
and a regional application of community 
driven design guidelines.
71.5 sq. miles  
(City of Chandler area)
2.4 sq. miles  
(Downtown Region)
DRAP in Context

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Sources: City of Chandler; A History of Chandler: 1912-1953 
httprepohandle/10150/551240
Historic
History often informs the future of a region, making historic context an important aspect 
of planning. Understanding historical context helps explain present conditions and informs 
better decision-making for the future.
Chandler has been incorporated 
for 28 years. It is the height of 
post war expansion punctuated 
by the increase in residential 
building permits and the 
improvements made to streets 
and public facilities. Chandler 
boasts a municipal airport as 
well as proximity to Williams Air 
Force Base as a major employer. 
Chandler and its surrounding 
lands are intensively irrigated 
and highly productive making 
agriculture the principal 
economy of the area. The 
population is approximately 
3,800.
1949
Chandler is well on its way 
toward becoming a metropolis. 
The Interstate 10 freeway is in 
the works, Chandler High School 
was established in 1951 and the 
GI Bill fueled housing boom is 
still going strong with record 
residential building permits.  A 
new drive in opened in ‘55 and 
some agricultural land is being 
developed with the shift from 
agrarian to urban character 
beginning to take shape. The 
population is hovering around 
9,000.
1959
1986
Over the last 27 years, Chandler 
has experienced exponential 
growth increasing by nearly 
10,000 residents in just six 
years! Today’s population is 
about 48,000 people. Downtown 
continues to be the hub of the 
community although expansion 
and annexations are creating 
numerous other enclaves 
and population centers. The 
completion of the Chandler 
Compadre Stadium in ‘85 
marked Chandler’s entry into 
the Spring Training landscape. 
In ‘86 Chandler opens the 
nation’s first privatized 
wastewater treatment facility. 
The high-tech boom also begin 
with the arrival of Intel in 1980 
joining Motorola and the Rogers 
Corp.
2016
Growth is leveling off now 
with our population declining 
slightly at 248,000. We have 
a new General Plan and a 
booming downtown that 
attracts festivals, parties and 
markets. The tech industry 
continues to drive the local 
economy employing around 
22,000 people. Waymo locates 
in Chandler in ‘16 leading 
to innovative technology 
and groundbreaking local 
ordinances. Chandler Mall is 
starting to feel the pressures of 
online retail.
2009
The 21st century brings 
continued growth and 
prosperity to Chandler. The 
Downtown is experiencing 
a major revitalization after 
waning in the late ‘80s. 
Walkability, landscaping and 
charm abound. The population 
is nearly 250,000, now one of 
the fastest growing cities in the 
valley! Most agricultural land 
is gone in favor of residential 
developments. Chandler Center 
for the Arts has been added to 
downtown and the completion 
of Loop 202 Santan Freeway 
in ‘06 increased access and 
prosperity. Chandler is now 
home to tech and semiconductor 
manufacturing companies like 
Intel, NXP Semiconductors, 
Microchip Technology, and 
Northrop Grumman.
2022
Chandler’s growth is trending 
upward with a population at 
over 280,000. As Covid has let 
up somewhat, the work-from-
home culture has afforded 
more options for people to 
relocate. Tech continues to 
boom with over 28,000 jobs in 
the city and over 300 companies 
relating specifically to tech and 
tech manufacturing. Housing 
availability and cost of housing 
present challenges especially in 
the downtown core of Chandler.

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Community Demographics
Demographics are critical to planning efforts. The numbers serve to inventory current 
population conditions. Understanding current conditions helps Chandler forecast potential 
future needs for the community. Predictive planning also helps communities attract 
commercial uses, meet housing needs, and provide city services. A snapshot of demographics 
for the downtown region derived from ESRI Business Analyst via U.S. Census Bureau ACS 
5-Year Estimates (2018-2022) for the DRAP are illustrated below.
Market
Chandler’s downtown region benefits from 
a well-rounded economy with a variety of 
cultural, entertainment, and employment 
uses that will continue to support future 
growth. Historic buildings and a historic 
golf course, together with other unique 
distinguishing features define the downtown 
region and help Chandler to stand out 
amongst other cities in the region. 
Chandler’s downtown region offerings and 
attractions are uniquely different than other 
southeast valley downtowns.
•	 Hospitality uses include the Crowne Plaza 
Resort with its convention facilities and 
Hilton Garden Inn
•	 The Chandler Center for the Arts
•	 Historically significant buildings and covered 
walkways
•	 More than 300,000 square feet of office space 
•	 A variety of housing types that include 
planned and existing multifamily complexes 
within walking distance of historic downtown.
•	 A diverse economy that is not solely based on 
restaurant and bar sales.
Despite these assets, the city must continue 
to proactively promote the downtown region 
and its assets. A flexible, adaptable downtown 
region will be able to adjust to changing 
market conditions. Continued growth and 
success will require harnessing the resources 
of the city and capitalizing on private 
interests. Whereas this summary is intended 
to orient the reader to Chandler’s current 
market conditions; the full market analysis is 
referenced on the next page.

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Policy/Regulatory
Nineteen (19) documents exist to form the policy and regulatory basis within the boundaries of 
the DRAP. Each of these foundational municipal documents have been summarized and linked 
below.  It is anticipated that these documents will continue to evolve and be updated, and the 
DRAP will continue including them by reference.
 
 
 
Adaptive Reuse Overlay District (2016) 
An overlay district modifies the standards of 
an underlying zoning district to accomplish a 
broader goal. In this case, the Adaptive Reuse 
Overlay District intends to simplify or reduce the 
processes required to modify existing structures 
and sites within the district thus encouraging 
the reuse of existing sites or structures by 
streamlining costs and timelines.
Adaptive Reuse Program  
This program is companion to the city’s Adaptive 
Reuse Overlay District detailing the benefits and 
criteria of eligibility for prospective businesses.
City Center District (2000) 
The CCD provides land use and development 
standards promoting character and visual 
identity but accounting for unique lot sizes, 
parking constrictions and other unusual 
circumstances for the City Center immediately 
surrounding Chandler Park.
Downtown Chandler Market Analysis 
This document was drafted in February 2025 as 
part of the DRAP process. This market analysis 
evaluated the state of the downtown region and 
how it competes in the regional economy given 
its current retail, cultural, and entertainment 
assets and housing and office markets which can 
help stabilize and expand visitation in the region. 
The document concluded that in order to 
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Downtown  
Region 
Area Plan 
(DRAP)
19 documents form the 
policy and regulatory 
basis within the DRAP 
boundaries.
remain competitive, the city needs to continue 
being proactive in promoting the downtown 
region and its assets as well as making efforts to 
incentivize new development.
Economic Development Strategic Plan 
This plan guides the efforts of the city’s Economic 
Development Division related to business 
attraction, business retention and expansion, 
small business assistance, adaptive reuse and 
redevelopment, and other strategic focus areas.
Historic Preservation Design Guidelines 
(2023) 
As a companion document to the Historic 
Preservation Ordinance, these guidelines 
further guide property owners on restoration, 
rehabilitation, and preservation of historic sites 
with specifications on materials, drainage, 
fencing, signage, and modification standards.
Historic Preservation Ordinance (2020) 
This ordinance empowers property owners to 
protect, preserve and maintain the character and 
integrity of sites, districts  etc. that are part of 
Chandler’s history.
Infill Incentive District and Infill Incentive 
Plan (2023) 
This plan supports the Infill Incentive District 
and details incentives available (expedited 
plan review, fee waivers, etc.) to encourage the 
redevelopment of underutilized commercial 
properties. 
 
General Plan (2016) 
As the most recent general plan for the city, this 
plan serves as a long-term guide for growth and 
development outlining goals and policies that 
support the community vision. The core values/
guiding principles include Strategic Community 
Building, Focused Stewardship, and Strong 
Community Foundation.
Residential Conversion Policy (1989) 
This policy sets criteria for converting single 
family homes into professional offices or 
business uses. This includes property eligibility, 
parking and access, landscape, buffering, land 
uses and neighborhood compatibility among 
other elements.
Silk Stocking Historic Preservation District  
Part of Chandler’s Silk Stocking neighborhood 
is designated a historic preservation district. 
The historic preservation overlay includes 23 
designated properties along Washington and 
Coronado streets whose property owners signed 
a waiver to adhere to this historic preservation 
ordinance and its accompanying design 
guidelines for property maintenance, repair, and 
rehabilitation.
Southside Village Historic Conservation 
District  
The Southside Village neighborhood is designed 
as a Historic Conservation District to recognize 
and preserve its historical and cultural 
significance. This designation was adopted by 
Resolution 5598 in 2022. The designation aims 
to honor the heritage of Southside Village and 
encourage the protection of its historic character.

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Strategic Framework (2023 – 2025) 
The city’s framework details six focus areas 
identified by the City Council as priorities for 
innovation and investment through 2025. 
The focus areas include: Community Safety, 
Connectivity, Economic Vitality, Neighborhoods, 
Quality of Life, and Sustainability and 
Technology. 
Transportation Master Plan (2019) 
The Chandler TMP was designed to plan for 
future transportation needs  of the projected 
workforce within the Chandler MPA. Topics 
of plan include roadway, transit, and bicycle/
pedestrian. The vision, goals and policies 
developed in the master plan are aligned with 
the 2016 General Plan.
ULI Technical Assistance Panel Summary 
Report for Downtown South (2022) 
This study provides a set of recommendations 
to improve Chandler’s Downtown. It analyzes 
development opportunities in downtown in 
relation to evolving growth paradigms for 
historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and 
mixed-income housing.  
 
ULI Technical Assistance Panel Summary 
Report for Washington Street Alignment 
(2023-2024) 
This study provides a set of recommendations 
to improve Chandler’s Southside Village 
streetscape. The study includes repaving options 
for sections of streets including a proposed 
realignment of Washington Street as well as 
various parking and visibility solutions, traffic 
calming options and truck congestion relief. 
Buffering and landscape improvements are also 
included in the study.
Valley Metro Arizona Avenue Alternatives 
Analysis 
This study evaluated potential routes for high-
capacity transit that would connect downtown 
Chandler to high-capacity transit in the 
Southeast Valley.
Water, Wastewater & Reclaimed Water 
Master Plan Update (2020) 
This master plan updates the original 2008 
document with innovative strategies to develop, 
manage, and use Chandler’s surface water, 
groundwater, and reclaimed water resources.
Zoning Code 
The Chandler Zoning Code is a set of regulations 
that dictate land uses within specific zoning 
districts. The code shapes the development and 
organization of Chandler by designating uses, 
density, setbacks, buffers, parking, and sign 
regulations as well as design standards in certain 
cases.
ORGANIZATION 
The DRAP structure consists of six chapters and appendices.
CHAPTER:
CHAPTER DESCRIPTION:
01. 
Overview
Overview provides a general context for the project’s purpose, process, 
context, and organization.
02. 
Discovery
Discovery summarizes strategies and results of community engagement 
reflecting the importance and depth of community input over the course of 
the project.
03. 
Region
Region contextualizes the overarching vision as well as the desired future 
land uses and circulation network for the region.
04. 
Districts
Districts outline the identified and guided districts within the region and 
details the community identified District Design Concepts, goals, and 
policies.
•	
Northern District
•	
Eastern District
•	
Downtown District
•	
Southern District
•	
San Marcos District
05. 
Design Themes & 
Principles
Design Themes and Principles articulate the design aesthetics desired for 
the region thru general design guidance and illustrate applications within 
each District.
06. 
Implementation
Implementation illustrates region-wide, housing-related, and district-
specific action items designed to systematically implement the 
community’s vision.
A-C 
Appendices
Appendices provide supporting documentation including the community 
engagement materials, glossary, and a high resolution printable 11x17 
Future Land Use Map (FLUM).

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DISCOVERY
2.
The Discovery 
Chapter illustrates 
both community 
engagement strategies 
deployed as well 
as the community 
engagement results for 
the DRAP process.

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Our Engagement Process

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DISCOVERY
Community engagement is essential to the 
success of any community initiative. These 
efforts to collaboratively build consensus 
and reflect the true values and vision of the 
community ultimately translated to a plan to 
be utilized for many years to come. Chandler’s 
commitment to engage the community 
and discover the diverse perspectives 
and ideas from the downtown region’s 
residents and stakeholders is embedded in 
the vision statement, goals, and policies of 
the DRAP. Early in the project process, the 
project team created a Public Participation 
Plan articulating a variety of engagement 
strategies which were implemented and 
reflected in the next sections.
Attendee at DRAP Workshop Participating in a Visual Preference Survey
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Over the course of approximately 18 months 
from early 2024 to Summer of 2025, the 
following engagement strategies were 
utilized.
The Project Website was launched early in 
the process and served as a key and visible 
resource for sharing essential information, 
including background reports, event 
schedules, and drafts for public comment. 
It hosted interactive questionnaires and 
virtual workshops providing an accessible 
platform for community engagement. The 
website was promoted on social media, at 
educational meetings, at community events, 
and during interviews. Community members 
were able to sign up to receive regular updates 
on the process ensuring timely awareness 
of important community engagement 
touchpoints during the process. The website 
received over 5,058 visits throughout the 
process.
An Information Brochure was developed 
early in the process for online and print 
distribution in both English and Spanish 
featuring an overview of the DRAP describing 
the purpose of the endeavor as well as general 
timelines for completion.
Nine Public Meetings were conducted with 
the Historic Preservation Committee, Planning 
and Zoning Commission, Downtown Chandler 
Community Partnership, Mayor’s Youth 
Commission, and City Council during the 
process. These meetings occurred throughout 
the process to provide a general overview and 
update of the planning process, and feedback 
received from the community. The meetings 
also provided an opportunity to promote 
workshops and project involvement.
A targeted list of stakeholders from each 
district consisted of 65 individuals and 
resulted in fourteen (14) Community 
Materials for the community workshops provided 
in Appendix A: Community Engagement Materials 
were developed using initial community input 
gleaned from community interviews and online 
questionnaires.
DRAP Workshop Two

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Interviews early. Additionally, an 18-person 
tour with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) 
was conducted. These discussions offered 
an opportunity for community members to 
influence and guide the DRAP and fostered 
dialog on the downtown region’s challenges 
and opportunities.
Building on the input received at the 
early public meetings as well as from 
questionnaires and interviews, nearly 800 
people participated in six in-person and 
three virtual Community Workshops held 
at pivotal points during the DRAP process.  
Workshops for visioning and scenario offered 
an interactive platform and resulted in 
the third, immersion workshop. Workshops 
were advertised via the project website, the 
city’s social media channels, radio, eLists, 
and a local electronic billboard. The first 
two workshops were held in-person at 
the Chandler Public Library and the third 
was held at the Arizona State University - 
Chandler Innovation Center on multiple days 
concurrently with in-person and virtual 
workshops were held to  offer maximum 
participation opportunities. The feedback 
from the community evolved informing the 
next workshop in the series as well as the plan 
itself.
ULI tour of Downtown Chandler
ULI tour of Downtown Chandler
Attendee participating in online poll at Immersion Workshop
Attendees participating in facilitated discussion at Immersion Workshop
Immersion 
Workshop 
attendees 
participated 
in a facilitated 
discussion while 
also answering 
specific design 
questions via 
online polling.

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Visioning Workshop
The focus of the visioning workshop was 
multifaceted. A formal presentation overview 
of the project and process was provided along 
with an open house format with stations to 
collect community input. Various interactive 
exercises were offered at individual stations, 
allowing participants to consider the unique 
conditions of the downtown region as a whole 
and each of the five districts. Comments 
and feedback from the workshop directly 
informed the scenario workshop as well as the 
contents and direction of the DRAP. The focus 
of the workshops was establishing a regional 
vision statement and garnering community 
input on priorities for the district guiding 
principles (goals), areas of change mapping, 
and a district based visual preference exercise.
Scenario Workshop
The scenario workshop, built on visioning 
workshops, offered an updated vision 
statement for the region and produced 
three tailored guiding principles (goals) 
per district reflecting comments received. 
A formal presentation overview of the 
project and process was provided along 
with an open house format with stations to 
collect community input. Comments and 
feedback from the workshop directly assist 
in informing the immersion workshop as well 
as the contents and direction of the DRAP. 
The area of change mapping exercise evolved 
delineating District Design Concept Sites and 
featured a new visual preference exercise for 
the five conceptual artist renderings creating 
community derived inspirational spaces with 
design details. 
Click to view Visioning Workshop Summaries
Click to view Scenario Workshop Summaries
Immersion Workshop
The immersion workshop offered an orientation 
presentation in open-house format, featuring 
a showcase of the evolved downtown region’s 
vision statement, each district’s guiding 
principles (goals), district design concept 
models, sketches, and orientation for the 
virtual reality experience. The virtual reality 
experience was a facilitated, interactive 
experience that allowed participants to 
visualize and comment on three of the design 
concepts that they had previously envisioned. 
The immersion workshop was broadly attended 
by community members and featured on the 
website as a virtual workshop.
Click to view Immersion Workshop Summaries
webpage 
visits
throughout the project
5,705
9
public 
meetings
throughout the project
32
interviews
with the community 
questionnaire 
responses 
from the community
793
570
workshop 
participants 
(6 in-person, 3 virtual)
How did we engage  
the community?

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REGION
3.
The Region Chapter 
includes articulation of 
the downtown region’s 
vision statement, future 
land uses, and circulation 
network.

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THE REGION
The downtown region extends from Ray Road 
to Loop 202 and is bisected by Arizona Avenue 
and Chandler Boulevard and represents the 
geographic, historic, and cultural center of 
Chandler. Many of the city’s more mature and 
historic clusters of developments are located 
within the downtown region boundary. For 
the purposes of the DRAP, the region has been 
divided into five distinct districts.
VISION STATEMENT
Vision statements are intangibles that 
encourage stakeholders to dream about 
their aspirations for the future. A vision 
statement affords a moment of collective 
idealism to consider what the future could 
look like under the most ideal circumstances 
and then reverse-engineer a community 
plan that implements this dream. The 
DRAP’s Vision Statement experienced an 
evolution over the course of the project, 
changing to reflect the thoughtful input 
of the community. Ultimately, this vision 
statement was the result of all the ideals that 
were shared through in-person and virtual 
engagement. The Vision Statement flows to 
the region’s five districts, helping to inspire 
the districts goals and policies as well as the 
implementation actions.
Chandler’s downtown region celebrates its rich history while embracing an 
innovative future with safe, well-connected districts featuring robust arts, 
entertainment, and recreation opportunities as well as thriving businesses 
and variety in housing options to ensure the economic vitality of the 
region.

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LAND USES
Existing Land Uses 
The existing land uses in the downtown region have been analyzed and vetted through 
community engagement input via an areas of change exercise within the categories of 
Preserve, Sustain, and Evolve as defined below.
The Areas of Change map for the downtown 
region is shown on the next page. This map 
depicts the categories in each district and was 
presented to the community for input and 
refinement at both the visioning and scenario 
workshops. Overall, the preserve category 
accounts for 22%, the sustain category 
accounts for 47%, and the evolve category 
accounts for 31% within the downtown 
region. These areas helped to inform the 
appropriate future land use designations 
with preserve and sustain areas generally 
reflecting their existing land uses and 
evolve areas shown as areas envisioned to 
transform from their existing land use to 
uses envisioned by the community. Many of 
these evolve areas were re-designated to a 
high density residential with integrated uses 
future land category as articulated in the next 
section.
CATEGORY:
CATEGORY DESCRIPTION:
Preserve 
(pink)
Areas that should be protected and remain largely in their current condition. 
These areas may have significant development constraints, historic 
resources, neighborhoods with a significant heritage, school sites, public 
lands, and parklands.
Sustain 
(orange)
Areas that should remain generally in their current condition but may see 
minor changes and transition of use over time. These areas may experience 
adaptive reuse of older structures or incremental changes.
Evolve 
(green)
Areas that have potential to support new development or be reused as 
development patterns change over time. These areas may be vacant, 
transitioning, or underdeveloped.
Areas of Change

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Neighborhood Residential
•	 Denotes much of the existing lower-density 
residential uses in the downtown region. 
Residential land uses up to 12 dwelling units 
per acre (0 - 12 du/ac) may be considered 
in this designation. Within this range, 
the maximum allowable density will be 
determined at the time of development 
plan approval by the city and based on such 
considerations as existing and planned 
capacities for water and sewer infrastructure, 
projected trip generation, on-site parking, 
compatibility with adjacent land uses, and 
ability to transition to adjacent existing 
lower-density residential. Public facilities, 
nonprofit organizations, and institutional 
uses such as schools, churches and other 
places of worship may be located within this 
designation upon placing special attention 
to buffering, building size and height, 
adequate parking, access, and neighborhood 
circulation. 
High-Density Residential 
•	 Denotes areas where residential densities 
above 12 dwelling units per acre (12+ du/
ac) are permitted. The maximum allowable 
density will be determined at the time of 
development plan approval by the city and 
based on such considerations as existing 
and planned capacities for water and sewer 
infrastructure, projected trip generation, 
on-site parking, compatibility with adjacent 
land uses, and ability to transition to adjacent 
existing lower-density residential.  
Future Land Uses
The DRAP is divided into eight future land use categories described as follows and illustrated 
on the Future Land Use Map (FLUM).  These future land uses work in concert with and are a 
refinement of the broader categories of the city’s general plan. Future rezonings must conform 
to both.
High Density Residential with Integrated Uses 
•	 This designation applies at all redevelopment 
properties, and denotes both vertical 
and horizontal mixed uses containing 
residential (12+ du/acre), commercial, and/
or office uses. While not required, larger 
proposed redevelopments within this 
designation are anticipated to be in the form 
of redevelopment, while smaller proposed 
developments may be more likely to employ 
the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
•	 The general vision for key gateway locations 
along Arizona Avenue at Ray Road, Chandler 
Boulevard and Pecos Road intersections is 
for mixed-use redevelopment to create a 
vibrant and dynamic downtown environment. 
Therefore, any proposed redevelopment along 
Arizona Avenue that fronts onto two arterial 
roads at the Ray Road, Chandler Boulevard 
and Pecos Road intersections shall feature 
two or more designated land uses. In addition, 
any proposed redevelopment 10 acres or 
larger at these locations shall integrate 20 
percent (20%) minimum of commercial or 
office uses.
•	 While both single-use and mixed-use 
redevelopments may be considered in 
this designation at locations other than 
the key gateway locations, in order to 
maximize the efficiency of land uses and 
promote sustainable urban development, 
larger projects within this designation are 
encouraged to accommodate a mix of uses 
that could include retail, office, and/or live 
work opportunities.
•	 Residential densities and nonresidential 
intensities will be determined in accordance 
with infrastructure capacity, on-site parking 
neighborhood compatibility, ability to 
transition to adjacent existing lower density 
residential, and design quality.
•	 Existing automobile-oriented uses such 
as automotive service and/or repair and 
automobile sales may remain. However, in 
order to prioritize pedestrian-oriented uses 
and design, such automobile-oriented uses 
are discouraged.
Resort Hotel 
•	 Denotes where resorts, hotels, vacation 
rentals and conference/convention facilities 
are appropriate. 
Recreation / Open Space 
•	 Denotes areas for public parks. 
Commercial-Office 
•	  Denotes areas for various types of 
commercial and office uses ranging in size 
from large multi-story or multi-building 
developments to existing small individual 
buildings.  Specific types of commercial 
and office will be dependent on the ability 
to provide a sufficient amount of parking 
spaces among other key considerations. 
Automobile-oriented uses such as automotive 
service and/or repair and automobile sales are 
discouraged in order to prioritize pedestrian-
oriented uses and design.

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Future Land Use Category
Acres
Percentage
Neighborhood Residential
515.2
40.4%
High Density Residential
109.6
8.6%
High Density Residential  
with Integrated Uses
331.5
26.0%
Commercial-Office
41.2
3.2%
Resort Hotel
7.4
.6%
Recreation/Open Space
14.4
1.1%
Public/Institutional
150.8
11.8%
Golf Course
106.5
8.3%
Total:
1276.7
100%
Eight future land 
use categories 
work in concert 
with the city’s 
broader general 
plan land use 
categories. 
Future Land Use Map
Public / Institutional 
•	 Denotes areas appropriate for public and 
quasi-public uses such as government offices, 
libraries, churches, schools, and nonprofit 
organizations.
Golf Course 
•	  Denotes the San Marcos Golf Course, which 
was established in 1913 and is the first grass 
course in Arizona.

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CIRCULATION
This section consists of a discussion of both the existing and future circulation networks 
followed by a Future Circulation Map.
Existing Circulation Network
The existing circulation network is shown on the FLUM. Primary and secondary circulation are 
different for each mode of travel present the DRAP: 
•	 Vehicular Travel relies heavily on the section 
line arterial roadways that traverse and form 
the boundaries of the downtown region. Alma 
School Road, Arizona Avenue, and McQueen 
Road are the primary north-south roadways 
and Pecos Road, Chandler Boulevard, and Ray 
Road are the primary east-west roadways. 
These arterials provide high capacity and 
high-speed travel for both local and regional 
trips, as well as connectivity to the regional 
freeway system via the Loop 202 (Santan 
Freeway). The arterial network is supported 
by several collector roadways that provide 
local circulation and connectivity between 
arterials. Hartford Street, Dakota Street, 
Delaware Street, and Hamilton Street provide 
north-south connectivity, while Frye Road, 
Erie Street, and Galveston Street provide 
east-west connectivity.
•	 Transit Travel is provided by both Valley 
Metro and supplemented by the City of 
Chandler. Valley Metro operates bus routes on 
Alma School Road, Arizona Avenue, Chandler 
Boulevard, and Frye Road. The entire 
downtown region is also within the Chandler 
Flex transit zone, which provides on-demand, 
corner-to-corner transit services between 
any locations within the service zone. 
•	 Active Transportation Travel is 
accommodated via sidewalks and on-street 
bicycle facilities throughout the downtown 
region. Sidewalks are present on almost all 
roadways, though their width and quality vary 
widely. On-street bike lanes are present on 
Arizona Avenue south of Erie Street, Hamilton 
Street, McQueen Road south of Chandler 
Boulevard, Pecos Road, Frye Road, and 
Chandler Boulevard. Standard striped bike 
lanes on the major arterial roadways provide 
sufficient comfort level for most cyclists . 
The Downtown District has frequent crossing 
opportunities across major roadways, but the 
surrounding districts have long stretches of 
arterial roadways without opportunities for 
pedestrians or cyclists to cross at signalized 
crossings.
Future Circulation Network
While the transportation network in the downtown region is largely built out, there are several 
long-term transportation improvements that have been identified: 
•	 Vehicular Projects
	»
McQueen Road is recommended to be 
widened to three through lanes in each 
direction throughout the region.
	»
The intersection of Arizona Avenue 
and Pecos Road is recommended to be 
widened with additional travel lanes to 
reduce congestion.
	»
Washington Street is planned to be 
extended from Fairview Street to Pecos 
Road pending the Washington Street 
Alignment Study (2023-2024).
	»
Chandler Boulevard is recommended 
to be widened to three through lanes in 
each direction between Arizona Avenue 
and McQueen Road in the Chandler 
Transportation Master Plan (TMP).
	»
Ray Road is recommended to be 
widened to three through lanes in each 
direction within the region per the 
Chandler TMP.
•	 Transit Projects
	»
Both Arizona Avenue and Chandler 
Boulevard are identified for high-
capacity transit, likely bus rapid transit, 
by the City of Chandler and Valley 
Metro.
	»
The Chandler TMP recommends 
conducting a study to identify a 
location for a downtown intermodal 
transit center followed by constructing 
that transit center.
Consider pedestrian 
connectivity as a high 
priority in future roadway 
improvements.

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•	 Active Transportation Projects
	»
The on-street bike lanes on Frye Road 
will be upgraded to protected bike lanes 
between San Marcos Park and the Paseo 
Trail.
	»
Bike lanes will be added to McQueen 
Road north of Chandler Boulevard with 
the roadway widening project.
	»
The Chandler TMP recommends adding 
a shared-use path along the UPRR 
right-of-way through the length of the 
downtown region.
	»
The Chandler TMP recommends 
upgrading the bike lanes on Chandler 
Boulevard for the entire length of the 
downtown region and Arizona Avenue 
between Frye Road and Chandler 
Boulevard to buffered bike lanes.
	»
The Chandler TMP recommends adding 
bike lanes to Alma School Road between 
Frye Road and Mercury Way as well as 
north of Chandler Boulevard, Arizona 
Avenue between Chandler Boulevard 
and Ray Road, and Ray Road for the 
length of the downtown region.
•	 Industrial Commerce Routes
	»
In order to direct industrial truck traffic 
away from busy downtown areas that 
experience heavy pedestrian, vehicular 
and bicycle traffic, this plan creates 
industrial commerce routes (shown 
as a heavy dashed blue lines) along 
certain roads within the downtown 
region. Industrial commerce routes will 
be implemented through a variety of 
available strategies such as employer 
education, signage, roadway design 
improvements and potentially stronger 
enforcement measures to be evaluated 
and determined at a later date.
The following Future Circulation Map includes details of planned future improvements to the 
transportation network. These include the following categories of recommendations: 
•	 Approved improvements: Improvements currently scheduled for construction.
•	 Proposed improvements: Improvements currently under consideration by the City of Chandler.
•	 Recommended improvements: Improvements identified as “recommended” in the Chandler TMP.
•	 Potential improvements: Improvements that were identified during the DRAP process or by other 
City of Chandler departments.
E. Pecos Rd.
E. Commonwealth Ave.
W. Erie St.
E. Detroit St.
E. Ray Rd.
S. Alma School Rd.
N. McQueen Rd.
Union Pacific RR
S. Hamilton St.
S. Palm Ln.
W. Frye Rd.
N Hartford St.
Dakota St.
N. Washington St.
E. Morelos St.
S. Oregon St.
E. Fairview St.
E. Kesler Ln.
E. Buffalo St.
W. Galveston St.
W. Chicago St.
S. ARIZONA AVE.
N. ARIZONA AVE.
E. CHANDLER BLVD.
W. CHANDLER BLVD.
0
0.25
0.5 Miles
Building Footprints
Area Plan Boundary
Recommended 
Intersection Congestion
Mitigation
Roadway Widening
High Capacity Transit Corridor
Downtown Region Future Circulation Map
Recommended Bike Lanes
Approved Protected Bike Lanes
Potential Shared Use Path
Recommended Shared 
Use Path
Industrial Commerce Route
Proposed Street Extension
Existing Enhanced ROW and Pedestrian Oriented 
Main Street Improvements
Potential Enhanced 
ROW and Pedestrian 
Oriented Main Street 
Improvements
Potential Improved
Pedestrian Crossings
Potential Gateway
Monument Locations
Bike lanes continue 
to Consolidated Canal
Bike lanes continue 
to Consolidated Canal
Existing Bike Lanes

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4.
Through the DRAP process, 
the downtown region 
was divided into five 
districts, each with their 
own unique character to 
align with main objectives 
better. The Districts 
Chapter highlights these 
distinctions.

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 DISTRICTS
The sections within the Districts Chapter are organized similarly beginning with an 
informative overview inclusive of the district’s location in the region as well as its illustrative 
district-based FLUM, community-derived goals, descriptive and illustrative design guidance 
based on each district’s community guided design concept, and finishing with district specific 
policies. The following hand-drawn district design concepts in this chapter were shared 
with the public in the workshop series and further refined, as depicted in Chapter 5, based on 
community input.
NORTHERN DISTRICT
Northern District Overview 
Arizona Avenue bisects the Northern District and offers a mix of auto-oriented uses, including 
motels, auto shops, and retail. Beyond this major commercial corridor, the district is 
comprised of residential neighborhoods, including the historic Silk-Stocking Neighborhood, 
known for its historic cottages and bungalows as well as the historic Chandler High School and 
the Chandler Center for the Arts. 
Click on a district or continue 
turning the pages to learn 
more about its unique 
characteristics, location, 
future land uses, goals, 
design themes and principles, 
and policies. 
Northern District
Southern District
Eastern District
Downtown District
San Marcos District
By the numbers: 
At 519 acres, the 
Northern District 
represents 44% of the 
total DRAP, making 
it the largest area 
within the downtown 
region. 
Approximately 11% of 
the Northern District 
has potential to 
evolve in the coming 
decades.

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Northern District FLUM
The following district Future Land Use Map (FLUM) is for illustrative purposes and additional 
information on future land use descriptions can be found in the Region Chapter.
Northern District Goals
The following three goals serve as a guide for future planning and development in the 
Northern District and are based on feedback solicited from the community during the planning 
process. The policies within this section and the actions listed later in the Implementation 
Chapter all relate back to these principles. 
Goal 1
Goal 2
Goal 3
•	 Facilitate sustainable 
growth through infill 
and redevelopment that 
retains or is compatible 
with existing character.
•	 Enhance access and 
quality of existing city 
parks and encourage 
development of new 
pocket parks, pathways 
and similar recreational 
opportunities in 
strategic locations.
•	 Improve safety and 
enhance experience for 
multimodal travel.
What is a District Design 
Concept? 
A District Design Concept is 
visual representation of the 
type of design features and 
development patterns that 
would be most beneficial 
within this district. 
Each District Section 
includes an illustrative 
concept, which you’ll find on 
the following pages.

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Northern District Design Concept
The Northern District Design Concept focuses 
on redeveloping approximately three acres 
along Arizona Avenue on the “Chandler Inn” 
Motel parcels at 700 North Arizona Avenue, 
providing continued connectivity to the 
adjoining parcel to the north and secondary 
connectivity to Harrison Street.  This site, 
like many others in the Northern District, 
is automobile-oriented and fronts a major 
vehicular thoroughfare, making it an ideal 
candidate for enhancements. Flanked by a 
commercial and single family residential 
to the north and a school to the south, and 
more single-family residential areas to the 
west, this site presents a unique opportunity 
to integrate uses while redefining the 
visual character of Arizona Avenue within 
the context of the district. Overall, this 
mixed-use redevelopment concept supports 
the surrounding community by blending 
functional spaces with activated open spaces, 
connectivity, and sustainable design.
Key site features:
•	 Sustainable development / small-
scale solar
•	 Rear parking
•	 Shade structures 
•	 Outdoor seating 
•	 Enhanced bus stop
•	 Multi-dwelling housing 
•	 Mixed-use development
•	 Enhanced sidewalks along Arizona 
Ave. 
Northern District Policies
Goal 1: Facilitate sustainable growth 
through infill and redevelopment that 
retains or is compatible with existing 
character.
NDG1 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
new residential, commercial, and mixed-use 
growth that enhances district character. 
NDG1 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
identification and preservation of historic 
buildings and cultural landmarks 
NDG1 Policy 3: The City of Chandler supports the 
establishment of zoning and design regulations 
that ensure smooth transitions between different 
land uses, such as step-down building heights, 
buffering, and landscape requirements.
NDG1 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
adaptive reuse of older buildings to create unique 
destinations and enhance the district’s character.
Goal 2: Enhance access and quality 
of existing city parks and encourage 
development of new pocket parks, 
pathways and similar recreational 
opportunities in strategic locations. 
NDG2 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
development of activated public spaces into infill 
and redevelopment projects. 
NDG2 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
expansion of park and pathway connectivity 
through the development of urban trails, 
greenways, and pedestrian connections that link 
infill and redevelopment areas to existing parks, 
open spaces, and downtown. 
NDG2 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
leveraging underutilized spaces, including 
vacant lots, underutilized rights-of-way, and 
publicly owned lands for pocket parks and small-
scale recreational spaces. 
NDG2 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
the addition of open and usable outdoor space 
where people can enjoy and connect with people 
and natural elements. 
Goal 3: Improve safety and enhance 
experience for multimodal travel.
NDG3 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
the enhancement of pedestrian and bicycle 
paths and the beautification of Arizona Avenue 
between Chandler Boulevard and Ray Road. 
NDG3 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
provision of context-appropriate multimodal 
facilities such as bike lockers, ride-share pick up 
locations, and crossings with separation between 
modes of travel.
NDG3 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
reduction of cut-through traffic and vehicular 
speeds on neighborhood streets.
NDG3 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
the expansion of the urban forest by adding 
natural shade trees and structural shade features 
at streetscapes, pedestrian paths and other 
connections throughout the region.

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EASTERN DISTRICT
Eastern District Overview
The Eastern District extends east from Chandler’s historic downtown to McQueen Road and 
is bisected by Chandler Boulevard. Detroit Street serves as the northern boundary and Pecos 
Road sits at the southern edge. The northern portion of this district is comprised of single-
family residential uses while the southern portion is predominantly industrial as well as the 
city’s three public housing sites. 
Eastern District FLUM
The following district Future Land Use Map (FLUM) is for illustrative purposes and additional 
information on future land use descriptions can be found in the Region Chapter.
By the numbers: 
At 222 acres, the 
Eastern District 
represents 17% of the 
DRAP.
69% of the Eastern 
District has potential 
to evolve in the 
coming decades.

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Eastern District Goals
The following three goals serve as a guide for future planning and development in the Eastern 
District and are based on feedback provided by the community throughout the planning 
process. The policies within this section and the actions listed later in the Implementation 
Chapter all relate back to these goals.
Eastern District Design Concept
The Eastern District Design Concept focuses 
on redeveloping approximately seven acres 
between Chandler Boulevard and Detroit 
Street addressing an opportunity to create 
a gateway to the downtown region. This 
concept also addresses “missing middle 
housing” by delving into the concept of 
complete neighborhoods, reimagining what 
these could look like within the existing 
district fabric. Overall, this concept aims to 
create a vibrant, complete neighborhood 
where residents can live, work, and play, all 
within a well-connected, sustainable, and 
visually appealing environment. 
Key site features:
•	 Central shopping area for locals and visitors 
with residential above
•	 Clear district boundaries
•	 Human-scale development
•	 Mixed-use activity
•	 Visual interest at street level 
•	 Narrow streets and lanes
•	 Traffic calming for safety
•	 Street seating
•	 Age-in-place housing options
•	 Walkability, multi-use paths
•	 Central community plaza
•	 Outdoor seating and dining
•	 Missing middle housing
•	 Shade structures
•	 Assisted living
•	 Building facades that reflect community 
character
Goal 1
Goal 2
Goal 3
•	 Facilitate infill and 
redevelopment for 
a broad range of 
residential, commercial, 
and mixed-use 
opportunities.
•	 Encourage the 
beautification of public 
spaces, recreation 
opportunities in 
strategic locations, and 
walkability across the 
district.
•	 Foster business growth 
that creates synergy 
between uses.

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Eastern District Policies
Goal 1: Facilitate infill and redevelopment 
for a broad range of residential, 
commercial, and mixed-use opportunities.
EDG1 Policy 1: The City of Chandler supports the 
maintenance of the city’s Infill Incentive Plan 
as a tool to encourage the redevelopment of 
underutilized commercial properties.
EDG1 Policy 2: The City of Chandler supports the 
identification of publicly owned properties that 
can be redeveloped for housing and mixed-use 
projects through public-private partnerships.
EDG1 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
a range of commercial and residential uses 
on the ground floor of mixed-use buildings to 
accommodate shifting market demands.
EDG1 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
implementation of the Adaptive Reuse Program 
standards to allow conversion of defunct office 
and retail spaces into housing units.
Goal 2: Encourage the beautification of 
public spaces, recreation opportunities in 
strategic locations, and walkability across 
the district.
EDG2 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
the enhancement of pedestrian and bicycle paths 
and the beautification of Chandler Boulevard 
between Arizona Avenue and McQueen Road. 
EDG2 Policy 2: The City of Chandler seeks 
to create a sense of place upon arrival into 
the downtown region through streetscape 
improvements such as furnishings, landscape, 
etc.
EDG2 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
conversion of public spaces into pocket parks, 
pedestrian plazas/corridors, small-scale 
playgrounds, or art-filled gathering spaces.
EDG2 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
developments that provide enhanced frontages 
with seating, planters, and murals.
EDG2 Policy 5: The City of Chandler encourages 
exploration of additional transit options for 
residents, students, and workers. 
Goal 3: Foster business growth that creates 
synergy between uses.
EDG3 Policy 1: The City of Chandler supports 
the continued use of expedited approvals for 
downtown business expansion or renovations to 
support local business growth efforts.
EDG3 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
startups and small businesses by, as feasible, 
directing them to existing co-working spaces, 
and mentorship programs that connect emerging 
entrepreneurs with experienced industry leaders.
SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Southern District Overview
The Southern District serves as the gateway to the city, extending from Loop 202 up to 
Chandler’s historic downtown bisected by Arizona Avenue. This district includes a mix of 
commercial and residential uses and is home to historic Southside Village Neighborhood along 
with Winn Park. 
By the numbers: 
At 203 acres, the 
Southern District 
represents 16% of the 
total DRAP. 
67% of the Southern 
District has potential 
to evolve in the 
coming decades.

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Southern District FLUM
The following district Future Land Use Map (FLUM) is for illustrative purposes and additional 
information on future land use descriptions can be found in the Region Chapter.
Southern District Goals
The following three goals serve as a guide for future planning and development in the 
Southern District and are based on feedback solicited from the community during the planning 
process. The policies within this section and the actions listed later in the Implementation 
Chapter all relate back to these goals.
Goal 1
Goal 2
Goal 3
•	 Foster vibrant and 
resilient neighborhoods 
by encouraging 
revitalization of existing 
communities and 
enhancing economic 
opportunities.
•	 Encourage 
neighborhood 
revitalization through 
improvements such 
as Washington 
Street extension and 
activation of targeted 
alleyways. 
•	 Expand options and 
access to parks and public 
gathering spaces.

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Southern District Design Concept
The Southern District Design Concept focuses 
on the transition from Arizona Avenue 
eastward to Washington Street and just north 
of Fairview Avenue. At just over an acre, the 
concept presents a significant opportunity 
to shape future development of the Southern 
District providing a gateway to the downtown 
region with the potential to explore various 
options for live/workspaces, public gathering 
areas, targeted activated alleyways. This 
concept supports the pending Washington 
Street Alignment Study to improve access and 
connectivity, with the potential for flexible 
office spaces that support mid-market 
businesses and housing. Overall, the concept 
illustrates creating a vibrant mixed-use 
environment that supports and integrates 
with the surrounding neighborhoods. 
Key site features:
•	 Live-work studios or small missing-
middle housing developments
•	 Varied street level businesses
•	 Targeted, activated alleys
•	 Central courtyard
•	 Sustainable living
•	 Rooftop solar for sustainability
•	 Shade structures
•	 Outdoor dining and social spaces
•	 Pedestrian oriented 
•	 Multipurpose, experiential retail
•	 Urban living, loft living
•	 Pop-up retail fostering local markers and 
crafts
•	 Opportunities for live music or public art 
Southern District Policies 
Goal 1: Foster vibrant and resilient 
neighborhoods by encouraging 
revitalization of existing communities and 
enhancing economic opportunities.
SDG1 Policy 1: The City of Chandler supports 
facilitation of infill, redevelopment and adaptive 
reuse along both sides of Arizona Avenue to 
provide access to a broad range of residential, 
commercial, and mixed-use opportunities.   
SDG1 Policy 2: The City of Chandler supports 
the creation of assistive programs to revive 
neighborhoods and businesses and support 
existing neighborhood preservation groups. 
SDG3 Policy 3: Allow a compatible mix of 
commercial uses between Fairview and Saragosa 
Streets paying homage to the historical uses that 
were once there.
SDG4 Policy 4: The City of Chandler seeks to 
relieve parking requirements by providing public 
parking on underutilized city-owned parcels 
when available.
Goal 2:  Encourage neighborhood 
revitalization through improvements 
such as Washington Street extension 
and activation of targeted alleyways.
SDG2 Policy 1: The City of Chandler supports 
the activation of the alleyway between 
Arizona Avenue and Washington Street with 
improvements such as landscaping, public art, 
unique lighting, and safe pathways. 
SDG2 Policy 2: The City of Chandler supports the 
investment in streetscape enhancements along 
Washington Street and the Washington Street 
extension that utilize low-water-use plants to 
reduce water waste. 
SDG2 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
developments along the west side of Washington 
Street that are compatible with and revitalize the 
Southside Village neighborhood.
Goal 3: Expand options and access to parks 
and public gathering spaces.
SDG3 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
opportunities to increase the number pedestrian 
pathways and public gathering spaces in this 
district.
SDG3 Policy 2: The City of Chandler supports the 
identification of geographic opportunities for 
an urban trail network and implementation of a 
multi-phase, multi-year buildout plan.

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DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Downtown District Overview
The Downtown District is the heartbeat of the downtown region. Home to several historic sites 
and features as well as Chandler’s thriving arts and entertainment district. Some points of 
interest include the historic canal and the AJ Chandler Park.  The Downtown District centers 
around Arizona Avenue and is encompassed by Chandler Boulevard to the north, Frye Road 
to the south, the Union Pacific Railroad to the east, and Dakota/Essex Street to the west. The 
district blends historic 20th century architecture with modern shops and restaurants and 
serves as a unique gathering place for community events that attract residents and visitors 
from around the region.
By the numbers: 
At 104 acres, the 
Downtown District 
represents 8% of the 
total DRAP. 
33% of the Downtown 
District has potential 
to evolve in the 
coming decades.
Downtown District FLUM
The following district Future Land Use Map (FLUM) is for illustrative purposes and additional 
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Downtown District Goals
The following three goals serve as a guide for future planning and development in the 
Downtown District and are based on feedback solicited from the community during 
the planning process. The policies within this section and the actions listed later in the 
Implementation Chapter all relate back to these goals.
Downtown District Design Concept
The Downtown District Design Concept 
focuses on an infill streetscape within 
the Pueblo Viejo neighborhood, located 
in the southwest corner of the district. 
Potential infill within this area provides a 
unique opportunity to expand mixed-use 
development into the existing single-family 
neighborhood. The streetscape concept 
looking north from Frye Road along Oregon 
Street aims to revitalize the neighborhood 
by introducing a variety of uses and building 
forms, while enhancing the overall character 
and pedestrian-friendly environment. By 
incorporating existing structures into the new 
development, the district can build upon the 
area’s existing charm and create a cohesive 
blend of old and new. This approach not only 
preserves the neighborhood’s heritage but 
also supports a dynamic and diverse urban 
environment. 
Key site features:
•	 Installation of mini roundabouts and 
special road treatments to help slow 
vehicular traffic and improve traffic flow 
and pedestrian safety.
•	 Mixed use amenities and features.
•	 Unique art shade features to enhance 
pedestrian comfort and create a more 
inviting streetscape experience. 
•	 Integration of older existing building 
architecture, which can add distinctive 
character and historical depth to the 
neighborhood. 
Goal 1
Goal 2
Goal 3
•	 Encourage development 
that enhances and 
preserves Chandler’s 
unique Downtown 
community character.
•	 Expand housing options 
and essential services, 
ensuring convenient 
access to groceries, 
childcare, fitness, and 
daily needs.
•	 Explore ways to 
expand events, attract 
diverse restaurants 
and entertainment, 
and improve mobility 
for better access to 
downtown experiences.

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Downtown District Policies
Goal 1: Encourage development that 
enhances and preserves Chandler’s unique 
Downtown community character.
DDG1 Policy 1: The City of Chandler supports the 
establishment of standards that facilitate infill 
and redevelopment projects of varying densities 
and enhance downtown’s historic character and 
pedestrian experience.
DDG1 Policy 2: Encourage unique and locally 
owned establishments to enhance the downtown 
district’s character.
DDG1 Policy 3: The City of Chandler supports 
the use of temporary and permanent art 
installations, non-commercial murals, and 
community-led art projects that reflect local 
culture.
DDG1 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
opportunities to improve lighting infrastructure 
to enhance the sense of place and promote public 
safety.
Goal 2: Expand housing options and 
essential services, ensuring convenient 
access to groceries, childcare, fitness, and 
daily needs.
DDG2 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
the development of multi-family housing, 
mixed-use residential projects, and workforce 
and missing middle housing to support a diverse 
population. 
DDG2 Policy 2:  The City of Chandler encourages 
developments that provide services to residents 
such as grocery stores, childcare facilities, gyms, 
and other essential services into new and existing 
developments.
DDG2 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
the continued collaboration with regional 
partners to improve transit connections and 
provide additional local-scale transportation 
options for residents, students, and workers. 
DDG2 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
the improvement of the bicycle and pedestrian 
infrastructure between downtown and 
surrounding districts while incorporating shade, 
seating, and safety features. 
Goal 3: Explore ways to expand 
events, attract diverse restaurants and 
entertainment, and improve mobility for 
better access to downtown experiences.
DDG3 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
consideration of flexible public spaces that can 
host rotating markets, pop-up vendors, seasonal 
installations, and interactive art experiences.
DDG3 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
the expansion of cultural, arts, and music events 
to celebrate local heritage, attract visitors, and 
engage a broad demographic.
DDG3 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
consideration of event parking solutions to 
support various-sized events across downtown.
DDG3 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
consideration of pedestrian- and vehicle-
friendly wayfinding systems to direct visitors 
to parking and local businesses, ensuring easy 
access to downtown amenities.
DDG3 Policy 5: The City of Chandler encourages 
the activation of open spaces with programmed 
events such as yoga in the park, farmers’ 
markets, and cultural performances.
DDG3 Policy 6: The City of Chandler encourages 
planting native and drought-resistant trees to 
provide shade, mitigate the urban heat island 
effect, and improve aesthetics.
DDG3 Policy 7: The City of Chandler encourages 
the continued use of streetscape improvements, 
such as bike racks, furniture, and enhanced 
landscaping, that contribute to and enhance the 
downtown’s character and identity.

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SAN MARCOS DISTRICT 
San Marcos District Overview
The San Marcos District extends west from Chandler’s historic downtown to Alma School 
Road. This district is bound by  Chandler Boulevard to the north and Frye Road to the south. 
It’s known for the iconic San Marcos Golf Course, which contributes to the area’s unique 
character and historic significance. 
By the numbers: 
At 232 acres, the 
San Marcos District 
represents about 18% 
of the total DRAP. 
Only 5% of the San 
Marcos District has 
potential to evolve in 
the coming decades.
San Marcos FLUM
The following district Future Land Use Map (FLUM) is for illustrative purposes and additional 
information on future land use descriptions can be found in the Region Chapter.

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San Marcos Goals
The following three goals serve as a guide for future planning and development in the San 
Marcos District and are based on feedback solicited from the community during the planning 
process. The policies within this section and the actions listed later in the Implementation 
Chapter all relate back to these goals.
San Marcos District Design Concept
The San Marcos District Design Concept  is located on the eastern edge of the district on 
approximately six acres, is strategically positioned to infill and revitalize the area while 
extending the vibrancy of downtown with integrated housing and recreational components. 
The proposed design centers around a centralized hub with a plaza and activated park space 
that acknowledges and integrates the existing historic canal and creates a focal point for 
community engagement and recreation.  Overall, the design creates a vibrant and well-
connected community hub with connectivity to historic downtown.
Key site features:
•	 Signature distinctive shade structure
•	 Visual connectivity to downtown
•	 Art Center and community hub
•	 Multiplex housing
•	 Mixed-use development
•	 Retail 
•	 Adventure and interactive play features, 
including splash pad
•	 Innovative natural elements with wetland 
filtered water. 
•	 Educational opportunities for wildlife and 
ecology 
•	 Integrated safe walking path with fitness 
experience
•	 Community recreation center
•	 Integration into historic golf course
•	 Gateway to Downtown District
•	 Historic educational opportunities, 
including the Commonwealth Canal
Goal 1
Goal 2
Goal 3
•	 Create and enhance 
recreation opportunities 
and connectivity to 
downtown.
•	 Facilitate infill and 
redevelopment for 
residential, commercial, 
parks, and mixed uses 
in concert with the 
district character.
•	 Enhance and preserve the 
historic assets and the 
character of the district.

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San Marcos District Policies
 
Goal 1: Create and enhance recreation 
opportunities and connectivity to 
downtown.
SMDG1 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
the development of new park spaces and 
enhancement of the existing golf recreation area 
with amenities such as fitness stations, shaded 
seating, splash pads, and community gathering 
areas as deemed appropriate.
SMDG1 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
new developments to incorporate shade 
elements, such as tree-lined sidewalks, covered 
walkways, and seating areas to enhance 
walkability and reduce heat exposure. 
Goal 2: Facilitate infill and redevelopment 
for residential, commercial, parks, and 
mixed uses in concert with the district 
character.
SMDG2 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
mixed-use and residential infill / redevelopment 
projects.
SMDG2 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
developments to complement  the existing 
character of the historic neighborhood and golf 
course. 
SMDG2 Policy 3: The City of Chandler seeks to 
create a sense of place upon arrival into the 
downtown region.
Goal 3: Enhance and preserve the historic 
assets and the character of the district.
SMDG3 Policy 1: The City of Chandler encourages 
historic preservation of the golf course as 
Arizona’s first turf golf course and an important 
part of Chandler’s history.
SMDG3 Policy 2: The City of Chandler encourages 
historic preservation of the residential 
neighborhood surrounding the golf course. 
SMDG3 Policy 3: The City of Chandler encourages 
context-appropriate streetscape enhancements 
that reflect the historical assets of the district. 
SMDG3 Policy 4: The City of Chandler encourages 
the development of educational features and 
signage that highlights historical aspects of the 
district. 
SMDG3 Policy 5: The City of Chandler 
encourages hotel and golf course programming 
that integrates local arts, culture, and food 
experiences, tying them into downtown events.

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The Design Themes 
& Principles Chapter 
introduces general design 
themes and principles 
illustrated through 
graphic renderings 
and photographs and 
then further expressed 
via specific district 
applications as they relate 
to the community derived 
District Design Concepts 
and goals from Chapter 4.
DESIGN THEMES  
& PRINCIPLES
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DESIGN THEMES & PRINCIPLES
PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY 
The purpose of these design themes and 
principles is to assist in guiding the design 
and aesthetic character within the DRAP by 
visually unifying and realizing the downtown 
region’s main objectives of adaptive reuse, 
alley activation, downtown gateways, and 
character areas, as well as the region-wide 
vision, and the district specific goals.  These 
design themes and principles apply to the 
entire downtown region for all new, infill, 
and redevelopment projects which require 
rezoning and/or preliminary development 
plan approval.  Specific application of 
these design themes and principles are 
also illustrated for each district using the 
community evolved District Design Concept 
introduced within the Districts Chapter.
DESIGN THEMES AND PRINCIPLES 
OVERVIEW
Four design themes derived from best 
industry practices and customized to 
Chandler’s downtown region through 
community input and direction are articulated 
below.  Within the context of each design 
theme, four key design principles further 
express the intent of the theme by specifically 
illustrating site, mobility, and architectural 
design concepts within graphically rich 
renderings and inspirational photos.
Community Character 
Considers factors such as views, 
proximity of existing adjacent 
buildings and impact on the 
adjacent neighborhood when 
placing new structures.
Placemaking 
Creates a variety of types 
and sizes of spaces offering 
opportunities for art, education, 
history, recreation or 
enrichment.
Connectivity and Mobility 
Provides pedestrian connectivity 
as an alternative mode of 
transport. Neighborhoods, 
parks, shopping and schools 
would ideally all be connected by 
trails or sidewalks.
Sustainability 
Incorporates design elements 
like energy efficiency, shaded 
areas, water conservation, and 
use of renewable materials into 
all types of development.
Design Themes

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CC1
CC2
CC1
CC3
CC4
CC4
CC3
COMMUNITY CHARACTER DESIGN PRINCIPLES
CC1
Façade Transparency & Articulation: Use vertically proportioned windows, 
recessed entries, and storefront modulation to reinforce historical rhythm and 
massing.
CC2
Compatible Roof Forms & Massing: Apply step-backs and articulated parapets 
to reflect traditional scales seen in historic Chandler blocks.
CC3
Integrated Historic Signage: Encourage blade signs and marquee signage 
styles with traditional materials (wood, metal) reflective of early 20th-century 
design.
CC4
Adaptive Reuse & Character Preservation: Historic building modifications 
should maintain key design features and additions should complement original 
design, scale and massing.

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Community Character Design Principles
Inspiration
Inspiration
CC1: Façade Transparency & Articulation
Use vertically proportioned windows, recessed entries, and storefront modulation to reinforce 
historical rhythm and massing.
CC2: Compatible Roof Forms & Massing
Apply step-backs and articulated parapets to reflect traditional scales seen in historic 
Chandler blocks.

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Community Character Design Principles (Continued)
CC3: Integrated Historic Signage
Encourage blade signs and marquee signage styles with traditional materials (wood, metal) 
reflective of early 20th-century design.
CC4: Site Placement that Preserves Context
Maintain consistent front setbacks and site orientation that aligns with historic block 
patterns.
Inspiration
Inspiration

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P4
P3
P2
P1
P2
P3
PLACEMAKING
P1
District Gateways and Monuments: Design visually distinct entry points using 
thematic colors, art, or sculptural signage.
P2
Public Gathering Nodes: Incorporate small plazas or pocket parks adjacent to 
building entrances with seating, shade, and art.
P3
Custom Light Fixtures as Public Art: Use decorative poles and fixtures that 
enhance both function and aesthetic, potentially doubling as artistic elements.
P4
Alley Activation Elements: Retrofit alleys with lighting, murals, pavers, and 
movable seating to support small events and improve safety.

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Placemaking Design Principles 
P1: District Gateways and Monuments
Design visually distinct entry points using thematic colors, art, or sculptural signage.
Inspiration
P2: Public Gathering Nodes
Incorporate small plazas or pocket parks adjacent to building entrances with seating, shade, 
and art.
Inspiration

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P3: Custom Light Fixtures as Public Art
Use decorative poles and fixtures that enhance both function and aesthetic, potentially 
doubling as artistic elements.
P4: Alley Activation Elements
Retrofit alleys with lighting, murals, pavers, and movable seating to support small events and 
improve safety.
Placemaking Design Principles (Continued)
Inspiration
Inspiration

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CM4
CM4
CM2
CM2
CM2
CM3
CM3
CM1
CM1
CONNECTIVITY AND MOBILITY
CM1
Minimum 10’ Sidewalk Width in Mixed-Use Areas: Ensure sufficient 
pedestrian space with defined clear zones and furnishings for comfort and 
accessibility.
CM2
Active Ground Floor Uses: Require doors and transparent glazing along 
pedestrian corridors to engage the street and increase safety.
CM3
Pedestrian Crossings with Enhanced Paving: Use earth-colored stamped or 
textured concrete to emphasize pedestrian right-of-way at intersections and 
mid-block crossings.
CM4
Consistent Street Furniture and Tree Placement: Position benches, lighting, 
and trash receptacles within amenity zones that do not obstruct the pedestrian 
path.
Note: Public parking 
requirements may 
be waived for non-
residential uses when a 
proposed site is located 
within 1000’ of existing 
public parking.

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Connectivity and Mobility Design Principles 
CM1: Minimum 10’ Sidewalk Width in Mixed-Use Areas
Ensure sufficient pedestrian space with defined clear zones and furnishings for comfort and 
accessibility.
Inspiration
CM2: Active Ground Floor Uses
Require doors and transparent glazing along pedestrian corridors to engage the street and 
increase safety.
Inspiration

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Connectivity and Mobility Design Principles (Continued) 
CM3: Pedestrian Crossings with Enhanced Paving
Use stamped or textured concrete to emphasize pedestrian right-of-way at intersections and 
mid-block crossings.
Inspiration
CM4: Consistent Street Furniture and Tree Placement
Position benches, lighting, and trash receptacles within amenity zones that do not obstruct 
the pedestrian path.
Inspiration

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S1
S1
S2
S2
S2
S3
S3
S4
S4
SUSTAINABILITY
S1
Use of Native, Low-Water Landscaping: Incorporate plant species suited to arid 
environments and group them by water needs.
S2
Shade Structures and Canopies: Require awnings, arcades, and trees to provide 
75% sidewalk shade coverage during peak hours.
S3
On-Site Water Management: Design bioswales, permeable paving, and curb 
cuts to direct runoff into landscape basins.
S4
Cool Surface Materials: Use light-colored pavers, decomposed granite, or 
reflective coatings to reduce heat absorption in pedestrian zones.

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Sustainability Design Principles 
S1: Use of Native, Low-Water Landscaping
Incorporate plant species suited to arid environments and group them by water needs.
S2: Shade Structures and Canopies
Require awnings, arcades, and trees to provide 75% sidewalk shade coverage during peak 
hours.
Inspiration
Inspiration

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Sustainability Design Principles (Continued) 
S3: On-Site Water Management 
Design bioswales, permeable paving, and curb cuts to direct runoff into landscape basins.
Inspiration
S4: Cool Surface Materials
Use light-colored pavers, decomposed granite, or reflective coatings to reduce heat absorption 
in pedestrian zones.
Inspiration

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DISTRICT DESIGN THEME APPLICATIONS
The intent of this section is to apply the 
above design themes and principles to 
each of the five districts within the DRAP.  
Illustration of these applications takes each 
community derived District Design Concept 
and district based goals introduced in the 
Districts Chapter and further refines them 
through community input received during the 
immersion workshop into graphically rich 
3D renderings with specifically customized 
design callouts.

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Northern District Design Theme Applications
CC1: Façade Transparency  
& Articulation
CC4: Adaptive Reuse & 
Character Preservation
CC2: Compatible Roof  
Forms & Massing
CC3: Integrated  
Historic Signage
Community Character
Sustainability
Connectivity & Mobility
Placemaking
CM1: Minimum 10’ Sidewalk 
Width in Mixed-Use Areas
CM4: Consistent Street  
Furniture & Tree Placement
P2: Public Gathering  
Nodes
S1: Use of Native,  
Low-Water Landscaping
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies

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Eastern District Design Theme Applications
Community Character
Sustainability
Connectivity & Mobility
Placemaking
CC1: Façade Transparency  
& Articulation
CC2: Compatible Roof  
Forms & Massing
CM2: Active Ground  
Floor Uses
CM4: Consistent Street  
Furniture & Tree Placement
CM3: Pedestrian Crossings  
with Enhanced Paving
P2: Public Gathering  
Nodes
S1: Use of Native,  
Low-Water Landscaping
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies
S4: Cool Surface  
Materials

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Southern District Design Theme Applications
Community Character
Sustainability
Connectivity & Mobility
Placemaking
CC1: Façade Transparency  
& Articulation
CC2: Compatible Roof  
Forms & Massing
CM4: Consistent Street  
Furniture & Tree Placement
P3: Custom Light 
Fixtures as Public Art
P4: Alley Activation 
Elements
S1: Use of Native,  
Low-Water Landscaping
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies
S4: Cool Surface  
Materials

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Downtown District Design Theme Applications
CM2: Active Ground  
Floor Uses
CM3: Pedestrian Crossings  
with Enhanced Paving
P2: Public Gathering  
Nodes
CC2: Compatible Roof  
Forms & Massing
S1: Use of Native,  
Low-Water Landscaping
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies
S4: Cool Surface  
Materials
Community Character
Sustainability
Connectivity & Mobility
Placemaking

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San Marcos District Design Theme Applications
Community Character
Sustainability
Connectivity & Mobility
Placemaking
P1: District Gateways 
& Monuments
CC1: Façade Transparency  
& Articulation
CM2: Active Ground  
Floor Uses
P2: Public Gathering  
Nodes
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies
S2: Shade Structures  
& Canopies
S4: Cool Surface  
Materials
CC2: Compatible Roof  
Forms & Massing

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IMPLEMENTATION
6.
As articulated in the 
Overview Chapter, main 
objectives were developed 
early in the process, have 
guided the efforts of the 
DRAP, and have helped 
lead to the development 
of region-wide, housing-
related, and district 
specific actions that 
can be systematically 
implemented to 
assist in realizing the 
community’s vision. This 
Implementation Chapter 
outlines these actions.

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IMPLEMENTATION
OVERVIEW
The one hundred and three (103) actions are 
meant to be implemented within Short (1-5 
years), Mid (5-10 years), Long (10+) term 
and on an On-going basis.  These actions will 
help the city implement the community’s 
vision beyond rezonings and application of 
the design guidelines.  These actions and 
timeframes, however, remain flexible and 
subject to staffing and financial resources and 
constraints. 
REGIONAL ACTIONS
The following twenty seven (27) action items have region-wide applicability and stem from 
the main objectives of the downtown region and community input throughout the DRAP 
process. 
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
R1
Explore ways to promote and implement the designated 
Industrial Commerce Routes through signage and traffic 
calming.
Short
R2
Develop roadway design standards for future 
improvements at designated Industrial Commerce 
Routes.
Short
R3
As feasible, evaluate all existing infrastructure within the 
downtown region to facilitate infill and redevelopment. 
Short
R4
Explore parking reductions in exchange for alternative 
transportation amenities (bike parking, proximity to 
transit stops, transit passes).
Short
R5
Address essential infrastructure gaps such as sidewalks 
and street lighting in neighborhoods.
Mid
R6
Provide non-vehicular connections between residential 
areas, especially public housing, parks and the downtown 
district. 
Mid
R7
Adopt an Alleyway Activation Master Plan that identifies 
specific commercial alleys as being desirable for 
activation, potential improvements and other details 
necessary for alley activation.
Mid
R8
Explore ways to enhance important gateways into the 
downtown region through signage and other identifiers.
Mid
R9
Survey city neighborhoods to gauge interest in 
development of specific character area guidelines and 
develop a palette of landscape materials, neighborhood 
specific street signs, and other character improvements 
that may be considered.
Mid
R10
Reimagine park spaces to include interactive amenities 
and other appropriate features in urban environments.
Mid

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Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
R11
Conduct a feasibility study of geographic opportunities 
for an urban trail network. Work with a trail planning 
expert to develop a multi-phase, multi-year trail plan.
Mid
R12
Identify high-priority corridors for dedicated and/or 
separated bike lanes and protected intersections between 
major activity centers.
Mid
R13
Implement a “shade first” policy for new parks and 
pathways that requires new parks, trails, and public 
spaces to prioritize shade through tree canopy, shade 
structures, and climate-responsive design.
Mid
R14
Seek and acquire parcels of land in strategic locations 
that would benefit multi-use connectivity between parks 
and public spaces.
Long
R15
Evaluate the feasibility of a parking credit program 
where developers can contribute to a district-wide 
parking fund instead of building on-site parking.
Long
R16
Consider opportunities to utilize public-private 
partnerships to expand available park amenities.
Long
R17
Identify areas that are currently under served by parks 
and prioritize land acquisitions or opportunities to 
convert underutilized street space into pocket parks and 
plazas or park improvements in those neighborhoods.
Long
R18
Develop a district-wide active transportation plan, 
including identification of priority corridors for 
protected bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and multi-use 
trails that connect parks, plazas, and nearby districts.
Long
R19
Continue to monitor sales tax revenue generated within 
the downtown region to determine the health of the 
market and where efforts might be directed at attracting 
certain uses.
Long
R20
Identify and encourage preservation of buildings with 
historical value, such as the Winn school building.
Long
R21
Maintain an open line of communication with residents 
within the downtown region to continuously address 
their needs and improve their quality of life.
Long
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
R22
Explore opportunities to retrofit existing parks with 
additional shade and cooling features.
Long
R23
Promote the use of a fast-track permitting process 
for redevelopment and infill projects in the downtown 
region.
Long
R24
Integrate low-water-use trees in urban areas to create 
a comfortable pedestrian experience with shaded paths 
and courtyards.
Long
R25
Allow unique materials, such as shipping containers, on 
redevelopment and/or infill projects.
Long
R26
Encourage high-density development to locate near and 
orient toward transit stops
Long
R27
Continue to use the Infill Incentive Program and 
Adaptive Reuse Program to their full extent to promote 
development and redevelopment activities in the 
downtown region.
On-going

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HOUSING-RELATED ACTIONS
The following fifteen (15) housing-specific action items have region-wide applicability and 
stem from the main objectives of the downtown region and community input throughout the 
DRAP process. Chandler will continue to embrace neighborhood communication and outreach 
while working through the action items below.
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  On-
going)
Completion  
(To be updated upon 
completion)
Responsible 
Department/
Team
RH1
Conduct a Receiving Capacity Analysis to determine 
potential future housing unit yields
Short
Planning
RH2
Hold a Downtown Development Summit to solicit 
feedback from the development community and 
better understand their needs and challenges
Short
Planning /
Downtown 
Redevelopment
RH3
Develop pre-approved Building Models/Design 
Prototypes to meet state requirements and expedite 
approvals
Short
Planning
RH4
Research Alternate Products/Materials to help offset 
owner/developer costs while maintaining design 
quality standards
Short
Planning
RH5
Establish clear and objective development 
requirements to facilitate the approval process. 
Short
Planning
RH6
Adopt policies that facilitate the development of 
missing middle housing to create more affordable 
housing options for a wide variety of residents.
Short
Planning
RH7
Explore Request for Proposal (RFP) opportunities for 
development on city owned properties
Mid
Multiple
RH8
Evaluate potential Financial Tools to Support 
Delivery of more housing
Mid
Multiple
RH9
Conduct a Utility Needs Assessment to identify and 
prioritize necessary improvements
Mid
Public Works
RH10
Explore offsetting Impact Fees related to 
infrastructure and offsite improvements costs
Mid
Multiple
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  On-
going)
Completion  
(To be updated upon 
completion)
Responsible 
Department/
Team
RH11
Explore opportunities for affordable housing and 
missing middle housing solutions in the downtown 
region, including the evaluation of the formation of a 
City of Chandler Community Land Trust
On-
going
Neighborhood 
Resources
RH12
Continue redevelopment planning by Chandler’s 
Public Housing Authority
On-
going
Neighborhood 
Resources
RH13
Adopt necessary Code Amendments to implement 
State of Arizona middle housing requirements (e.g. 
Zoning, Engineering, Pre-Approved Plans)
On-
going
Planning
RH14
Continue discussions with Salvation Army regarding 
the Winn School site
On-
going
Neighborhood 
Resources / 
Downtown 
Redevelopment
RH15
Provide clear and transparent fee structures for the 
development of middle housing
On-
going
Multiple

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DISTRICT ACTIONS
The following sixty-one (61) action items have specific district applicability and are cross-
referenced to applicable district community derived goals.
Northern District
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
Goal 1: Facilitate sustainable growth through infill and redevelopment that retains or is 
compatible with existing character.
ND1
Update zoning to Include transition standards that 
define clear regulations for building heights, setbacks, 
and landscaping to create gradual transitions between 
different land uses.
Short
ND2
Explore the potential for the adaptive reuse program 
to allow properties north of Chandler Boulevard and 
west of Arizona Avenue to offer uses such as galleries, 
restaurants and other commercial establishments.
Short
ND3
Conduct a historic and culture resource inventory to 
identify and document historically significant buildings 
and sites within the district to guide preservation 
efforts.
Mid
Goal 2: Enhance access and quality of existing city parks and encourage development of new 
pocket parks, pathways and similar recreational opportunities in strategic locations.
ND4
Assess gaps in the park and pathway network and 
identify and prioritize key connectivity projects.
Mid
ND5
Evaluate opportunities to allow activation of 
underutilized spaces with temporary uses, including 
pop-up parks, yoga in the park and other interim open 
space uses.
Long
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
Goal 3: Improve safety and enhance experience for multimodal travel.
ND6
Alter the configuration of Arizona Avenue to create 
a more attractive and safe pedestrian-oriented main 
street leading to downtown that is consistent with 
current improvements south of Chandler Boulevard.
Mid
ND7
Conduct an active transportation study to identify gaps 
in the active transportation network and additional 
facility recommendations and designs.
Mid
ND8
Conduct speed studies where needed on local roadways 
to identify appropriate traffic calming measures at 
locations with speeding concerns.
Mid
ND9
Pursue grants, impact fees, or other funding sources 
to support lighting improvements in priority areas, 
especially near transit stops and high-activity zones.
Mid
ND10
Improve the walkable experience between the 
Chandler Center for the Arts and the downtown square 
prioritizing shade and safety.
Mid

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Eastern District 
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
Goal 1: Facilitate infill and redevelopment for a broad range of residential, commercial, and 
mixed-use opportunities.
ED1
Conduct an audit to identify city-owned vacant or 
underutilized properties to assess and prioritize their 
potential for mixed-use or affordable housing projects.
Short
ED2
Assess opportunities to modify zoning to remove barriers 
to first-floor residential uses in areas where retail 
demand is low.
Short
ED3
Explore opportunities to implement parking minimums 
and maximums set specifically for the district to ensure 
parking needs are met but not oversupplied.
Short
ED4
As feasible, conduct an infrastructure needs assessment 
to identify aging water, sewer, and electrical systems 
that could limit redevelopment and infill projects.
Mid
ED5
Expand the use of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) 
to attract developers interested in public-private 
partnerships for key publicly owned sites.
Long
ED6
Promote the existing Infill Incentive Plan  available 
to developers who are interested in redevelopment  
projects through developer round tables, Valley 
Partnership Friday Morning Breakfasts, public speaking 
engagements, workshops, and an online portal.
On-going
ED7
Enforce existing policies requiring developers to install 
or pay for necessary utility infrastructure upgrades to 
support reliable and efficient utility infrastructure.
On-going
ED8
Assess opportunities to encourage use of the Adaptive 
Reuse Program.
On-going
Goal 2: Encourage the beautification of public spaces, recreation opportunities in strategic 
locations, and walkability across the district.
ED9
Establish Industrial Commerce Routes to promote 
resident safety and satisfaction, protect built 
infrastructure and better serve existing industrial uses.
Short
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
ED10
Establish Industrial Commerce Routes to promote 
resident safety and satisfaction, protect built 
infrastructure and better serve existing industrial uses.
Short
ED11
Explore streamlining the permitting process for business 
expansion or renovations to support local business 
growth efforts.
Short
ED12
Alter the configuration of Chandler Boulevard to create 
a more attractive and safe pedestrian-oriented street 
leading to downtown that is consistent with current 
improvements on Arizona Avenue south of Chandler 
Boulevard.
Mid
ED13
Identify opportunities to add gateway monument 
signage for west bound traffic on Chandler Boulevard 
announcing arrival into the downtown region
Mid
ED14
Inventory public spaces for potential to be converted 
to pocket parks, pedestrian plazas, or other art-filled 
gathering spaces.
Mid
ED15
As feasible, explore implementation of policies requiring 
new utility infrastructure to be built underground, 
where appropriate, to improve aesthetics along roadway 
corridors.   
Mid
ED16
As feasible, explore implementation of policies requiring 
new utility infrastructure to be built underground, 
where appropriate, to improve aesthetics along roadway 
corridors.   
Mid
ED17
Conduct a transit feasibility study in the district 
to identify transit expansion and improvement 
opportunities.
Mid
ED18
Consider roadway improvement projects to include 
pedestrian, bicyclist, and accessibility improvements.
Long
Goal 3: Foster business growth that creates synergy between uses.
ED19
Continue to encourage startups and small businesses 
by, as feasible, directing them to existing co-working 
spaces, and mentorship programs that connect emerging 
entrepreneurs with experienced industry leaders.
On-going

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Southern District
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
Goal 1: Foster vibrant and resilient neighborhoods by encouraging revitalization of existing 
communities and enhancing economic opportunities.
SD1
Allow a compatible mix of commercial uses between 
Fairview and Saragosa Streets, paying homage to the 
historical uses that were once there.
Short
SD2
Implement smart parking strategies, such as allowing 
shared parking agreements between businesses, office 
buildings, and residential developments to reduce 
redundant parking spaces.
Mid
SD3
Identify opportunities to provide public parking on 
underutilized city-owned parcels to relieve nearby 
business parking requirements.
On-going
Goal 2: Encourage neighborhood revitalization through improvements such as Washington 
Street extension and activation of targeted alleyways. 
SD4
Implement the proposed Washington Street extension in 
accordance with the Washington Street Alignment Study.
Short
SD5
Create a placemaking initiative that engages local artists 
and designers to create unique signage, sculptures, or 
interactive features at key district entry points.
On-going
Goal 3: Expand options and access to parks and public gathering spaces. 
SD6
Inventory existing parks and public gathering spaces 
within the District and identify a list of priority park 
enhancements.
Short
SD7
Provide landscape improvements in the Southside 
Neighborhood as envisioned by the Washington Street 
Alignment Study.
Short
Downtown District
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion 
(To be updated 
upon completion)
Goal 1: Encourage development that enhances and preserves Chandler’s unique Downtown 
community character.
DD1
Promote the use of decorative or artistic, and energy-
efficient lighting and light features for safety and 
enhancement of the nighttime experience along key 
corridors and public/civic spaces.
Mid
DD2
Continue to require pedestrian-friendly facades, active 
ground-floor uses, and high-quality materials.
On-going
DD3
Continue to implement zoning to require new 
developments to integrate shade structures and greenery 
into site plans.
On-going
DD4
As feasible, explore the use of rooftop bars, 
restaurants or other amenities such as pools and other 
establishments.  
On-going
Goal 2: Expand housing options and essential services, ensuring convenient access to 
groceries, childcare, fitness, and daily needs.
DD5
Amend zoning to allow more flexible live/work spaces 
to encourage small businesses to operate alongside 
housing.
Short
DD6
Identify key zoning and other regulatory changes needed 
to reduce barriers to multi-family and mixed-use 
housing and take steps to amend language.
Short
DD7
Evaluate zoning incentive opportunities for mixed-
use developments that integrate retail, housing, and 
services.
Mid
DD8
Explore city-owned properties or vacant lots for 
potential redevelopment into essential services or 
housing.
Mid
DD9
Conduct an active transportation study to identify gaps 
in the active transportation network and additional 
facility recommendations and designs.
Mid

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Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion 
(To be updated 
upon completion)
DD10
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure 
needs in key redevelopment areas and produced 
a prioritized action plan. Prioritize infrastructure 
improvements that support increased density and 
mixed-use development.
Long
DD11
Work with Valley Metro to conduct a Transit 
Development Plan (TDP) to identify recommendations 
for local and high-capacity transit within and nearby 
the district, including options for increased fixed-route 
service or microtransit service. 
Long
Goal 3: Explore ways to expand events, attract diverse restaurants and entertainment, and 
improve mobility for better access to downtown experiences.
DD12
Identify underutilized public spaces  to support seasonal 
activities such as pop-up markets, art installations, and 
other community uses.
Short
DD13
Evaluate zoning and permitting procedures to make 
it easier for businesses to offer outdoor/street dining, 
seating, patios, and entertainment.
Short
DD14
Implement smart parking technologies and wayfinding 
signage to guide visitors to available parking in real-time 
(online and mobile-friendly interactive downtown map 
with real-time parking availability).
Short
DD15
Improve the walkable experience between the Chandler 
Center for the Arts and the downtown square prioritizing 
shade and safety.
Mid
DD16
Continue to partner with local artists and businesses 
through the Public Arts Commission to develop 
interactive public art and cultural experiences.
On-going
DD17
Encourage collaborations with local cultural 
organizations to support and host new and diverse 
community events.
On-going
San Marcos
Action  
Number
Action  
Description
Timeframe  
(Short, Mid, Long,  
On-going)
Completion  
(To be updated 
upon completion)
Goal 1: Create and enhance recreation opportunities and connectivity to downtown.
SMD1
Adopt shade requirements for new development, 
requiring tree-lined sidewalks, covered walkways, and 
shaded seating to enhance walkability and reduce heat 
impacts.
Short
SMD2
As feasible, encourage the development of new park 
spaces or enhancement of the existing golf recreational 
area with amenities such as fitness stations, shaded 
seating, splash pads, and community gathering areas as 
deemed appropriate.
Long
SMD3
Identify vacant or underutilized parcels for acquisition 
and conversion into open space and public plazas for the 
benefit of downtown region residents and businesses.
Long
Goal 2: Facilitate infill and redevelopment for residential, commercial, parks, and mixed uses 
in concert with the district character.
SMD4
Adopt development standards to help guide development 
that complements the existing character of the historic 
neighborhood and golf course.
Short
SMD5
Identify opportunities to add gateway monument 
signage for east bound traffic on Chandler Boulevard 
announcing arrival into the downtown region.
Mid
Goal 3: Enhance and preserve the historic assets and the character of the district.
SDM6
Assist efforts to establish a historic preservation 
designation over the residential neighborhoods 
surrounding the golf course.
Mid
SDM7
Encourage historic preservation of the historic San 
Marcos Golf Course and promote opportunities to 
educate the public on its role in the history of Chandler.
On-going
SDM8
Work with residents to identify appropriate 
improvements that would enhance the historical 
character of the neighborhood.
On-going

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APPENDICES
A-C
Appendix A:  
Community Engagement 
Materials
Appendix B:  
Glossary
Appendix C:  
High Resolution FLUM 
(11x17 Format)

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APPENDIX A | Community Engagement Materials
WEBSITE
The project website served as the central 
hub for community engagement and project 
updates related to the City’s ongoing 
downtown planning effort. It provides 
residents, business owners, and stakeholders 
with access to information about the plan’s 
goals, key focus areas, district maps, and 
timelines. Most importantly, the site offers 
opportunities to get involved through 
surveys, public workshops, and updates on 
meetings and milestones. By consolidating 
resources and providing interactive tools, the 
website ensured transparent communication 
and encouraged public input throughout the 
planning process.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Bilingual social media posts in **English 
and Spanish** were shared on **Instagram 
and Facebook** to promote all three public 
engagement workshops and the online 
questionnaire for the Downtown Region Area 
Plan. This inclusive outreach helped raise 
awareness, expand access, and encourage 
broad community participation in shaping the 
future of downtown Chandler.

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APPENDIX A | Community Engagement Materials
INFO SHEET
INFO SHEET (PG. 2)
Pg. 1
Learn more: chandleraz.gov/DowntownRegionUpdate
DOWNTOWN REGION 
area plan update
What is the Downtown  
Region Area Plan Update?
To meet the evolving needs of the 
downtown area and its surrounding 
community, the City of Chandler is 
reevaluating its Downtown Region. 
Initially adopted in 2006, the South 
Arizona Avenue Corridor Area Plan  
was conceived with more localized 
focus  within  the overarching  
Chandler Redevelopment Element, 
initially enacted in 1987 and 
updated in 1995. This Update aims 
to consolidate these plans and 
safeguard the distinctive historic 
and character assets within and 
adjacent to the designated area 
while promoting land use planning 
that complements and integrates 
the existing downtown character. 
The existing City Center District 
(CCD) and the area’s historic 
designation will not be changing as 
part of this Update. The adjacent 
map represents the Downtown 
Region Area Plan Update project 
area and proposed districts.

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WORKSHOP 1 SUMMARY
WORKSHOP 1 SUMMARY (PG. 2)

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WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY
WORKSHOP 1 SUMMARY (PG. 3)

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WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 2)
WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 3)

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WORKSHOP 2 - SCENARIO 
SUMMARY 
 
October 2, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
 
 
 
  AREAS OF CHANGE MAPPING  
Areas of change represent geographic designations within 
the individual districts that have been identified as 
opportunities to: PRESERVE, SUSTAIN, or EVOLVE the 
existing land uses. Each is shown as a concept and 
participants at each of the first two workshops (VISION and 
SCENARIO) were asked to comment with specific thoughts.  
From these specific comments, the five design concept sites 
were identified and 
conceptualized through artist 
rendering. 
 
 
Historic Downtown District Guiding Principles: 
1-Increase community events and activities and attract and retain 
restaurants and entertainment. 
Specific comments:  Bookstore, small food market, Boutique retail rather than 
restaurants. 
2-Enhance and preserve the community character through historic 
preservation, adaptive reuse, and redevelopment as well as through 
distinctive signage, public art, and unique lighting and prioritize visual 
and practical landscapes that provide shade and beauty. 
Specific comments:  More landscapes to develop, Bring the town square concept to 
Chandler to enhance walkability -Extend Historic Downtown to include Silk Stocking, 
Chandler Highschool + adjacent neighborhood, Art as activism, murals telling the 
story of the city’s evolution. 
3-Prioritize living services (grocery stores, daycare, gyms, etc.) and 
housing choices (multi-family residential) through facilitation of infill and 
redevelopment. 
Specific comments:   More consistent bike parking throughout, Landscaping for 
shade is a waste of time & money at this point. It never ends up looking as good as 
we wish, hardly ever grows how we want and is constantly effected by changing 
temperatures. If we shift the money to manmade shade structures, we can shift the 
landscaping maintenance money to maintain those structures. Chandler should set 
an example now with this opportunity regarding heat relieving tactics for the entire 
city. Consider adaptive re-use as much as possible.  
WORKSHOP 2 - SCENARIO 
SUMMARY 
 
October 2, 2024  
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
 
 
 
 
Northern District Specific comments:   
- Welcoming pedestrian or bike improvements. Current sidewalk 
is narrow and near heavy traffic area on Arizona Ave. 
- Protected bike lanes on Arizona Ave and Galveston. Mixed use 
development or green infrastructure.  
-Opportunity: to include more thoroughfare that ends with signal 
and business district. Extend evolve boundary Galveston to Alma 
School at intersection of Erie. 
-Chandler Blvd creates a significant barrier between Arts Center 
and Historic Downtown. A pedestrian bridge would help with 
connectivity. 
- Wider sidewalks and landscaped medians. 
- Need design guidelines to stop the downward slide into run 
down and dilapidated.  
- Need a draw? Historic “neon light district”? 
- Underutilized area 
Southern District Specific comments:   
- Affordable housing stays affordable 
- Cul-de-sac development, micro-mobility, limited parking 
- Add Welcome to Downtown monument sign 
- Pecos & S AZ: entertainment area: Top Golf, water 
park? Or Light Corporate campus? Or Convention Center 
- Extend Delaware St. to Pecos to reduce traffic on 
Fairview St. 
- Buffer 202 with lots of trees 
- Signal at Frye and Delaware or Washington 
- Improved wayfinding AZ Ave. (maps, signage, directory) 
 
Eastern District Specific comments:   
- Hildago Street (and immediate neighborhood) housed some 
very significant early Latino settlers who were meaningful 
contributors to the community. 
- Increase walkable neighborhoods! Like Cul-de-Sac in Tempe. 
WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 4)
WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 5)

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WORKSHOP 2 - SCENARIO 
SUMMARY 
 
October 2, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
 
 
COMMUNITY DESIGN THROUGH VISUAL 
PREFERENCE 
Using the Areas of Change map feedback as well as 
comments received in the VISION workshop visual 
preference exercises, District Design Concepts sites 
were selected and artistic sketches were created that 
incorporated many of the features highlighted in visual 
preference responses. At the SCENARIO workshops, 
participants indicated aspects or details of the 
concepts they liked or felt needed to be different. 
The comments will be reflected in the final renderings 
and will be highlighted in the plan and inform details 
of the specific design standards for each district.  
Finally, three of the five District Design Concept sites 
will be highlighted in the IMMERSION workshops, bringing 
the details prioritized by the community into a human scale in an interactive and virtual reality setting.
Historic Downtown District Specific comments:   
- How could the expression of Old Town evolve? 
- Grow and improve without displacing existing residents. 
- High density, art focused community. 
- Adaptive re-use should be encouraged 
- Embrace the quirky nature of the district. 
- What could the new story look like? 
- How would future involve the use of technology, cooperation 
and action bringing it together? 
- Move southern boundary of district to Pecos. 
- Focus on mid- high density/mixed use spaces downtown 
(hidden courtyards and alleys) 
- Shift focus and $ to manmade shade structure over trees. 
San Marcos District Specific comments:   
- Parks and lakes should be prioritized. Less car transportation. 
More feet use for plan. 
- Ensure easy direct connection of public event space with 
historic area 
- Expand the potential areas for public events / park complex 
 
WORKSHOP 2 - SCENARIO 
SUMMARY 
 
October 2, 2024  
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
 
 
San Marcos District 
Specific comments: 
- Long term vision includes 
connection to history of the area 
- Focus more on parks and 
sidewalks, bike paths 
- Shaded, lit paths connecting 
downtown to surrounding 
neighborhoods. 
- Expand areas for potential 
events and concerts 
- Increase focus on the arts and 
public art installations within the 
public complex 
- Increase shade 
Northern District 
Specific comments: 
- Sign for Silk Stocking and old-
fashioned light that fits the era 
- Local artists could design the 
signs 
- Integrate nature and art in the 
development.  
- Dog parks please 
- Distinctive street signs “Quiet 
Time” 
- Buffer plants and shaded paths 
- More safe cross walks. 
- Older motels in the area are an 
opportunity. Redevelop and turn 
into a Neon Light District? 
 
Historic Downtown District 
Specific comments: 
- Old fashioned lights with hanging 
flower baskets 
- Fun, immersive art for kids 
- Unique, independent  business 
- Artwork and murals 
- Development more attractions 
within the region 
- Small grocery store 
- More greenery in historic 
Downtown 
- Walkable, shaded built 
environment 
- Local innovation incubator 
- Small pockets integrating nature 
into developments (native species) 
- Innovative public/private 
partnerships as tourist attractions 
(pedal powered monorail) 
- Shouldn’t displace current families 
- Add convention center 
- Move boundary to include Pecos 
or Erie. 
WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 6)
WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 7)

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WORKSHOP 2 - SCENARIO 
SUMMARY 
 
October 2, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
 
Southern District 
Specific comments: 
- Include the history so people know  
- Alleys are good opportunities  
- Use different signs to indicate the district  
- Adapt a length of path for fitness or 
running. 
- Improved wayfinding (large streetside 
maps, signage, etc.)  
- Look for “Third Spaces” opportunities 
(hidden courtyards and alleys) 
 
 
Eastern District 
Specific comments: 
- Installation of local artist to create large scale 
murals 
- Please plan for more parks and lakes in AZ to 
help with heat 
- More walkability. 
- Love the concept! 
- Incorporate the Cul-de-Sac concept from Tempe 
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY
WORKSHOP 2 SUMMARY (PG. 8)

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APPENDIX A | Community Engagement Materials
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY (PG. 3)
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY (PG. 2)

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APPENDIX A | Community Engagement Materials
WORKSHOP 3 – IMMERSION 
SUMMARY 
 
December 10, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
GUIDING PRINCIPLES BY DISTRICT 
Three guiding principles for each district were developed by distilling and incorporating the numerous 
comments from participants of the two previous workshops and questionnaires. The guiding principle 
display boards asked the community to reflect on the guiding principles and agree/disagree and 
provide comments.  Overwhelming, these Guiding Principles as noted on the boards below and online 
virtual workshop were confirmed by the participants. 
 
 
 
 
 
Northern District Guiding Principles:  
1-Increase the number of parks, pathways, and 
recreational opportunities in strategic locations. 
Specific comments: Protected bike lane down Arizona Ave; Native 
plants and trees; retention basins for irrigation with 
grey/rain(storm) water, curb cuts utilization, beautification 
2-Accommodate new residential, commercial, and mixed-
use growth including facilitating infill and redevelopment 
in a fiscally responsible manner with incentives that 
retains district character.  
3-Install transportation features that improve safety for 
multimodal traffic (lighted crosswalks, protected bus 
stops, and buffered bike lanes).  
 
Historic Downtown District Guiding Principles:
1-Increase community events and activities and attract and 
retain restaurants and entertainment. 
 
2-Enhance and preserve the community character through 
historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and redevelopment as 
well as through distinctive signage, public art, and unique 
lighting and prioritize visual and practical landscapes that 
provide shade and beauty. 
Specific comments:  Native plant prioritization and storm/rain/grey 
water management and utilization; Utilize more existing older homes 
for adaptive reuse (retail, restaurants, etc.) 
3-Prioritize living services (grocery stores, daycare, gyms, 
etc.) and housing choices (multi-family residential) through 
facilitation of infill and redevelopment. 
Specific comments:   Add more accessible forms of public transit 
(neighborhood shuttle or streetcar) would allow for greater 
pedestrian access and safety. Take steps to blend neighborhood 
with downtown.  
WORKSHOP 3 – IMMERSION 
SUMMARY 
 
 
 
December 10, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region 
Area Plan Update 
 
 
Southern District Guiding 
Principles:  
1-Increase the number of parks 
and public gathering spaces.  
Specific comments: Bike lanes that 
connect to an overall bike lane path 
through the city and joins all the canals. 
Native Plants; basin and stormwater 
retention designs. 
2-Revitalize main roadways as 
gateways to the Historic 
Downtown and activate alleyways 
with improved landscape, unique 
lighting, and safe pathways.  
 
3-Create assistance programs to 
revive neighborhoods and 
businesses and facilitate infill and 
redevelopment by providing access 
to a broad range of residential, 
commercial, and mixed-use 
opportunities. 
Eastern District Guiding Principles:
1-Facilitate infill and redevelopment 
for a broad range of residential, 
commercial, and mixed-use 
opportunities. 
Specific comments:  Incorporate bike 
lanes on east/west and north/south roads.  
2-Invest in the beautification of 
public spaces including right of way 
landscaping, parks on vacant lots, 
pathways, and other recreation 
opportunities in strategic locations. 
Specific comments: High emphasis on 
native species selection; basin and 
stormwater retention designs. 
3-Incentivize business growth and 
quality jobs with retention programs 
and explore public transportation 
opportunities to improve 
connectivity.  
 
San Marco District Guiding 
Principles: 
1-Create and enhance recreation 
opportunities and develop a multiuse 
pathway network that better 
connects to the Historic Downtown.  
Specific comments: Retractable, 
adaptable shade. 
 
2-Facilitate infill and redevelopment 
for residential, commercial, and 
mixed uses in concert within the 
district character.  
Specific comments: Native plant 
prioritization and storm/rain/grey water 
management and utilization; Art 
integration and education. 
 
3-Enhance and preserve the historic 
assets and the character of the 
district through education and 
signage.  
 
 
 
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY (PG. 5)
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY (PG. 4)

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APPENDIX A | Community Engagement Materials
WORKSHOP 2 - SCENARIO 
SUMMARY 
 
October 2, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region  
Area Plan Update 
 
 
COMMUNITY DESIGN THROUGH VISUAL 
PREFERENCE 
Using the Areas of Change map feedback as well as 
comments received in the VISION workshop visual 
preference exercises, District Design Concepts sites 
were selected and artistic sketches were created that 
incorporated many of the features highlighted in visual 
preference responses. At the SCENARIO workshops, 
participants indicated aspects or details of the 
concepts they liked or felt needed to be different. 
The comments will be reflected in the final renderings 
and will be highlighted in the plan and inform details 
of the specific design standards for each district.  
Finally, three of the five District Design Concept sites 
will be highlighted in the IMMERSION workshops, bringing 
the details prioritized by the community into a human scale in an interactive and virtual reality setting.
Historic Downtown District Specific comments:   
- How could the expression of Old Town evolve? 
- Grow and improve without displacing existing residents. 
- High density, art focused community. 
- Adaptive re-use should be encouraged 
- Embrace the quirky nature of the district. 
- What could the new story look like? 
- How would future involve the use of technology, cooperation 
and action bringing it together? 
- Move southern boundary of district to Pecos. 
- Focus on mid- high density/mixed use spaces downtown 
(hidden courtyards and alleys) 
- Shift focus and $ to manmade shade structure over trees. 
San Marcos District Specific comments:   
- Parks and lakes should be prioritized. Less car transportation. 
More feet use for plan. 
- Ensure easy direct connection of public event space with 
historic area 
- Expand the potential areas for public events / park complex 
 
WORKSHOP 3 – IMMERSION 
SUMMARY 
 
 
 
December 10, 2024 
Chandler Downtown Region 
Area Plan Update 
 
 
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY (PG. 7)
WORKSHOP 3 SUMMARY (PG. 6)

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NORTHERN DISTRICT  
AREA OF CHANGE MAP
EASTERN DISTRICT  
AREA OF CHANGE MAP

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APPENDIX A | Community Engagement Materials
SOUTHERN DISTRICT  
AREA OF CHANGE MAP
DOWNTOWN DISTRICT  
AREA OF CHANGE MAP

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This page is intentionally left blank.
SAN MARCOS DISTRICT  
AREA OF CHANGE MAP

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APPENDIX B | Glossary
APPENDIX B: GLOSSARY
A
ACTION: A region-wide, housing-related, 
or district specific task designed to realize 
the main objectives and implement the 
community’s vision and goals for the DRAP. 
ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION: Active 
transportation is any form of transportation 
that is not in a motor vehicle. It primarily 
refers to pedestrians and bicyclists, but can 
also include those on scooters, e-bikes, 
skateboards, roller skates, or roller blades.
ACCESSIBILITY: Accessibility is the design 
of products, devices, services, vehicles, or 
environments so as to be usable by people 
with disabilities.
ADAPTIVE REUSE: The process of reusing 
buildings for a purpose other than what was 
originally built. The Adaptive Reuse Overlay 
District is a zoning district that facilitates 
the reuse of underutilized properties by 
modifying site development standards that 
otherwise make the reuse of those properties 
economically unfeasible.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Affordable housing 
is property, whether owned or rented, plus 
the cost of utilities that, combined, cost 
no more than 28 to 30 percent of gross 
household income.
AREA PLAN: Plans adopted by the City of 
Chandler for specific subareas of the city. 
These plans detail specific designs and 
policies shaping the urban environment and 
report the market and physical constraints 
that affect the development of the planning 
area.  They also specify detailed land use 
designations that are used to review specific 
development proposals and plan services and 
facilities.
ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES (ARS): The 
ARS are state laws passed by the Arizona 
Legislature. 
ATTAINABLE HOUSING: Attainable housing 
is housing that is affordable to those earning 
the area median income, meaning they need 
to spend no more than 30% on their home.
B
BUFFER: A buffer is a method of separating 
incompatible uses (ex. opaque fencing, 
vegetated berms and dense landscaping) 
or a method of separating uses on a sliding 
scale of intensity (i.e. rural followed by large 
lot residential) so as to shield a significantly 
lesser intensity use from a higher intensity 
use.  A buffer may also be an area alongside 
protected or conserved natural open spaces 
in which human activity is restricted to 
research and maintenance of the protected or 
conserved open space to mitigate the negative 
impacts of human activity on the land or 
wildlife. 
BUILD-OUT: The point at which there is little 
or no undeveloped land such as agricultural 
fields and vacant parcels to continue 
expansion or growth within the city’s 
municipal planning area.
BUS RAPID TRANSIT (BRT): Limited-stop 
bus service that provides faster service and 
travel time and higher frequencies as well as 
enhanced bus stop amenities.
C
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT: A capital 
improvement is the addition of a permanent 
structural change or the restoration of 
some aspect of a property that will either 
enhance the property’s overall value, 
prolong its useful life, or adapt it to new uses. 
Individuals, businesses, and cities can make 
capital improvements to the property they 
own. Some capital improvements are given 
favorable tax treatment and may be exempted 
from sales tax in certain jurisdictions. 
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP): 
This document serves as a multi-year 
planning instrument to identify needs and 
financing resources for public improvements. 
It also informs city residents of how the city 
plans to address significant capital needs over 
a ten-year period.
CHOKERS: A buildout added to a road to 
narrow it on either or both sides of the road, 
forcing traffic to slow down and maneuver 
around the buildout.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT (CFD): 
A CFD is a financing mechanism for the 
acquisition, construction, operation, and 
maintenance of public infrastructure. 
COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT 
(CID): Similar to a CFD, public-private 
partnerships in unincorporated areas that 
fund public infrastructure improvements.
COMPATIBILITY: Compatibility occurs 
when the characteristics of different uses 
or activities are harmonious or capable of 
existing or working together without conflict. 
D
DEMOGRAPHICS: Statistical data relating 
to the characteristics of the population and 
subgroups within a population.
DENSITY: A numeric average of families, 
individuals, dwelling units or housing 
structures per unit of land; usually refers to 
dwelling units per acre in the comprehensive 
plan.
DEVELOPER: Any person or group of persons 
or legal entity which builds improvements 
on land, including buildings, streets, parking 
lots, drainage structures and utilities to serve 
buildings.

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APPENDIX B | Glossary
DWELLING UNIT (DU): A room or group of 
rooms (including sleeping, eating, cooking, 
and sanitation facilities) that constitutes an 
independent housekeeping unit, occupied or 
intended for occupancy by one household on a 
long-term basis.
E
ENHANCED MUNICIPAL SERVICE DISTRICT: 
An improvement district covering Downtown 
Chandler where assessments are collected to 
enhance public services within its boundaries. 
Enhanced public services may include public 
safety, fire protection, refuse collection, 
street or sidewalk cleaning, landscape 
maintenance in public areas, planning, 
promotion, transportation, and public 
parking.
F
FUTURE LAND USE MAP (FLUM): A Future 
Land Use Map (FLUM) is a diagram that 
designates the type, distribution, and 
intensity/density of land uses.
G
GENERAL PLAN: A statutorily required plan 
containing general policies and future land 
use designations for growth and development 
of the incorporated land within the City of 
Chandler.
GOAL: A specific aspiration, also called a 
guiding principle, stemming from the overall 
vision of the DRAP and community input 
describing a future ideal condition to be 
achieved specific to desired character of each 
district. 
GOVERNMENT PROPERTY LEASE EXCISE 
TAX (GPLET): The Government Property 
Lease Excise Tax (GPLET) is a tax incentive 
agreement negotiated between a private party 
and a local government. It was established 
by the State of Arizona in 1996 as a way 
to stimulate development in commercial 
districts by temporarily replacing a building’s 
property tax with an excise tax.
GREEN BUILDING: A comprehensive 
approach to building those results in 
increased energy and water efficiency, 
a healthier and more pleasant indoor 
environment, and a sustainable 
site design, all accomplished while 
minimizing construction waste and using 
environmentally sensitive building materials.
H
HABITAT: The sum of environmental 
conditions of a specific place that is occupied 
by an organism, a population or a community.
HIGH-CAPACITY TRANSIT (HCT): A transit 
system capable of carrying a larger volume 
of passengers than a standard fixed-route 
bus system. Examples of high-capacity 
transit includes bus rapid transit, modern 
streetcar, and light rail. High-capacity transit 
can operate on existing streets with mixed 
traffic, or on exclusive rights-of-way such 
as dedicated convenient and more reliable 
service for a larger number of passengers.
HIGH-CAPACITY TRANSIT CORRIDORS: A 
corridor that is designated to accommodate 
high-capacity transit and may be 
characterized by existing or planning transit-
oriented development.
HOUSEHOLD: A single unit of one or more 
related or unrelated person(s) occupying a 
dwelling unit, with a living arrangement by 
which one or more persons are responsible 
for decision-making regarding their dwelling 
unit and potentially other household 
members. 
HOUSING UNIT: A house, apartment, mobile 
home or trailer, group of rooms, or single 
room occupied as a separate living quarter 
or, if vacant, intended for occupancy as 
a separate living quarter. Separate living 
quarters are those in which the occupants live 
and eat separately from any other persons 
in the building, and which have direct access 
from the outside of the building or through a 
common hall.
I
INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT USES: Ancillary 
commercial uses are an integral component 
of a planned mixed-use development that 
supports the businesses within employment 
areas. Examples of industrial support uses 
include printing services, delis, coffee shops, 
catering services, restaurants, convenience 
commercial, and hotels.
INFILL: Development of vacant lands in 
predominantly built-up portions of the 
community or redevelopment of properties 
that are underutilized to make the most 
efficient use of existing infrastructure and 
attain higher economic return from real 
estate.
INFRASTRUCTURE: Facilities and services 
needed to sustain any type of development 
– residential, commercial or industrial 
activities. Includes water and sewer lines, 
streets, electrical power, fire and police 
stations, etc.
INNOVATION DISTRICTS: Geographic areas 
where leading-edge anchor institutions and 
companies cluster and connect with startups, 
business incubators, and accelerators.
INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION 
SYSTEM (ITS): A system that analyses 
data, and utilizes sensing and analysis to 
improve efficiency, and safety of ground 
transportation.
K
KNOWLEDGE-BASED INDUSTRIES: High 
technology, biomedical, aerospace, renewable 
energy research and development, and other 
similar research- and development-based 
industries.
L
LAND USE: Land use is the occupation or use 
of a land or water area for any human activity, 
or any purpose defined in the Comprehensive 
Plan.

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APPENDIX B | Glossary
LEVEL OF SERVICE (LOS): A measure used to 
calculate the quality of motor vehicle traffic 
service.
LIGHTSCAPE: Refers to an environment 
that is illuminated in a specific way, often to 
create a particular aesthetic or visual effect. 
It can be a deliberate arrangement of lights 
to highlight certain elements and obscure 
others, or it can be the natural illumination of 
a scene. In urban contexts, lightscape refers 
to the strategic use of lighting to enhance 
the beauty, safety, and functionality of urban 
areas. 
LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID): A 
planning and engineering practice that 
mimics natural processes in order to manage 
stormwater.
LOW INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT 
(LIHTC): A tax credit program designed to 
encourage private investment in affordable 
housing, administered by states and 
regulated by the Internal Revenue Service, 
where private investors contribute capital 
to development projects so that developers 
reduce the ratio of debt in the project, at 
least 20% of the units must be rented to 
households earning 50% or less of the area 
median income (AMI), or 40% of the units to 
households earning 60% or less of the AMI 
for at least 30 years, and investors are able to 
reduce their federal income tax liability over a 
10-year period.
M
MASSING: An element of architectural 
design which paces the spatial volumes of the 
building in relation to each other.
MICRO-TRANSIT: Micro-transit is a flexible, 
on-demand public transportation service that 
uses small vehicles to connect people with 
essential services. Microtransit vehicles are 
often shared with other passengers and can 
be scheduled or routed to meet the needs of 
individual riders.
MIXED-USE: Different activities housed 
in the same building or adjacent to each 
other within the same development. Typical 
mixed-use developments consist of high 
density residential with office and/or retail or 
restaurant on the ground floor.
MOBILITY: The main purpose of the 
transportation system in any community 
is to provide mobility. Mobility focuses on 
efficiently moving people and goods from 
point A to point B, or the level of ease with 
which movement happens. 
MULTIMODAL: Multimodal transportation 
is the movement of people and goods using 
multiple modes of transportation, such as 
walking, biking, cars, trains, and public 
transit. 
N
NEIGHBORHOOD: An area of a community 
with characteristics that distinguish it 
from other community areas, and which 
may include distinct ethnic or economic 
characteristics, schools, or social clubs, or 
boundaries defined by physical barriers such 
as major highways and streets.
P
PARTICULATE MATTER: Microscopic 
liquid or solid droplets that when inhaled or 
ingested can cause serious health problems.
PLACEMAKING: The process of creating 
quality places people want to live, work, play, 
and learn.
POLICY: A district specific and community 
derived strategy designed to achieve the 
community’s goals for the DRAP.
POPULATION DENSITY: The number of 
people in a given area. The number may 
be obtained by multiplying the number of 
dwellings per acre by the number of residents 
per dwelling.
PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ACCESSIBILITY 
GUIDELINES (PROWAG): PROWAG provides 
guidance to public agencies that construct 
or maintain transportation infrastructure 
on accessibility features to ensure those 
with disabilities can properly utilize that 
infrastructure.
PUBLIC FACILITIES: Government offices and 
services including police and fire stations, 
libraries, and general offices.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Motorized, 
shared transportation services typically 
provided by either local governments or non-
profits focused on serving transportation 
needs of the elderly or disabled.
R
RAISED CROSSWALKS: A technique to 
bring the level of the roadway to that of the 
sidewalk, forcing vehicles to slow before 
passing over the crosswalk.
REQUESTED RIDE SERVICES: App 
generated, human operated cars providing 
transportation for humans, food delivery and 
courier services.
RIGHT-OF-WAY: A strip of land occupied 
or intended to be occupied by certain 
transportation and public use facilities, such 
as roadways, railroads and utility lines.
ROBOTAXI: AI powered, self-driving cars 
that transport passengers without human 
intervention.
ROUNDABOUTS: A circular intersection in 
which traffic flows in one direction around 
a central island, used in higher volume 
intersections. Roundabouts show traffic and 
allow vehicles to continually move without 
full stops and starts, which minimizes 
accidents and reduces pollution.

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APPENDIX B | Glossary
S
SAFE STREETS AND ROADS FOR ALL (SS4A): 
SS4A is a federal discretionary grant program 
that provides safety planning, demonstration 
project, and implementation funds for safety-
focused projects directly to local, regional, or 
tribal governments.
SPEED HUMPS/BUMPS: A vertical rounded 
device, typically 3” to 4” in height, spanning 
the width of the road, to reduce vehicle 
speeds.
STREETSCAPE: Refers to everything the 
visual design or appearance of a street. The 
typical elements include the road, buildings, 
sidewalks, street trees, landscape and 
pedestrian lighting, streetlights, benches, 
trash receptacles, and adjoining open spaces.
SURFACE WATER: Water that collects on 
top of landforms, creating terrestrial water 
bodies. 
SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT FEES: Fees assessed 
to require fair share contributions from 
property developers to extend infrastructure 
or provide other municipal services to benefit 
the development’s end users.
T
TRAFFIC CIRCLES: A raised island located in 
the center of an intersection around which 
traffic must circulate, generally used at low 
volume neighborhood intersections.
TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TOD): 
Development that is characterized by mixed-
uses, higher densities, and is designed for 
pedestrian activity to maximize access to 
transit services.
V 
 
VISION STATEMENT: An overarching and 
collective aspiration derived and evolved from 
community input for the entire DRAP.
W
WASTEWATER: Includes sewage and all 
other liquid waste substances associated with 
human habitation, or of human or animal 
origin, or from any producing, manufacturing 
or processing operation of whatever nature.
WATER TREATMENT PLANT: A water 
treatment plant is a facility that processes (or 
treats) water to make it potable. 
WORKFORCE HOUSING: Housing units at a 
price point affordable to households that earn 
between 80% and 120% AMI, or more than 
those that qualify for low-income housing. 
Z
ZONING: Zoning describes the regulatory 
control of the use of land and buildings within 
a jurisdictional boundary. Areas of land are 
divided by appropriate authorities into zones 
within which various uses are permitted and 
regulated.  
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174
Chandler Downtown Region Area Plan | 175
0
0.25
0.5 mi.
Area Plan Boundary
Focus Areas
FLUM
Future Land Use
Categories
Resort Hotel
High Density Residential
with Integrated Uses
Commercial-Office
High Density Residential
Neighborhood
Residential
San Marcos Golf Course
Open Space/Recreation
Public/Institutional
N
S
APPENDIX C | High Resolution FLUM (11x17 Format)
Chandler Downtown 
Region Area Plan (DRAP) 
Future Land Use Map
Chandler Downtown Region Area Plan | 175