Rural Character
This character results from the cultural and historic use of the region for agricultural purposes. The roadways are typical of unincorporated areas or old township roads and are informal, evoking a sense of the past prior to development.
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Application of generous setbacks ranging from 100 to 200 feet
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Integration of open views and vistas into adjacent development perhaps greater than 200 feet in some areas to increase the sense of openness
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Provision of informal landscaping that focuses on native plant species and naturalized forms (meadows, wildflowers, grasses, wetland areas etc.)
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Use of trees, fencerows and woodland plantings to provide additional screening and sense of enclosure
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Preservation of historic farmsteads, barns or outbuildings that emphasize the agrarian history of the area
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Creation of meandering bike paths and sidewalks that are informally designed as to not be entirely visible from the roadway
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Design of naturalized ponds with aquatic plants and informal edges
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Use of stone walls and split rail fences that are traditionally used in the countryside
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Integration of “rural” road design that may include berms, swales and/or variable medians
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Provision of shared entrances to minimize curbcuts and maintain openness