The purpose of this overlay zone is to implement the policies of the City’s General Plan, with special emphasis on ensuring the cultural, economic, and general welfare of the community. The Rio Nuevo Area (RNA) is a subdistrict of the Downtown Infill Incentive District which promotes harmonious development within the district; creates and enhances the Downtown pedestrian environment; and celebrates Tucson’s rich historic, cultural, and artistic heritage. The design principles, categories, and standards referenced in this section are intended to promote public-private partnerships to support quality development within the Rio Nuevo Area, as well as enliven and revitalize the Downtown. Development within the RNA must comply with the required design standards in this section.
Diversity, design in context, and accessibility are the design principles that form the basis for the specific design standards to be applied to new projects in the Rio Nuevo and Downtown areas.
- Diversity is the incorporation of all of the prehistoric, historic, and cultural elements that make up Tucson’s urban form and context. This principle forms the basis for the specific design standards, including building character and materials, that reflect the indigenous influence of the Sonoran Desert region and culture. The intent of this design principle is not to prescribe architectural style, materials, or form but to encourage innovation in contemporary design.
- Design in Context is the recognition that Tucson is a unique desert southwestern City. New buildings should also translate into contemporary form the basic principles that contribute to historic structures and other structures in and around the Site Context - Development Zone, as well as addressing the Regional and Community Context.
- Accessibility includes three dimensions. The first is physical mobility for pedestrians, including physically disabled pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and private cars, provided by an efficient and pleasant circulation system. The second is visual, retaining physical amenities such as viewsheds, open space, and visual connections to the mountains and the Santa Cruz River. The third is informational and educational, including access to information and ideas.
Upon request from an applicant, the PDSD Director may allow modifications to multiple development regulations for projects within the Rio Nuevo Area. All proposals are reviewed by the Design Review Board, which makes a recommendation to the PDSD Director. See UDC sections 5.12.7 for more information about the Rio Nuevo Area design standards and process.