CONNECTION TO NATURE
A Desert Downtown

The natural beauty of St. George is a vital asset to the city and its residents. Downtown landscaping includes native and desert species, offers urban-scale recreation opportunities, and is connected through views and trails to the recreation and beauty of the surrounding desert environment.

To preserve and enhance Downtown's connection to nature, St. George will strive to:

Connect Downtown via Pedestrian & Trail Networks

The trail network is a highly valued asset in St. George that should be connected and extended into and through Downtown.

Implement the Parks, Recreation, and Trails (PRAT) Plan and add bike lanes to connect the trail network in and through Downtown.

Develop pedestrian connections from activity centers in Downtown up to Tech Ridge.

Within the Hillside Ordinance, allow for challenging trail options that ascend steep slopes to connect Downtown directly to nearby bluffs.

Add more wayfinding along trails to destinations in and adjacent to Downtown including Confluence Park, the Conference Center, and Pioneer Park.

Maintain and Add Parks & Green Space

Downtown parks and open spaces are important amenities that contribute to a high quality of life for residents, workers, community members, and visitors.

Maintain and periodically refresh existing parks in Downtown.

Implement the PRAT Plan as it relates to Downtown.

Encourage street tree maintenance in the public right of way and develop a program to expand the tree canopy in Downtown.

Encourage privately managed pocket parks and green spaces in infill development that can serve occupants.

Consider adding a small (less than 3 acres) urban parks category to City managed parks in order to allow the private sector to develop and convey new public green spaces in Downtown.

Preserve Bluff Views

A location nestled beneath the desert bluffs is an asset in Downtown. Views of bluff features retain this connection to nature and history.

Protect bluffs from additional scarring through the Hillside Ordinance, while still allowing for trail access.

Identify key scenic view corridors and update Downtown zoning to protect views.

Avoid Hazards and Protect Sensitive Lands

Steep slopes on private property in north and southwest portions of Downtown are subject to rockslide and other hazards that have resulted in condemnation of private development.

Updates to the Hillside Ordinance directed in the General Plan Connected to Nature Element should include consideration of any provisions specific to Downtown.