Below is a photo montage of Paseo del Pueblo Sur as it enters the historic district at Quesnel. The first photo is as we find it today. As the subsequent slides build, you'll begin to see a depiction of how the pictured area could reasonably be redeveloped under the new SmartCode ordinance. What's key is that everything in the photo complies with the code being customized for Taos. No variances would be required. For anyone looking to work their way through the administrative process with the fewest possible obstacles, this is the type of development that would result.

Keep in mind that the photos depict an area that would be zoned T5 under the SmartCode. Each of the other four zones (T1 - T4) have their own respective rules and, as a result, their own respective character in keeping with Taos traditions.

This T5 example relates specifically to goals voiced by the community via the Vision 2020 plan, meetings with town officials and interested citizens, one-on-one interviews, website comments, and many informal conversations. An explanation of how the various details relate on a case-by-case basis can be found below the photos.

Town Goal:
Maintain historic character and authenticity

SmartCode Solution:
The pictured area will be zoned T5 under the SmartCode, which means it will be coded to reflect the character of the historic district and plaza, with stronger architectural guidelines to ensure authenticity in design.

Town Goal:
Create a more walkable/bikable environment, while mitigating traffic

SmartCode Solution:
The photo rendering demonstrates a reduction of lane widths and addition of bike lanes while still improving vehicle level of service (LOS, as determined by the state Department of Transportation) from its current grade of F to a grade of C through signal coordination. Furthermore, continuous sidewalks ensure pedestrian comfort.

Town Goal:
Increased commercial viability

SmartCode Solution:
By creating a more compact, walkable environment, the SmartCode encourages pedestrians to linger longer, making the area as a whole a stronger draw for both locals and tourists. Such pedestrian improvements have been proven to increase the viability, and thus profit potential, of small-scale retail.

Town Goal:
Respect for the natural landscape

SmartCode Solution:
Cottonwoods, Artemisias and groundcovers are utilized as median improvements, providing beauty, increased pedestrian comfort and, because they're native to the region, low water consumption.

Town Goal:
Parking alternatives

SmartCode Solution:
The photo rendering includes a proposed parking garage adjacent to the historic district, pictured just beyond the traffic light. It provides the convenience sought by the community but doesn't compromise the pedestrian experience.

Town Goal:
Mixed Use / Living in the historic district

SmartCode Solution:
All buildings shown are coded in the T5 zone for commercial establishments on the first level with office or residential above. This increases historic district living and working options and can aid in keeping the area vibrant in the evenings.

Town Goal:
Increasing affordable housing opportunities

SmartCode Solution:
While affordable housing is not directly addressed in the SmartCode, its focus on mixed use and variety of building types can increase available options. For example, in the photo rendering, second story residential could be developed as rental housing.