Morrisville Land Use Plan 2021

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Land Use Plan

Adopted February 23, 2021

Foreword

The Morrisville Land Use Plan represents a three year effort that brought together a range of community stakeholders, citizens, agency representatives, business representatives, and elected officials to lay out the framework for Morrisville’s development over the next 10 to 20 years. Given the rapid growth Morrisville has seen in recent years and the shrinking availability of developable land, a fresh approach to land use planning is needed more than ever. At this moment, the Town has an opportunity to move beyond the status quo and put forward innovative, sustainable land development policies that positions Morrisville as a leader for communities seeking a better way to grow. This Plan aims to serve as a guide for all land use policy decisions moving forward and seeks to emphasize the issues most important to the Morrisville community. Specifically, the Plan’s robust community engagement effort identified four leading issues that must be considered as the Town moves ahead into the future:

Though it’s true the Plan’s primary focus on land use policies presents limitations on how comprehensively these issues can be resolved, much is recommended in this document to better address them. In essence, the Plan emphasizes six overarching policy directions for the Town worthy of note here, but discussed and broken down into further detail within subsequent chapters:

1. Proactively seek out opportunities for the creation or preservation of parks and open space.

2. Enhance the standards for tree protection and tree replacement to better safeguard the Town’s remaining forested areas. 3. Limit higher density residential development, outside of key strategic areas warranting increased density, with particular emphasis on maintaining single-family detached housing as the predominate housing type west of NC-54. 4. Refrain from approving new, higher-intensity development without first ensuring nearby infrastructure can support such development. 5. Continue offering a flexible and open-minded approach for siting new public schools within Morrisville and maintain a strong partnership with the Wake County Public School System. 6. Establish mixed-use, walkable, transit-supportive development within the strategic locations of the Transit Oriented Development (TOD), McCrimmon Extension and Town Center areas.

1. Mitigating the loss of green space and setting aside more land for parks and recreational uses.

2. Ensuring that roadways and other infrastructure improvements are concurrent with new development.

3. Moving to better coordinate with the Wake County Public School System to ensure school facilities can accommodate continued residential growth.

4. Enhancing the image and identity of Morrisville in future land development.

Implementation of these policies may prove challenging at times, but their fruition will further guarantee that Morrisville remains one of the top places to live and do business.

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 Table of Contents

Introduction

Community Context

Vision and Goals

Future Land Use

Land Use Considerations 37 Land Availability 39 RDU & Airport Overlay 40 Housing Affordability 41 Unified Development Ordinance 41 Facilities, Services & Amenities 49 Public Education 50 Shared Infrastructure 50 Transportation Infrastructure 50 Research Triangle Park 52 Raleigh-Durham International Airport 53 Green Space Preservation 55 Waterbodies & Floodplains 59 Multi-Use Paths 59 Community Character 61 Branding 62 Community Diversity 63 Town Center & Community Spaces 63

Subarea Plans

Implementation

About the Plan

3 3

Regional Context

5 6 6 7 8

Vision Goals

19 19

Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential High Density Residential Neighborhood Activity Center

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35

Land Use Program

67 68 68 71 72 72 75 76 76 78

Action Plan

81 83 83

Review & Plan Update Process

Planning Area

Development Program

Potential Funding Sources Implementation Action Matrix

Morrisville’s Beginnings

Development Program Table

Past Plans, Studies & Reports Outreach & Engagement

Land Use Program

Business Activity Center Regional Activity Center General Commercial

Development Program

Demographics Employment

16 17 17

Development Program Table

Land Use Program

Housing

Town Center

Development Program

Office

Development Program Table

Industrial

Immersive 3D Model

Institutional

Transit-Oriented Development Parks, Greenways & Open Space

Plan prepared by

The Morrisville Land Use Plan Appendices are available as a separate document.

1 2

Introduction

About the Plan The Land Use Plan is Morrisville’s official policy document. It outlines strategies for land use and development, and will serve as a foundation for future decision-making, helping inform Town staff, elected and appointed officials, as well as businesses, property owners, developers, and community stakeholders about the community’s vision for the future of Morrisville. This Land Use Plan is informed by the land use plan adopted in 2009, as well as other past plans and studies, and addresses new concerns, condi- tions, challenges, and opportunities that have occurred since their adoption.

Review & Plan Update Process

Phase 3: Existing Conditions Analysis. Consisted of research, data collection, field reconnaissance, and analysis to establish an understanding of conditions within Morris- ville. This phase culminated with the develop- ment of the Existing Conditions Report and the Trends and Influences Summary Memorandum . Both of these documents are included in the Morrisville Land Use Plan Appendices , which are provided as a separate document. Phase 4: Community Vision & Goals. Consisted of additional community engage- ment to inform the creation of a unified vision and dedicated goals for the Plan. These func- tioned as a foundation to guide the develop- ment and direction of the Land Use Plan . Phase 5: Subarea Plans. Consisted of targeted engagement with key stakeholders and property owners to develop subarea plans that address distinct areas of the community with more detailed and site-spe- cific analysis.

Phase 6: Community-Wide Plans & Policies. Consisted of the development of recommen- dations and policies to address the entire community, the Future Land Use Map, addi- tional land use and other key considerations, and implementation strategies. Phase 7: Plan Documents & Adoption. Consisted of the preparation, public review, and revision of a draft Land Use Plan docu- ment. This phase started with two virtual Q/A sessions with the public and presenta- tions to the Planning and Zoning Board and Town Council. This phase concluded with the presentation of the revised Plan to the Plan- ning and Zoning Board, a recommendation from the Board to Town Council, and subse- quent adoption by Town Council.

The Town of Morrisville is a rapidly growing community in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, one of the fastest devel- oping regions in the country. Over the past few decades, Morrisville has transformed from a small, rural town to a highly desirable, diverse area due in part to the communi- ty’s regional location and proximity to the Research Triangle Park which has supported major investment and an expanding employ- ment base. In response to these significant changes, the Town initiated an update to the Morris- ville Land Use Plan in February 2018. The three-year planning process engaged the community, analyzed the changing landscape, and identified the distinct issues and unique opportunities facing Morrisville. Together, these factors helped establish a vision for the future of land use and development in the Town and informed the policies and recom- mendations that will guide the community as it continues to evolve.

The Morrisville Land Use Plan is the result of a community-driven, multi-phased planning process that engaged residents, business owners, local officials, Town staff, and other community stakeholders. The end of the planning process was partially impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and resulting local and state-wide stay-at-home orders. While the majority of outreach had been completed prior to the outbreak, public engagement conducted during the adoption process was done in accordance with ‘social distancing’ requirements and relied heavily on digital media strategies. The planning process included the following seven phases: Phase 1: Project Initiation. Consisted of coordination meetings with staff to kick-off the project, as well as early opportunities to engage the Town Council and Planning and Zoning Board. Phase 2: Outreach & Community Engagement. Consisted of traditional in-person events and online tools to engage the Morrisville community regarding issues, opportunities, potential projects, and key community assets.

3 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 1 – Introduction

Burlington 95 26 1 2 3 Winston-Salem Gastonia Wilmington Elizabet City Tarboro Goldsboro Wilson Roanoke Rapids Greenville Indian Trail High Point Rocky Mount Hickory Jacksonville VA NC SC A t l a n t i c O c e a n Fayetteville Charlotte Columbia Greensboro Durham Raleigh Norfolk TOWN OF MORRISVILLE 81 77 40 85 26 95

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Community Context

Regional Context Morrisville, North Carolina is centrally located within the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Combined Statistical Area (CSA), a region of over 2.1 million residents. This area is also known as the Research Triangle due to major universities in each of its three most prom- inent municipalities: North Carolina State University in Raleigh, Duke University in Durham, and the University of North Caro- lina in Chapel Hill. Since 2010, the CSA has experienced considerable growth, including a roughly 15 percent population increase, making it one of the fastest growing regions in the United States.

Long-range planning relies on an under standing of where Morrisville is today and where it wants to be in the future. Chapter 2 - Community Context provides a snapshot of Morrisville today, including the Town’s regional context; planning area; outreach and engagement undertaken in the planning process; a review of past plans, studies, and reports; demographic analysis; existing land use; and current zoning. Collectively, this information provides a profile of the Morris - ville community as context for the planning process. It also establishes the foundation for the recommendations and policies of the Morrisville Land Use Plan . For a complete summary of existing condi- tions, trends, and influences that guided the planning process, see the Morrisville Land Use Plan Appendices , which are compiled as a separate document..

54 International Airport boosts Morrisville’s economic competitiveness and supports greater access both nationally and interna- tionally. Morrisville borders Durham to the north, and Cary, the third largest municipality in the region, surrounds much of the southern half of Morrisville. In addition, Research Triangle Park (RTP), one of the largest research parks in the world, borders Morris- ville to the northwest. In the past 20 years, Morrisville has expanded from a Town of just 5,000 residents in 2000 to just shy of 30,000 in 2019. Much of this growth is reflective of the surrounding region as neighboring communities are also expe- riencing a surge in population and economic prosperity. Today, Morrisville is a thriving and evolving community looking to better define its own identity and position within the greater region, rather than being further defined by other towns and institutions. Morrisville is positioned at a crossroads between major highways that connect the community to key destinations within the region. Interstate 40, a major route between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, runs along the Town’s northeastern boundary while the northwestern portion of the Town is bounded by Interstate 540. Nearby Raleigh Durham

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5 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

540

Planning Area The planning area for the Land Use Plan comprises all properties within the following two areas: Morrisville Municipal Boundary Contains all incorporated properties within Morrisville and under Town jurisdiction. Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) Contains unincorporated properties that are subject to Morrisville development regula- tions, but are currently under the jurisdic- tion of Wake County or Durham County, respectively. The Town has been approved for annexation of properties withinWake County and has an annexation agreement with the City of Durham. These properties are subject to Morrisville’s development regulations.

Morrisville’s Beginnings

In 1850, surveyors were sent out to assess the terrain. They found the best route ran along a ridge line between the Neuse and Cape Fear Rivers. Twelve miles west of Raleigh, they came to Crabtree Creek and decided to site a depot. An enterprising local businessman named Jeremiah Morris donated land for a station, and the site lay at a rural crossroads that could help feed the rail line with passengers and freight. Morrisville was born. Despite its favorable location along the rail line halfway between Raleigh and Durham, Morrisville remained a small agricultural community well into the 20th century, only reaching a population of 251 by 1980. However, as the tech boom of the 1990s took flight, nearby Research Triangle Park quickly became a magnet for highly skilled workers and Morrisville began to experience explosive growth. Now, Morrisville is swiftly moving towards 30,000 residents, with many more projected to come. The town is once again at a crossroads, but this time concerning policy. The recommen- dations within this document will seek to accommodate new growth in a way that’s economically beneficial, but respectful of community character and the very reasons people choose to call Morrisville home.

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Prior to European settlement, archaeolog- ical evidence suggests nomadic bands of Native Americans camped along the banks of Crabtree Creek as far back as 10,000 years ago. One trail that was heavily utilized led to a shallow ford over Crabtree Creek, and crossed through the future site of Morrisville. As European settlers began moving into the Carolinas, the trail was solidified as a major highway into the new colonial backcountry. Eventually, this area became known as the Piedmont of North Carolina. locked in a deep economic slumber, with large expanses of its interior cut off from the outside world. To help change this, state leaders launched a grand civic project to build a railroad across the Piedmont that would link Charlotte with Goldsboro and an existing rail line that connected to the state’s largest port inWilmington. In the mid-nineteenth century, North Caro- lina was known as the “Rip VanWinkle State”,

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6 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

Past Plans, Studies & Reports Relationship to Other Town Planning Documents The Morrisville Land Use Plan was not created in a vacuum. It is the next step in a progres- sion of planning efforts by the Town of Morrisville and is responsive to plans, studies, and reports that came before. Further, the Land Use Plan is part of a collection of recent planning efforts, including the Comprehen- sive Transportation Plan Update, Connect Morrisville – Strategic Plan, and the 2018 Parks + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan. As such, the Land Use Plan helps to unify and coordinate these planning efforts in a way that will support positive change in Morrisville. To support the planning process, the following past plans, studies, and reports were reviewed and used to guide the goals, objectives, and recommendations of the Land Use Plan :

Town Center Plan (2007) The Town Center Plan establishes a vision and defines general concepts to create a Town Center area at the heart of Morrisville. The plan aims to elevate existing amenities within the Town’s historic crossroads village area and create a vibrant, mixed-use Town Center that respects the character of Morris- ville’s past. This includes design concepts and detailed recommendations for growth and infill within the area, as well as improvements to benefit mobility, all while protecting and enhancing historic assets. Morrisville Land Use Plan & Morrisville Transportation Plan (2009) In 2009, the Town of Morrisville completed a comprehensive planning effort to concur- rently develop new land use and transporta- tion plans. This ensured that interconnected issues relating to both land use and trans- portation could be adequately planned for and addressed across both plan documents. The Land Use Plan will replace the 2009 Land Use Plan component of this planning effort. In general, the 2009 plans addressed many issues that remain relevant today, including a rapidly growing community, diminishing development opportunities, and roadway congestion.

McCrimmon Parkway Extension Area Development Guide (2012)

Morrisville Active Kids Strategic Plan (2017) The Morrisville Active Kids Strategic Plan promotes more active lifestyles for the children of Morrisville through continuing investment in pedestrian, bicycle, and park infrastructure. This includes a review of strengths, opportunities, and challenges as well as action steps to support greater activity for Morrisville’s youth. Connect Morrisville – Strategic Plan (2018) Connect Morrisville is the Town’s first stra - tegic plan, adopted in April of 2018. The plan provides high-level direction intended to guide policymaking and both short- and long-term projects withinMorrisville, including a mission statement, vision, and community values. Parks + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan (2018) The Parks + Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan provides a complete analysis of parks, recreational programs, and related facilities within Morrisville to identify neces- sary improvements that will ensure residents have access to the outdoors and quality recreation opportunities.

Comprehensive Transportation Plan (2019) During the development of the Land Use Plan , the Town of Morrisville also updated the 2009 Transportation Plan. This was a sepa- rate planning process that was completed in 2019. The Comprehensive Transportation Plan reviews all elements of transportation within Morrisville and provides recommen- dations to improve connectivity and ensure efficient mobility. Morrisville Affordable Housing Plan (2019) The Morrisville Affordable Housing Plan was completed to better understand the challenges of providing affordable housing in Morrisville and the surrounding region. The Plan outlines options for responding to affordable housing needs, sets goals related to affordability, and establishes an effective and practical course of action for the Town to accommodate affordable housing options.

The McCrimmon Parkway Extension Area Development Guide was prepared in antic- ipation of investment along McCrimmon Parkway as it is extended through eastern Morrisville. This report provides guidance in relation to land uses and development standards for properties within the extension area to ensure investment is best aligned with the Town’s vision. The intent of the report was to identify issues, themes, and consider- ations that could assist the Town in preparing updates to the Unified Development Ordi - nance (UDO). McCrimmon Transit Small Area Plan (2013) The McCrimmon Transit Small Area Plan was developed to encourage appropriate transit-oriented development (TOD) around the intersection of McCrimmon Parkway and NC54. This was in response to regional plans to improve public transit, including expanded bus and rail service. In addition, the Plan complements the vision established in the Town’s 2009 land use and transportation plans, which called for better transit access to support Morrisville’s regional location and competitiveness.

7 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

Outreach & Engagement

In-Person Outreach Events

Technical Advisory Committee The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) was formed to help guide the planning process and act as a sounding board for plan concepts and recommendations as they were being developed. TAC members were chosen for their technical knowledge and expertise regarding Morrisville. The TAC met period- ically during the planning process to review and provide feedback on plan components. Community Workshops May & December 2018 – 37 Participants CommunityWorkshops provided a space to gather feedback directly from residents and facilitate in-person discussion about the Town of Morrisville. Two workshops were conducted, a general community workshop in May 2018 and a subarea-specific workshop in December 2018. Participants at these work- shops completed exercises designed to collect feedback on key issues, opportunities, and potential projects, as well as community assets that should be preserved and enhanced.

In-Person outreach events provided opportu- nities for the community to meet face-to-face with the project team, including meetings, workshops, interviews, focus groups, and other live events where individuals directly engaged in the planning process. Together, these events offered a space to learn about issues and opportunities in a setting that allowed for conversation, discussion, and detailed questions regarding specific concerns. Complementary Outreach In 2017, the National Research Center conducted a National Citizen Survey in Morrisville, engaging 202 residents to better understand livability in the Town. While not conducted as part of the planning process for the Land Use Plan , this survey served as complementary outreach. Overall, the findings of the National Citizen Survey in Morrisville were consistent with the major themes identified through the Plan’s engage - ment process and was incorporated into the planning process where appropriate.

The Land Use Plan is a community plan, guided by the aspirations and collective vision of Morrisville residents. Outreach was at the core of the planning process, including a combination of in-person events to facilitate face-to-face discussion and online tools that were interactive and highly accessible. Together, these offered a range of opportunities for individuals to get involved and helped gather feedback from residents, employees, business owners, developers, service providers, public officials, Town staff, and other community stakeholders. The input received provided clear direction for the Land Use Plan and in some cases was directly trans- lated into Plan recommendations and policy. Throughout community outreach, approxi- mately 1,300 individuals were engaged during 39 separate outreach events and over 3,000 visits to the project website. While outreach began with an initial phase of engagement, opportunities for individuals to get involved continued throughout the Plan’s development. Ultimately, community outreach ensured that the Land Use Plan is reflective of and respon - sive to theMorrisville community. While the majority of outreach had been completed prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, public engagement conducted during the adoption process was done in accordance with ‘social distancing’ requirements and relied heavily on digital media strategies.

Stakeholder Interviews May 2018 – 20 Participants

Interviews were conducted with a range of stakeholders, including residents, business owners, developers, property owners, adja- cent municipalities, public school officials, and service providers. These interviews allowed for detailed discussion of specific issues.

8 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

PRESORTED STANDARD USPOSTAGE PAID RALEIGH,NC PERMITNo.857

TownofMorrisville 100TownHallDrive Morrisville,NC27560

HELP US SHAPE THE FUTURE OF MORRISVILLE About the Plan TheTownofMorrisville iscurrently updating its LandUsePlan-ablueprint for the future ofourcommunity. ThePlan willprovide recommendations to direct growth, investment, anddevelopment in Morrisville. Ultimately, itwillanswer the question: “Whatshouldour community look like in10 yearsandhowdo weget there?” Get Involved! TheLand UsePlanwillbesupportedbyan extensiveoutreach process. Seeback for details onmeetings andoutreach events.

PRESORTED STANDARD USPOSTAGE PAID RALEIGH,NC PERMITNo. 857

TownofMorrisville 100TownHallDrive Morrisville,NC27560

Do-It-Yourself Workshop Kits May to July 2018 – 95 Participants

Postcards Summer & Fall, 2018

1**1**1001****************SCH 5-DIGIT 27560

MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 1601 Carrington Park Cir Apt 302 Morrisville, NC 27560-5840

1**1**1****************SCH 5-DIGIT 27560

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) workshop kits included all materials necessary to facilitate a workshop, allowing those interested to host their own Land Use Plan workshop. DIY Kits were made available to any organization or group that wanted one. This tool helped reach a larger cross-section of the community and engage groups that were less likely to participate in other outreach events. DIY Kits were obtained and completed by the following organizations: ⊲ Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swam- inarayan Sanstha (BAPS) ⊲ Breckenridge Homeowners Association Board ⊲ Hindu Society of North Carolina (HSNC) ⊲ Kitts Creek Homeowners Association ⊲ Providence Place Homeowners Association ⊲ Savannah Homeowners Association Board

In order to spread awareness about the Land Use Plan and associated project website, post- cards were mailed out to all Morrisville resi- dents and businesses at 12,815 addresses. The post cards successfully increased traffic on the project website and some were returned to Town staff with specific feedback for the Land Use Plan. The postcards included information about the Plan, as well as a three-question survey: ⊲ I believe the most important issue facing Morrisville is… ⊲ I think Morrisville’s greatest asset is… ⊲ If I could improve one thing in Morrisville it would be… question: “Whatshouldour community look like in10 yearsandhowdo weget there?” Get Involved! TheLand UsePlanwillbesupportedbyan extensiveoutreach process. Seeback for details onm etings andoutreach events. HELP US SHAPE THE FUTURE OF MORRISVILLE About the Plan TheTownofMorrisville iscurrently updating its LandUsePlan-ablueprint for he future ofourcommunity. ThePlan willprovide recommendations to direct growth, investment, anddevelopment in Morrisville. Ultimately, itwillanswer the question: “Whatshouldour community look like in10 yearsandhowdo weget there?” Get Involved! TownofMorrisville 100TownHallDrive Morrisville,NC27560 DATDFAATAFDDAFADFTTDTATFFAAFDDDADTFAFDADATFFDFTTTTDTFTFDFTFADTADA MORRISVILLE RESIDENT PO Box 2 Morrisville, NC 27560-0002

ADFDDDFATFTADTAATDFFTAFTATFFDTTTFFADAFFFADTFADAADDFTAAADDADFDFTFF

PRESORTED STANDARD USPOSTAGE PAID RALEIGH,NC PERMITNo.857

TownofMorrisville 100TownHallDrive Morrisville,NC27560

PRESORTED STANDARD USPOSTAGE PAID RALEIGH,NC PERMITNo. 857

2**2**1251****************SCH 5-DIGIT 27560

MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 2238 Summit Ridge Loop Morrisville, NC 27560-5905

1**1**251****************SCH 5-DIGIT 27560

MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 110 Church Steeple Ln Morri ville, NC 27560-5501

TheLand UsePlanwillbesupportedbyan extensiveoutreach process. Seeback for details onmeetings andoutreach events.

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PRESORTED STANDARD USPOSTAGE PAID RALEIGH,NC PERMITNo.857

TownofMorrisville 100TownHallDrive Morrisville,NC27560

Ibelievethe most important issue facingMorrisville is...

PRESORTED STANDARD USPOSTAGE PAID RALEIGH,NC PERMITNo.857

TownofMorrisville 100TownHallDrive Morrisville,NC27560

IthinkMorrisville’s greatest asset is...

2**2**1501****************SCH 5-DIGIT 27560

MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 108 Suffolk Green Ln Morrisville, NC 27560-6131

1**1**501****************SCH 5-DIGIT 27560 If Icould improve onething inMorrisville itwouldbe...

MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 134 Morrisville Square Way Morrisville, NC 27560-5703

Havemoretosay?Attendanupcomingevent! Dropthiscompletedcardat:

MorrisvillePlanningDepartment 260TownHallDrive,SuiteB Morrisville,NC27560

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CommunityWorkshop 100TownHallDrive May16,2018 • 7:00PM -8:30PM FreePizza!

Music inthePark 100TownHallDrive May17,2018 • 6:30PM -8:00PM

SpringFest 100TownHallDrive May19,2018 • 4:00PM -9:00PM

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9 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Co munity Context

2**2**1751****************SCH 5-DIGIT 2

MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 212 Colwick Ln Morrisville, NC 27560-6622

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MORRISVILLE RESIDENT 102 Downing Brook Ct Morrisville, NC 27560-5780

Outreach at Community Events Throughout Project – 614 Participants at 9 Events Opportunities for residents to get involved were made available at other community events held during the planning process, including the following: ⊲ Morrisville Fire & Rescue Bike Rodeo ⊲ Music in the Park ⊲ SpringFest ⊲ East Meets West Festival ⊲ WesternWake Farmers Market (3 Events) ⊲ Trick or Treat the Trail ⊲ HSNC Temple Holiday Event

Additional Workshops Throughout Project – 201 Participants at 23 Events

Outreach During Plan Adoption Summer & Fall, 2020 - Events (TBD) Outreach events were conducted during the adoption phase of the Land Use planning process, helping to review and refine the final Plan document, including the following: ⊲ Social media outreach ⊲ Postcards ⊲ Online Public Q&A Sessions ⊲ Stakeholder meetings ⊲ Multiple work sessions with Town Council ⊲ Town Council mini-retreat ⊲ Planning & Zoning Board Presentation and Public Hearing for Adoption ⊲ Town Council Presentation and Public Hearing for Adoption It is important to note that due to the COVID-19 outbreak and social distancing requirements, outreach during adoption was primarily conducted online and remotely.

Additional workshops were conducted with various stakeholder groups and organiza- tions, including the following: ⊲ Town Council (12 Meetings) ⊲ Planning & Zoning Board (5 Meetings) ⊲ Technical Advisory Committee (3 Meetings) ⊲ Environment & Stormwater Committee ⊲ Senior Advisory Committee ⊲ Youth Leadership Council ⊲ Developers Council ⊲ Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Advisory Committee ⊲ The Breckenridge, Kitts Creek, Preston Point, and Providence Place HOAs ⊲ Hotel Developers Interviews

10 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

Town Center Webscene & Immersive 3D Model Public meetings and presentations were conducted during the development of the Subarea Plans, including the Town Center. A 3D webscene was shared with the public, providing Town officials and residents an opportunity to view and compare two Town Center scenarios. One scenario relied primarily on structured parking and the other on surface parking. 3D webscene users were able to slide back and forth between the two images and pan around or change extents for different views. The visualizations helped differentiate the two build outs and their varying levels of activity. To further visualize the differences between the two scenarios, the 3D webscene models were refined in CityEngine and imported into Unreal Engine, which is an advanced soft- ware platform used to build many popular console and PC games. Unreal Engine allowed Town officials and residents to see the two scenarios from a pedestrian level, complete with details to help create an immersive experience. Ultimately, this led to the selec- tion of a preferred scenario, further discussed in Chapter 6 - Subarea Plans .

Town Center Scenario Comparision Option A – Surface Parking

Town Center Scenario Comparision

Option B – Two Parking Decks

Land Use

% 4.4% 3.1%

74,200 53,001 204,025 211,398 126,228 43,913 12,604 178,986

74,200 53,001 509,084 213,465 271,839 87,826 12,604 465,740

Single-Family (28 units) Attached Single-Family (20 units) Multi-Family (211 units)

8.2% 5.9%

Single-Family (28 units) Attached Single-Family (20 units) Multi-Family (457 units)

22.6% 23.4% 14.0% 4.9% 1.4% 19.8%

30.2% 12.6% 16.1% 5.2% 0.7% 27.6%

Total square feet of development 904,355

1,687,759

Retail Office Lodging (74 rooms) Public Parking

Retail Office Lodging (148 rooms) Public Parking

Total square feet of development

11 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

Online Engagement Opportunities Online Engagement was used to complement in-person events, providing more readily accessible opportunities for individuals to get involved at their own pace and in their own time. These engagement tools are a direct response to a social shift, as residents and stakeholders have become more interested and willing to participate online. Further, online engagement helps to capture input from those unlikely or unable to attend in-person events. Project Website Available Throughout Project – 1,008 Unique Visits to Website (over 3,000 Total) A project website was developed to support the planning process that contained infor- mation and updates concerning the project, meeting notices, and project documents. In addition, the website also hosted online outreach tools, including online surveys and map.social. The website was launched in March of 2018 and remained active throughout development of the Land Use Plan .

Online Surveys March through July 2018 – 232 Participants

Two online surveys were made available on the project website fromMarch through July, 2018, one for Morrisville residents and one for those who own or operate a business in Town. The online surveys were intended to supplement in-person events by capturing input from those unable or unlikely to attend a workshop. Town Employee Survey June 2018 – 63 Participants To complement resident engagement, a Town employee survey was developed. This survey was intended to gather input from those who handle the day-to-day operation of Morrisville and can provide detailed feedback regarding specific components of the commu - nity relevant to the Plan. map.social (online engagement mapping tool) March through July, 2018 – 403 Points Created map.social is a public outreach tool that allows participants to provide feedback and comments tied spatially to a point or area. Available between March and July 2020, the tool provided a way for anyone to create a map of their community, identifying their own issues, opportunities, strengths, and weaknesses.

12 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

Summary of Outreach While a considerable range of topics were identified during the outreach process, the following major themes consistently emerged across all engagement: ⊲ Education was a major point of discussion, particularly access to schools and the need for new school facilities in Morrisville. This included discussion of the distance students travel to schools outside Morris- ville and the lack of available land to build new schools within the community. ⊲ Traffic & Congestion were regularly discussed, particularly traffic on NC54 and other primary roadways during rush hour. While transportation is not a focus of the Land Use Plan , transportation related issues have a direct impact on many elements of land use and development. ⊲ Access & Connectivity was also discussed and are closely linked to traffic and congestion. This included concerns with the existing roadway network, missed connections, dead-end roadways, and the discontinuous sidewalks. The lack of transit options was also frequently mentioned.

Community Strengths & Assets Community strengths and assets were also identified by participants, including many that should be maintained or enhanced through the planning process. Common strengths and assets include: ⊲ Regional location ⊲ Proximity to Raleigh-Durham International Airport ⊲ Proximity to RTP

⊲ Image & Identity was consistently brought up, specifically the lack of a clear brand for Morrisville, both internally and externally. Participants also stated the exact bound- aries and definition of what is or is not in Morrisville was confusing, meaning that visitors could travel through Morrisville without knowing they were in the commu- nity. Some indicated that Morrisville is defined by its neighbors and adjacent communities. This was often related to the lack of a downtown and the need for more clearly identifiable locations to visit within the community. ⊲ The Need for Community Spaces was also highlighted, closely related to the lack of a local identity. Residents felt that a town center or larger community space was essential to creating a “place” that defined Morrisville. ⊲ Rapid Growth was cited as a core issue that impacts many of the other challenges Morrisville faces. Many participants stated that the speed of growth challenges the Town’s ability to protect its assets, manage development appropriately, and preserve community character. ⊲ Loss of Green Space and Tree Canopy was also regularly highlighted as a critical issue for residents. Morrisville’s lush green spaces, landscape, and tree canopy were identified as valued assets that contribute to the character of the community. Resi- dents emphasized that Morrisville needs to protect green space and trees from development given their importance to the Town’s identity.

⊲ Parks and open space ⊲ Safety and low crime ⊲ Resident’s incomes ⊲ Accredited Town departments

⊲ Town leadership ⊲ Strong tax base ⊲ Diversity ⊲ Small businesses

⊲ Restaurants and stores ⊲ Recreational amenities ⊲ Small town feel

To review the comprehensive summaries of all outreach conducted throughout the plan- ning process, see the Morrisville Land Use Plan Appendices , which are provided as a separate document.

13 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

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DURHAM

Existing Land Use Map Understanding how land use and physical development are configured today is essential to addressing important issues within Morrisville and guiding how properties are planned, designed, developed, and utilized in the future. A comprehensive review of existing land use was completed, informed by extensive field reconnaissance of the entire community, as well as research and data analysis. Every parcel within Morrisville was considered and categorized into one of 14 land use categories.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

540

HistoricCir

l o h G l e n

S h i

SlaterRd

ChurchSt

147

KitCreekRd

DurantsNeckLn

CarringtonMillBlvd

LichtinBlvd

n t

n F a

w y

a s

KirkhavenRd

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK

EveretteFieldsRd

a r k D r

WatkinsRd

BarbeeRd

AirportBlvd

P e ri m et e r P

TransAirDr

Single-Family Detached Consists of residential properties that contain a single, detached housing unit. This is the most prominent land use within Morrisville and exhibits a range of housing types and subdivisions. Single-Family Attached Consists of residential properties that contain two or more units attached horizontally, such as townhomes and duplexes. Morrisville has a variety of single-family attached neighborhoods, often incorporated as part of subdivisions with multiple housing types. Multi-Family Consists of residential properties that contain two or more units stacked vertically with shared entrances, hallways, and communal spaces, such as apartment and condominium buildings. General Commercial Consists of commercial businesses that oer goods and services, including restaurants. These uses range in size and design from large-scale mixed-commercial developments to big-box stores and national retailers, as well as small businesses that serve local shopping needs. Mixed-Use Consists of properties with structures containing multiple, separate uses. Common examples include first-floor commercial spaces with residential or oce units above. Hospitality Consists of hotels, motels, and other businesses that provide short-term lodging. Office Consists of properties that feature oce buildings for professional businesses and firms as well as medical uses, such as clinics, family physicians, and dentist oces. The majority of these uses are larger oce buildings and business parks with campus-like environments.

Industrial Consists of properties and structures dedicated to industrial businesses and operations. This includes both heavy- and light-industrial uses as well as public-storage facilities and more intense commercial businesses. Public/Semi-Public Consists of properties that provide public services and amenities that support quality of life within the community, including municipal buildings, community facilities, and places of worship. Educational Consists of properties and facilities dedicated to education, including public and private schools, academies, and institutions for higher education. Public Parks, Recreation & Open Space Consists of parks and spaces that support publicly accessible recreation, as well as open space and areas set aside for conservation. This includes only parks and open spaces owned by the Town of Morrisville, as well as cemeteries. This does not include greenways. Private Parks, Recreation & Open Space Consists of parks, recreational facilities, and open spaces that support recreation but are privatized and not open to public use. This includes private parks, pools, clubhouses, dog parks, landscaped areas, and other private recreational facilities. This category only includes separately parceled green space and does not display green space that is part of non-residential uses. Utility & Railroad Consists of properties that contain structures, facilities, or infrastructure that support utilities and railroad operations. Undeveloped Consists of properties which are currently undeveloped and unutilized by any kind of development. This includes vacant properties that have been prepared for development, properties for which previous structures have been removed or demolished, and uncleared properties that can be developed and are not preserved as open space.

540

ChapelHillRd

HamletParkDr

DavisDr

P a

AviationPkwy

e V a ll e

D r

McCrimmonPkwy

Lake Crabtree

SouthportDr

t e r

CARY

i o

n a l D r

GreenDr

ChurchSt

EvansRd

FairviewAve

CARY

CottenDr

T o w n

CarolinaSt

PageSt

Morrisville-CarpenterRd

LeacroftWay

KeybridgeDr

ClaretLn

MilletDr

v i l

l e

r r

P k w

NwCaryPkwy

P k w y

BristolCreekDr

CARY

n g

C r o s s i

b t

C r a

Miles

0.25

0.5

Note: This map includes new construction projects with issued building permits as of May 2020

14 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

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DURHAM

Current Zoning Map Development controls are essential to guiding land use and investment while shaping the future of the community. Current development regulations are defined by the Morrisville Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), adopted in 2013 and last updated in 2020. In addition to assist - ing with long-term planning, the UDO helps to guide property owners and developers regarding the kinds of development the community would like to see. The UDO defines 19 zoning districts, one planned development district, three overlay districts, and parallel conditional districts.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

540

HistoricCir

l o h G l e n

S h i

SlaterRd

ChurchSt

147

KitCreekRd

DurantsNeckLn

CarringtonMillBlvd

LichtinBlvd

n t

n F a

w y

a s

KirkhavenRd

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK

EveretteFieldsRd

a r k D r

WatkinsRd

BarbeeRd

AirportBlvd

P e ri m et e r P

TransAirDr

540

(PGO) Parks/Greenways/Open Space

(TCC) Town Center Commercial

ChapelHillRd

HamletParkDr

DavisDr

(VLDR) Very Low Density Residential

(TCR) Town Center Residential

(LDR) Low Density Residential

(RT) Residential Transition

P a

AviationPkwy

e V a ll e

D r

(MDR) MediumDensity Residential

(C-RT) Conditional Residential Transition

McCrimmonPkwy

Lake Crabtree

(C-MDR) Conditional MediumDensity Residential

(RNP) Residential Neighborhood Preservation

SouthportDr

(HDR) High Density Residential

(CC) Corridor Commercial

t e r

CARY

i o

n a l D r

(C-HDR) Conditional High Density Residential

(OI) Office/Industrial

GreenDr

ChurchSt

EvansRd

FairviewAve

(NAC) Neighborhood Activity Center

(C-OI) Conditional Office/Industrial

CARY

(C-NAC) Conditional Neighborhood Activity Center

(IM) Industrial Management

CottenDr

T o w n

CarolinaSt

PageSt

(BAC) Business Activity Center

(C-IM) Conditional Industrial Management

Morrisville-CarpenterRd

LeacroftWay

(C-BAC) Conditional Business Activity Center

(MUPD) Mixed Use Planned Development

KeybridgeDr

(CAC) Commercial Activity Center

(MSPD) Main Street Planned Development*

ClaretLn

MilletDr

(RAC) Regional Activity Center

Overlays Airport Overlay (AO-A)

(HCV) Historic Crossroads Village

Airport Overlay (AO-B)

v i l

l e

r r

P k w

(MS) Main Street

NwCaryPkwy

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)

(C-MS) Conditional Main Street

P k w y

BristolCreekDr

n g

C r o s s i

b t

C r a

Miles

0.25

0.5

Note: No parcels are currently zoned MSPD (March 2020)

15 Morrisville Land Use Plan | Chapter 2 – Community Context

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