E. Environmental Design Element <br />The Environmental Design Element is concerned with that broad process which molds the <br />various components of the urban area into a distinctive, livable form that promotes a high quality <br />of life. <br />The Metro Plan must go beyond making the urban area more efficient and better organized to <br />also ensure that the area is a pleasant, attractive, and desirable place for people to live, work, and <br />play. The Environnmental Design Element is concerned with how people perceive and interact <br />with their surroundings. Perceptions of livability greatly differ between individuals; so, <br />generalizations concerning this element need to be carefully drawn. Many different indicators of <br />livability have been identified, such as the numbers of local educational, medical, and <br />recreational facilities, and natural environmental conditions. Not all these indicators are directly <br />concerned with environmental design, showing that the concept of livability is influenced by all <br />elements of the Metro Plan. This element focuses on some of the features of the natural and <br />built environment that affect the quality of life. <br />The metropolitan area is changing in ways that are far-reaching and diverse. Decisions that <br />concern change have an effect on the form of the area. If we are to maintain a livable urban <br />environment and realize the full potential of our desirable and distinctive qualities, daily <br />decisions that concern change must be guided by environmental design principles, such as site <br />planning, in combination with other planning policies. <br />Based on concerns related to energy conservation, environmental preservation, transportation, <br />and other issues, increased density is desirable. This increases the need for effective, detailed <br />environmental design in order to ensure a high quality of life and a high degree of livability in an <br />increasingly dense urban environment. <br />This area is noted for the high degree of livability enjoyed by its residents. Environmental <br />design is a process that helps to maintain and enhance these positive attributes. <br />Goals <br />1. Secure a safe clean and comfortable environment which is satisl 'nQ to the mind and <br />senses. <br />2. Encourage the development of the natural, social, and economic environment inaznaer <br />that is harmonious with our natural setting and maintains and enhances our quality of life. <br />3. Create and reserve desirable and distinctive qualities in local and neighborhood areas. <br />Findings, Objectives, and Policies <br />Findings <br />Laurel Ridge Record (Z 15-5) III-E-1 Page 208 <br />