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New Hope Corridor Open Space Master Plan <br />2. Development in Areas Suitable for Higher Density <br />There is disparity between the needs of development and the needs of natural <br />areas, but that disparity can be ameliorated by careful and sensitive site <br />planning. Although the lower the density, the easier it is to have less disturbing <br />development, there are portions of the corridor which, by virtue of location, are <br />appropriate for higher density development- -such as residential, office, or other <br />types of commercial development as appropriate for a particular location. In <br />particular, such areas as the Chapel Hill- Durham Boulevard area and the area <br />between the Boulevard and Chapel Hill Road could accommodate higher density. <br />Any development of those areas immediately adjacent to floodplains and steep <br />slopes will require taking the most care, giving the most thought, and fulfilling <br />the highest responsibility. <br />3. Steep Slope Development <br />If development is planned to occur in the area of steep slopes, it is strongly <br />recommended that such development meet stringent performance standards that <br />would result in appropriate erosion control, prevention of washing, and sufficient <br />pollutant removal through filtration. The amount of impervious surfaces should <br />be limited. Vegetative cover should be re- established immediately following any <br />construction. It is further recommended that engineering studies be provided in <br />the site - specific plans to ensure that such standards are met. <br />Sewer and Utility Lane Installation <br />The great and obvious disparity between the introduction of sewer and utility lines and <br />the retention of undisturbed natural areas presents a troubling and very real problem. <br />Yet, both uses are necessary to the public good. Of course, existing sewer and utility <br />line locations should be utilized and, in some instances, there is room for both utilities <br />and natural habitat. The Mud Creek sewer easement would be an excellent location <br />for a paved trail, while the section of New Hope Creek which extends through the <br />wide wildlife protection area from Dry Creek up to Erwin Road, is suitable only for <br />a narrow, unpaved trail and should be kept free of additional sewer and utility lines. <br />