Collier County, Florida, has commissioned new urbanists Dover,

Collier County, Florida, has commissioned new urbanists Dover, Kohl & Partners to create a Community Character Plan for the 2,025 square mile county. The year long plan began with a charrette in April, 2000, and involves as many as 15 study areas. Dover Kohl is creating specific plans to show how development could reinforce the diverse character of Collier County. “The feeling of the community is that if we don’t do some planning now, the character that Collier has now will disappear due to the one size fits all development patterns that are taking place,” says Shawn Seaman, Dover Kohl project manager. The plan will articulate development strategies and code and zoning changes that need to take place to bring about a more positive development pattern. Spikowski Planning Services, a subcontractor to Dover Kohl, is identifying implementation strategies. The goal is to shift new development from the current gated pod and cul-de-sac subdividions to mixed-use neighborhoods. Methods for retrofitting existing sprawl will be spelled out in the plan. How these changes can take place while maintaining security in residential areas is another key aspect. The plan will also address redevelopment of urban areas, maintaining open space and rural character, and improving the character and functionality of arterial roads.