Title
A Resolution authorizing the Public Works Department to proceed with the implementation of a permit process to allow decorative crushed stone and low, non-woody landscape plants in the public right-of-way.
Body
At its January 26th meeting, the City Commission considered alternative options for swale areas where growing and maintaining grass is not practical - for example, deep shade areas under Banyan trees, excessive parking conditions in transition zones between commercial and single family neighborhoods, or areas adjacent to high density, multi-family complexes.
Subsequent to that meeting, staff has been developing swale enhancement solutions that are affordable, long lasting, attractive, and that meet the following key objectives:
• Preserve the lush, green, vegetative character our City swales to the greatest extent possible;
• Maintain the capacity of the swales to continue to percolate rainwater as a vital part of the City’s storm water management system;
• Assure consistency by developing a clear process for reviewing and approving alternative swale solutions.
Staff will provide the following action items for Commission consideration at the July 26th meeting:
• Decorative crushed stone design guidelines; overview of pilot program conducted at the Coral Gables Public Library;
• List of recommended low, non-woody landscape plants;
• Procedures for initiating special improvements in the right-of-way.