The new landscaping rules call for more trees, and encourage developers to leave or install taller trees. Developers of new buildings would have to build a sidewalk between the buildings and the adjacent street -- not required now. Where buffer landscaping is required between properties, they'd have to put in 15 feet of trees and shrubs instead of 10. They'd have to build landscaped areas inside of parking lots more often. They'd get bonus points for keeping old trees.
As part of the deal, planners propose that required parking spots for many businesses be reduced, which would save developers some money. But the Assembly has not yet acted on the parking rules.
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