Preservation Plan
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Preservation Plan
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| Prepared by Lenaz, Mueller & Associates
This survey is a comprehensive inventory of historic resources located within the Town of Newton. As such, the survey establishes the technical foundation upon which an Historic Preservation Plan Element can be formulated under the Municipal Land Use Law requirements. The survey indicates the location and significance of historic sites and historic districts as well as identifies the standards used to assess worthiness for historic sites and potential district identification. The resource survey proposed establishment of the Newton Center Historic District which comprised three sub-districts: a) The Old Newton Core Sub-District, which centers around the courthouse, the town green area, governmental facilities, commercial buildings and early residences; b) Halsted Area Sub-District and c) Linwood Area Sub-District. The latter two sub-districts represent residential expansion of the town which occurred during the early to late nineteenth century. Based on this survey and subsequent historical research, a Town of Newton Local Historic District, an Historic Preservation Advisory Commission and an Historic Preservation Ordinance were created in 1987. Subsequent to the formation of the Local Historic District, a nomination for a New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places Historic District was submitted and approved in 1992 for the Newton Town Plot area. The New Jersey and National Register Historic District is smaller than, and located within, the locally designated district. Map 2 - Existing Historic Districts depicts the location of both the local district and the National Register District in Newton. In adopting the Local Historic Preservation Ordinance, the boundary of the local Newton Center districts was reduced due to administrative concerns with managing the review and permitting process of a large area. The resulting district which was adopted included all of the Old Newton Core, and only a small portion of the Linwood Area Sub-District. The Halsted Area Sub-District was deferred. Thus, the principal focus of the initial ordinance was to maintain the character of the oldest part of the town. By doing so, the town officials reasoned that it was also important to establish a working relationship and develop a project review capability in order to accommodate business and resident interests in the expeditious processing of rehabilitation and development proposals for properties located within this initial district. The municipal Historic Preservation Ordinance created a Historic Preservation Advisory Commission to provide on-going guidance and advice to property owners who file development applications within the designated districts. In addition to the Local Historic District recommendations, the historic and cultural survey also identified a series of streetscapes, sites and buildings as significant historic resources within the town. Map 3 - Historic Sites/Buildings generally locates both existing historic sites and buildings contained on the New Jersey and National Registers as well as those resources potentially eligible for inclusion on such registers. The survey document should be referred to for detailed mapping and site identification data. Three streetscapes are identified as important because each best represents a specific period of the town's domestic history. The three streetscapes identified are: Pine Street between Woodside and Merriam Avenue; Sussex between Pine and Sparta Avenue; and Trinity Street in the vicinity of Townsend and Union. These streetscapes are for the most part residential in nature and reflect the various income and lifestyles of families who settled in Newton during the mid-nineteenth century. These families were primarily employed in the shoe and mill factories that dominated the town's local economy. In terms of regulation, the present Historic District Ordinance does not include these streetscapes. Thus, maintaining the historical character of these areas will, at present, have to be encouraged by promoting public awareness of the valuable historic resources providing the area's unique character. The 1985 historic and cultural resource survey also identified two sites as possibilities for inclusion in the New Jersey and National Registers: Old Newton Burial Ground and Horton Mansion. The Old Newton Burial Ground is currently included within the Newton Town Plot District which subsequent to the survey, was nominated and accepted as part of the New Jersey and National Registers. However, the Horton Mansion which lies north of the Town Plot, is still eligible for nomination. Five additional buildings were listed in the survey as potentially eligible for the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. These are: < Merriam Shoe Factory, Sparta Avenue< Sterling Silk Mill, Merriam Avenue (subsequently demolished in 1993)< Levi Morris House, 130 Main Street< Dunn House, 5 Dunn Place< Michael Titman House, 10 Union PlaceAlthough the Historic District Ordinance does not specifically address the above proposed historic sites and buildings, the ordinance does list the currently designated historic landmarks. These are as follows: < Merriam House (State Register 09/11/70; National Register 12/18/70)< Sussex County Court House (State Register 05/09/79); National Register 07/23/79)< First Presbyterian Church of Newton (State Register 10/26/79)< Hill Memorial Building [Sussex County Historical Society] (State Register 05/13/85; National Register 07/18/85)In addition, the Historic District Ordinance includes language encouraging future expansion of the historic overlay zone to include additional sites, landmarks and areas pending further study and recommendation by the Local Historic Preservation Commission. Newton's Historic District Ordinance is aimed at maintaining the historic character of the area by delineating an overlay zone within which alteration or new construction is to be compatible with the character-defining features of the area. The overlay zone is a recognized zoning technique which allows the imposition of additional requirements above those required by the underlying zone. Within Newton's Local Historic District, there are multiple underlying residential and commercial zone districts. The historic district overlay zone does not alter the basic use, bulk or intensity standards permitted in these underlying residential and commercial districts, but establishes general design criteria sensitive to historic resource preservation. These design criteria supplement the underlying zone requirements. The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, consisting of five (5) members, is charged with the task of advising the Planning Board in their review of development applications to include new construction, exterior alterations and permits for demolition within the overlay district. The commission also performs a number of other functions, among which are: educating the public by stimulating interest in historic preservation; developing guidelines for review of improvements to historic structures; reviewing proposals for demolition or relocation of historic landmarks or structures within historic districts. The ordinance does not attempt to regulate emergency repairs, changes to the interior of a structure, or ordinary repairs and maintenance of existing structures. It does, however, provide for a review of exterior site alterations related to sidewalk, driveway, parking layout, landscaping, lighting and signage issues with respect to their impact upon the historic resource. Also, the local historic preservation program in the town provides eligibility to interested property owners for financial assistance in rehabilitation and improvement of historic resources. Through the use of NJDCA Small Cities and Neighborhood Preservation program funds, Newton has provided low-interest loans and grants for rehabilitation of residential and commercial structures in the Local Historic District along with town-initiated site infrastructure improvements. Furthermore, rehabilitation of historic resources can bring tax credits to individual property owners under certain conditions. Generally, an owner must use the credit annually to offset income derived from other real activities and up to $7,000 of tax owed on other income. Under the Economic Recovery Act of 1981, as amended, the current Historic Preservation Tax Credit is 10% of rehabilitation expenditures for commercial buildings built prior to 1936 or 20% for certified historic structures (those listed in the National Register of Historic Places). The rehabilitation work must meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and be certified by the National Parks Service in order for a property owner to obtain the tax credit. Complementing the initial 1985 historic and cultural resources survey, Newton received funds under the Historic Preservation Office's CLG program to undertake an archeological reconnaissance survey of the entire town. This archeological survey was prepared by Environmental Consulting Associates and Behre & McCabe, Newton, New Jersey, September 1993. The 1993 archeological reconnaissance survey was undertaken to identify potential archeological sites within designated historic districts. These archeological sites were not previously identified within the Local Historic District or State and National Register district designations. Archeological resources identified within the existing historic districts are generally located on Map 4 - Archeological Sites Within the Local District and Map 5 - Archeological Sites Within Newton Town Plot. Other archeological sites which exist outside the historic districts were also identified. These resources are identified on Map 6 - Archeological Sites Outside Existing Historic Districts. For a more detailed description of these resources, the archeological survey report listed in the bibliography section of this report should be consulted. Copies of this survey report are on file in the town's Community Development Office. Newton is a Certified Local Government (CLG). As such, it is eligible for certain planning grants designated to CLG municipalities for the advancement of historic resource preservation activities. Depending upon the availability of funds and priorities established by the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office, projects such as National Register nominations, and "how-to" preservation guidelines for property owners located in historic preservation areas would be useful for the further advancement of Newton's historic preservation program. 5. Historic Preservation Plan Recommendations Based on the background materials described in Section 4 of this report entitled "Location and Significance of Historic Sites and Historic Districts" which summarize the town's historic evolution, its historic resources and the present status of its historic preservation program, additional areas for consideration as Local Historic Districts, local district streetscape and individual building New Jersey and National Register nominations are advanced as part of this Master Plan element update. The Municipal Land Use Law's provision for an Historic Preservation Plan Element to be incorporated as part of a municipal Master Plan is the enabling basis for updating this element of Newton's Master Plan. The town has recently initiated a companion update planning process to address other elements of its Master Plan. This will permit the integration of the Historic Preservation Plan Element within the overall Master Plan update program of the town. While there are a number of locally important streetscapes, buildings and sites, it is important to note that the town's historic preservation planning efforts have capitalized on a strategy to seek preservation of its oldest and most significant historic resources. Building on this central preservation strategy would be the logical expansion of the Local Historic District to those areas east, west and north of the current Local Historic District. These areas exemplify the town's significant post-1800 to 1870" period of growth. The areas are of historic resource interest for their example of pre-modern growth before the advent of contemporary neighborhood planning, a feature which is evidenced by a variety of house sizes, setbacks and lot sizes. Based on various staff reviews with the town's Historic Preservation Commission held during 1994 and early 1995, three additional local districts are recommended. Map 7 - Proposed Expansion of Historic District illustrates the three areas for consideration for expansion of the existing Local Historic District. These three districts are identified as the Newton East, Newton West and Newton North areas. The existing Local Historic District should be expanded to include the three proposed districts outlined below. Alternatively, in order to emphasize the historical importance and contribution to the town's growth and to promote awareness of distinct periods of architectural style, each recommended district could be considered for implementation on a staged basis as a discrete Local Historic District. A. Newton East Local District The proposed Newton East district, which lies to the east of Main Street and to the west of the Newton Cemetery, is a district comprised of several residential streets which developed after 1855. The streets include Halsted, Madison, between Halsted to the north and up to and including the house at No. 82 to the south; Elm Street, Maple Avenue, Adams, Jefferson and Washington Streets. It contains approximately 125 houses, one church, and one school. This district is important for several reasons: first, it contains a large collection of post-1800 to 1872 architecture which, although vernacular, represents a variety of styles and historic lifestyles. The collection also represents a significant period of growth in Newton's history - the initiation of a time of expansion beyond a core (Newton Town Plot District) which had remained intact for one hundred years. Finally, the area is of interest as an example of pre-modern growth before the advent of neighborhood planning, a feature which is evidenced by the variety of house sizes, setbacks, and lot sizes. The structures in this district are of various sizes and styles, showing the wide range in taste during the Victorian era, the extent of the period of development, and the fact that this was an area which housed people of varied financial means. Most of the houses on the tree-lined streets are vernacular Victorian structures. Many exhibit the stylistic characteristics of various popular 19th century styles: Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival. A few later houses are evidence of the development of the Prairie and Craftsman styles. The aesthetic character of the area is marked by uniform residential setbacks, mature street trees aligned on a regular spacing, creating a shaded canopy for pedestrian activity. Sidewalks interconnect residential blocks and street widths are modest in width (e.g. less than 28 feet) which visually gives the impression of a quiet and self-contained residential neighborhood. Several structures in these proposed districts have architectural merit. One is the Second Empire house at No. 58 Halsted. The only one-story Second Empire residence in Newton, it is noteworthy because it has retained all of its major original features. Another is No. 20 Maple Avenue, the best example of the Gothic Revival style in Newton. This building, which once served as the coachman's house on the Merriam Estate, is National Register listed as part of that complex. Also on Maple is a Queen Anne house (No. 27) which is in pristine condition. An unusual feature of this T-shaped structure is the elongated windows on three sides of the first story. Another noteworthy T-shaped house is the one at No. 20 Halsted Street which has exceptional details, including an outstanding Victorian porch. The Newton East area's largest structure, one which heralded increased development in the area, is St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, which was erected in 1871. The steeple of this Gothic Revival structure rises above the level of the surrounding 22-story houses, providing a landmark for the area. This church building, which replaced an earlier one on Jefferson Street, has housed a congregation whose prosperity has inadvertently caused the area's major intrusion, a modern school for children of the parish, located opposite the church. Some of the structures have been altered slightly in recent years, and not all alterations have been compatible with the existing architecture. Although the properties are well maintained, homeowners, as well as the community at large, can benefit from a program of preservation information and technical services. B. Newton West Local District The proposed Newton West area district lies west of Main Street and south of Church Street and is an area comprised of several residential streets developed after 1800 to 1872. The streets include High Street from Academy to Hillside, Division, Linwood, Clarkson, Dunn Place, Ashford, Foster from Franklin to Ryerson, and Ryerson from Foster to Barrett Avenue. As with the Newton East District, the Newton West District is important for similar reasons: it contains a large collection of post-1800 to 1872 architecture; it represents a significant period of growth in Newton's history expansion beyond the initial core (Newton Town Plot District); and, the area is of interest as an example of pre-modern growth before the advent of neighborhood planning in the 1920's, a feature which is evidenced by the variety of house sizes, setbacks, and lot sizes. Linwood Avenue is a significant streetscape in itself and is central to this area. It is significant because it is representative of the typical middle-to-upper middle class lifestyle of a rural county seat during the Victorian period. The houses were custom built with some attention to detail, signifying that the owners were people who, while not rich, could afford to live comfortably. The street is pleasant and gracious, yet unpretentious, indicating that the inhabitants of these houses were probably the middle class "backbone" of the community. The houses, which stand on well landscaped, generous lots, represent the popular architectural styles of the period. Although the Queen Anne and Colonial Revival styles predominate, a few of the earlier structures exhibit characteristics of some of the romantic revivals of mid-century. The largest and one of the earliest is No. 8, the Italianate J.J. Edwards House. It was placed sideways on the lot so that the owner, no doubt, could enjoy a view of the town below. The residence at No. 21, the only brick house, is one of Newton's few examples of the Second Empire style. Other vernacular houses suggest other styles; for example, Nos. 10 and 15 have delicate entrance surrounds, a characteristic of the Greek Revival Style. In the Newton West area, the house at Dunn Place is reputed to be the oldest house in Newton and one of the finest examples of the Georgian style to be found in the town. C. Newton North Local District The proposed Newton North area district lies north of Spring Street and east of Moran Street and is comprised of several residential and commercial streets associated with the industrialization period of Newton developed between 1856 and 1900. The streets include Trinity Street from Moran to Union Place, Union Place between Trinity and Spring Streets and Spring Street from Union Place to Lower Spring Street. The district area is significant for two reasons. First, the residential structures are an example of middle-income family residences related to the county seat and commercial expansion period of downtown Newton. Second, the commercial structures are related to the industrial expansion spurred by the advent of railroad service in Newton. While there have been significant intrusions and contemporary redevelopment of existing structures along Spring Street from Union Place to Lower Spring Street, this portion of the proposed district is important more for its association with the historical development of the railroad depot and the industrialization area growth of Newton than for extant residential structures. A variety of new commercial enterprises located along this portion of Spring Street in response to the business opportunities created by the railroad. Into the first half of the twentieth century, newer commercial buildings have replaced older residential structures. Of unique interest within this proposed Newton North District is the Trinity Street streetscape located between Town Hall and Union Place. This area is representative of late 19th century residences built for middle-income residents. This streetscape is described in detail below in Section 5.d. "Local Streetscapes" of this report. D. Local Streetscapes There are several streetscapes which are identified because they are the best representations of a period in the town's history. Map 3 - Historic Sites/Buildings generally locates the significant streetscapes that are discussed below. They are residential in nature and are related to various income and lifestyles ranging from upper middle class to the middle class working family, the latter who were employed in the various shoe and mill factories which dominated the town's mid-nineteenth century economy. Map 8 - Proposed Historic Streetscapes identifies the geographic extent of the three streetscapes. The streetscapes identified include: ! Pine Street (part)The Pine Street streetscape consists of one block of turn-of-the-twentieth century frame houses which stand along a tree-lined level street on the southeast side of Newton. All but one (No. 4-6), which was moved to this location, are vernacular single-family structures built for members of the middle class, some of whom may have been associated with the Merriam Shoe Company since this is part of the area developed by the Newton Land Company after the factory began operation in 1873. All but No. 4-6 are front-gabled, and many have a stained glass window or transom in either the living room or dining room, a feature which represents an attempt on the part of the builder to include an element of style. All have porches, most with turned or chamfered posts and balustrades. Although there has been much use of synthetic siding here, most of the original detail is intact. There have been no inappropriate additions, and there are no significant intrusions into the integrity of the area. In addition, the properties have been extremely well maintained. The streetscape represents the lifestyle of the middle class working man and his family. Some of the former owners of these houses were probably white collar workers or foremen at the shoe factory nearby. It is of interest that this block has never experienced the conversions that are found on adjacent streets but rather has remained an unspoiled example of late-Victorian middle class life. No threat is apparent at this time. It should be noted that there are similar structures adjacent to the streetscape on Woodside Avenue. They were not included because the character of Woodside, which is a heavily trafficked street, is so different. Woodside Avenue in this vicinity contains smaller lot frontages. The lots back onto a cemetery. The neighborhood is not self-contained in appearance like the Pine Street streetscape since Woodside Avenue is a major collector street, wider in cartway width than Pine Street. Major commercial modern day structures are immediately adjacent this portion of Woodside Avenue. For local planning purposes, however, they could be considered an extension of the streetscape because of the architecture style of the residences which are similar in character to the Pine Street streetscape buildings. ! Sussex Street (part)The Sussex Street streetscape, which lies between Sparta Avenue and Pine Street, consists of one block of late-nineteenth century workers' housing. It includes 18 houses on Sussex Street plus 2 houses on Pine Street at the corner of Sussex. This district/streetscape is significant for two reasons. The houses were built shortly after 1873 as part of an area developed by the Newton Land Company. The Merriam Shoe Company began production in its Sparta Avenue factory, less than a block away, in that year and there was a need to provide housing for its employees. The establishment of the Merriam Factory ushered in a golden age of manufacturing in Newton which resulted in significant development. This street is representative of that period. Seven double houses (duplex style residences), six of which are located on the western side, dominate the streetscape. They are 22-story, gable across houses which have twin front gables. They were constructed of clapboard with variegated shingle in the gable peaks, a chimney at each gable end, a slate roof, two-over-two sash, two center entrances, and a full-facade porch with turned posts. The other two house types of the streetscape are 3 bay, front-gabled houses of modest size. Some, which have a lower cross gable on one side (detached, single-family residence), are a builder's house common in Newton. Others are simple bay houses. A few structures are variants of these types. Two, Nos. 30 and 31, are among the best examples in Newton due to exceptional architectural detail and their well preserved state. Although each duplex residence has been altered in some way (e.g. chimney removed, porch posts replaced, etc.), they retain most of their original features. Because there have been no intrusions, one can readily visualize the street as it appeared when the shoe factory was in operation. Some of the structures have been altered slightly in recent years, and not all of the alterations have been compatible with the existing architecture. Although the properties are well maintained, homeowners as well as the community at large, would benefit from a program of preservation information and technical services. ! Trinity Street (part)The Trinity Street streetscape, which lies between Town Hall and Union Place, consists of little more than one block of late 19th century residences built for obviously middle-income residents. The streetscape ends on an exceptional Greek Revival dwelling at the corner of Union Place and Trinity Street. The Trinity streetscape is significant as an example of middle-income family residences related to the county seat-commercial expansion period of downtown Newton. While the western portion of the street (west of Town Hall) has had significant intrusions related to the commercial expansion of the downtown, the area denoted still resembles a Victorian ambiance with ample sidewalks and mature foliage. The residences in the streetscape reflect some exceptional three-story units, semi-octagonal bay clapboard enclosed porch across facade style residences. Also, front gable with bay examples of 1880 period style are evident. This is a heavily trafficked street which acts as a parallel service street to the Central Business District which is located one block south of Trinity Street along Spring Street and portions of Main Street. Some of the structures have been altered and such alterations are not necessarily compatible with the original architecture. E. Individual Buildings/Sites The catalogue of individual sites is well documented within the previously referenced research contained in Section 4. "Location and Significance of Historic Sites and Historic Districts" of this report. Also, the Newton Town Plot National Historic District nomination form provides information on buildings which contribute significantly to the district. Furthermore, the listing of individual buildings contained within "At Home with Our Heritage", a pamphlet prepared by the Newton Bicentennial Commission, 1976, is an excellent catalogue of more prominent individual site designations, many of which are also included in the National Register Historic District. Map 3 - Historic Sites/Buildings locates the more significant structures worthy of consideration for nomination to the New Jersey and National Registers. Potentially significant buildings for consideration as eligible for New Jersey and National Register nomination include: 1. Horton Mansion 2. Levi Morris House, 130 Main Street 3. Dunn House, 5 Dunn Place 4. Titman House, 10 Minor Place 5. Merriam Shoe Factory, Sparta Avenue The former railyard and adjacent lands associated with the former buildings and structures associated with Hart and Iliff Lumber related to the railyard operations, represent a potentially eligible archeological site for an historic district designation. The only remaining structure is a concrete freighthouse. All other structures have either been removed or are buried beneath fill or under pavement. The impact of the railroad on the town's historical evolution as part of the industrial revolution is worthy of recognition. With respect to other potentially significant National Register archeological sites, these have been identified on Maps 4, 5 and 6 of this plan element. The majority of sites are located within already designated historic districts (e.g. the Local Historic or Newton Town Plot Districts). Within the existing local Newton District and Newton Town Plot New Jersey and National Register District, a total of sixteen potentially significant archeological sites have been identified. In summary, as identified in the archeological survey, potentially the following sites outside of designated historic districts are highlighted as eligible for National Register consideration (these sites are located on Map 6): 1. Harelocker's Tavern site 2. Newton Collegiate Institute site 3. A.H Fox Cider Mill site 4. Original Newton High School site 5. Railroad District It is recommended that any regulated ground disturbing activities in the archeological resource site areas identified on Maps 4, 5 and 6 be preceded by archeological investigations and testing to determine their potential yield and contributory value to the existing or proposed historic districts in which they are located. As noted in the archeological survey, the extent and integrity of all sites is unknown. 6. Standards Used to Assess Worthiness for Historic Sites and Districts Newton's Historic Preservation Ordinance has identified the standards used to designate historic landmarks and historic districts. In addition to the structures already identified as located within the Old Newton Core New Jersey and National Historic District, the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission considers for landmark designation "...any buildings, structures, objects, sites, and districts within the town which merit landmark designation and protection, possessing integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship association". Furthermore, designation of an historic site or district involves its evaluation as being: a. Of particular historic significance to the Town of Newton by reflecting or exemplifying the broad cultural, political, economic or social history of the nation, state or community; or b. Associated with the historic personages important in national, state or local history; or c. The site of an historic event which had a significant effect on the development of the nation, state or community; or d. An embodiment of the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of architecture or engineering; or e. Representative of the work or works of a locally, regionally or nationally important or recognized builder, designer, artist or architect; or f. Significant for containing elements of design, detail, materials or craftsmanship which represent a significant innovation; or g. Able or likely to yield information important in prehistory or history. 7. Analysis and Impact of Other Newton Master Plan Elements on Preservation of Existing and Proposed Historic Sites and Districts Including Recommendations for Revisions An analysis of the town's Master Plan adopted in December 1989 with respect to each plan element's impact on the preservation of historic sites and districts revealed that many of the Master Plan's overall and specific plan element goals and policies were sympathetic to historic preservation issues. In specific instances, clarifications or refinements to the town's Master Plan goals and policies were warranted. A new plan element, "Community Design" is recommended for addition to the town's Master Plan in order to provide design guidance for improvements to the physical appearance of the built environment and to establish direction for insuring design quality in the development of limited vacant areas remaining in Newton. Set forth below is an analysis of each of the town's Master Plan elements with respect to their impact on historic resources. Following this analysis are recommendations for refinements to the goals and policies of each Master Plan element in order to achieve greater compatibility with the historic preservation recommendations contained in Section 5. "Historic Preservation Plan Recommendations" section of this report. A. Overall Master Plan Goals and Policies for the Future Newton's 1989 Master Plan proposals for the physical, economic, historic preservation and social development of the town are based on an overall development strategy related to strengthening its position as a regional service center for a growing Sussex County. Having been designated as a "Regional Center" by the State Planning Commission in September 1993, the town needs to define its overall development strategy to guide future development and its historic preservation efforts by refining its Master Plan policies in order to advance the principles associated with a "regional center" designation. Newton is and should be strengthened as the regional service center in Sussex County. Currently the county seat, it contains a rich mixture of governmental, legal, medical and other service activities which, in combination with commercial and cultural facilities, form the basis for its continuing as a regional service center in the county. This regional center function is further enhanced by a defined historic core centered about a town green, and significant historic resources to include the original county court house and adjacent county governmental facilities, commercial structures along Main and Spring Streets (the functional Central Business District [CBD]) and abutting established residential areas. This distinctive mixture of historic resources advances a basic tenet of the State Plan with respect to a regional center. Newton is a compact urban settlement as envisioned by the State Plan, wherein the need to protect the unique identity of its central core area in order to establish the tone for future development and conservation in the remainder of the town, becomes paramount to the town's future. Therefore, to a large extent, subsequent Master Plan goals and policies for physical development in Newton should, where appropriate, reinforce this overall regional service center concept. The overall development objective for Newton can therefore be stated as follows: To enhance and strengthen Newton's position as a regional center in Sussex County in such a way that it will fulfill the social, commercial, governmental, medical, legal and service needs of a growing county within the constraints of the town's existing resources. Augmenting this overall development strategy for Newton, more specific Master Plan goals and policies are advanced. These have been organized into the following board headings corresponding to the major elements of the town's Master Plan with the inclusion of the recommended new special element, Community Design: Land Use Element < Residential/Housing< Local EconomyCirculation Element < CirculationConservation/Open Space Element < Natural EnvironmentCommunity Facilities Element < Community Facilities/Utilities/RecreationHistoric Preservation Element < Historic PreservationSpecial Element (new) < Community DesignThe following analysis of impacts that the above Master Plan elements have on preservation of historic sites and districts in Newton is followed by recommendations for policies to guide each Master Plan element's goals and policies including appropriate refinements to achieve better compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan proposals and State Plan regional center policies. B. Land Use Element This element of the town's plan deals with residential, affordable housing, industrial and commercial as well as public service land uses. The goals for these land uses are listed below: Residential/Housing Goal: Provide a wide range of housing types to meet varied income and age levels as well as protect and preserve established residential areas. Local Economy Goal: Encourage development and improvement of industrial, commercial and public service uses which complement Newton's role as a regional center in the county. i) Impact of Land Use Element on Historic Sites and Districts: The land use plan designates portions of the existing and proposed historic districts for commercial, residential and public service uses. The plan identifies a need to control the conversion of single-family homes to rental multi-family use and/or professional occupations in the residential zone and the conversion of residential to general business and professional office uses in the commercial zone. The land use plan generally recommends that converted properties be required to have adequate buffering, landscaping, and off-street parking. While it is implied that historic resources adjacent or subject to such conversion activities be properly protected from adverse impacts that can be associated with over intensive conversions, the Master Plan is general with respect to policies in this regard. The land use plan is also concerned with the office conversion change over from residential use in C-1 (commercial) areas along Cedar, Jefferson, Washington, and Madison Streets because of existing small lot areas and narrow streets. These streets are contained within the town's Local Historic District. The plan further recommends consideration be given to rezoning these areas to R-3 (residential) coupled with more stringent site design and building conversion standards which would complement the Local Historic District by decreasing the extent of traffic and intensity of use within this older section of the town. Generally, the intent of the Land Use Element is positive on the preservation of historic resources in the town. What is lacking is more specific policy guidance regarding development and conservation within the older sections of the town which contain historic resources. Identified below are the major impacts associated with the Land Use Element on the historic resources of Newton. ! Revised goals and policies related to the Land Use Element should include design guidance for dealing with new development, rehabilitation and site improvement opportunities in both existing and proposed historic districts.! The Land Use Element suggests reduction in over-intensification of development within historic districts and in areas immediately adjacent such districts. This principle of density control is advantageous to the conservation of historic resources in that economic incentives to tear down and rebuild at greater densities are not provided by the plan.! The Housing Element identifies new construction for both affordable and market rate housing be targeted to available vacant tracts on the periphery of the town, well removed from its historic districts. Potential negative impacts related to visual intrusion, incompatible architectural styles and added traffic burdens on older residential areas in historic districts from larger scale new construction is therefore minimized. Infill development within regulated districts which is envisioned for older sections of the townwhere a minimal number of vacant lots exist will be controlled by local district design guidelines. Revised policies should include provision for augmenting the existing overall zoning control that governs the town's Local Historic District. Within the overall zone design standards, guidelines to encourage greater sensitivity to existing street lines, building heights, rhythm of window patterns and roof styles along a particular street and associated site landscaping should be developed. ! Housing rehabilitation in areas adjacent to historic districts and within such districts are to be guided by appropriate design guidelines and a local Historic Preservation Commission/Planning Board review process to insure compatible improvement activities are related to existing housing stock and historic resources. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation are to be used in the rehabilitation of properties located within the designated historic districts. Pending revisions to the State of New Jersey Uniform Construction Code with respect to renovation/rehabilitation of residential historic resources should be monitored by town code officials in order to take advantage of code flexibility related to such renovation activity being studied by the National Building Code Officials Association.Housing rehabilitation in areas adjacent to local historic districts are encouraged to follow the same rehabilitation guidelines used on structures within designated districts, particularly if public funds are advanced for such rehab activity. For structures immediately adjacent the local district, a transition area for review by the Historic Preservation Commission should be established in order to guide rehab efforts on immediately abutting properties to insure no adverse impacts on historic resources within the local district occur. ! Commercial rehab for uses in the designated district including the CBD are to be guided by the Secretary of the Interior's Rehabilitation Standards. New construction opportunity in the CBD is extremely limited and relegated to a few vacant lots. In cases of new construction, site design and zoning bulk standards will need refinement to insure compatible building construction that is sensitive to existing building styles.ii) Recommended Land Use Element Policies 1. Residential Policies: Below are existing Master Plan policies related to residential land uses together with recommended refinements to reflect greater compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan Element where appropriate. ! Utilize new planned development and clustering techniques on vacant tracts which consider social and environmental factors in meeting future housing needs.! Re-evaluate existing development controls and ordinances to insure preservation of existing and established areas particularly in the treatment of conversions in designated historic districts and other older neighborhoods.! Provide for a balance of residential, industrial and commercial land uses; more specifically, insuring an adequate balance in terms of ownership and rental housing units in the town.! Improve the residential environment of the town by use of:- selected clearance of non-historic resources and limited revitalization - rehabilitation loans and grants - code enforcement and conservation programs - historic preservation grants/loans for architecturally and historically significant resources - new construction (selected vacant areas utilizing planned development approaches) ! Focus revitalization, code enforcement and rehabilitation efforts in:- areas of immediate need - areas where results can be achieved quickly so as to provide the basis for such additional efforts ! Augment housing improvement efforts with:- improved and/or expanded neighborhood parks and recreation as well as community facilities - social services/counseling to families in need - new and/or diversified, where possible, commercial, office, service and industrial base to increase local job opportunities ! Promote high quality housing design for:- rehabilitation, including historic preservation, restoration or maintenance efforts - new construction ! Encourage mixed-use development on remaining vacant developable land to:- provide affordable housing opportunities in combination with market rate housing - seek specialty housing for an aging population base through congregate care and well-elderly facilities ! Focus on smaller neighborhood areas in implementing basic residential historic preservation programs where eligible resources are identified together with other community improvement strategies.! Increase the opportunity for households to obtain satisfactory housing at affordable prices.! Meet the housing needs of low and moderate income families by supporting the goals underlying the Mount Laurel II housing decision and Council of Affordable Housing (COAH) regulations.! Re-evaluate existing development controls and ordinances to insure protection of existing and established housing areas and to provide relief in appropriate situations involving historically significant structures. Seek waivers or alternative non-physical solutions from the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements where incompatible alterations to historic resources will result from the strict adherence to this requirement.! Protect residential areas, particularly properties located in designated historic districts, against the negative visual effect of activities on adjoining non-residential properties by strengthening screening and landscaping requirements including their strict enforcement.! Provide for residential densities within and around historic districts that help to reinforce and stimulate downtown business activity but that are carefully located so as to avoid creating negative impacts on designated districts.! Prevent deterioration of individual structures including historic resources or inadequate maintenance of premises from exerting a deleterious effect on their surroundings by adopting reasonable rules and regulations controlling maintenance standards.! New residential development on vacant tracts should provide adequate space for roadways, off-street parking, pathways, recreation, and open space while protecting and enhancing the natural landscape.2. Local Economy Policies: Below are existing Master Plan policies related to industrial, commercial and public service land uses. Refinements to these policies are also recommended to reflect greater compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan Element, where appropriate. ! Encourage further improvement and consolidation of Main Street and Spring Street commercial areas as the effective Central Business District (CBD) of Newton. These two streets are located within the designated historic districts of the town.! Allow for professional office and service conversions expansion in selected areas adjacent to the prime CBD area under more stringent controls sensitive to the historic attributes of the area.! Promote adequacy, variety and convenience of shopping for local residents.! Encourage industrial development subject to performance standards that would be compatible with the "regional center" development concept of Newton.! Create a special hospital and hospital related service area including specialty elderly housing care facilities on vacant land abutting the Newton Memorial Hospital to further strengthen the town's position as a regional service center.! Use the leverage offered by Newton's unique character to attract development of the highest quality, and seek to achieve such quality by means of appropriate design standards: signage and landscape theme, building materials, site lighting, and overall pedestrian circulation system.! Encourage commercial activities, community services and businesses, to satisfy the commercial needs of local residents and workers, either in well-designed shopping areas and/or districts with direct access from major streets or in the CBD where such uses are appropriate to the historic resources located there.! Establish the limits of business areas, where practical, by the use of boundaries set by treed areas, major street, and other physical features in order to avoid conflicts between commercial and nearby residential uses.! Improve existing business areas to create better pedestrian and bicycle circulation as well as adequate parking. Advance improvements to existing sidewalk systems within compact older neighborhoods that respect historic resources settings.! Establish design criteria for new and redeveloping commercial areas which will lead to more attractive business areas in order to enhance property values, attract shoppers, and encourage a pedestrian-like atmosphere. In areas within, or adjacent to, designated districts, assure compatibility with commercial design guidelines to reinforce the historic character of a particular area.! Conserve the economic vitality of the business community by improving its physical appearance, introducing complementary land uses and maintaining a government presence in the downtown area.! Undertake a vigorous marketing program aimed at strengthening the business community in order to meet the competition from neighboring shopping facilities outside the town.! Reinforce the existing pattern of retail sales and services within the CBD and upgrade its total visual appearance by emphasizing improvements that are compatible with existing historic resources.! Foster commercial re-use of existing older structures within the CBD or new construction on vacant lots in scale with existing buildings respecting the historic fabric of the downtown.! Discourage absentee ownership by encouraging owner occupancy of mixed residential and office or other business uses.! Enforce a property maintenance code for all non-residential areas.! Promote use of the CBD by improving its competitive position in the area through unified advertising, good design and appearance, safe and efficient pedestrian movement system and a wide variety of retail and service establishments.C. Circulation Element This element of the town's Master Plan establishes overall road improvement needs and recommends a transportation road plan to accommodate local and regional traffic movements in Newton. The Master Plan goal for guiding the town's circulation system is listed below. Circulation Goal: Develop and improve a coordinated street system which enables the safe and efficient movement of people and goods providing for the separation, to the maximum extent possible, of local and through traffic. i) Impact of Circulation Element on Historic Sites and Districts The Circulation Plan Element designates street projects generally limited to intersection improvements and correcting sight distance geometry. Since the town is largely developed, significant road widenings are not feasible within such a built environment. The Master Plan acknowledges that some improvements will be constrained by the location of existing buildings and other physical features. Limited road extensions are proposed for the few vacant tracts in town located on the periphery of the community, well removed from the central core area of Newton which contains its historic resources. Any alterations to existing streets are suggested to be sensitive to historic resources that may be adversely affected by a local street improvement project. Within designated districts and abutting older sections of the town, such road improvements are to be constructed within existing public rights-of-way. This policy objective effectively precludes added rights-of-way acquisition which could negatively affect an historic resource. The circulation plan also proposes to augment and maintain various downtown parking and sidewalk improvement programs which is vital to the continued enhancement of Newton's CBD and consistent with a "regional center" designation under the State Plan emphasizing compact centers conducive to pedestrian activity. Perhaps central to Newton's ability to achieve a workable compact downtown center, is the implementation of a longstanding Route 206 bypass road. For close to forty years, the town has sought to advance this bypass route which would re-route regional through traffic and truck traffic movements out of the CBD's congested road network which encompasses the downtown town green within the designated State and National Register District. The bypass route follows, in part, an abandoned railroad right-of-way line located northeast of the CBD. It would generally begin at the intersection of Sparta and Woodside Avenue and connect with Route 206 at South Park Drive near the northern municipal boundary with Hampton Township. Intervening freshwater wetlands along portions of the planned right-of-way will require special NJDEP permitting. The bypass routing, when accomplished, will lessen regional through traffic and truck traffic movements within designated historic districts. These type of movements are not destined for locations within the downtown. Removal of these traffic movements will not have an adverse impact on the retail/service functions of Newton's CBD. Concerns that a bypass route might also reduce the town's downtown business revitalization is more perception than reality. The business market for the town's historic core which contains the CBD is destination-driven. It is also tied to the County Court and related public services. The mix and type of retail establishments either cater to the special retail needs of the community or is a unique niche retailer (e.g. antiques, restorations) and for the most part does not operate on the impulse buying needs of passing motorists. Other than environmental impacts on the wetlands, there is little negative impact associated with the bypass route proposal. Clearly, the bypass proposal has a positive impact on the preservation of historic resources in Newton. Outlined below are the significant impacts associated with the Circulation Plan Element on the historic resources of Newton. ! Given the developed nature of the historic districts and areas immediately adjacent to such districts, the existing street network will not significantly change. The Master Plan recommendation to reclassify key roadways as collector routes within the town will enable maximum dispersal of local traffic, thereby reducing undue congestion on numerous local streets within designated historic districts.! Emphasis on upgrading the visual quality of local streets through tree maintenance and replacement as needed enhances the overall visual quality of streets located in historic districts.! Planned upgrading of pedestrian systems, both in residential neighborhoods and the downtown, further enhances the appreciation of pedestrian scale and is conducive to the preservation of historic resources, particularly in the CBD.! The long term efforts to construct a regional Route 206 bypass to the east of the town's historic districts will lessen congestion in both the State and National Register Newton Town Plot District as well as in the existing local district.ii) Recommended Circulation Element Policies 1. Circulation Policies: Below are existing Master Plan policies related to the town's transportation plan together with recommended refinements to reflect improved compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan Element as appropriate. ! Seek continued implementation of a longstanding Route 206 bypass proposal to be constructed on the eastern edge of town in order to alleviate downtown congestion due to regional commuter and truck through traffic movements.! Emphasize short term road improvements which provide for operational adjustments (channelization, signalization and one-way systems where practical), limited road widenings within existing rights-of-way, and key intersection improvements to increase capacity of the existing street network.! Seek improved access to downtown areas including aesthetic improvements of existing off-street parking facilities.! Classify roadways according to traffic function, focusing on local to arterial roadways in order to develop a secondary collector road system that will result in more even traffic collection from local streets. This will enhance the ability of each street to fulfill its assigned function adequately.! Encourage use of alternate circulation modes (e.g. pedestrian, bicycle, local transit) to lessen dependence on the automobile for local trips in town, thereby minimizing in-town congestion and air pollution.! Provide adequate traffic flow and parking through better signage and interconnection of rear lot parking areas within historic areas providing for a balance of parking space supply for downtown residential and commercial uses.! Maintain the visual quality of streets through street tree planting and replacement, particularly within designated historic districts.! Alleviate traffic congestion wherever it now occurs and prevent further development from degrading conditions on already congested streets.D. Conservation/Open Space Element This element of the town's Master Plan establishes guidance for both the conservation of environmentally sensitive areas located largely in the northeast section of the town and the remaining developable parcels located on the periphery of the community. The Master Plan goal for this conservation/open space environment is listed below. Natural Environment Goal: Protect environmentally sensitive areas and insure a compatible balance between environmental and economic interest. i) Impact of Conservation/Open Space Element on Historic Sites and Districts Given the limited amount of vacant land remaining in the town, the effect of the Conservation/Open Space Element on the historic preservation plan is positive and largely one of indirect benefits. Major floodplain/wetlands areas to the north of the town's historic district will remain undeveloped. Both the town's development performance standards and the restrictions imposed on development in floodplains and wetlands by the NJDEP, together with public ownership of some of this area, effectively preclude its intensive development. The Master Plan policies for this area could be further strengthened through the creation of a conservation zone. Uses permitted in such a new zone designation would relate to horticultural, forest management, arboretums and similar low intensity activities. Continued conservation of these natural areas will provide an effective "green belt" to the north of designated districts. This area currently acts as a clearly defined "green" edge to the older residential areas which grew outwardly from the centrally designated historic districts of the town. Outlined below are the major impacts associated with the Conservation/Open Space Element on the town's historic resources. ! Conservation of natural resources north and northeast of the town's historic districts and sites complements the historic preservation plan's goals and policies by limiting potential impacts on historic resources from new nearby intensive growth.! Development of a town-wide "park belt" encompassing portions of these existing natural resources, while outside of the historic districts, provides a source of visual and functional relief to the compact development forms found in the CBD and abutting neighborhoods which are within historic districts.ii) Recommended Conservation/Open Space Element Policies 1. Natural Environment Policies: Listed below are existing Master Plan policies related to the town's conservation/green space plan together with recommended refinements to reflect improved compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan Element: ! Conserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas (e.g. steep slopes, wetlands, and floodplains) in Newton to the extent practical, by permitting low intensity environmentally related uses on larger environmental tracts. For smaller parcels containing environmental features, require new development to be subject to realistic performance standards so as to mitigate any potential adverse environmental impacts.! Encourage the development of a town-wide "park belt" which incorporates sensitive areas of the natural environment (e.g. floodplains, steep slopes, significant treed areas, etc.) through a coordinated active and passive network of open space.! Utilize modern water runoff control techniques to improve local drainage patterns from new development and to enhance the environment.E. Community Facilities Element This element of the town's plan deals with public community facilities (e.g. schools, police, fire, etc.), utilities and recreational facilities. The Master Plan goal for this element is listed below: Community Facilities/Utilities/Recreation Goal: Provide for an adequate range of open space and public facilities to accommodate the needs of existing and future residents of Newton. i) Impact of Community Facilities Plan Element on Historic Sites and Districts The community facilities plan anticipates the upgrading and improvement of existing facilities rather than the development of new facilities. The upgrading and expansion of facilities will be done in a manner that insures compatibility with other aspects of the Master Plan so that their integration within the community fabric is accomplished in a harmonious fashion. Public work facilities at Memory Park are in need of modernization. Renovation and upgrading of these facilities will be accomplished at the existing site which is contained within a major recreational complex that exists in the northern end of town, well removed from designated districts. There are no plans for expansion to elementary or high school facilities located within the community. Based on an overall storm drainage, sewer and water improvement Master Plan, various segments of the town's aging utility infrastructure will be upgraded. This improvement activity will be undertaken within the existing street right-of-way. While improvements are proposed occur within designated historic districts, such infrastructure improvement projects do not disturb the existing setting of historic resources. To further insure that such improvements do not create adverse impacts on the town's existing historic resources, it is suggested that a project compatibility review should be continued by the Historic Preservation Commission, with any recommendations for site mitigation efforts being presented to the Town Council prior to the release of bid requests for such infrastructure improvement projects. Identified below are the major impacts associated with the Community Facilities Element on the historic resources of the town. ! Small scale park areas are dispersed in key residential areas both within and adjacent historic districts. These recreation areas enhance the quality of life and complement the environment within those portions of historic districts that are residential in character. Maintenance level improvements within the park will make them more useable to local residents.! Upkeep and continuation of public buildings, schools and institutions most of which are in or adjacent to historic districts establishes long term stability for residences and business to remain in the town. These public buildings provide social vitality to neighborhoods and foster the sense of place and community envisioned by the State Plan in regional centers such as Newton.! Upgrading aging infrastructure also encourages private re-investment in neighborhoods and commercial areas parts of which are located in historic districts. Systematic upgrading of utilities, streets and sidewalks enhances the liveability of older neighborhoods and creates conservation of properties, thus maintaining historic resources as a valuable housing or commercial addition to the town's economic base.ii) Recommended Community Facilities Element Policies 1. Community Facilities/Utilities/Recreation Policies: Below are Master Plan policies related to the town's community facility plan, together with recommended refinements to reflect greater compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan Element as appropriate: ! Connect local parks to portions of environmental conservation areas with walkways or bicycle paths within easy access to local residential neighborhoods where practical.! Distribute conveniently located recreation areas throughout the town in relation to the distribution of population so the greatest number of people can take advantage of them.! Locate recreation facilities so that they will be available to the people of newly developed neighborhoods as well as those in older areas, including designated districts.! Make the most efficient use of both school and town recreational facilities through joint programming of after-school sports and recreational activities.! Continue and maintain a high quality and level of public service and facilities (e.g. schools, utilities, police fire), coordinated to accommodate existing and future growth levels of Newton.! Encourage systematic upgrading of existing utility infrastructure (water, sewer and drainage lines) in older neighborhoods and designated historic districts where necessary. Assure minimal impact within designated districts by confining such improvements to existing rights-of-way and easements.! Continue with project infrastructure compatibility reviews by the Historic Preservation Commission for improvement projects within designated districts to avoid adverse impacts on existing historic resources.F. Historic Preservation Element The existing Historic Preservation Element preceded Municipal Land Use Law amendments which expanded and clarified the purpose and intent of an Historic Preservation Element as part of a municipal Master Plan. There is no formal Master Plan goal governing historic preservation in the current Master Plan. Instead, the current plan element recommends that historic preservation efforts be guided by the following objectives: strengthening of the local economy; fostering neighborhood and business area civic pride; and, encouraging long term investment in older residential neighborhoods. Given the update of this element of the Master Plan as contained within this report, a refinement of these objectives into a former goal statement for the Master Plan follows: Historic Preservation Goal: Retain and enhance the town's heritage of historic resources for the education, enjoyment and welfare of Newton's residents; protect and enhance these resources as a way to strengthen its economy. Insure that the overall scope of new development, traffic flow, visual impact, and physical proximity of development does not threaten directly or indirectly any historical district, historic site or landmark within the town. i) Impacts of Historic Preservation Plan Element on Other Master Plan Elements By re-examining existing town Master Plan goals/policies for the various elements that comprise the plan, and suggesting refinements and revisions to these goals/policies as outlined within this section of the report, compatibility of the proposed historic preservation plan with the other elements of the Master Plan has been achieved. With the introduction of the town's Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, all development activities within regulated districts are reviewed and commented on before formal town approval action is taken. For both private and governmental activities which advance a town Master Plan objective, in established districts, a general review for impact and compatibility on local historic resources of significance is undertaken. In the future, when regulated activities are proposed in the recommended three additional Local Historic Districts advanced by this Historic Plan Element update, a similar review of a proposed activity's impact on the historic resource will be undertaken by the Preservation Commission. The incorporation of refinements and additions to the policies governing other elements of the Master Plan establish historic preservation as an important part of the town's overall development strategy which seeks to strengthen its position as a regional service center within Sussex County. ii) Recommended Historic Preservation Policies 1. Historic Preservation Policies: Below are recommended Master Plan policies that incorporate and expand the limited scope of existing policies contained in the current town plan. ! Good contemporary design, that complements rather than imitates historic buildings in the town, should be encouraged for any new buildings that are constructed, whether they be in the district, adjacent to it or elsewhere in the community. The design of new buildings should be compatible with the size, scale, heights, proportion, color, materials, setback and setting of existing buildings as well as with the neighborhood and environment.! Safeguard the heritage of the town by preserving historic resources which reflect elements of its cultural, social, environmental and architectural history.! Encourage the continued use of historic landmarks and buildings.! Maintain and develop an appropriate and harmonious physical and visual setting for historic landmarks and architecturally significant buildings, structures, site objects, and districts within Newton.! Promote appreciation of historic landmarks and historic districts for the education, pleasure and welfare of the local population.! Manage change by preventing alteration, rehabilitation or new construction that is not in keeping with the historic landmark or the historic district.! Discourage the unnecessary demolition of historic resources.! Recognize the importance of contributing buildings in historic districts and of individual historic landmarks located outside of a district by urging property owners and tenants to maintain their properties in keeping with the requirements and standards of the town's Historic Preservation Ordinance.! Promote the conservation of historic sites and districts and encourage compliance with the Historic District Ordinance. Encourage appropriate improvements to historic landmarks and buildings when needed.! Encourage adaptive re-use and property maintenance and design of historic buildings and their settings. Stabilize and improve property values within the town by protecting historic buildings, sites and objects.! Foster positive community attitude toward historic preservation.! Spur beautification and private reinvestment within the CBD which in turn enhances the economic value of properties within historic districts located in or adjacent the Central Business District.! Prevent increased regional traffic from destroying the small town ambiance that exists in the Newton Town Plot Historic District. Established building setbacks and a limited right-of-way collectively preclude any widening of existing streets in designated districts. As new development occurs on the periphery of the town and outside its municipal boundaries, every effort should be made to assure that as much traffic as possible is diverted from the historic district.! Create better utilization of existing parking facilities within designated districts through locational graphics, interconnection of rear parking lots and enhance landscaping in these parking lots in order to insure continued economic use of the historic resources located within the downtown business area.! The present scale of historic district streets should be maintained. Trees along public rights-of-way within an historic district should be maintained and systematically replaced when required to insure continuity of street tree landscaping.! Everything possible should be done to protect the viability and present scale of businesses within designated historic districts. Carefully monitor development pressures on the downtown to prevent expansion of businesses to the point where historic commercial buildings are replaced by larger new structures or expanded and altered to the point where they lose their historic and design significance.G. Community Design Element This is a new element recommended for addition to the town's Master Plan. Given the designation of the town as a "regional center" under the State Plan, coupled with the extent of historic resources which help to define Newton's town character, it is appropriate that this special Master Plan element focusing on community design issues be recommended for inclusion in the town's Master Plan. Since there is relatively little land remaining for new development in the community, increasing attention needs to be made toward conserving established residential areas, upgrading commercial areas and developing strategies for improving the physical environment. At the same time, the scale and character of Newton needs to be reflected in the design quality of future development. The goal for this special design element of the town's Master Plan is recommended as follows: Community Design Goal: Insure that new development is visually and functionally compatible with the physical scale, density and design character of the town; improve upon the visual and physical appearance of all non-residential areas; and, insure that public improvements are made which respect the heritage of the town. i) Community Design Element Impact on Historic Sites and Districts As previously noted, this Community Design Element is a new addition to the town's Master Plan. Its purpose and intent is to encourage improvement and preservation of the aesthetic qualities that lend to the town's special character and appearance. It is further intended to advance the principles for community design sensitivity as recommended for a "regional center" by the State Plan. Some of the major impacts that are associated with a Community Design Element on the historic resources of Newton are highlighted as follows: ! Preservation of local street vistas to dominate public, civic and religious institutions in the town reinforces the historic integrity of designated historic districts and the individual settings of historic sites.! Introduction of screening and landscape enhancements in parking areas adjacent commercial and residential structures protects the overall character of designated historic districts by softening the visual distraction from existing historic resources that is often caused by accommodating the parking and service needs of a business establishment.! Emphasizing signage control reduces the potential for graphic pollution and thereby reduces incompatible visual intrusion in the commercial sections of historic districts.! Given the urban compactness of both commercial and older residential neighborhoods in designated historic districts, there is the opportunity to improve upon the physical attributes of existing historic resources through an overall community design improvement strategy.ii) Recommended Community Design Element Policies 1. Community Design Policies: Below are recommended policies related to advancing both the new Community Design Master Plan goal and insuring its compatibility with the Historic Preservation Plan Element of the Master Plan. ! Preserve the visual qualities of the town by controlling building heights, screening parking lots and encouraging the landscape improvement of major public facilities.! Improve the appearance of the community by the elimination of negative elements such as non-conforming signs and by encouraging aesthetically designed screening with adequate setbacks and landscaping.! Design public site improvements to avoid removing mature trees or other scenic features insofar as it is practical and reasonable.! Protect the pedestrian qualities of local residential and commercial streets by reviewing proposed improvement projects with respect to their visual impact on the residents or occupants of a particular block where such projects are proposed.! Improve the appearances of dominant focal points within an area where needed (e.g. park, public building, church steeple) and exert better control over the location and design of parking areas and curb cuts through the adoption of site development and design controls which encourage attractive screening of parking and trash dumpsters from public view.! Re-examine existing sign ordinance controls to minimize clutter which can lead to visual pollution.! Facade design standards should be contemplated in any renovation, rehabilitation or new infill construction project so as to prevent the development of incompatible structures within designated historic districts and older neighborhoods. The Secretary of the Interior's Rehabilitation Standards should become the baseline for such design standards.Develop a strategy for the placement of streetscape amenities in appropriate business areas to include such items as benches, sitting areas, landscaped courtyards, bike racks and other pedestrian amenities in various combinations to create community focal points for residents and workers in designated historic districts. |