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COMMUNITIES RATING Cshsa'\rnes
Table of STAR Goals and Objectives
Buik Economy& Education, Ec}ity& Health & Natural
Environment jobs As & Empenerment Safety Systems
Community
Ambient Noise Climate Business Civic Green
& Light Adaptation Retention & Arts& Culture Engagement Active Living Infrastructure
Development
Community Greenhouse Green Market Community Civil & Human Community Invasive
Water Systems Gas Mitigation Development Cohesion Rights Health & Species
Health System
Compact& Greening the Educational Environmental Emergency Natural
Complete Energy Supply Local Economy Opportunity& Justice Prevention& Resource
Communities Attainment Response Protection
Industrial Equitable
Housing Sector Quality Jobs & Historic Food Access & Outdoor Air
Affordability Resource Living Wages Preservation Services& Nutrition Quality
Efficiency Access
Resource Targeted Social &
Infill& Indoor Air Water in the
Efficient Industry Cultural Human Services
Redevelopment Buildings Development Diversity Quality Environment
Resource Workforce Poverty Natural
Public Spaces Efficient Public Prevention & & Human Working Lands
Infrastructure Readiness Alleviation Hazards
Transportation Waste Safe
Choices Minimization Communities
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� '`STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - Introduction
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements 3
Introduction 8
Guiding Principles 9
The STAR Community Rating System Framework I 0
Points and Scores 12
Participation and Reporting 14
Table of STAR Goals and Objectives 15
Built Environment Goal Area 17 Equity & Empowerment Goal Area 149
BE-I:Ambient Noise& Light 19 EE-I:Civic Engagement 151
BE-2:Community Water Systems 23 EE-2:Civil &Human Rights 155
BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities 29 EE-3:Environmental Justice 159
BE-4:Housing Affordability 39 EE-4:Equitable Services&Access 165
BE-5:Infill & Redevelopment 45 EE-5:Human Services 171
BE-6:Public Spaces 5 I EE-6:Poverty Prevention&Alleviation 175
BE-7:Transportation Choices 57
Health & Safety Goal Area 179
HS-I:Active Living 181
CE-I:Climate Adaptation 65 HS-2:Community Health & Health System 187
CE-2:Greenhouse Gas Mitigation 71 HS-3:Emergency Prevention & Response 193
CE-3:Greening the Energy Supply 75 HS-4:Food Access& Nutrition 197
CE-4:Industrial Sector Resource Efficiency 79 HS-5:Indoor Air Quality 205
CE-5:Resource Efficient Buildings 83 HS-6:Natural & Human Hazards 209
•
CE-6:Resource Efficient Public Infrastructure 87 HS-7:Safe Communities 213
CE-7:Waste Minimization 91
Natural Systems Goal Area 219
Economy & Jobs Goal Area 95 NS-1:Green Infrastructure 221
EJ-I:Business Retention& Development 97 NS-2:Invasive Species 225
EJ-2:Green Market Development 101 NS-3:Natural Resource Protection 229
EJ-3:Local Economy 105 NS-4:Outdoor Air Quality 235
EJ-4:Quality Jobs& Living Wages III NS-5:Water in the Environment 241
EJ-5:Targeted Industry Development 115 NS-6:Working Lands 245
EJ-6:Workforce Readiness 119
Innovation & Process 249
Education, Arts & Community Goal Area . 125 IP-I Best Practices& Processes 250
EAC-I:Arts&Culture 127 IP-2:Exemplary Performance 254
EAC-2:Community Cohesion 131 IP-3:Local Innovation 255
EAC-3:Educational Opportunity&Attainment 137 IP-4:Regional Priority&Collaboration 257
EAC-4:Historic Preservation 141
EAC-5:Social &Cultural Diversity 145
U.S.Federal Agency Acronyms 259
STAR Glossary 260
Points Appendix 275
Action Submissions Appendix 287
1 tea STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - Introduction U
Introduction
In 2007,ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability,the U.S.Green Building Council,and the Center for American Prog-
ress launched the concept for the STAR Community Rating System (STAR) at GREENBUILD in Chicago,IL.By 2008,
they had established a formal partnership that included the National League of Cities to develop STAR.Their mission:
to address the needs of U.S.cities,towns and counties seeking a common framework for sustainability.
g
The STAR Community Rating System (STAR) is the nation's first voluntary, self-reporting framework for evaluating,
quantifying,and improving the livability and sustainability of U.S.communities.STAR uniquely combines:
•A framework for sustainability encompassing the social,economic and environmental dimensions of community;
•A rating system that drives continuous improvement and fosters competition;and
•An online system that gathers,organizes,analyzes,and presents information required to meet sustainability goals.
The release of the STAR Community Rating System represents a milestone in the national movement to create more
livable,sustainable communities for all.STAR's guiding principles,goals and objectives collectively define community-scale
sustainability,and present a vision of how communities can become more healthy,inclusive,and prosperous across seven
specific categories.The system's goals and objectives provide a much needed vocabulary that local governments and
their communities can use to more effectively strategize and define their sustainability planning efforts.
The STAR Community Rating System was developed using an open,consensus-based process led by committee mem-
bers.Technical Advisory Committees comprised of experts from across the country determined scientifically valid,
cost-effective ways of evaluating local government progress.A Steering Committee provided oversight and guidance.
The result is a robust and comprehensive system that is flexible enough to serve both large and small jurisdictions,as
well as leaders and local governments beginning their journey toward sustainability.
The intent of the STAR Community Rating System is to inform and advance a'race to the top'for the quality of life of
residents by identifying,validating,and supporting implementation of governance actions that best improve sustainable
community conditions. Although the initial rating system (Version 1.0) is informed by nationally-recognized experts
across a range of disciplines,STAR Communities is committed to continuous improvements in response to emerging
evidence about the efficacy of particular actions.
Over time,the program will build a research model that includes spatial,temporal,and level of effort details to expand
the evidence base about the degree various actions advance sustainability conditions community-wide. This rigor and
differentiation will allow the STAR Community Rating System to expand national learning and drive ongoing improve-
ments to sustainable community governance.
8 STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - Introduction
Guiding Principles
Think and act systemically.Sustainable communities take a systems perspective and recognize that people,nature
and the economy are all affected by their actions.Local governments in these communities consider the broader implica-
tions before embarking on specific projects,and they look for ways to accomplish multiple goals rather than default to
short-term,piecemeal efforts.
Instill resiliency. Sustainable communities possess a strong capacity to respond to and bounce back from adversity.
Local governments in these communities prepare for and help residents and institutions prepare for disruptions and
respond to them swiftly,creatively and effectively.
Foster innovation. Sustainable communities capture opportunities and respond to challenges. Local governments
in these communities cultivate a spirit of proactive problem solving to provide access to futures otherwise unobtainable
and to enable the risk-taking inherent in innovation.
Redefine progress.Sustainable communities measure progress by improvements in the health and wellbeing of their
people,environment and economy.Instead of focusing on GDP local governments in these communities use a broad set
of indicators.
Live within means.Sustainable communities steward natural resources so that future generations have as many op-
portunities available to them as we do today.They also recognize that resources exist for the benefit of life forms other
than humans.Local governments in these communities assess resources,track impacts,and take corrective action when
needed so that they meet the needs of today without depleting what they leave for future generations.
Cultivate collaboration. Sustainable communities engage all facets of society in working together for the benefit
of the whole. Local governments in these communities bring government representatives, community members and
organizations together and create a culture of collaboration that encourages innovation,sharing of resources,and jointly
shared accountability for results.
Ensure equity. Sustainable communities allocate resources and opportunities fairly so that all people who do the full
range of jobs that a community needs can thrive in it.Local governments in these communities actively eliminate barriers
to full participation in community life and work to correct past injustices.
Embrace diversity. Sustainable communities feature a tapestry of peoples,cultures and economies underpinned by
a richly functioning natural environment Local governments in these communities celebrate and foster ethnic,cultural,
economic and biological diversity and encourage multiple approaches to accomplish a goal.
Inspire leadership. Sustainable communities provide leadership through action and results. Local governments in
these communities recognize their opportunity to effect change by backing visionary policies with practices that serve as
an example for citizens and businesses to emulate.
Continuously improve.Sustainable communities engage in continuous discovery,rediscovery and invention as they
learn more about the impacts of their actions. Local governments in these communities track both performance and
outcomes,are alert for unintended consequences,and modify strategies based on observed results.
•14 STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - Introduction U
The STAR Community Rating System Framework
While many sustainability frameworks focus exclusively on environmental performance,the STAR Community Rating System advances
community priorities across the three pillars of sustainability:economy,environment,and society. By integrating strategies across
multiple goals, greater benefits are delivered for the resources invested.The rating system is organized around the following
seven goal areas:
Built Environment:Achieve livability,choice,and access for all where people live,work,and play
Reduce climate impacts through adaptation and mitigation efforts j`orts and increase resource efficiency
Education, Arts & Community: Empower vibrant,educated,connected,and diverse communities
Economy & Jobs: Create equitably shared prosperity and access to quality jobs
Equity & Empowerment: Ensure equity,inclusion,and access to opportunity for all citizens
Health & Safety: Strengthen communities to be healthy,resilient and safe places for residents and businesses
Natural Systems: Protect and restore the natural resource base upon which life depends
An eighth category,Innovation & Process,addresses issues that span all three pillars and includes exemplary performance,
innovation,best practices and processes,and regional priority.
STAR is organized around a typical strategic plan hierarchy of goals, objectives and evaluation measures;this design is intended to
align with local government processes and standard practice,and be easily understood by policy makers.The structure features a set
of components that reflect public sector mechanisms that are proven effective in advancing change.Terms are those commonly used
by local governments to communicate strategic objectives and desired outcomes.
Beneath each goal is a series of objectives aimed at achieving community-level aspirations. Objectives are measured in two ways:
through attainment of community-level outcomes and/or through completion of local actions that are essential to reaching the
outcomes.These evaluation measures provide the avenue for communities to achieve credit in the rating system.Below are definitions
associated with the STAR framework.
Term Definition
Pillar The three pillars of sustainability:Environment,Economy or Society
Goal Desired sustainability state or condition that a jurisdiction intends to achieve
Objective A clear,desired outcome intended to move the community toward the broader goal
Purpose Statement to clarify relevance,to provide context,and communicate the desired outcome
Evaluation Measures Qualitative or quantitative,using relative or absolute metrics
Community Level Measurable,condition-level indicators that depict a community's progress toward a preferred state or
Outcomes condition as suggested by the STAR Objective
Local Actions Range of decisions and investments that a local government or community can make,or the activities
that they can engage in,that are essential to achieving desired outcomes
10 As STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - Introduction
Evaluation Measures -- Community Level Outcomes and Local Actions
Community level outcomes are measurable,condition-level indicators that depict a community's progress toward a preferred state or
condition as suggested by the STAR Objective.Outcomes are represented as trend lines,targets,or thresholds in the rating system.
Local actions describe the range of decisions and investments that a local government or community can make, or the activities
that they can engage in,that are essential to achieving desired outcomes.Actions focus on the key interventions that move the
needle towards desired outcomes.They can include activities or partnerships where the local government is not the lead actor but
a convener,participant,or active supporter in a community-scale effort to achieve the outcomes.
Action Types
Education and Outreach (EO)
Plan Development(PD)
Policy and Code adjustment(PoC)
Preparatory
Partnerships and Collaboration (PC)
Practice Improvements (P1)
Inventory,Assessment or Survey(IAS)
Enforcement and Incentives (El)
Programs and Services (PS) Implementation
Facilities and Infrastructure (FI)
There are nine action types in the rating system.Actions described as preparatory are foundational steps that a community should
take first to assess the community's needs and trends,identify and execute policy and regulatory changes,and strengthen partnerships
and collaborations in order to effectively deploy resources and investments.
Implementation based actions are the programs and services,enforcement and incentive mechanisms,and infrastructure investments
a community makes in order to efficiently and equitably move the needle towards the desired outcomes.
Evaluation measures were reviewed by technical advisors, staff and other stakeholders to determine whether they are relevant,
feasible,systemic,timely,reliable and valid.Other criteria for inclusion in the rating system include alignment with the STAR Guiding
Principles.All STAR content is analyzed for its interdependency with other aspects of the rating system;references and findings are
documented in the Technical Guide.
i
Criteria for STAR's Objectives and Evaluation Measures
Relevant: Provide direct feedback on the outcomes of local implementation.
Feasible: Leverage use of credible,commonly collected data for cost effective reporting that is flexible enough to be
implemented in various local contexts.
Timely: Capture actions and outcomes that are currently relevant,while looking forward to the future.
Useful: Provide significant value to help cities and counties make decisions and address local priorities.
Systemic: Draw attention to the preferred future,while offering a metric that measures true progress toward that
achievement goal;and,where possible,will satisfy performance reporting for multiple goals to highlight the integrated nature of
sustainability.
Reliable: Provide a consistent reflection of achievement or performance across communities regardless of community
characteristics,facilitating comparisons between communities.
Valid: Represent the concepts and underlying phenomena that are embodied in the STAR Objective accurately.
Adapted from"Indicators and Information Systems for Sustainable DevelopmentA Report to the Balaton Group"by Donella Meadows,1998
Points and Scores
Communities are evaluated on their achievements in the rating system on an objective by objective basis.Each STAR Objective has
a total point value between 5 and 20 points.An objective's value is determined by its impact on achieving community sustainability
as well as its impact towards meeting the STAR Goal Area that it is situated beneath.
STAR Objective Total Points Available =
Community Impact + Impact on STAR Goal Area
Within each STAR Objective,there are three paths to achieving the total points available.Communities can complete community-
level outcomes,local actions or a combination of the two types of evaluation measures.
The rating system weights community-level outcomes with the highest point value.Communities that meet threshold,target,and
trend line requirements or demonstrate incremental progress will achieve a proportion of the total points available.The proportion
of points available to each community-level outcome is based on the STAR Objective it is situated beneath as well as factors such
as the outcome's strength as a standard (e.g.national standard threshold,standard target for trend,STAR set threshold, locally set
threshold, locally set trend,or general trend) and its data sources and data quality (e.g.outside data set,standardized collection,or
locally collected).
)
All local action measures are assigned a point value based on their type,see table below.The rating system assigns higher point values
to implementation actions than those that are preparatory in nature due to dedication of resources and impact on sustainability
outcomes. Actions will be evaluated over time and may be replaced or adjusted to align with the program's growing evidence base
about which actions have the strongest influence.
® ;dam STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - Introduction
Action Types Points assignment*
Preparatory actions
Education and Outreach (EO)
Plan Development(PD) 2
Policy and Code adjustment(PoC) 2 or 3
Partnerships and Collaboration (PC)
Practice Improvements (P1) I
Inventory,Assessment or Survey(IAS) I
Implementation actions
Enforcement and Incentives (El) 4
Programs and Services (PS) 4
Facilities and Infrastructure (FI) 6
*Based on impact relative to other actions and level of effort
In summary,community-level outcomes are weighted highest from a point's perspective and local actions that are preparatory in
nature are weighted lowest
HIGH Community-Level Outcomes
MEDIUM Local Actions:Implementation
LOW Local Actions:Preparatory
A complete technical explanation of the system's methodology for assignment of points is available in the Points Appendix to this
Technical Guide.The following design assumptions apply to the STAR Community Rating System:
I. Goal areas are equally weighted,where possible.
2. Objectives are weighted against one another,within each goal area.Objective weighting is based on two factors:community
impact and impact on goal area achievement
3. Objectives are valued at 5, 10, 15,or 20 points.
4. Points are achieved through completion of or incremental progress toward evaluation measures.They include:community-
level outcomes and local actions.
5. Achievement of community-level outcome and local action measures can yield 100%of the objectives total credit.
6. Local action measures can account for up to 70%of the total credit available.
7. All evaluation measures are valued at a minimum of I point and are positive,whole numbers.
8. In addition to the objectives in the seven goal areas,communities can also earn up to 30 innovation and process points.
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g`°'° STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - Introduction
Participation and Reporting
STAR is a voluntary, menu-based rating system designed for communities to evaluate their progress against a set of standardized
sustainability objectives and evaluation measures.Ratings will be awarded on a total cumulative score of points achieved.The flexibility
of a menu-based system allows local governments to select the objectives they feel are most important and relevant to their
communities.Local targets and measures are integrated across the system.
The STAR Community Rating System supports three leadership certifications:3-STAR Community,4-STAR Community and 5-STAR
Community.General descriptions and points ranges required for certification are shown below.
Provisional* Rating Levels Point Range
Participating STAR Community n/a
Reporting STAR Community 50-199
3-STAR Community
200-399
Recognized for sustainability leadership
4-STAR Community 400-599
Recognized for national excellence
5-STAR Community 600+
Recognized as top tier achiever in national sustainability
*The rating levels will be assessed during the STAR Pilot Community Program and evaluated for their utility beyond the pilot testing period.
STAR Communities recognizes cities,towns and counties for formal commitment to and participation in the STAR Community
Rating System.Two recognition categories: Participating STAR Community and Reporting STAR Community were developed to
encourage participation and continuous improvement,
Participating STAR Community:This recognition category includes all communities that certify their intent to use the STAR Community
Rating System.Communities that download the STAR Community Rating System and its technical guide with the intent to use the
system's framework in local sustainability efforts will be coordinated and recognized.
Reporting STAR Community:This recognition category supports communities that have registered their intent to report sustainability
measures in the online reporting tool and are making incremental progress.In order to attain the recognition,they will have also met
the basic prerequisite of achieving points in at least one objective in all of the seven goal areas.
The STAR Community Rating System and its corresponding Technical Guide and online reporting tool are available at www.
starcommunities.org.In 2012,only those communities selected to participate in the STAR Pilot Community Program will have access
to the online reporting tool.
°STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - Introduction
A Note on Local Actions:
Local Actions that are considered self-explanatory do not appear in the Guidance and Submittal Requirements section;
they are listed on the first page of the Objective only.
m �.,
da`STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - Introduction
GOAL Area: Built Environment
Achieve livability,choice,and access for all where people live,work,and play
Objective Available
Objective Title and Purpose
Number Points
Ambient Noise & Light: Minimize and manage ambient noise and light
BE-I 5
levels to protect public health and integrity of ecological systems
Community Water Systems: Provide a clean and secure water supply for
BE-2 all local users through the management of potable water, wastewater,stormwater, I5
and other piped infrastructure
Compact & Complete Communities: Concentrate development in
BE-3 compact,human-scaled,walkable centers and neighborhoods that connect to transit, 20
offer diverse uses and services,and provide housing options for families of all income
levels
Housing Affordability: Construct,preserve,and maintain an adequate and
BE-4 15
diverse supply of location-efficient and affordable housing options for all residents
Infill&Redevelopment:Focus new growth in in fill areas and on redevelopment
BE-5 that does not require the extension of water, sewer, and road infrastructure or 10
facilitate sprawl
Public Spaces: Create a network of well-used and enjoyable parks and public
BE-6 spaces that feature equitable, convenient access for residents throughout the 15
community
BE-7 Transportation Choices: Promote diverse transportation modes, including 20
walking,bicycling,and transit,that are safe,low-cost,and reduce vehicle miles traveled
Total Credit,Goal Area 100
°aa STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - Built Environment
▪ IN.
■. n.
Introduction
The 7 Objectives in the Built Environment Goal Area evaluate community development patterns, livability, and design
characteristics, with emphasis on access and choice for all residents regardless of income. BE-3: Compact & Complete
Communities promotes pedestrian-scaled,mixed-use development in high-density areas that support transit BE-4:Housing
Affordability measures location efficiency through the combined costs of housing and transportation and encourages affordable
housing in areas where transportation costs are already low due to transit accessibility.BE-7:Transportation Choices provides
the direct measure of transportation alternatives,affordability,and safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The Built Environment Goal Area addresses other types of infrastructure,such the provision of clean drinking water,wastewater,
and stormwater in BE-2:Community Water Systems. BE-5:Infill & Redevelopment analyzes the distribution of water and
sewer infrastructure to encourage efficient use and reuse of land. BE-6: Public Spaces promotes accessibility to abundant,
well-designed parks,greenways,and other public spaces.Finally,BE-I:Ambient Noise& Light encourages community lighting
systems to protect viewing of the night sky and residents from excessive noise.
al. STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - Built Environment
BE- I : Ambient Noise & Light
1 1 II (5 available points)
Purpose
Minimize and manage ambient noise and light levels to protect public health and the integrity of ecological systems
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Preliminary Step:
Identify local ambient noise and ambient light targets based upon a local assessment. The assessment should identify both
natural and developed areas where excess noise and light exist,and include the sources of excess noise or light.
Outcome I:Noise
Part I:Demonstrate that daytime ambient noise levels do not exceed 70 dBa in commercial areas
--AND--
Part 2:Show progress toward locally identified key ambient noise targets
Outcome 2:Light in the Community
Show progress toward locally identified key light targets for light glare and/or light trespass
Outcome 3:Light in the Night Sky
Achieve a sky glow at or below 4 in the Bortle Dark-Sky Scale where the Milky Way is still visible in residential areas
Local Actions
I. Adopt a community noise policy,ordinance,or regulations as needed based upon a local assessment
2. Adopt a community light policy,ordinance,or regulations as needed based upon a local assessment
3. Educate the public about standards,effects of excessive exposure,and mitigation techniques for ambient noise or
ambient light
4. Create partnerships to address sources of noise and/or light pollution not subject to the local authority
5. Develop a database of noise complaints and noise measurements (e.g.roads,industrial,outdoor music venues) or of light
issues and neighborhoods targeted for improvements
6. Establish clear lines of authority for enforcement of nuisance noise violations relative to different noise sources
7. Enforce noise standards during the permitting,design,and construction of new large-scale developments that can
significantly increase ambient noise levels
8. Enforce light standards during the permitting,design,and construction of new large-scale developments that can
significantly increase ambient light levels
9. Establish programs that eliminate existing sources of light pollution coming from municipally-owned entities
3'µV STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-(:Ambient Noise& Light ID
BE- 1: Ambient Noise & Light . ��;
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
Community Level Outcomes
At extreme levels,both ambient noise and ambient light can be harmful to people's health and disruptive to ecosystems
or specific species.At more moderate levels,ambient noise and ambient light concerns vary by community and location.
Therefore, STAR has established an ambient noise threshold that ensures communities are safe for people to live, but
otherwise allows applicants to set their own targets.
Preliminary Step
Applicants must establish specific ambient noise and ambient light targets that match the community's character and needs.
In addition,applicants should identify either natural or developed locations where ambient noise and ambient light levels are
higher than desired.These locations will be used to track progress toward local success.
When setting local targets,applicants are encouraged to consider both human needs as well as the needs of other species.
The International Dark-Sky Association's Light Pollution and Wildlife guide provides some general information; however
working with a local biologist may be the best approach.
Outcome I:Noise
Many organizations including the EPA,HUD,and FAA have established sound exposure levels below which there should be
little risk of adverse effects on human health.These levels range from 55 to 60 decibel(dB)day-night average sound level(DNL)
for residential areas.While communities are strongly encouraged to consider these recommendations when creating their
own local standards,STAR has established a 70 dBa threshold for commercial areas as a reasonable target that still ensures
safe levels for people.
For credit in Part I,applicants must show that their daytime ambient noise levels do not exceed 70 dBa in commercial areas.
Data collection should be taken during daytime hours.
For verification in Part I,applicants need to provide the most recent years average ambient noise level for commercial areas.
Applicants should upload a document,either a map or list of the commercial areas where measurements were taken and
the most recent ambient noise level for each area.
For credit in Part 2, applicants must show progress toward locally-identified targets for each location identified in the
Preliminary Step.Some useful resources for establishing noise targets include guidance from Rutgers University's Cooperative
Extension and EPA's Indicators of the Environmental Impacts of Transoortation guide.STAR also recommends considering
addressing specific species or ecosystems that are sensitive to noise pollution. Marine mammals,for example, have been
severely impacted by noise pollution.
For verification in Part 2, applicants need to provide the following information for each target location identified in the
Preliminary Step:
• a description of local ambient noise targets along with a short explanation of why the targets were selected.Appli-
cants should include any specific indicators used for these targets;
• a brief description of the progress the community has made toward achieving local targets;and
• a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet demonstrating the jurisdiction's progress toward locally-established
targets.
Outcome 2:Light in the Community
For credit applicants must show progress toward locally-identified targets for each location identified in the Preliminary Step.
Light targets may relate to local issues regarding light glare and/or light trespass.Other targets may relate to specific species
or ecosystems that are sensitive to light pollution.
20 .7�( STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-(:Ambient Noise& Light
BE- I: Ambient Noise & Light
For verification,applicants need to provide the following three pieces of information for each location identified in the
Preliminary Step:
• a description of local ambient light targets along with a short explanation of why the targets were selected.Ap-
plicants should include any specific indicators used for these targets;
• a brief description of the progress the community has made toward achieving local targets;and
• a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet demonstrating the jurisdiction's progress toward locally established
targets.
Outcome 3:Light in the Night Sky
The ability to see the night sky can add significantly to residents'enjoyment of evenings outdoors and their sense of place.
It can also provide a great educational opportunity to teach children about astronomy.Through this Outcome, STAR
recognizes these important aspects of community life when considering the impacts of light pollution.
For credit,applicants must show that the Milky Way is visible in residential areas.Specifically,applicants should use the Bortle
Dark-Sky Scale and should have an average of a class 4 or below rating for the selected residential areas.
For verification,applicants should provide the most recent year's average class rating according to the Bortle Dark-Sky
Scale for all residential areas measured.Additionally, applicants should upload a document, either a map or list, of the
residential areas where measurements were taken as well as the most recent class rating in the Bortle Dark-Sky Scale.
Local Actions
Action
Action I: Every applicant will have different needs and details included in Action Type
their community's ambient noise policy.Rutgers University's Cooperative
Extension provides information on local noise enforcement options and Preparatory Actions
a model noise ordinance. I Policy and Code Adjustment
2 Policy and Code Adjustment
Action 2: Every applicant will have different standards included in 3 Education and Outreach
their community's ambient light policy based on size,density,and other 4 Partnerships and Collaboration
community characteristics.The International Dark-Sky Association has a " 5 Practice Improvements
model lighting ordinance as well as simple guidelines for light regulations
and other useful resources. Implementation Actions
6 Enforcement and Incentives
Action 4: Partnerships will vary for different applicants according to 7 Enforcement and Incentives
community needs. Some communities will need to work with specific 8 Enforcement and Incentives
industries while others may want to partner with adjacent cities in order 9 Programs and Services
to increase star visibility.Another common partner would be an area
airport,which can create a significant amount of noise pollution.
Action 6: For verification, the applicant should submit the number of nuisance noise violation cases that have been
investigated in the past 3 years.
Action 7: For verification,the applicant should submit the number of cases relating to new large-scale developments
impacting noise standards investigated in the past 3 years.
Action 8: For verification,the applicant should submit the number of cases relating to new large-scale developments
impacting light standards investigated in the past 3 years.
Action 9: For verification,the applicant should list the facilities that have converted their lighting sources in the past 3 years.
STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-(:Ambient Noise & Light
BE- I: Ambient Noise & Light
Communities Leading the Way
Flagstaff,AZ: Flagstaff was one of the first cities to receive an official international Dark Sky Communities designation for
exceptional dedication to the preservation of the night sky.The Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition works to celebrate,promote,
and protect the glorious dark skies of Flagstaff and northern Arizona.Flagstaff also has an ordinance that enables the City to
protect natural night lighting.
Minneapolis,MN:Minneapolis has worked closely with the regional airport to create a residential noise mitigation program.
New York City,NY: New York City has been working hard to create a quieter atmosphere. In 2005,the City adopted an
exemplary noise code.The code's guidebook provides useful noise ordinance information.
Additional Resources
The Noise Pollution Clearinghouse is good source of information regarding ambient noise in communities.
STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-I:Ambient Noise& Light
BE-2: Community Water Systems
■I (I 5 available points)
Purpose
Provide a clean and secure water supply for all local users through the management of potable water,wastewater,stormwater,
and other piped infrastructure
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I:Drinking Water Quality
Part I:Demonstrate that the community is not in violation of EPA's 5%standard for coliform bacteria in water pipes
--AND--
Part 2:
Option A:Demonstrate that the water supplied to residents is not in violation of EPA standards for turbidity and water
pathogens
--OR--
Option B:Decrease the amount of all regulated contaminants over time [Partial credit applies]
Bonus:Jurisdiction or water provider participates in EPA water quality research on emerging contaminants
Outcome 2:Secure Water Supply
Part I:Demonstrate that height of the water table for subsurface aquifers has been stable or rising
--AND--
Part 2:Demonstrate that the height of water for surface waters is within the range to meet expected demand for the next
5 years or is rising
Outcome 3:Safe Wastewater Management
Part I:Demonstrate that all publicly owned treatment works (POTWs) are in compliance with EPA effluent permits
--AND--
Part 2:Demonstrate that existing industrial dischargers are in compliance with EPA permits
Outcome 4:Safe Stormwater Management
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit(s) have been obtained prior to discharging stormwater
Local Actions
I. Adopt a jurisdiction-wide management plan for both water consumption and disposal that provides a clean and secure
water supply for all local uses
2. Adopt policies to ensure that the jurisdiction has authority to enact water conservation measures during periods of
drought
3. Collaborate with a regional water management group that includes other jurisdictions that share the same water sources
4. Establish water quality monitoring and public reporting systems
5. Shift towards a full cost pricing system to ensure that users are paying for the true cost of water
6. Create programs to guarantee the provision of water to low income residents
O"°"�
r STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-2:Community Water Systems
BE-2: Community Water Systems : :::
7. Develop and provide water conservation programs to residents,businesses and agricultural water users in order to
help ensure that the community is not depleting its water supply
8. Manage and upgrade infrastructure to reduce leaks in the system,eliminate contaminants,and achieve other local
conservation goals
9. Implement at least 3 innovative water infrastructure and facility programs
10.Upgrade and improve stormwater and wastewater treatment facilities to meet current and foreseeable needs
I 1.Engage in restoration projects for critical water bodies that provide usable water for the jurisdiction or stormwater
management assistance
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I:Drinking Water Quality
EPA's standards are primarily designed to protect public health by limiting the levels of contaminants in drinking water.STAR
has integrated EPA's standards for total coliform,turbidity,and water pathogens into the requirements for this Outcome.It
should be noted that EPA does not have the authority to regulate private drinking water wells where approximately 15%
of Americans get their water.STAR encourages applicants to address water quality in private wells in addition to the public
system.
For credit in Part 1,applicants must show that the community has not been in violation of EPA's Total Coliform Rule within
the past 3 years, which stipulates that small systems may have no more than one positive sample per month and large
systems may have no more than 5%positive samples per month.Applicants should follow EPA's sampling requirements and
be sure to collect samples at sites that are representative of the distribution system.'
For full credit in Part 2,Option A,applicants must demonstrate that the drinking water supplied to residents in the past 3
years is not in violation of EPA standards for turbidity and water pathogens.Specifically,the applicant must be within the
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCLs)for Cryptosporidium,Giardia lamblia,Legionella,Viruses (enteric),and turbidity.
Applicants in violation of EPA standards for any of these regulated contaminants in the past 3 years may apply for partial
credit through Part 2, Option B by showing a decrease in the amount of all contaminants for which the applicant was in
violation during the most recent 3-year period.See the Points Appendix for information regarding points awarded for partial
credit
Data for this Outcome is available from the community's water supplier,which could either a regional organization or the
community's water agency or department
For verification of Part I,applicants must submit the percent of samples in the previous month that had positive total coliform
bacteria levels.Additionally, applicants should upload summary information that validates the jurisdiction's achievement of
EPA standards for total coliform for the past 3 years.
For verification of Part 2,Option A,applicants should upload summary information that validates the jurisdiction's achievement
of EPA standards for turbidity and pathogen over the past 3 years. For verification of Part 2,Option B, applicants should
provide the most recent annual or 3-year average percent change in the specific contaminant(s).In addition,the applicant
should upload a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet showing the calculated percent change over time.
Since EPA is not able to regulate all contaminants and continues to research new contaminants,bonus points are available
to applicants that participate in EPA water quality research on .. ... • • -..- • ■• .. - . (CECs). For verification,
' EPA's guidance for collecting water samples is available on CD.
moe, STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-2:Community Water Systems
BE-2: Community Water Systems
the applicant must provide the name of the specific contaminant involved in the research. See the Points Appendix for
information regarding points awarded for bonus credit
Outcome 2:Secure Water Supply
Water is a vital resource needed to sustain life,human and ecosystem health,and the economy.This Outcome focuses on
ensuring that the community's water supply is sufficient to meet current and projected demand.
For credit in Part I,applicants must demonstrate that the height of the water table for subsurface aquifers has been stable
or rising compared to a baseline year at least as far back as 2000.The water table may be located inside or outside the
jurisdiction boundary depending on the community's primary water supply.
For credit in Part 2,applicants must demonstrate that the height of drinking supply surface waters is currently within the range
expected for the next 5 years or is rising.The 5-year expectation should be based upon community water use projections.
The evaluation of whether the water table is rising should be based on a selected baseline year not predating 2000.
Note that if an applicant does not rely on both subsurface and surface waters they may be eligible for full credit based on
only one part of the Outcome.
For verification of Part I,applicants should provide the current height of the water table for the subsurface aquifers. For
verification of Part 2,applicants should provide the current height of water for the primary surface water source.Additionally,
for both Parts I and Part 2,applicants should upload a summary of reports on supply and demand trends that support the
stable level and a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet showing the calculated trend.
Outcome 3:Safe Wastewater Management
Untreated or poorly treated wastewater degrades surface waters and makes them unsafe for drinking,fishing,and swimming.
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program helps to control wastewater pollution by
regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the U.S.STAR focuses on two of the most common point
sources:publicly owned treatment works(POTWs) and industrial dischargers.
For credit in Part I,all POTWs must be in compliance with the EPA effluent guidelines and have the appropriate required
permits. Ideally,the quality of the water derived from a wastewater treatment system would be equal or superior to the
receiving water body.Applicants who achieve this high standard should consider applying for points under IP-2: Exemplary
Performance.
For credit in Part 2,the applicant must show that over the past 3 years industrial dischargers within the jurisdiction have been
in compliance with EPA regulations,,which varies by industry type.Data for industries with discharge permits can be found
through the Permit Compliance System (PCS) and Integrated Compliance Information System (ICIS).
For verification of Part I,applicants should provide a list of all POTWs regulated by EPA effluent guidelines.For verification
of Part 2,applicants should provide a list of industrial dischargers regulated by EPA effluent guidelines.Additionally,for both
Part I and 2,applicants should upload key excerpts demonstrating compliance from the last 3 years of permit review.
Outcome 4:Safe Stormwater Management
Proper stormwater management can help reduce community flooding and prevent pollutants from entering local surface
waters.Although EPA's NPDES Stormwater Program focuses on the latter,many of the actions needed to achieve success
in the NPDES program result in both benefits.For this reason,STAR has focused its stormwater management Outcome on
the NPDES program.
For credit,the applicant must show that all permits required by the NPDES program have been attained for the following
three areas: municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s), construction activities, and industrial activities. Review EPA's
construction and industrial webpages for lists of regulated activities.In most places,states are authorized to implement the
NPDES Stormwater Program and issue permits.For specifics on the state's authority,see this website.
STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-2:Community Water Systems
BE-2: Community Water Systems
111 NI'
For verification, applicants must upload a summary of the permits received over the past 3 years for all MS4s, regulated
construction activities,and relevant regulated industrial activities.
Local Actions
Action I:Most communities have separate plans for their freshwater; Action
wastewater;and stormwater systems.Applicants may submit separate # Action Type
plans for credit; however, STAR encourages applicants to connect Preparatory Actions
and relate the plans to each other.Applicants may also submit one Plan Development
integrated plan.Since the quality of water in various managed and
piped systems is intimately linked to water in the natural environment, 2 Policy and Code Adjustment
STAR recommends that the plans for credit here encompass the 3 Partnerships and Collaboration
requirements for NS-5:Water in the Environment,Action I. If so, 4 Practice Improvements
consider applying for credit in both Objectives. Implementation Actions
Action 5:In many places,users do not pay for the true cost of water 5 Enforcement and Incentives
because local pricing structures do not factor in the cost of the 6 Enforcement and Incentives
infrastructure needed to transmit the water or the environmental 7 Programs and Services
impact costs of removing water from its natural flow. For credit, 8 Facilities and Infrastructure
the applicant must demonstrate that it has shifted towards a full 9 Facilities and Infrastructure
cost pricing system. EPA provides water and wastewater pricing I0 Facilities and Infrastructure
-
guidance and manuals that may be of assistance.For verification,the I I Facilities and Infrastructure
applicant should provide a summary of the water rate structure with
an explanation of the factors taken into account
Since full cost pricing may have a major impact on low-income households,applicants should consider undertaking Actions
5 and 6 jointly.
Action 6:Since fresh,clean drinking water is essential for human survival,communities should ensure that it is available to all
residents,regardless of income.Communities may need to implement programs to provide water at free or reduced rates to
low-income households,particularly if shifting towards a full cost pricing system.For verification,the applicant should provide
the number of program participants in the past 3 years.
Action 7:Water conservation programs must be more extensive than general educational campaigns for residents,businesses,
or agricultural users and focus on affecting specific behavioral changes.Examples of programs could include the development
of onsite reuse capacity,a shift to new plant water schedules,or a competition to achieve reduced water consumption.Note
that this Action is shared with NS-5:Water in the Environment,Action 7.
For verification,the applicant should provide the number of water users participating in water conservation programs in the
past 3 years.
Action 8:According to the American Society of Civil Engineers'-.. -.. .. . • . leaking pipes waste an
estimated 7 billion gallons of clean drinking water a day in the U.S.Managing and upgrading infrastructure through a strong
asset management program,improved metering,and a wider range of financing mechanisms utilized by the system owner or
operator can reduce leaks in the system,eliminate contaminants,and achieve other local conservation goals.For verification,
the applicant should provide a list of infrastructure upgrades in the past 3 years.
Action 9:For credit,the applicant must implement at least 3 of the following 6 innovative water infrastructure and facility
programs and upgrades:
• nutrient capture systems;
• onsite reuse of water;
• pretreatment program for wastewater;
• reclaimed water use and beneficial reuse;
• separation of stormwater and sewer systems;
• wetland buffers for stormwater management;and/or
• other(specify,may submit one alternative for credit).
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'" BE-2: Community Water Systems
For verification,the applicant should identify the 3 specific innovative changes implemented in the community and provide
the number of specific improvements made in the past 3 years.
Action 10: Many system upgrades are intended to have long life spans.When making major improvements to treatment
facilities,STAR encourages applicants to assess future projections regarding regional growth and climate projections. Placing
water infrastructure in the community's capital improvement program can help to achieve success by making the best and
most appropriate upgrades.For verification,the applicant should provide the number of specific improvements made in the
past 3 years.
Action I I:The restoration of natural water bodies such as wetlands can help dramatically with both the provision of freshwater
and stormwater management Wetlands cleanse water by filtering out pollutants that would otherwise require expensive
water treatment systems.For verification,the applicant should provide the number of restoration projects completed in the
past 3 years.Note that this Action is shared with NS-5:Water in the Environment,Action 6.
Communities Leading the Way
Chatham County,NC:As suburban development with higher water consumption rates began expanding in rural Chatham
County in the 1990s,the County initially covered the difference in water use and revenue through transfers from the general
fund. Eventually, Chatham County switched to an enterprise fund with an increasing block rate structure that enables the
system to recover its costs and encourages users to conserve water.This EPA case study (p. 17) is highlighted along with
several other rate structure examples.
Multiple jurisdictions, Ipswich River Watershed Association, Massachusetts: In its Water Conservation Case Studies,the
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Ipswich River Watershed Association describe the key
findings of implementing different efforts to reduce water demand.The region worked collaboratively to install rainwater
harvesting systems,incorporate mineral amendments,and provide free water use audits and water-saving retrofit kits.
San Antonio,TX:According to this case study,the City of San Antonio has successfully kept water consumption levels at 130
gallons per day (GPD) per capita as compared to the statewide average of 200 GPD per capita.These levels are the same
as 1984 despite 67% growth in the City's population.San Antonio's success is due to conservation education as well as a
reclaimed water program that delivers treated wastewater to locations where it can be beneficially used.
Additional Resources
EPA's MS4 website provides a variety of resources for managing an MS4 system,including fact sheets on incorporating low
impact development (LID) and funding stormwater programs,as well as information on minimum control measures that can
significantly reduce the discharge of pollutants into receiving waters.
EPA's Primer for Municipal WastewaterTreatment Systems provides information on basic treatment systems such as primary
treatment and the physical biological and chemical techniques.Additionally,it includes secondary treatment options such as
suspended and attached growth processes.The guide also covers land treatment constructed wetlands and disinfection.
EPA has funding available for water projects through several grant programs,including the Clean Water State Revolving Fund,
which has provided more than$5 billion annually in recent years for water quality protection projects,as well as the Targeted
Watersheds Grant Program that encourages community-based approaches to restore the nation's watersheds.
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,a,4 STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-2:Community Water Systems
: :: BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
1 I 1 1 (20 available points)
Purpose
Concentrate development in compact,human-scaled,walkable centers and neighborhoods that connect to transit,offer diverse
uses and services,and provide housing options for families of all income levels
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Preliminary Step:
Identify the Compact&Complete Centers (CCCs)that will be analyzed under this objective.CCCs are walkable Y2-mile
areas around a central point that represent the community's strongest mix of uses,transit availability,density,and walkability
while maintaining geographic diversity. The number of required CCCs is determined by population.
Outcome 1:Density,Destinations,and Transit
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
Residential Density:
• Average of at least 12 dwelling units per acre within a Y4-mile walk distance of bus or streetcar stops,or within Y2-mile
walk distance of bus rapid transit stops,light or heavy rail stations or ferry terminals
• Average of at least 7 dwelling units per acre average within the rest of the CCC boundary
Employment Density:At least 25 jobs per acre
Diverse Uses:At least 7 diverse uses present
Transit Availability:At least 60 weekday trips and 40 weekend trips
[Graduated credit available]
Outcome 2:Walkability
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
• 90%of roadways contain sidewalks on both sides
• 100%of crosswalks are ADA accessible
• 60%of block faces contain street trees at no more than 40 feet intervals
• 70%of roadways are designed for a travel speed of no more than 25 mph
• Minimum intersection density of 90 intersections per square mile
[Partial credit available]
Outcome 3:Design
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
• 80% of front building setbacks along primarily single-family residential blocks are not more than 25 feet from the property
line
• 80%of front building setbacks along blocks with primarily commercial frontage are not more than 10 feet from the
property line
• 40%of building faces are free from blank walls,garage,and driveway entrances
[Partial credit available]
,AY STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide -03/01/13 - BE-3:Compact& Complete Communities Ell
BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
Outcome 4:Affordable Housing
Demonstrate that each CCC achieves the following thresholds:
• 10%of total residential units are affordable
• 10%of residential units built or substantially rehabilitated within the last 3 years are dedicated as subsidized affordable
housing
• Some of the dedicated long-term affordable housing are deeply subsidized or deeply affordable for very-and extremely-
low income households
[Partial credit available
Local Actions
I. Establish policies to support compact,mixed-use development in the comprehensive plan and/or sub-jurisdictional plans
2. Identify areas appropriate for compact,mixed-use development on the community's official future land use map
3. Adopt regulatory strategies that permit or incentivize increased residential and employment densities and diverse uses in
transit-served areas and areas identified for compact,mixed-use development
4. Require walkability standards for new development that include sidewalks on both sides of roadways,street trees,ADA
accessible crosswalks,roadways designed for maximum travel speeds of 25 mph,and maximum block lengths in transit-
served areas and areas identified for compact,mixed-use development
5. Require build-to lines for commercial and residential structures in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact,
mixed-use development
6. Adopt performance-based parking pricing,establish parking maximums,or eliminate parking minimums in transit-served
areas and areas identified for compact,mixed-use development AND incorporate at least 2 other advanced parking
strategies
7. Require,incentivize,or subsidize creation of affordable housing in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact,
mixed-use development
8. Establish a design review board,neighborhood commission,or similar appointed citizen body that provides comments on
proposed development projects
9. Implement programs to preserve and maintain existing subsidized and unsubsidized affordable housing in transit-served
areas,compact and mixed-use areas,and areas with rapidly-rising housing costs
10.Increase the percentage of households with access to transit
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'" BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
Transit-oriented development (TOD) is based on the premise that focusing a dense mix of uses around transit stations with
good, integrated walkability and urban design can foster vibrant, livable communities while reducing traffic congestion, air
pollution,and land consumption.TODs should deliberately include housing that low-and moderate-income households can
afford because they have the greatest need for transit to reach jobs and other destinations,yet these neighborhoods are
often out of reach financially.
This Objective asks applicants to identify areas in their communities where compact and complete development is critical
and analyze the characteristics of those areas for creditThe standards for credit are largely adapted from USGBC's LEED
for Neighborhood Development(LEED-ND) rating system,v2009,with some modifications to account for the fact that the
areas of analysis are existing,organic neighborhoods and downtowns rather than new development projects.
This Objective relates to many others in STAR. It shares part of an Outcome and multiple Actions with BE-4: Housing
Affordability to encourage a mix of housing options in locations close to transitThere are also overlapping Actions with BE-
7:Transportation Choices related to expanding transit access and NS-4:Outdoor Air Quality since compact development
patterns reduce air pollution,especially when using complementary parking strategies.Other related Objectives include CE-2:
Greenhouse Gas Mitigation,BE-5:Infill&Redevelopment and HS-I:Active Living.
Community Level Outcomes
Preliminary Step
In the Preliminary Step,the applicant should identify the Compact & Complete Centers (CCCs) that will be analyzed in this
Objective.CCCs are areas within a %-mile walk distance' of a central point that represent the community's strongest mix
of uses,transit availability,density,and walkability.Central points are landmarks such as transit stations,civic buildings,urban
parks,squares,plazas or civic spaces, 100%intersections,or other major destinations.
The number of CCCs required for analysis is based on population Jurisdiction Population Number of CCCs
in the table shown on the right: > I million 10
For communities where more than one CCC is required,the 750,000-1 million 9
selected CCCs should maintain geographic diversity across the 500,000-749,999 8
community.CCCs should come from different wards,quadrants, 250,000-499,999 6
neighborhoods,boroughs,and/or activity centers.No more than 100,000-249,999 4
2 CCCs may be located within the community's central business 50,000-99,999 2
district or downtown area,as defined by a comprehensive plan, < 50,000 I
other citywide plan,neighborhood planning boundary,or zoning
map distinction. CCCs may not overlap. Counties may only
designate CCCs in areas for which they have land use authority;however,they may subtract the municipal population outside their
land use authority for the purpose of determining the number of CCCs required.
For verification,provide the number of CCCs required based on population and a name or location description of each CCC
(e.g.Downtown).Also,upload a map showing the CCC boundaries.
Outcome I:Density,Destinations,and Transit
For credit,the applicant must demonstrate that each CCC in the jurisdiction achieves minimum thresholds for residential
density,employment density,diverse uses,and transit availability.Graduated credit is available and points accumulated for each
CCC will be averaged.See the Points Appendix for information regarding points awarded for graduated credit
Walk distances can be created using ArcGIS Network Analyst or a similar tool.
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BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
is I..
Most of the data in this Outcome must be locally collected and analyzed through GIS.Minimum and maximum thresholds
for credit and data sources for each standard are described below.
Residential Density:
Minimum threshold for credit:
• Average of at least 12 dwelling units per acre within a '/4-mile walk distance of bus or streetcar stops,or within
Y2-mile walk distance of bus rapid transit stops,light or heavy rail stations or ferry terminals;and
• Average of at least 7 dwelling units per acre average within the rest of the CCC boundary.
• Threshold for maximum credit:Greater than 63 dwelling units per acre within CCC boundary.
This standard is adapted from LEED-ND's Compact Development credit(NPDp2).Residential density data can be provided
by the community's existing land use map,zoning and parcel data,2 or housing density using Census data.
Employment Density:
Minimum threshold for credit At least 25 jobs per acre.
Threshold for maximum credit Greater than 125 jobs per acre.
This standard is adapted from LEED-ND's "employment center" definition' Employment density data can be provided
through local data or analysis from the Census'Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (LED) OnTheMap tool;select
the jurisdiction,Choose"Work"for the Home/WorkArea and"Census Blocks"under Area Comparison for the most recent
year of data available.This analysis will produce the total number of workers which can be exported into GIS.
Diverse Uses:
Minimum threshold for credit:At least 7 diverse uses present
Threshold for maximum credit 20 or more diverse uses present
This standard is adapted from LEED-ND's Mixed-Use Neighborhood Centers credit(NPDc3).Data must be locally collected
using existing GIS data,internet search engine,or a field survey.Diverse uses are listed in the table below:
• Diverse uses must also meet the following criteria:
• A diverse use may only be counted once. For example,a retail store may be counted only once even if it sells
products in several categories;
• No more than half of the minimum number of diverse uses can be situated in a single building;
• Only 2 diverse uses in a single category may be counted.For example,if 5 restaurants are located in the CCC,only
2 may be counted;
• For credit,the building where the use is located,not just the property line,must be inside the CCC boundary.
Transit Availability:4
Minimum threshold for credit(1+transit types:bus,streetcar,rail,ferry):At least 60 weekday trips and 40 weekend trips.
Minimum threshold for credit(commuter rail or ferry service only):At least 24 weekday trips and 6 weekend trips.
Threshold for maximum credit(1+transit types:bus,streetcar,rail,ferry):320 or more weekday trips and 40 weekend
trips.
This standard is adapted from LEED-ND's Smart Location credit (SLLp I).Data must be locally collected using existing GIS
data for transit stations.
For verification in Outcome I,submit the STAR-calculated Density,Destinations,and Transit score and upload a completed
STAR-provided Excel spreadsheet showing achievement of thresholds and score calculations.
z Zoning can help to identify residential parcels and relative densities but must be evaluated against parcel data for accu-
racy and more precise density.
LEED-ND's definition of an employment center is an area of 5 acres or greater with a density of at least 50 jobs per net
acre.STAR's minimum threshold is reduced to allow for CCCs with a greater proportion of residential development.
4 Both weekday and weekend trip minimums must be met Weekend trips must include service on both Saturday and
Sunday.To determine weekend trips,average Saturday and Sunday service.
® �j STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities
BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
Table of Diverse Uses
Food Retail
Supermarket Healthful food retail outlet
Community-Serving Retail
Clothing store or department store selling clothes Hardware store
Convenience store Pharmacy
Farmer's market Other retail
Services
Bank Laundry,dry cleaners
Gym,health club,exercise studio Restaurant,café,diner,brewpub
Hair care
Civic and Community Facilities
Adult or senior care (licensed) Place of worship
Child care (licensed) Medical clinic or office that treats patients
Community or recreation center Police or fire station
Cultural arts facility(museum,performing arts) Post office
Educational facility (K—I 2 school,university,adult education Public library
center,vocational school,community college)
Family entertainment venue (theater,sports) Public park
Government office that serves public on-site Social services center
Outcome 2:Walkability
This Outcome includes indicators evaluating the quality of the pedestrian environment since people are more likely to walk
if they feel safe and comfortable and can reach nearby destinations quickly. For credit,the applicant must demonstrate that
each CCC achieves the thresholds for walkability below.Partial credit is available and points accumulated for each CCC will be
averaged.See the Points Appendix for information regarding points awarded for partial credit.
Walkability thresholds are as follows:
• 90%of roadways contain sidewalks on both sides;5
• 100%of crosswalks are Americans with Disabilities (ADA) accessible;
• 60%of block faces contain street trees at no more than 40-foot intervals;
• 70%of roadways are designed for a travel speed of no more than 25 mph;and
• Minimum intersection density of 90 intersections per square mile.'
The standard for street trees is adapted from LEED-ND's Tree-Lined and Shaded Streets credit (NPDc I 4).The standard for
intersection density is adapted from LEED-ND's Connected and Open Community credit(NPDo3).
Data for this Outcome must be locally collected. It is recommended that the applicant use oo le S eet to evaluate
the first 3 standards.Data regarding design speed may be available from the local or state department of transportation.If not,
posted speed may be used.Intersection density can be calculated using the ArcGIS Line and Junction ie:onnect v y tool.
For verification, submit the STAR-calculated Walkability score and upload a completed STAR-provided Excel spreadsheet
showing achievement of thresholds and score calculations.
Outcome 3:Design
Since analyzing detailed urban design elements would require a high level of data collection at this scale,a few key indicators
have been selected to evaluate how buildings relate to the street to create a walkable environment. For credit the applicant
In addition to sidewalks,separated pedestrian,shared pedestrian and bike paths,or trails are also acceptable.
' Bonus points are available for an intersection density of 140 intersections per square mile.
..v,,
_aa; STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide -03/01/13 - BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities ES
BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities : 1.;
must demonstrate that each CCC achieves the thresholds for design below.Partial credit is available and points accumulated
for each CCC will be averaged.See the Points Appendix for information regarding points awarded for partial credit
Design thresholds are as follows:
• 80%of front building setbacks along primarily single-family residential blocks are not more than 25 feet from the
property line;
• 80%of front building setbacks along blocks with primarily commercial frontage are not more than 10 feet from the
property line;
• 40%of building faces are free from blank walls,garage,and driveway entrances.
Data for this Outcome must be locally collected and analyzed through GIS.The applicant can use aerial photography for the
first 2 standards to determine whether front building setbacks meet the standards.Another option is a field survey.For the
third standard,it is recommended that the applicant use Google Street View.
For verification, submit the STAR-calculated Design score and upload a completed STAR-provided Excel spreadsheet
showing achievement of thresholds and score calculations.
Outcome 4:Affordable Housing
This Outcome recognizes the importance of integrating affordable housing into CCCs because these areas offer low-cost
transportation options in close proximity to jobs and services.For credit,the applicant must demonstrate that each CCC
achieves the thresholds for affordable housing below.Partial credit is available and points accumulated for each CCC will be
averaged.See the Points Appendix for information regarding points awarded for partial credit.Note that this Outcome is
shared with BE-4:Housing Affordability,Outcome 2,Option B.
Affordable housing thresholds are as follows:
• 10% of total residential units are affordable, either subsidized affordable housing units or market rate affordable
housing units;
• 10%of residential units built or substantially rehabilitated within the last 3 years are dedicated as subsidized affordable
housing;
• Some of the dedicated long-term affordable housing units are deeply subsidized rental or deeply affordable owner-
occupied for very-and extremely-low income households.
Data for this Outcome must be locally collected.For the first standard,data on market rate affordable units may be derived
from parcel data in GIS.The housing authority or similar department can provide information regarding Section 8 vouchers,
rent-controlled buildings,public housing projects,and subsidized affordable housing units.For the second and third standard,a
zoning regulation requiring at least 10%of residential units in new major development projects to be dedicated as subsidized
affordable housing is sufficient At least some of these units must be made available to very- and extremely-low income
households earning 30-50%of the area median income (AMI).
For verification, submit the STAR-calculated Affordable Housing score and upload a completed STAR-provided Excel
spreadsheet showing achievement of thresholds and score calculations.
Local Actions
Action I:Policies in the community's comprehensive plan should support compact,mixed-use development,particularly in
employment centers and locations with transit accessibility.These policies form the basis for more detailed zoning or code
strategies to provide walkable,vibrant areas where families of all income levels can live,work,shop,and play.
In some jurisdictions,these concepts are described in greater detail in sub-jurisdictional plans, such as neighborhood or
small area plans.Applicants may submit either the relevant sections of the comprehensive plan or one representative sub-
jurisdictional plan for credit
Action 2:The community's official future land use map,typically found in the comprehensive plan,should identify areas,nodes,
activity centers,and/or corridors where compact,mixed use development will be supported through zoning,incentives,or
other policy tools.Ideally,specific densities have been identified through the comprehensive planning process,which can then
support future rezonings or development proposals.STAR recommends that the density thresholds in these areas meet or
4.'. STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13- BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities
i„ BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
exceed the densities listed in Outcome I,but it is not required for Action
credit The applicant should provide a link or upload a copy of the # Action Type
future land use map and describe its compelling characteristics. Preparatory Actions
Note that the areas,nodes,activity centers,and/or corridors identified in I Plan Development
this Action as appropriate for compact,mixed use development are the 2 Policy and Code Adjustment
are a s that should b e evaluated in A tio n s 3-7.
3 Policy and Code Adjustment
Action 3:There are a wide range of regulatory strategies to permit _ 4 Partnerships and Collaboration
or incentivize increased residential and employment densities and 5 Partnerships and Collaboration
diverse uses in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact, 6 Partnerships and Collaboration
mixed-use development.These strategies reduce driving trips and 7 Enforcement and Incentives
support the transit and diverse uses that keep these areas vibrant 8 Enforcement and Incentives
and economically successful.Examples include: Implementation Actions
• increase minimum densities and uses allowed by right -
through zoning compared to surrounding areas;
9 Programs and Services
• increase maximum densities through discretionary review 10 Facilities and Infrastructure
processes,such as planned unit developments (PUDs),special
permits,or conditional uses;
• allow density bonuses permitted in exchange for amenities such as parks or affordable housing;
• establish areas as receiving zones for transfer of development rights(TDR);and/or
• create form-based codes and modified form-based codes that permit densities that meet or exceed the baseline
thresholds.
Note that this Action is shared with NS-4:Outdoor Air Quality,Action I.
Action 4:To ensure that new development in compact,mixed-use areas supports walkability,zoning and subdivision regulations
should require the following standards:
• sidewalks on both sides of roadways;
• street trees in at least 40-foot intervals;
• intersections that are ADA accessible;
• new roadways that are designed for maximum travel speeds of 25 mph;
• maximum block lengths or link-to-node ratios that support intersection density;and
• cul-de-sacs are prohibited except in rare circumstances.
Action 5:Build-to lines essentially function as a maximum front setback for buildings to create an even building facade line
along a streetThis feature creates a natural design rhythm and appealing visual experience to encourage pedestrian activity.
Along primarily residential blocks,the build-to line should not be more than 25 feet from the property line.Along blocks with
primarily commercial uses,the build-to line should not be more than 10 feet from the property line.
Action 6:Free and underpriced parking induces driving over other travel modes because the true costs of construction and
maintenance are hidden and passed along in slightly higher costs for goods and services purchased by drivers and non-drivers
alike.In addition to increased driving and traffic congestion,drivers contribute to air pollution as they cruise looking for free
parking.Other negative impacts of abundant free parking include reducing the rate of turnover for retail,drawing ridership
away from transit,adding to stormwater runoff,and taking up desirable real estate for largely unattractive parking lots and
decks.'
In response,communities have adopted a range of policy or zoning strategies to strike a balance between parking supply and
demand without subsidizing the cost or driving,particularly in compact,mixed use urban areas served by transit Some have
implemented performance-based parking pricing under local government control;others have established parking maximums
through zoning instead of only setting minimums or eliminated parking minimums altogether.For credit,applicants must have
adopted at least one of the practices described above and incorporated at least 2 other advanced parking strategies,such as:
These concepts are thoroughly described in Donald Shoup's book,The High Cost of Free Parking,available from major
booksellers.
d;: STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide -03/01/13- BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities ECI
BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
• parking benefit districts;
• unbundled parking;
• allowing developers to contribute funds towards centralized public parking facilities instead of on-site parking;and/or
• formal shared parking arrangements between land uses with different peak parking demands.
Note that this Action is shared with NS-4:Outdoor Air Quality,Action 2.
Action 7:Creating new affordable housing in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact and mixed-use development
is critical for low-income families to access jobs and other services without overly burdensome transportation costs.Policy
strategies to create affordable housing in these areas are strongly encouraged to include considerations for deeply subsidized
rental or deeply affordable owner-occupied housing since these households have very limited resources to cover transportation
costs.Examples of strategies to create affordable housing include:
• density bonuses or other design flexibility, such as zero-lot lines or parking reductions, in exchange for affordable
housing;
• indusionary zoning requirements;
• TDR program,provided it does not result in relocating affordable housing away from transit-served areas;
• tax increment financing(TIF) strategies that mandate affordable housing;
• an affordable housing trust fund or revolving loan fund for affordable housing;
• development linkage fees to support affordable housing production;
• donation or lease of public land or buildings for affordable housing development or redevelopment;and
• provide infrastructure and services to support non-profit developers seeking Low-Income Housing Tax Credit
(LIHTC) awards.
Note that this Action is shared with BE-4:Housing Affordability,Action 5.
Action 8:Many communities have a design review board,neighborhood commission,or similar advisory board that provides
comments and recommendations on proposed development projects before the elected board considers them.This practice
encourages public input to ensure that the proposed development is compatible with the surrounding neighborhood or
area.STAR encourages communities to appoint a diversity of residents to this board,including some individuals with relevant
professional experience in the fields of planning,design,architecture,landscape architecture, real estate law,engineering,or
historic preservation.
Action 9:Each local government that supports the preservation of affordable housing for owners and renters has a uniquely
structured program. Some communities even have specific strategies to provide support to unsubsidized, or market rate,
affordable housing in areas with rapidly rising housing costs.All of these programs and strategies are especially important in
compact and mixed-use areas near jobs and transit to keep transportation costs low for low-and moderate-income families.
Some common strategies are listed as examples below,but there are many other programs that local governments provide
that will fulfill this Action.
The Preservation of Affordable Homeownership report lists 4 primary categories of support as follows:
• subsidy forgiveness,basically a grant or forgivable loan in which the owner is not expected to repay the subsidy;
• subsidy recapture,typically a"silent second"mortgage that is repaid when the unit is sold;
• shared appreciation loans,in which the owner repays the loan and a share of the appreciation gained by the time of
sale;and
• subsidy retention,one-time financial assistance in exchange for a requirement that the unit be resold at an affordable
price.Common approaches include deed restrictions,community land trusts,and limited equity co-ops.
Strategies to preserve subsidized affordable rental housing include:
• general fund allocations or bonds to support subsidies,often through an affordable housing trust fund;
• administration of a public housing program through a local housing authority;
• rehabilitation grants or loans to owners in exchange for continuing to provide subsidized rental housing;
• funding support to non-profit and faith-based organizations to preserve existing subsidies;
• affordable housing replacement ordinance;
• tax abatements or exemptions for owners providing subsidized rental housing;and
• expiring use strategies,such as funding or other incentives for multi-family owners to continue subsidies, penalties
for opting-out,or creating a right of first refusal for the local government to purchase units with expiring contracts.
m :ice;;STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13- BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities
I a„ BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
Strategies to support unsubsidized affordable housing include:
• rehabilitation grants or loans to landlords with unsubsidized affordable rental units;
• rehabilitation grants or loans to low-income homeowners for maintenance, including weatherization and energy
efficiency upgrades;and
• education programs for low-income homeowners at-risk of foreclosure.
For verification,provide the total number of housing units receiving assistance in the past 3 years. Note that this Action is
shared with BE-4:Housing Affordability,Action 8.
Daily Transit Service Levels
Action 10: Following LEED-ND's Smart Location
and Linkage credit (SLLp I), access to transit is Weekday Weekend
defined as being located within a 4-mile walk
Trips Trips
distance of bus or streetcar stops, or within a
One or more transit types
Y2-mile walk distance of bus rapid transit stops, 60 40
p p (bus,streetcar,rail,or ferry)
light or heavy rail stations, and/or or passenger
ferry terminals with a sufficient level of transit Commuter rail or ferry service 24 6
service as shown in the table on the right only
Increased access to transit can either be achieved through the development of new housing within walking distance of a transit
station or bus stop,or by the expansion of transit services.
For credit,the applicant must show that 75%of households or more have access to transit OR the number of households with
access to transit has increased by at least 10%in the past 3 years.A decrease in transit service due to budget cuts or alternate
priorities must be included in the calculation.
Note that this Action is shared with BE-7:Transportation Choices,Action 6.
Communities Leading the Way
Austin,TX:The City of Austin adopted a TOD ordinance in 2005 that specifies standards for 4 types ofTODs:Neighborhood,
Town Center,Regional Centers,and Downtown.Each TOD permits a mix of residential,commercial,and office densities and
uses.At least 50%of building facades are required to have windows,doors,or other fenestration.Parking lots must be located
in the rear of buildings and be designed to permit future driveway and sidewalk connections.
Grand Rapids,MI: In 2007,years of work to overhaul the City of Grand Rapids'40-year old master plan and zoning code
culminated in the release of a new form-based code that encourages higher density residential and mixed-use development
along transit corridors, permits accessory dwellings in all residential zones to provide affordable housing, reduces parking
requirements,and requires buildings to frame the street City staff reviewed LEED-ND during development of the new code
and found that many new projects would eligible for a considerable number of LEED-ND points just by following the code
requirements.'
Additional Resources
Christopher Leinberger's Footloose and Fancy Free:A Field Survey of Walkable Urban Places in the Top 30 U.S.Metropolitan
Areas report for the Brookings Institution found 157 "regional-serving"walkable urban places in 29 out of the 30 largest
metro regions,serving as employment,retail,cultural,and higher education centers for their respective communities.Walkable
urban places and are growing in both urban and suburban areas,though 80%of the walkable places in the 10 highest-scoring
metros have rail transit (p.5). Applicants in the regions featured may wish to review the included spreadsheet of walkable
urban places as a way to identify CCCs.
While there are manyTOD resources,the Municipal Research and Services Center(MRSC)ofWashington's website provides
a particularly good compilation of guides,research,case studies,and other links to help communities implementTOD strategies
locally.Another good resource is the Center for Transit-Oriented Development (CTOD),a joint venture of the Center for
Neighborhood Technology (CNT), Reconnecting America,and Strategic Economics that provides sophisticated research on
TOD best practices and analytical tools.
' USGBC.2012.Local Government Guide to LEED for Neighborhood Development.Accessed December 6,2012.p. 17.
i; STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13- BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities
BE-3: Compact & Complete Communities
USGBC's Local Government Guide to LEED for Neighborhood Develoomen outlines the principles of LEED-ND and various
ways that local governments can incorporate the rating system into local planning efforts. Examples of strategies include
issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs)for LEED-ND development projects on government-owned land,revising comprehensive
plans or zoning codes to incorporates LEED-ND principles and standards,offering incentives for LEED-ND projects,and educating
the public about the sustainability advantages of compact,mixed-use development.The report includes many local case studies.
im_'STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13- BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities
: :: BE-4: Housing Affordability
1 III (I 5 available points)
Purpose
Construct,preserve,and maintain an adequate and diverse supply of location-efficient and affordable housing options for all
residents
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome 1:Housing and Transportation Costs
Part I:Demonstrate that there are at least 80%of Census block groups where a household earning the Area Median In-
come (AMI) would spend less than 45%on housing and transportation combined [Partial credit available]
--AND--
Part 2:Demonstrate that there are at least 60%of Census block groups where a household earning 80%AMI would spend
less than 45%on housing and transportation combined [Partial credit available]
Outcome 2:Affordable Housing Production
Option A:Achieve targets for creation of new subsidized affordable housing identified in a locally-adopted comprehensive
housing strategy
--OR--
Option B:Demonstrate that 10%of residential units built or substantially rehabilitated in the past 3 years in the community's
Compact&Complete Centers (CCCs) are dedicated as subsidized affordable housing
Outcome 3:Affordable Housing Preservation
Demonstrate no loss of subsidized affordable housing units due to expiring subsidies in the past 3 years
Local Actions
I. Develop a comprehensive housing strategy
2. Analyze transit access and transportation costs for neighborhoods with housing affordable to low-and moderate-income
households
3. When new transit or other major infrastructure investments are planned,analyze the likelihood and extent to which
housing costs are anticipated to increase in low-and moderate-income neighborhoods so that appropriate strategies can
be developed to preserve and create long-term affordable housing
4. Use regulatory and design strategies to encourage compatible infill and redevelopment with a mix of housing types in
neighborhoods close to employment centers,commercial areas,and where transit or transportation alternatives exist
5. Require,incentivize,or subsidize creaton of affordable housing in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact,
mixed-use development
6. Collaborate with other jurisdictions to address affordable housing and location efficiency needs in the region
7. Partner with nonprofit or faith-based organization(s)to provide education,counseling,and financial assistance to
homebuyers or renters,particularly minorities
8. Implement programs to preserve and maintain existing subsidized and unsubsidized affordable housing in transit-served
areas,compact and mixed-use areas,and areas with rapidly-rising housing costs
9. Work with private employers to provide live-near-your-work or employer-assisted housing financial incentives
STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-4:Housing Affordability III
BE-4: Housing Affordability 1.;
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
This Objective addresses the challenge of rising housing prices facing many communities,especially those that have had
success in building vibrant economically thriving neighborhoods and downtowns.Without targeted strategies, once-
affordable areas will become too expensive for low- and moderate-income households potentially forcing them to seek
less expensive housing on the urban fringe.This"drive-til-you-qualify"phenomenon results in much higher transportation
costs for individuals and families,as well as worsening traffic,air pollution,climate change,and negative impacts to health
and quality of life.
The most sustainable approach to counteract this trend is to support a mix of housing types,including subsidized affordable
housing, close to employment centers served by transit This Objective is therefore fundamentally connected to BE-3:
Compact&Complete Communities and BE-7:Transportation Choices.Note that EE-5:Human Services and EE-6:Poverty
Prevention&Alleviation address services for extremely low-income and homeless residents.
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I:Housing and Transportation Costs
STAR has adoptedThe Center for Neighborhood Technology's(CNT) Housing+Transportation Affordability Index(H+T
Index) to measure housing's true affordability by factoring in both housing and transportation costs at the neighborhood
level.CNT's methodology defines affordability as combined housing and transportation costs that consume no more than
45% of household income.This measure is based on the commonly-accepted standard of 30% of household income for
housing costs and an additional 15%for transportation costs.
Using Census housing data and modeled transportation costs,the H+T Index maps the Census blocks in each jurisdiction
where a"regional typical"household in the region could spend 45%or less on housing and transportation costs.'A regional
typical household is one that earns the area median income (AMI) with an average household size and average number of
household commuters for the region.The H+T Index also maps the affordable Census blocks for a"regional moderate"
household,one earning 80%AMI.
For credit in Part I,the applicant must demonstrate that there are 80%of Census block groups in the jurisdiction in which
a typical household would spend no more than 45%on housing and transportation costs.For credit in Part 2,the applicant
must demonstrate that there are at least 60% of Census block groups in which a regional moderate household earning
80%AMI would spend 45% or less on housing and transportation.The applicant must satisfy both Parts I and 2 for full
credit however,partial credit is available for both Parts.See the Points Appendix for detailed information regarding points
awarded for partial credit.
To determine whether the applicant will receive credit in Part I, enter the city or county name into the H+T Index
interactive map,choose"Housing+Transportation Costs%Income,"and adjust the Focus to either Municipality or County.
Select Neighborhood Statistics and report the percentage of Census blocks (neighborhoods) where a typical household
would spend 45% or less on housing and transportation costs combined. For verification, submit this percentage and
provide a link to CNT's assessment for the jurisdiction.
Repeat the analysis for the Regional Moderate household for Part 2.For verification,submit the percentage of Census blocks
where a household earning 80%AMI would spend no more than 45%on housing and transportation costs combined and
provide a link to CNT's assessment for the jurisdiction.
Outcome 2:Affordable Housing Production
The quantity and location of new affordable housing needed in a community depends entirely on local conditions.A
city with high-density,expensive housing downtown may need new affordable housing units that the market would not
produce otherwise.A suburban county may be experiencing steady or rapid growth from encroaching cities that is driving
Note that CNT uses the term"neighborhood"instead of Census blocks since the spatial boundaries are roughly
equivalent
40 A STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-4:Housing Affordability
Ia. BE-4: Housing Affordability
up the costs of formerly affordable housing.Another community might have an abundance of market rate affordable housing
and need strategies to encourage reinvestment in declining or blighted areas.Even in this case,the community should consider
creating new subsidized affordable housing units that will be preserved if revitalization causes housing costs to begin rising.
There are two paths to credit for this Outcome;both will receive full credit.
Option A is for applicants that have developed a local comprehensive housing strategy(CHP) and are achieving its established
targets for the creation of new subsidized affordable housing units.2 Given that the date of the CHP's adoption and horizon
year will be different for each community,the applicant should use local data to demonstrate that it has either met its annual
affordable housing targets for the past 3 years or produced an appropriate proportion of new affordable housing units relative
to the long-range targets of the CHP.For example,if the CHP was adopted 5 years ago and has a 10-year planning horizon,
the applicant must have created 50%of the target units to receive credit
For verification under Option A, applicant should submit the number of subsidized affordable housing units created since
adoption of the strategy and the proportion of subsidized affordable housing units created relative to local targets.The
applicant should also upload an excerpt of the comprehensive housing strategy documenting the locally-adopted targets and
published documentation confirming threshold achievement
Option B is partially shared with BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities,Outcome 4 and calls for applicants to demonstrate
that 10%of the residential units built or substantially rehabilitated in the past 3 years in the community's Compact&Complete
Centers(CCCs) have been dedicated as subsidized affordable housing.
Data for this Outcome must be locally collected.A zoning regulation requiring at least 10%of residential units in new major
development projects to be dedicated as subsidized affordable housing is sufficientAt least some of these units must be made
available to very-and extremely-low income households earning 30-50%of the area median income (AMI).
For verification under Option B,the applicant should submit the percentage of residential units built or substantially rehabilitated
within the past 3 years that are dedicated as subsidized affordable housing in all CCCs.The applicant should also upload a
completed STAR-provided Excel spreadsheet showing percentage of affordable housing units and published documentation
confirming threshold achievement Note that this data can be transferred from the matching standard in BE-3:Compact&
Complete Communities,Outcome 4.
Outcome 3:Affordable Housing Preservation
HUD supports production of low-income housing by providing subsidies to private property owners,typically landlords of
multi-family rental units,who then offer reduced-rent units to low-income households.These arrangements exist for a fixed
contract period,usually between 20-40 years,at which point the owner can renew the contract or pay off the mortgage and
convert the property to a market rate unit.If surrounding property values have risen substantially during the contract period,
the owner can gain a windfall profit by converting the property to market rate,negating the federal governments long-term
investment in the subsidy,and resulting in the loss of an affordable housing unit for a low-income family.This occurrence is
called expiring use.
Some states, local governments, and affordable housing advocacy organizations take action to stem the loss of affordable
housing.PolicyLink provides a review of common strategies,which include purchasing units with expiring subsidies,continuing
the subsidy with local funds,or adopting legislation to reduce the appeal of conversion or create incentives for preservation.
For credit,the applicant must demonstrate no loss of subsidized affordable housing units due to expiring subsidies in the past
3 years.
2 Note that a comprehensive housing strategy is most likely broader in scope than the Consolidated Plans that many cities
and counties submit to HUD.While Consolidated Plans may provide data and information to inform the comprehensive
housing strategy,they are typically more narrowly focused on explaining how the community will spend federal funding pro-
vided for affordable housing.In contrast,comprehensive housing strategies include an analysis of the state and local policies
affecting the community's entire housing stock,such as zoning and tax policies,and other local housing needs,such as an ag-
ing population creating needs for single-story accessible housing.For more information,see the Center for Housing Policy's
description and recommendations for comprehensive housing strategies.
jam. STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-4:Housing Affordability
BE-4: Housing Affordability 11' le;
Data for this Outcome is likely available in the community's HUD Consolidation Plan or is already being tracked by a local
housing agency. For planning purposes, data on expiration dates of existing contracts is available from HUD's Multi-family
Assi ance&Section 8 Contracts Database.
For verification,applicants should provide the number of affordable units lost due to expiring subsidies.Upload documentation
of the methods used to protect expiring subsidies and the locations impacted.
Note that there may be some limited exceptions to the appropriateness of this Outcome for communities where market
rate affordable housing is abundantly available and preservation of all existing subsidies is not necessary or desirable because
it would inhibit redevelopment In such a case,the applicant should submit for STAR review an explanation of community
benefits that would occur by allowing subsidies to expire.
Local Actions
Action I: A HUD Consolidated Plan or housing element of a Action Action Type
comprehensive plan may supplement or satisfy this Action if the
strategies, targets and action steps address housing issues in the Preparatory Actions
community comprehensively, not only the segment of the housing _ I Plan Development
market for which federal HUD funding is being sought.The Center for 2 Inventory,Assessment,or Survey
Housing Policy's B ilding a Strategy recommends that comprehensive 3 Inventory Assessment,or Survey
housing strategies include the following elements:
convening agencies,stakeholders,and the public to provide input 4 Policy and Code Adjustment
clarification of the community's housing goals; 5 Policy and Code Adjustment
• a housing needs assessment addresses housing supply afford- 6 Partnerships and Collaboration
ability,diversity of housing stock by unit and ownership type, 7 Partnerships and Collaboration
and community demographics; Implementation Actions
• a market analysis of current and projected conditions; 8 Programs and Services
• numerical targets for housing creation, rehabilitation, and
housing services; 9 Enforcement and Incentives
• coordination of housing policies to meet goals and numerical targets;and
• a clear implementation strategy and timeline.
Action 2:Local governments should strive to reduce transportation costs in areas where low-and moderate-income people
already Iive.The first step in this process is to identify neighborhoods with significant market rate affordable housing and assess
the transportation options and costs.This analysis can be used to develop strategies for improving transit access and creating
better connections and infrastructure for walking and bicycling.
Action 3:New transit and other infrastructure investments can increase housing prices,endangering the affordability of housing
for low-and moderate-income households.Analyzing the likelihood and extent to which housing prices will rise can lead to the
development of appropriate strategies to preserve existing affordability and create new long-term affordable units.Note that
these analyses have been used in some cases by opponents to contest proposed investments;therefore,communities should
consider the messaging and implications of these studies.
Action 4:Local government regulations and design standards can encourage infill and redevelopment that is compatible with
the surrounding neighborhood.These strategies are particularly critical for affordable housing development near employment
centers,commercial areas,and other locations where transportation alternatives exist Examples of strategies include:
• reduced minimum lot sizes,setbacks,and parking requirements;
• allowing mufti-family development that is designed to blend into established, predominately single-family neighbor-
hoods;and
• permitting accessory dwellings,such as garage apartments or granny flats.
Note that this Action is shared with BE-5:Infill&Redevelopment Action 3.
Action 5:Creating new affordable housing in transit-served areas and areas identified for compact and mixed-use development
is critical for low-income households to access jobs and other services without overly burdensome transportation costs.
Policy strategies to create affordable housing in these areas are strongly encouraged to include considerations for deeply
CB7,( STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-4:Housing Affordability
' '" BE-4: Housing Affordability
subsidized rental housing or deeply affordable owner-occupied housing since these households have very limited resources to
cover transportation costs.Examples of strategies to create affordable housing include:
• density bonuses or other design flexibility, such as zero-lot lines or parking reductions, in exchange for affordable
housing
• inclusionary zoning requirements;
• transfer of development rights (TDR) program,provided it does not result in relocating affordable housing away from
transit-served areas;
• tax increment financing(TIF) strategies that mandate affordable housing;
• an affordable housing trust fund or revolving loan fund for affordable housing;
• development linkage fees to support affordable housing production;
• donation or lease of public land or buildings for affordable housing development or redevelopment;and
• provide infrastructure and services to support non-profit developers seeking Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LI-
HTC) awards.
Note that this Action is shared with BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities,Action 7.
Action 6:Regional collaboration to address both subsidized and market rate affordable housing issues is important because
disparities between jurisdictions have major impacts on traffic, air pollution, climate change, economic development,fiscal
stability,equity,health,and quality of life for all. If affordable housing is concentrated in areas that do not align with regional
employment centers,the result is traffic congestion as the region's workforce commutes long distances daily to reach jobs.
This phenomenon also places a particularly heavy burden on the jurisdictions with concentrated affordable housing to provide
services with lower tax revenue,as well as low-and moderate-income households who must spend a significant proportion
of their wages on commuting.
To counteract these trends, some regions are working together to improve the location efficiency of housing, particularly
affordable housing,to jobs.The Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant Program sponsored by HUD,DOT,and EPA
has provided major support to these efforts.Other examples include communities adopting policies committing to provide
a fair share of affordable housing and pooling resources to provide affordable housing services to residents at a regional scale
rather than individually.Applicants should describe their participation in these regional efforts.
Action 7:Non-profit and faith-based organizations are integral partners in providing new affordable housing,preserving existing
affordable units,and providing education,counseling,and financial assistance to first-time homebuyers.Local governments may
provide financial support,fund infrastructure improvements,donate or lease property,or provide technical assistance.Local
governments should ensure that they only support organizations that provide certified counselors to work with first-time
home buyers.Applicants should describe how they work with these organizations to support their efforts.
Action 8:Each local government that supports the preservation of affordable housing for owners and renters has a uniquely
structured program. Some communities even have specific strategies to provide support to unsubsidized, or market rate,
affordable housing in areas with rapidly rising housing costs.All of these programs and strategies are especially important
in compact and mixed-use areas near jobs and transit to keep transportation costs low for low- and moderate-income
households.
Some common strategies are listed as examples below,but there are many other programs that local governments provide
that will fulfill this Action.
The Preservation of Affordable Homeownership report lists 4 primary categories of support as follows:
• subsidy forgiveness,basically a grant or forgivable loan in which the owner is not expected to repay the subsidy;
• subsidy recapture,typically a"silent second"mortgage that is repaid when the unit is sold;
• shared appreciation loans,in which the owner repays the loan and a share of the appreciation gained by the time of
sale;and
• subsidy retention,one-time financial assistance in exchange for a requirement that the unit be resold at an affordable
price.Common approaches include deed restrictions,community land trusts,and limited equity co-ops.
Strategies to preserve subsidized affordable rental housing include:
• general fund allocations or bonds to support subsidies,often through an affordable housing trust fund;
• administration of a public housing program through a local housing authority;
0 STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-4:Housing Affordability m
BE-4: Housing Affordability
• rehabilitation grants or loans to owners in exchange for continuing to provide subsidized rental housing;
• funding support to non-profit and faith-based organizations to preserve existing subsidies;
• affordable housing replacement ordinance;
• tax abatements or exemptions for owners providing subsidized rental housing;and
• expiring use strategies,such as funding or other incentives for multi-family owners to continue subsidies,penalties
for opting-out,or creating a right of first refusal for the local government to purchase units with expiring contracts.
Strategies to support unsubsidized affordable housing include:
• rehabilitation grants or loans to landlords with unsubsidized affordable rental units;
• rehabilitation grants or loans to low-income homeowners for maintenance, including weatherization and energy
efficiency upgrades;and
• education programs for low-income homeowners at-risk of foreclosure.
For verification,provide the total number of housing units receiving assistance in the past 3 years.Note that this Action is
shared with BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities,Action 9.
Action 9:Some anchor institutions and major employers provide incentives for employees to live near their workplaces or
provide other housing assistance to employees.Private employers can include non-profit employers as well.Live-near-your-
work incentives reduce commuting time and costs for employees.Other strategies provide down payment assistance for
home purchases.For verification,provide the number of employees assisted in the past 3 years.
Communities Leading the Way
Arlington County,VA:Arlington County's affordable housing strategy is based on a set of clear goals and targets to create
and preserve the County's affordable housing stock.The County publishes comprehensive annual reports describing the
County's success or shortcoming in achieving each targetArlington employs an extensive toolbox of strategies to create and
preserve affordable housing,including an Affordable Housing Investment Fund(AHIF),local funding for rental assistance to
supplement Section 8,real estate tax relief for the elderly and disabled,supportive housing for very low-income persons,and
support to local non-profit affordable housing organizations,among others.Arlington has also announced an ambitious goal
to preserve 50%of market rate affordable housing over the next 30 years along Columbia Pike,in spite of new investment
and revitalization expected along the corridor with the planned construction of a streetcar.
Northampton,MA:In pursuit of priorities identified in the 2008 Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan,the City
of Northampton developed a comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Housing Plan.The assessment
evaluates housing trends over the past several decades and identifies critical needs for the community.It also describes the
key policies that will help Northampton achieve its affordable housing goals.
Additional Resources
The American Planning Association's Rezional Approaches to Affordable Housing study,reported by HUD,presents effective
planning strategies to collaboratively address affordable housing needs at the regional scale.
The Center for Housing Policy,part of the National Housing Conference,provides an extensive,detailed toolbox of strategies
for creating and preserving affordable housing,promoting sustainable and equitable development,and meeting the housing
needs of seniors.
The National Low Income Housing Coalition publishes an annual Out of Reach report with extensive data showing trends
analyzing the cost of modest rental housing in the U.S.and the gap in affordability for low-income households.While much
of the data is presented at a state level,the report also lists the most expensive counties and regions.
USGBC's LEED-ND uses a measure for the diversity of housing types,the Simpson Diversity Index (see the Mixed Income
Diverse Communities credit, NPDc4),which may be adaptable for use at the community-scale.By evaluating the diversity
of the community's housing stock,the local government can identify unmet demands for particular housing types,such as
one-bedroom apartments,that have driven up housing prices through competition.The jurisdiction can then craft a set of
policy strategies to meet the demand.
m * STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-4:Housing Affordability
:: BE-5: Infill & Redevelopment
t ill (10 available points)
Purpose
Focus new growth in infill areas and on redevelopment that does not require the extension of water,sewer,and road
infrastructure or facilitate sprawl
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I:Infill Development
Option A:Increase the percentage of new development in locally-designated infill and redevelopment areas
--OR--
Option B:Increase the percentage of new development located on infill,previously developed,brownfield,and greyfield sites
Outcome 2:Existing Infrastructure
Demonstrate that at least 75%of new housing units in the past 3 years utilized existing water and sewer mains and did not
require extending or widening public roadways [Partial credit available]
Local Actions
I. Develop an inventory of infill,previously developed,brownfield,or greyfield sites of greatest priority and potential for
development or redevelopment
2. Adopt a policy commitment to limited or no expansion of physical jurisdiction boundaries or extension of urban services
3. Use regulatory and design strategies to encourage compatible infill and redevelopment with a mix of housing types in
neighborhoods close to employment centers,commercial areas,and where transit or transportation alternatives exist
4. Educate residents and community groups about the importance of infill and redevelopment,brownfield assessment
findings,and design strategies for compatible neighborhood development
5. Collaborate with state and federal authorities to advance brownfield cleanup
6. Establish a program to provide information and assistance to owners,potential buyers,and developers regarding
brownfield assessments,redevelopment strategies,and available resources
7. Support temporary,creative neighborhood uses for vacant properties and greyfields
8. Provide financial incentives to encourage infill and redevelopment
9. Perform proactive zoning enforcement and vacant lot cleanup or maintenance to improve the attractiveness of a
redevelopment or blighted area and to deter crime
10. Target local infrastructure improvements to revitalize redevelopment or blighted areas and catalyze private reinvestment
Tit STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide -03/01/13 - BE-5:Infill & Redevelopment CO
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I III
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
Community Level Outcomes
Encouraging infill development and redevelopment is an important tool for sustainability because it promotes new growth in
locations with existing infrastructure,such as water lines,sewer lines,and roads.Infill and redevelopment near job centers
can also reduce commute times for drivers and related air pollution measured in NS-4: Outdoor Air Quality, support
land conservation strategies in NS-3: Natural Resource Protection by alleviating development pressure on rural land
and undisturbed open space,' and may clean up existing past environmental damage in the case of brownfields,advancing
progress towards targets in EE-2:Environmental Justice.New development on infill sites and previously developed sites can
support economic development by increasing surrounding property values through new development,returning tax value
to greyfields,and reducing blight2 Finally,this work can promote HS-I:Active Living as people have closer destinations within
walking distance and a more attractive pedestrian experience.'
Outcome I:Infill Development
Infill and redevelopment reconnect the community fabric by developing vacant or underutilized parcels in areas that are
otherwise urban in character.While many communities have adopted incentives and regulatory strategies encouraging infill
and redevelopment measuring trends to determine whether policy interventions have been successful is a less common
practice.This Outcome outlines a method for this type of data collection,while recognizing that the percentage of new infill
development and redevelopment could vary significantly across communities.
There are two paths to credit for this Outcome.Option A is provided for communities that have officially designated in fill
areas and/or redevelopment areas through delineated boundaries or target areas identified in a local plan or a specific
zoning classification. Option B is available for communities that have not already identified specific areas for infill and
redevelopment Both Options will receive equal credit
Data for this Outcome must be locally collected using GIS data and/or building permit records. Counties should only
analyze areas for which they have land use controls,such as zoning and subdivision authority.Cities should include their
extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ),if applicable.
For credit in Option A,the applicant must show an increase in the percentage of new development occurring in locally-
designated infill and redevelopment areas over the past 3 years,relative to the amount of total new development in the
jurisdiction.To be counted,the development should have been completed(e.g.received a Certificate of Occupancy)within
the 3-year timeframe.Residential and non-residential should be evaluated separately.
Residential development includes both single-family and mufti-family units. For each of the past 3 years, calculate the
percentage of new residential units in designated infill and redevelopment areas as follows:
Number of new residential units in designated infill and redevelopment areas
Total number of new residential units in the jurisdiction
Non-residential development includes office and commercial uses only,as classified by the jurisdiction's zoning ordinance or
land use code,and should be evaluated in terms of square footage.For each of the past 3 years,calculate the percentage
of new office and commercial square footage in designated infill or redevelopment areas as follows:
• - •• . - • 1- ♦ •i - •11111- •- - ••u-• ,/ •- •1. -• .• ••• -•- ••III •
Total square footage of new office and commercial development in the jurisdiction
For verification in Option A,the applicant must provide the percent change in the number of new residential units and
square footage of new office and commercial development in locally-designated infill and redevelopment areas over
' Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington.2012.Jnfill Development:Completing the Community Fabric.
Accessed November 27,20 12.
2 Congress for the New Urbanism and PricewaterhouseCoopers.2001.S;reyfiekis into Goldfie!d'.Accessed November
28,2012.p. I.
Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington,p.2.
STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-5:Infill & Redevelopment
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BE-5: Infill & Redevelopment
the past 3 years and upload a map showing the designated infill and redevelopment areas and new development that has
occurred since the baseline year.Applicant should also upload a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet showing the
trend in development in locally-designated areas.
For credit in Option B,the applicant must show an increase in the percentage of new development located on infill sites,
previously developed sites,brownfields,and/or greyfields over the past 3 years,relative to the amount oftotal new development
in the jurisdiction.Since these sites could be located throughout the jurisdiction,it is recommended that the applicant develop
a GIS coding structure to classify the new development that has occurred within the 3-year timeframe.After this step,the
applicant should follow the instructions in Option A to determine credit
For verification in Option B,the applicant must provide the percent change in the number of new residential units and square
footage of new office and commercial development located on infill,previously developed,brownfield,and greyfield sites over
the past 3 years and upload a map showing the new development on the infill and redevelopment sites that has occurred
since baseline year.The applicant should also upload a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet showing the trend in
development located on these sites.
Outcome 2:Existing Infrastructure
Many studies have documented infrastructure cost savings for compact development compared to low-density sprawl in
both initial construction expenditures and maintenance costs.'A study of the Massachusetts Brownfields Tax Credit Program
found that brownfield redevelopment, in particular, generated infrastructure cost savings of 50-80% relative to greenfield
development5These savings are incredibly valuable for local governments that have to maintain the infrastructure over its life
cycle.
For credit,the applicant must demonstrate that at least 75%of new housing units in the past 3 years utilized existing water
and sewer lines and did not require extending or widening public roadways.Partial credit is available.See the Points Appendix
for information regarding points awarded for partial credit
For the purposes of this Outcome,existing infrastructure includes water lines,sewer lines,and roads built more than 10 years
prior to application to STAR.Water and sewer lines must not have been expanded to increase capacity and roads must not
have been widened to accommodate more traffic within the I 0-year timeframe, unless located in a designated or clearly
identifiable infill area.In the analysis,counties should only analyze areas in which they have land use controls,such as zoning
and subdivision authority.Cities should include the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ),if applicable.
Data for this Outcome must be locally collected.The first step is for the applicant to distinguish infrastructure built more than
10 years ago from that which is more recent Information on water and sewer lines should be available from the local public
works or utilities department or through GIS.Information about road construction should be available from the department
of transportation or through GIS.
The applicant should then identify the location of all new housing units developed in the past 3 years.To be counted,the
housing units should have been completed (e.g.received a Certificate of Occupancy)within the 3-year timeframe.Ideally,this
data is already available in GIS,at least on a project scale.For multi-family buildings,it is sufficient to note the number of units.
The next step is to identify whether the new residential units utilized existing infrastructure. It is recommended that the
applicant develop a coding structure in GIS to distinguish between residential units utilizing existing infrastructure and those
that are not Units are considered to have utilized existing infrastructure if the house or multi-family building was able
to tap directly into existing water and sewer lines and connect to the existing street network. If water, sewer, and roads
had to be extended internally within the project boundary to serve new units, as in a major subdivision or planned unit
development (PUD),the project may be classified as utilizing existing infrastructure if the trunk lines serving the project and
the roads connecting the project to the street network are more than I 0 years old and the project is considered to be infill
development or redevelopment,as defined in this Objective.Units are not considered to be utilizing existing infrastructure if
using well water or septic tanks.
Litman,T.2012.Understanding Smart Growth Savings,Victoria Transport Policy Institute.Accessed November 28,2012.
Paull,E.2012.Infrastructure Costs.Brownfields vs.Greenfields.Redevelopment Economics.Accessed November 28,2012.
e:' STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-5:Infill& Redevelopment
BE-5: Infill & Redevelopment :]:::
Igo..
The final step is to determine the percentage of new housing units utilizing existing infrastructure.
For verification,the applicant must submit the percentage of new housing units in the past 3 years utilizing existing infrastructure
and upload a map showing the housing units utilizing existing and new infrastructure.
Local Actions
Action I: This type of inventory may be particularly useful for Action Action Type
economic developers seeking to attract new development,
particularly when development incentives are offered. Preparatory Actions
Inventory,Assessment or Survey
Action 2: This Action awards credit to municipalities that have 2 Policy and Code Adjustment
adopted an ordinance,local legislation,or a similar policy commitment
to limiting or prohibiting the expansion of the jurisdiction's physical 3 Policy and Code Adjustment
boundaries through annexation. A municipality that is entirely 4 Education and Outreach
surrounded by other incorporated cities or towns may also receive 5 Partnerships and Collaboration
credit,since it functionally achieves the same result Another option Implementation Actions
available for both cities and counties is a policy commitment not 6 Programs and Services
to extend urban services, particularly water and sewer lines,which 7 Programs and Services
encourages sprawl development 8 Enforcement and Incentives
Action 3: Local government regulations and design standards can 9 Facilities and Infrastructure
encourage infill and redevelopment that is compatible with the 10 Facilities and Infrastructure
surrounding neighborhood.These strategies are particularly critical
for affordable housing development near employment centers,commercial areas,and other locations where transportation
alternatives exist Examples of strategies include:
• reduced minimum lot sizes,setbacks,and parking requirements;
• allowing multi-family developmentthat is designed to blend into established,predominately single-family neighborhoods;
and
• permitting accessory dwellings,such as garage apartments or granny flats.
Note that this Action is shared with BE-4:Housing Affordability,Action 4.
Action 4:Neighbors sometimes oppose infill and redevelopment projects due to concerns about increased traffic,parking,or
noise.Brownfield redevelopment can raise additional concerns that previous contamination will be disturbed and cause health
risks.Targeted educational campaigns may assuage these fears and teach the public the importance of infill and redevelopment
as a tool to prevent sprawl,stimulate reinvestment in existing areas,create jobs,and clean up environmental damage.Efforts
may also explore design strategies and identify desirable uses that would benefit residents and businesses in the area.Ideally,
these conversations should take place before a development proposal has been filed.
Action 5:Federal and state agencies are frequently involved in brownfield redevelopment as important partners and funders.
EPA offers grants for brownfields assessment and cleanup,as do state environmental agencies. Supplemental funding from
other sources,revolving loans,and tax credits can be used to defray the costs of new infrastructure.Beyond funding,federal
and state agencies can provide environmental insurance capping financial liability for pollution,which can make private financing
for redevelopment viable.
Action 6:Brownfields programs vary by jurisdiction,but common functions include providing information about permitting,
incentives,and funding available,guidance on participating in the state's voluntary cleanup program,and lender recommendations.
For verification,provide the number of owners,buyers,and developers receiving technical or financial assistance in the past 3
years.
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II mu"' BE-5: Infill & Redevelopment
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Action 7: Examples of temporary,creative uses include:
• temporary or pop-up parks;
• farmers markets;
• food truck pods;
• art or sculptures;and
• outdoor movie screenings.
For verification,list the types of temporary uses or programs that have been held or permitted in the past 3 years.
Action 8:Examples of local incentives include:
• expediting development review process;
• reducing or eliminating development or impact fees;
• establishing infill and redevelopment areas as receiving areas for transfer of development rights (TDR);
• tax increment financing(PO;
• land banking;
• liability protections;
• tax abatements;and/or
• grants or loans.
For verification,provide the total number of developers or property owners utilizing incentives in the past 3 years.
Action 9:Some communities perform proactive zoning enforcement and vacant lot cleanup to abate nuisance conditions like
overgrown weeds,trash, and broken windows without waiting for a complaint.They recognize that these issues contribute
to negative perceptions of the area and discourage redevelopment activity.For verification,provide the number of proactive
enforcement cases investigated and the number of proactive vacant lot cleanups or ongoing maintenance actions in the past
3 years.
Action I 0:While infill and redevelopment projects typically have access to at least some existing infrastructure,upgrades may
be required to meet modern needs.Local or leveraged funding can be used to catalyze private investment for redevelopment
Examples of infrastructure improvements include:
• street or sidewalk repair;
• utility line burial;
• electrical infrastructure upgrades to improve energy efficiency;and/or
• new or renovated community and recreation facilities or libraries.
For verification,list the major projects in the past 3 years.
Communities Leading the Way
Philadelphia, PA: With approximately 40,000 vacant parcels in neighborhoods in and around its downtown, the City of
Philadelphia created the Philadelphia LandCare Program to reduce blight and criminal activity by cleaning up some of the
abandoned properties.The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society provides interim landscaping treatments to selected properties.
An innovative program offshoot is Community LandCare, which hires local residents to clean and mow more than 2,000
properties monthly.A CDC webinar on violence prevention shows successful cleanup examples (p.24-34).
Sacramento, CA: Sacramento's 2002 Citywide Infill Strategy designates 4 priority areas for targeted infill strategies and
incentives,including specific neighborhoods,the Central City,neighborhood commercial corridors,and transit stations.The City
then hired an Infill Coordinator in the City Manager's Office to oversee implementation of the strategy.
Spokane,WA:An innovative aspect of Spokane's Jnfill Housing Zoning Code Update Project was the creation of a self-guided
tai of infill examples in the city to show design strategies that can achieve compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood.
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BE-5: Infill & Redevelopment t
Additional Resources
CDC's Agency forToxic Substances&Disease Registry(ATSDR) created the ATSDR Brownfields/Land Reuse Action Model
to integrate health into community planning and decision-making regarding brownfield and other types of redevelopment
The Action Model has been used in a number of community health pilot projects in Baraboo,WI;Blue Island,IL;Cuyahoga
County,OH;Milwaukee,Wl;and St Paul-Minneapolis,MN;each of which has a link on the ATSDR Action Model website for
more information.
The Center for Community Progress (CCP) provides research,resources and technical assistance to communities to address
infill and redevelopment issues,primarily related to vacant properties,abandonment and urban blight In particular,the CCP
is developing a : • .'e• 1 o- <I .. with specific strategies for dealing with problem property owners,building
stronger neighborhoods by managing neighborhood change,and reusing vacant properties.
The International City/County Management Association's (ICMA) brownfield redevelopment guidebook is a 442-page,fully
comprehensive resource for local governments pursuing this type of redevelopment.
50 rS STAR Community Rating System-Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-5:Infill& Redevelopment
II: BE-6: Public Spaces
1 • I P (15 available points)
Purpose
Create a network of well-used and enjoyable parks and public spaces that feature equitable,convenient access for residents
throughout the community
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I:Acreage
Provide ample parkland based on population density as follows:
• High:6.8 acres per 1,000 residents
• Intermediate-High:7.3 acres per 1,000 residents
• Intermediate-Low: 13.5 acres per 1,000 residents
• Low:20.3 acres per 1,000 residents
Outcome 2:Accessibility I Proximity
Demonstrate that housing units in the community are located within a Y2-mile walk distance of a public space or park based
on population density as follows:
• High or Intermediate-High:85%
• Intermediate-Low or Low:70%
Outcome 3:Connectivity
Demonstrate that 90%of households are located within 3 miles of an off-road trail [Partial credit available]
Outcome 4:Use and Satisfaction
Option A:Demonstrate that 66%or more of surveyed residents visit a park at least once a year
--OR--
Option B:Demonstrate that 66%or more of surveyed residents respond favorably regarding the quality of the community's
public space and park system
Local Actions
I. Adopt a parks and/or open space plan that promotes a community-wide network of public spaces that provide
recreational,transportation,and environmental benefits
2. Conduct a study regarding the economic impact of parks and public spaces on the local economy to understand their
contributions to community satisfaction and tourism
3. Adopt regulatory strategies or development incentives to create,maintain,and conned parks and public spaces
4. Adopt design guidelines for new public spaces and improvements to existing facilities to strengthen environmental
benefits and provide visitor amenities
5. Participate in a local or regional alliance working to improve and expand the community-based or regional park system
6. Create an advisory board to regularly receive feedback from residents and organizations regarding planning,decision-
making,and other issues affecting the quality and availability of parks and public spaces
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BE-6: Public Spaces ; II:
7. Host or partner with a volunteer program to support parks and public space maintenance
8. Provide assistance for low-income users to access and use parks and public spaces through subsidy,scholarships,
and discounts
9. Host programs and events in parks and public spaces that bring the community together and encourage physical
activity
l.";161 10. Consistently invest sufficient capital and operational funding to create and maintain parks and public spaces
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
Public spaces provide important community-building places for people to gather,play,exercise,celebrate,learn,relax,reflect,
and enjoy nature or city life. In addition to health and social quality of life benefits for people, public spaces can provide
critical environmental protection and services to preserve biodiversity,water quality,air quality,and mitigate greenhouse gas
emissions.
STAR uses the term"public spaces"because of the diverse forms of built and natural areas that could fall under the definition
depending on local context. Unless otherwise noted, all outdoor parks and public spaces in the jurisdictional boundaries
should be included,regardless of ownership or management,provided that they are publicly-accessible.Applicant counties
that contain cities within their borders may include data on city parks in the evaluation of the Outcomes;however,Actions
should only address efforts where the county has jurisdictional control or is working in partnership with its cities.
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome (:Acreage
For many years, a common metric for evaluating parkland in local jurisdictions has been the number of acres per 1,000
residents.While an easy calculation,differences in land area and density made comparison between jurisdictions impractical.
The Trust for Public Land (TPL) addresses this issue in its annual City Park Facts report which evaluates park characteristics
for the 100 largest U.S. cities. Before comparing cities,TPL takes an extra step to divide cities into 4 population density
categories:High,Intermediate-High,Intermediate-Low,and Low.
For credit,the community must meet or exceed the threshold for acreage of parkland for its population density category
based TPL's 2011 City Park Facts report,as follows:
• High:6.8 acres per 1,000 residents
• Intermediate-High:7.3 acres per 1,000 residents
• Intermediate-Low: 13.5 acres per 1,000 residents
• Low:20.3 acres per 1,000 residents
For the 100 largest cities,applicants should use the findings inTPL's most recent City Park Facts report' Counties and smaller
cities should follow the process below.
First, determine the community's population density' and determine the Population Density Categories
category to which a community belongs based on the chart right Category Density
After determining the population density category, determine whether the High > 10.8
community has met the threshold for credit by calculating the park acreage Intermediate-High 10.8—7.6
per 1,000 residents as follows: Intermediate-Low 7.5—4.5
Low < 4.5
' In the 201 I Lily ar
Pl< Facts report,use Report#3.
2 Population density equals current population divided by total land area in acres.
® �� STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-6:Public Spaces
BE-6: Public Spaces
Park acreage per 1,000 residents: total parkland (acres) x 1,000
current population
The applicant should submit the park acreage per 1,000 residents.For verification,upload the STAR-provided Excel worksheet
showing population density and acreage calculations.
Outcome 2:Proximity/Accessibility
The proximity of households to public spaces impacts how frequently residents use them,Residents who can walk,run,or ride
bicycles to public spaces are more likely to use them for exercise or recreation.
Although the distance individuals are willing to travel on foot to use a public space depends on fitness,weather conditions,
pedestrian amenities,and personal preference,a commonly-accepted standard is a Y2-mile walk distance, roughly equivalent
to a 10-minute walk.Ideally,this distance should be measured from pedestrian entrances;however,not all local jurisdictions
collect this point-level data.In addition,many urban parks have"porous" entry points around the perimeter.In other cases,
intersecting trails,sidewalks,and informal paths create unofficial entrances that may not be identified by the local government.
For these reasons,STAR allows distance to be measured as a buffer around the park's perimeter,since the land areas for parks
and public spaces are commonly mapped.If desired,communities may choose to use a higher standard and measure distance
as a buffer around park entrances only.
For credit,the applicant must demonstrate that it meets the threshold for the percentage of housing units within a Y2-mile
walk distance of a public space or park based on its population density category from Outcome 1,as follows:
• High or Intermediate-High:85%
• Intermediate-Low or Low:70%
For the 40 largest cities in the U.S.,applicants should use TPL's ParkScore data by downloading the city-specific report and
identifying the percent served. Counties and smaller cities can use local data and mapping software, such as the ArcGIS
Network Analyst tool,to evaluate the percentage of housing units within a Y2-mile walk distance buffer or service area around
public spaces.Housing units can be provided through parcel data,existing land use data,or estimated through Census tract
data.For areas where the %2-mile walk distance buffer splits the Census tract,estimate the percentage of housing units based
on the proportion of land area within the service area boundary.
Applicants should submit the percentage of housing units within Y2-mile of a public space or park For verification,upload a
ParkScore or locally-produced map showing coverage.
Outcome 3:Connectivity
A community-wide network of trails and greenways enables residents and visitors to travel between them for recreation or
transportation purposes.While both on-street and off road facilities provide community value, off-road trails are especially
important as they serve all users, including pedestrians and inexperienced bicyclists, such as children, seniors, and less
experienced adults.
In 2008,the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy set a goal in its annual report to expand trail coverage such that 90%of Americans
are located within 3 miles of an off-road trail system by 2020.STAR has adopted this threshold for credit as a leadership
standard for sustainable communities.
Applicants must demonstrate that 90%of households are located within a 3-mile radius of an off-road trail or greenway.Partial
credit is available for applicants where 70%of households are within a 3-mile radius.See the Points Appendix for information
regarding points awarded for partial credit.
Local data should be used for this Outcome. Housing units can be provided through parcel data,existing land use data,or
estimated through Census tract data.For areas where the 3-mile radius buffer splits the Census tract,estimate the percentage
of housing units based on the proportion of land area within the service area boundary.
For credit,applicants should submit the percentage of housing units within 3 miles of an off-road trail or greenway and upload
a map showing coverage.
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BE-6: Public Spaces .1 pi;
Outcome 4:Use and Satisfaction
Local surveys of park usage and satisfaction are becoming more common as communities seek to better understand who
is using local facilities,how frequently,and for what purposes.Residents and visitors are more likely to use parks and public
spaces if they are maintained properly,are clean and safe,and provide a variety of recreational equipment and amenities.
There are two paths to credit for this Outcome. In Option A,the applicant must demonstrate through a local survey
conducted in the past 3 years that 66%or more of surveyed residents have visited a park or public space within the past
year or regularly visit at least once a year.In Option B,the applicant must demonstrate through a local survey conducted in
the past 3 years that 66%of surveyed residents respond favorably regarding the quality of the community's park or public
space system.Neutral or no opinion responses should not be counted.Questions of a similar nature will be accepted for
either option.
For credit,the applicant should submit the percentage of survey respondents that meet the criteria.For verification,upload
a report containing a copy of survey results.
Local Actions
Action I: STAR will accept a community-wide parks plan or open Action
space plan.A dedicated chapter in the community's comprehensive Action Type
plan is also acceptable,provided it includes all the elements in the
submittal requirements.In addition to the submittal requirements, Preparatory Actions
it is recommended that the plan address the following: I Plan Development
• identify future connectivity opportunities; 2 Inventory,Assessment,or Survey
• identify planned parks and public spaces with an 3 Policy and Code Adjustment
explanation of how the facilities will expand the variety 4 Policy and Code Adjustment
of recreational and public gathering options in the 5 Partnerships and Collaboration
community; increase the number of residents within a
Y2-mile walk distance of a park or public space;expand 6 Partnerships and Collaboration
the pedestrian and/or bicycle network; and increase Implementation Actions
equitable access to parks and public spaces in the 7 Programs and Services
community; 8 Programs and Services
• establish a defined list of priorities for action; 9 Programs and Services
• explain how agencies, departments, and other 10 Facilities and Infrastructure
management organizations will work together if there is
not a unified park and recreation department
• establish a mechanism for regular assessment of plan implementation,such as an annual report;and
• establish a goal for sustainable operations and capital improvements.
Action 2:The study can take a variety of forms but should clearly address the direct and indirect economic impact of
parks and public spaces on the local economy.Direct economic impacts include direct employment and income generated
through entry fees,concession sales,special event fees,and other revenue.Indirect economic impacts include estimated
income and employment that results from visitors,such as hotels,restaurants and other activities.
Action 3:Examples of regulatory strategies and development incentives can include:
• requiring new parks as public spaces as part of the subdivision and development process;
• incentivizing the establishment of public spaces and parks in exchange for increased density or other design
components desired by developers;and/or
• requiring impact fees or fees-in-lieu in order to create future parks.
Action 4:Design guidelines should:
• improve environmental sustainability with regards to waste,water,energy,climate and horticulture management;
• provide visitor amenities,such as seating areas,shade,water,bathrooms,signage and way-finding;and
• achieve ADA compliance.
Via•STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-6:Public Spaces
'" BE-6: Public Spaces
Action 6:Advisory boards should consider the needs of all residents,including children,the elderly,disabled persons,visitors,
and others,as well as addressing equity considerations in terms of proximity and access.
Action 7:Volunteer programs can be community-wide,regional,or focused around specific public spaces and parks,such as
"friends"groups.The local government may run the volunteer program,but it is not required.For verification,list the number
of volunteers annually in each of the past 3 years.
Action 8:This Action is focused on locally owned or operated parks or park systems where access is not free.For verification,
list the total number of individuals receiving assistance to visit local parks in the past 3 years.
Action 9:Most parks and recreation departments keep a calendar or record of programs held in parks and public spaces.For
verification,list the total number of public events held in locally owned or operated parks and public spaces in the past year.
Action 10: For credit, applicants must show that $85 per capita is spent annually or was spent in the past fiscal year.This
figure is based on a 2006 report by TPL,which concluded that jurisdictions must spend at least $85 per capita (adjusted
from 2006 dollars) annually in operational and capital funding to properly operate and maintain local park systems,excluding
expenditures on stadiums, zoos, museums,aquariums, and cemeteries.TPLs City Park Facts provides this data for the 100
largest U.S cities (Report #5,p.21) or it can be calculated by the applicant Operational and capital funding can be can also
be fulfilled by partnerships,sponsorships,private donations,grants,or in-kind services,such as"friends"groups.For verification,
report the total spending on parks and recreation in the past year.
Communities Leading the Way
Arlington,VA:Arlington County's Public Spaces Master Plan is a good example of a community-wide plan to preserve and
expand parks and public spaces within the County.In addition to County-owned land,the public spaces system includes more
than 1,200 regional and federal lands and privately-held facilities (including indoor)with public access.The plan recommends
priorities for future land acquisition,policies,planning efforts,and partnerships.
James City County,VA:Public policy students from the College ofWilliam&Mary prepared an economic impact study for the
James City County Parks& Recreation Department,which evaluates the recovery rates for local government expenditures,
estimated revenue generated through tourism,increased property values,savings in health costs,and perceived community
benefits through local surveys.
Miami-Dade County, FL:The Miami-Dade County arks and Coen Space System Master Plan presents a highly-illustrative
50-year vision and plan for how parks,public spaces, natural and cultural places,greenways,trails,and streets will form the
foundation or"bone structure" for accommodating the County's ongoing and anticipated rapid growth.The master plan
thoroughly incorporates environmental sustainability, equitable access, economic,and livability considerations into its vision,
priorities,and design recommendations,as well as a wide range of examples and case studies from jurisdictions.
Minneapolis, MN:The City of Minneapolis'207-2020 Comprehensive Plan for parks and recreation includes short-term
priorities,organizational work plans,budget and capital plans,and annual reports listing key activities that promote the goals
of the comprehensive plan.
Additional Resources
The American Planning Association(APA)publishes an annual list of • - '■A■■- ' .•• .. D. - which can increase
local pride and recognition for local landmarks and provide design examples for other communities.
The National Recreation and Park Association provides a variety of resources that may be helpful to local governments,
including:
• a list of available • . ••••r ni . • n•r.i i • - . .r - •
• free research papers,such as Parks and Recreation in Underserved Areas:A Public Health Perspective;and
• the PRORAGIS national database and GIS interface that allows local parks and recreation agencies to enter data
regarding organization,finances,resources,staffing,and programs and compare with other jurisdictions.
The Project for Public Spaces provides a wealth of design and placemaking resources,featured projects,and an image collection
of parks and urban public spaces of all kinds. Many of these resources are designed to be used in public workshops and
visioning exercises.
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0 STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-6:Public Spaces
: I.: BE-7: Transportation Choices
1 III (20 available points)
Purpose
Promote diverse transportation modes,including walking,bicycling,and transit,that are safe,low-cost,and reduce vehicle miles
traveled
Evaluation Measures
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I: Mode Split
Achieve the following thresholds for journey-to-work trips:
• Drive alone maximum:60%
• Bike +Walk+Transit minimum:25%
• Bike +Walk minimum:5%
Outcome 2:Transportation Affordability
Show that at least 50%of households in the jurisdiction are estimated to spend less 15%of income on transportation costs
Outcome 3:Transportation Safety
Demonstrate that pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities are making incremental progress towards zero fatalities by 2040 [Partial
credit available]
Outcome 4:Vehicle Miles Traveled (Future Measure)
Demonstrate an annual decrease in vehicle miles traveled measured from a baseline year
Local Actions
1. Adopt a bicycle and pedestrian master plan and/or non-motorized safety plan that prioritizes future projects to improve
access to non-motorized transportation and increase safety
2. Adopt a complete streets policy that addresses all users,applies to all projects with limited exceptions,and includes
specific next steps for implementation
3. Subdivision and other development regulations require walkability standards that encourage walking and enhance safety
4. Local government offers employee incentives to encourage commuting by modes other than single-occupancy vehicles
5. Implement at least 2 types of focused enforcement programs to ensure pedestrian,bicycle,and motorist safety
6. Increase the percentage of households with access to transit
7. Increase the mileage of sidewalks,particularly on arterial or collector roads that connect people with destinations
8. Increase the mileage of striped or buffered bicycle lanes,cycle-tracks,parallel off-street paths and/or other dedicated
facilities
9. Establish or support a community-wide public bike share program
10.Construct or retrofit transportation infrastructure to meet standards in the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA)
3.'''9 STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide-03/01/13 - BE-7:Transportation Choices Ell
BE-7: Transportation Choices : :::
I III
Guidance and Submittal Requirements
Everyday choices about how to travel to work,school,shopping,and other destinations have tremendous implications on
community sustainability.Overwhelming dependence on automobile travel,particularly in single-occupancy vehicles,creates
traffic congestion,worsening air pollution and increasing carbon emissions. For individuals and families, reliance on driving
impacts household budgets due to the expense of purchasing and maintaining cars,the cost of gasoline,and other incidental
costs such as parking and tolls.Congestion adds to commuting times,which reduces leisure time at home and has been
shown to decrease physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness while contributing to higher odds of obesity and high blood
pressure.'
In many parts of the U.S.,however,the choice of travel is limited to driving due to land use patterns and scarcity of transit
service.Even when destinations are nearby,lack of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure makes walking and bicycling unsafe.
The focus of this Objective is to quantify and improve transportation options that lead to increased walking,bicycling,and
transit use,resulting in greater transportation affordability pedestrian and cyclist safety,and positive environmental and health
benefits measured throughout STAR.
Community Level Outcomes
Outcome I:Mode Split
For credit,the applicant must show that journey-to-work trips by workers 16 years and over achieve the following thresholds:
• Drive alone maximum:60%
• Bike +Walk+Transit minimum:25%
• Bike +Walk minimum:5%
Note that both Bike +Walk+Transit and Bike +Walk minimums are included because an extensive transit system could
mask a deficient bicycle and walking environment
Data for this Outcome is available from the Census'American Community Survey (ACS) through American FactFinder
2; applicants should use the following dataset for the applicable city or county: 50801 — Commuting Characteristics by
Sex.Applicants should select the most recent ACS 3-year estimates and report the requested percentages for the total
population.The most recent I-year or 5-year estimates are also acceptable if 3-year estimate data is not available.
For verification,the applicant should submit the percentage of drive alone commuters;the combined percentage of bike,
walk,and transit commuters;and the combined percentage of bike and walk commuters.The applicant should also upload a
completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet with the mode split percentages.
Note that some regions and local jurisdictions also gather local survey data on mode split for all trips.This data is extremely
valuable for transportation planners and decision-makers to understand travel behavior patterns and identify transportation
needs in the community.Applicants who conduct local household travel surveys or community travel surveys,or who partner
with regional agencies to collect this data,are encouraged to apply for credit under STAR's Innovation&Process category.
Outcome 2:Transportation Affordability
Automobile travel is more expensive than walking,biking or transit use;therefore the availability of transportation choices
impacts affordability.2 As more affluent people and families move into cities from the suburbs,lower income families may be
pushed out by rising housing prices. More affordable housing options further away from city centers likely result in longer
driving commutes.Fluctuations in gasoline prices and major car repairs are other examples of potential automobile-related
financial hardships that disproportionately impact lower income individuals and families.
The Center for NeighborhoodTechnology(CNT)created the ousin +Trans ortation Affordability Index(H+T Index)to
g gY( � 1-I g D ( )
measure true affordability by factoring in both housing and transportation costs at the neighborhood level.In its methodology,
Hoehner,Christine M.,et al.2012.Commuting Distance.Cardiores.piratory Fitness.and Metabolic Risk,American Journal
of Preventive Medicine.42(6):571-578.One-page summary available from the StayWell Solutions Online Health Portal.
2 Victoria Transport Policy Institute.20 I 2.Transportation Affordability.Online TDM Encyclopedia.
‘4.f STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-7:Transportation Choices
'▪ BE-7: Transportation Choices
CNT has determined 15%of household income to be an attainable goal for transportation affordability.STAR adopts this
standard.
To receive credit,the applicant must show that at least 50%of regional typical households would spend less than 15%of
income on transportation costs.
Data for this Outcome is available through the H+T lndec interactive map. Enter the city or county name, choose
"Transportation Costs% Income,"and adjust the Focus to either Municipality or County.Select Household Statistics and
report the percentage of households estimated to spend less than 15%on transportation costs.
For verification,submit the percentage of households in the jurisdiction estimated to spend less than 15%of income on
transportation costs and provide a link to CNT's map of the jurisdiction.
Note that the H+T Index uses modeled transportation costs for the"typical"household in a region,one earning the area
median income (AMI) with an average household size and average number of household commuters for the region.As
CNT explains in its FAOs,fixing these variables controls for their impact on transportation costs.The remaining differences
in transportation costs are a result of neighborhood characteristics and variation in the built environment.The evaluation
measure using CNT's combined housing and transportation costs appears in BE-4:Housing Affordability,Outcome 1.
Outcome 3:Transportation Safety
While there are many measures of transportation safety,STAR has chosen pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities as a measure
of sustainability because of its interconnectedness with transportation choices.People will only shift their mode of travel
to walking or bicycling if they have safe supporting infrastructure,thereby gaining the affordability benefits and reducing
vehicle miles traveled(VMT).
STAR's target for communities to eliminate all bicycle and pedestrian deaths by 2040 is based on ambitious goals set in
New York City and Chicago.See the Communities Leading the Way section for more details.
Communities are encouraged to use local police report data,which will be the most accurate.If such data is not available,
data for this Outcome is also available at the county level from NHTSA's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS).Select
the appropriate county and state.
Communities will only receive full credit for showing progress that Baseline Year Determines Slope of Linear
would result in achievement of the long-term target of zero pedestrian Reductions Toward 2040 Target
and bicycle fatalities by 2040.3To demonstrate progress,applicants need
to select a baseline year not predating 2000 from which to measure.The Baseline Years to Reduction per
closer to 2040 the baseline year the greater the percent reductions the Year 2040 Year
applicant will need to demonstrate as shown in the table on the right: 2000 40 2.50%
Applicants will receive partial credit for a decreasing trend in fatalities 2005 35 2.86%
that are not directly on track to achieve a 100% elimination by 2040. 2010 30 3.33%
See the Points Appendix for information regarding points awarded for
partial credit.Reductions may be shown as either annual percentage reductions or 5-year average percent reductions.
For verification,the applicant should report whether the community is on track to achieve zero fatalities by 2040 and
provide the most recent annual or 5-year average percent reduction in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities.In addition,upload
a completed STAR-provided Excel worksheet showing the reductions in fatalities over time.
3 Note that a question was raised repeatedly during development of this Objective as to whether expanding bicycle
and pedestrian infrastructure will result in a short-term spike in fatalities as drivers,pedestrians,and cyclists learn how to
navigate in mixed traffic.A recent FHWA pilot program evaluating the mode split impacts of new bicycle and pedestrian
infrastructure found that fatal crashes held steady or decreased,even as bicycling and walking rates increased (p.86).
▪ STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-7:Transportation Choices
Erl
BE-7: Transportation Choices
111.
Outcome 4:Vehicle Miles Traveled [Future Measure]
Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is the total number of miles traveled in a given period of time(e.g.day,year) by a vehicle or fleet
of vehicles.VMT is an important measure because it has a direct impact on traffic congestion,air pollution and greenhouse gas
emissions.
VMT estimates are currently available at the national,state,and regional levels,but not consistently available across the U.S.at
the city or county level with sufficient accuracy to be included in STARThe VMT estimation model in CNT's H+T Index is
currently being updated and recalibrated to improve accuracy for jurisdictions and neighborhoods across the country.STAR
intends to build out this Outcome when this data becomes available.Any applicants currently measuring VMT at the local level
are encouraged to apply for credit under STAR's Innovation&Process category.
Local Actions
Action I:Pedestrian and bicycle master plans are becoming increasingly Action
common in order to identify community needs and prioritize future # Action Type
projects to improve access to non-motorized transportation facilities, Preparatory Actions
such as sidewalks or bikeways, and improve safety. For credit, the Plan Development
community must have an adopted pedestrian master plan, bicycle
master plan,or a combined plan.Plans are encouraged to include: 2 Policy and Code Adjustment
• an inventory of existing bicycle and/or pedestrian facilities 3 Policy and Code Adjustment
and a gap analysis of needed infrastructure; 4 Practice Improvements
• prioritized projects for expansion of the bicycle and/or Implementation Actions
pedestrian network based on linkages to transit or key des- 5 Enforcement and Incentives
tinations,equitable distribution of resources,and/or greatest 6 Facilities and Infrastructure
need or health disparity; 7 Facilities and Infrastructure
• street design guidelines to improve safety,and encourage
bicycling and/or walkin •and
8 Facilities and Infrastructure
Y g g�
• identification of safety barriers to bicycling and/or walking,
9 Facilities and Infrastructure
tY Y g g
such as maintenance,cleanliness and crime,along with strat- 10 Facilities and Infrastructure
egies to reduce or obstacles.
g es t educe o eliminate e t
Action 2: STAR strongly recommends that the complete streets policy include the key elements identified by the National
Complete Streets Coalition (NCSC).Of these,NCSC has deemed the following to be most important"core commitments"
in its analysis of more than 350 complete streets policies:applicability to all users and modes;applicability to both new and
retrofit projects;and limited exceptions,as well as identifying specific next steps for implementation (p.15).
Action 3: Development regulations provide important pedestrian infrastructure and amenities that encourage walking for
recreation,exercise and commuting.For credit,the applicant should describe how the community's walkability standards for
new development encourage walking and enhance safety.Suggested policies include:
• require sidewalks to be built on both sides of the street;
• require street crossings to be ADA compliant
• require street trees in at least 40-foot intervals;
• design new roadways for a travel speed of no more than 25 mph;
• prohibit cul-de-sacs;and
• establish maximum block lengths.
Note that this Action is similar to BE-3:Compact& Complete Communities,Action 4 except that it addresses community-
wide policies,not just higher density,mixed-use areas.Communities may apply for credit in both Local Actions.
Action 4:Local governments can set a positive example for the community by providing strong incentives to employees to
encourage commuting modes other than by single-occupancy vehicle.For credit,applicants must provide at least one incentive
or commuter benefit from the list below,which is derived from the Best Workplaces for Commuters program:
employer-paid tax-free transit or vanpool passes;
• teleworking;
• parking cash-out(enabling workers to trade free parking for its cash equivalent);
60 7t.. STAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide- 03/01/13 - BE-7:Transportation Choices
.„ BE-7: Transportation Choices
• shuttles to and from transit stations (provided directly by the employer or contracted a service);
• ridesharing or carpool matching,
• preferred or reduced-cost parking for carpools and vanpools,and compressed work schedules;and
• access to an Emergency Ride Home,which provides participants with a ride at little or no cost if they need emer-
gency transport home due to special circumstances.
Action 5:For verification,identify at least 2 types of focused enforcement programs implemented in the past 3 years.
Enforcement programs can include:
• Targeted speed and red light enforcement using radars or cameras in areas where frequent violations or collisions
have occurred
• Targeted crosswalk right-of-way enforcement
• Targeted bicycle traffic law obedience enforcement
• Bicycle lane encroachment enforcement
• School zone and bus-arm enforcement
• Other—specify
Daily Transit Service Levels
Action 6: Following LEFD for Neighborhood
Development (LEED-ND) Smart Location and Weekday Weekend
Linkage credit, access to transit is defined as being Trips Trips
located within a 'A-mile walk distance of bus or
streetcar stops, or within a %2-mile walk distance of One or more transit types 60 40
bus rapid transit stops,light or heavy rail stations,and/ (bus,streetcar,rail,or ferry)
or or passenger ferry terminals with a sufficient level Commuter rail or 24 6
of transit service as shown in the table on the right: ferry service only
Increased access to transit can either be achieved through the development of new housing within walking distance of a transit
station or bus stop,or by the expansion of transit services.
For credit,the applicant must show that 75%of households or more have access to transit OR the number of households with
access to transit has increased by at least 10%in the past 3 years.A decrease in transit service due to budget cuts or alternate
priorities must be included in the calculation.
Note that this Action is shared with BE-3:Compact&Complete Communities,Action 10.
Action 7:For credit,the applicant must show at least a 5% increase in the mileage of sidewalks in the past 3 years.In this
calculation,the applicant need only include non-highway arterial and collector roads,but can include local or neighborhood
roads if desired.STAR emphasizes construction along arterial and collector roads because they link residents with common
destinations.Arterial and collector roads should be identified using the jurisdiction's road classification system.
For communities that have sidewalks already in place along all or most arterial or collector roads,STAR will also award credit
for significant investments in sidewalk repair,widening,maintenance,and safety retrofits.Since these communities have more
mileage of sidewalks in place already,applicants must show that 5% of the sidewalks along arterial and collector roads have
been upgraded in the past 5 years.
Note that this Action is shared with NS-4:Outdoor Air Quality,Action 9.
Action 8: For credit,the applicant must show at least a 10% increase in the past 3 years in the total mileage of striped or
buffered bicycle lanes, cycle-tracks, parallel off-street paths, and/or other dedicated facilities. Bicycle routes that only have
signage but no other treatment should not be included.
Action 9:The bike share program must have a community-wide network of stations.A campus-based program,for example,
is not sufficient.For credit,submit the number of bicycles in the system,number of stations,and number of members or total
trips taken in the past year.
Action 10:For credit,provide a list of major construction or retrofit projects or improvements in the past 3 years.
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BE-7: Transportation Choices :3:::
Communities Leading the Way
Charlotte, NC: The City of Charlotte's Urban Street Design Guidelines, received EPA's 2009 National Award for Smart
Growth Achievement The USDG provides an implementation tool to create complete streets for all users along various
street types,as well as a 6-step planning and design process that matches the street to its land use context
Chicago,IL:In 2012,Chicago's first Pedestrian Safety Plan announced a goal to eliminate all pedestrian fatalities within 10 years
(p. 36).The City has also set an ambitious goal to nearly double its mileage of protected bicycle lanes by adding 100 miles
within 4 years.
Memphis,TN: In July 2010,the City of Memphis committed to construct 55 miles of on-street bicycle facilities. 45% of
these facilities were completed in 2011,according to the City's 2012 State of Bicycling report (p. 3).The City also received
a competitive grant of$1.4 million in funds from the federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) program to
continue expanding its bicycle infrastructure.
NewYork,NY: New York City's 2010 Pedestrian Safety Study&Action Plan set a goal to reduce traffic fatalities for all users
by 50% by 2030 with a particular emphasis on pedestrian fatalities,which made up 52% of all traffic deaths between 2005
and 2009 (p. 10, 14).
Seattle,WA:The stated vision of Seattle's Pedestrian Master Plan, is to make Seattle the most walkable city in the nation.
The plan contains a Pedestrian Toolbox with hundreds of techniques and strategies to address common pedestrian issues;
performance measures for transportation investments;and a list of policy,program,and project recommendations.
Additional Resources
The Alliance for Bicycling and Walking's 2012 Benchmarking Report is an in-depth data resource for state and local level
bicycling and walking behavior,policy and infrastructure investment trends,safety information,and advocacy initiatives.Data is
available for all 50 states and the 5 I largest U.S.cities.
The Center for Housing Policy(CH P)documented in its 2006 report,A Heavy Load:The Corn_ ng andTransportation
Burdens of Working Families.that working families moving to suburban and exurban areas for more affordable housing end
up spending those savings on increased transportation costs.
EPA's Guide to Sustainable Transportation Performance Measures describes performance measures for transportation plans
and projects that help communities factor environmental,economic,and social sustainability into decision-making.
FHWA's How to Develop a Pedestrian Safety Action Plan,provides a framework and thorough set of recommended guidelines
for developing and implementing a state or local safety action plan with strong public involvement
FHWA's Pedestrian and Bicycle Crash Analysis Tool allows transportation planners and engineers to create a database of
collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists to identify improvements that could prevent future fatalities and injuries.
The North American Sustainable Transportation Council has developed the . , .,. - .. ..■. .. .., .•
System(STARS)as a voluntary,integrated framework for evaluating the full life cycle costs and impacts of transportation plans
and projects,including impacts on safety,health,and equity.
The National Cooperative Highway Research Program's (NCHRP) ADA Transition Plans:A Guide to Best Management
Practices provides guidelines and best practices for state and local government agencies to evaluate current facilities and
develop a program access plan or transition plan to address any deficiencies.These plans and self-evaluations are required for
all public entities with more than 50 employees.
mSTAR Community Rating System -Technical Guide - 03/01/13 - BE-7:Transportation Choices