Page 87 - Plano, TX Heritage Preservation Plan

TECHNOLOGY & INFRASTRUCTURE

Description
Historic infrastructure and transportation elements often contribute to the
heritage resources of a community. While infrastructure improvements
sometimes call for a change in the built environment that surrounds them,
policies and actions set in Plano Tomorrow’s pillars and components support
continued preservation and conservation of Plano’s heritage resources, existing
subdivisions, and important open spaces. One such example of remaining
historic infrastructure is the Interurban Railway station. The remaining building
is the only substation still in existence on this railroad line. Despite the success
of the Interurban Railway Station, the city’s infrastructure is aging and will need
to be updated and/or replaced in order to keep pace with new development
that is quickly moving into the city. Cell towers and automotive technologies The DART Light Rail
threaten Plano’s historic neighborhoods. As such, the city must determine how
to appropriately plan for new technologies that will accommodate growth
while respecting the historic character of individual resources and historic
districts.

Summary of Issues

A Few pieces of historic infrastructure remain and where they do still exist,
they are not factored into the development of new infrastructure to
consider compatibility.
A The design of new infrastructure components is not sensitive to historic
neighborhoods.

Technology & Infrastructure Policy Statement
Accommodate new infrastructure and technologies that respect the character
of Plano’s historic resources.

Recommendations

A Develop clear policies to require the proposal of all new infrastructure
or maintenance of existing infrastructure to consider historic areas and
features.
A Encourage visible infrastructure, utilities, and facilities, such as lamp posts An electric vehicle charging station
and bus stops, to be appropriately designed in historic areas.
A As new technological innovations emerge, such as telecommunication
and automotive technologies, create policies and regulations to limit
potential negative impacts on Plano’s historic resources.

Satellites added to the roof of a historic building

november 2018 chapter 6: Issues and Recommendations 87