I'm a property owner
This will have little to no effect on you if you are not planning to develop or make significant changes to your property. It is simply a tool for describing how the street should be designed if a process that would change the street were to occur. For example, the Streets Map describes the type of street cross-section the City would want to build if a project were to be designed, but this would have no effect unless there is an identified capital project along your street. In those cases, the City works with property owners to implement the best project given any constraints that exist. Over time, the intent is that projects will be implemented with less disruption and better results.
I'm a developer
If you're developing a project, the Streets Map sets the street centerline to back of curb dimension for all arterials. The Streets Map also sets the street's classification, which in turn defines the frontage type. The TOD ordinance uses frontage type for certain design dimensions, including setbacks. Using the streets map will ensure that the street will provide the necessary travel options to allow the high-density, highly walkable and bikeable neighborhoods that support transit.
Will it take more space for my development?
In most cases, the new TOD ordinance, in conjunction with the Streets Map, will result in more buildable area than the existing zoning. In many areas of proposed TOD, the established build-to line is further from the existing street centerline than it will be when the properties are rezoned and the Streets Map cross-section and ordinance frontage requirements are applied. In all cases, properties with suburban zoning (O, I, MF), will have less setback and more buildable area.
I'm a Charlotte resident, business owner, or employee who uses a street on the map
This will have no effect on you if there is not a capital project that changes the street or if there is no development or redevelopment along the street. However, the intent of the Streets Map is to create a clear and predictable expectation for how our streets will evolve as these incremental processes do occur. This means that:
If there is redevelopment occurring along the street, you might see the curbs shift to accommodate the expected new cross-section (this is most noticeable when on-street parking or a full turn lane is added). If the curb doesn't move, you might notice new sidewalks and building locations that will match the emerging street cross-section as more development comes on line.
What are the benefits to me?
If these processes occur along the street, it means that the future street is more likely to include beneficial features such as:
Opportunities for motorists to turn safely;
More and safer crossing opportunities for pedestrians or transit riders;
Better sidewalks and buffers from traffic for pedestrians and adjacent land uses;
A safer and more comfortable bicycle facility, benefiting cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists; and
Street trees for shade and buffer, which benefits everyone using the street.