About North Oaks
The North Oaks Neighborhood was platted in 1979. Designed as an attached unit private condominium project, the North Oaks Planned Unit Development contained 48 structures with 175 single family attached units. The North Oaks PUD allowed several variances such as lesser right-of-way widths, inverted crown streets with no storm sewer intakes and limited curb and gutter use, and minimal depth for parking spaces. In addition, the North Oaks PUD allowed decreased side yard setbacks and due to private fencing restricted access to rear yards. Although the approved design allowed a development with higher density, no sidewalks or pedestrian routes were planned or provided in North Oaks.
A neighborhood study was conducted in 2009 because of the significant decline in property values and maintenance. Some of the issues that were discovered are listed below:
- Declining property values
- Inadequate parking
- Dilapidation and deterioration of structures / some boarded up
- Improper subdivision design / obsolete platting
- Inadequate parcel size
- Faulty lot layout
- Unsanitary conditions related to trash and high grass
- High percentage of absentee owners / high percentage of rental units
- Apathy toward litter and property maintenance
- Lack of interest in a neighborhood association
- Lack of play areas
- Suspected drug dealers in the area
- Perception of North Oaks as unsafe at night
Study recommendations included establishing a neighborhood association and implementing programs that would help restore safety and security to the neighborhood and improve neighborhood cohesiveness. Create City policies that would foster positive relationships between residents and City officials. Identify funding for infrastructure improvements. Improve interior lighting. Design and install neighborhood signage. Reduce access points into the neighborhood. Add parking and open space interior to the neighborhood. The main goals of the study are listed below:
- Improve physical conditions of the neighborhood
- Improve safety in the area
- Improve desirability for owner occupied living units
- Instill confidence in police and other City employees
As a result of the study, a conceptual design was also prepared for the neighborhood.
The general tone of the study was somewhat negative however; there were some things that the residents liked about their neighborhood. North Oaks is across from a major recreation area and close to stores. It is centrally located within the boundaries of a high performing school district. Police, fire, library and the hospital are nearby. It provides affordable housing and is on a bus route.
