The framework is a set of guiding principles that provides standards for formulating and evaluating proposals for future land use changes.  These principles were shaped by shared goals, the opportunities and challenges of achieving these goals, and an understanding of the entire corridor.

The meeting focused on identifying parameters for density, height and waterfront access that balance a variety of goals in areas where mixed use would be appropriate.  These parameters could help to encourage cleanup and redevelopment of sites while balancing among a variety of goals, including: 

• Establishing limits on building heights, especially near existing low-scale housing
• Ensuring harmonious relationship between waterfront open space and new buildings
• Including opportunities for application of Inclusionary Housing program

The prospect of redevelopment of sites on the canal creates an opportunity to achieve public access at the canal's edge. The framework identifies parameters for the creation of public open space at the canal’s edge in conjunction with residential and commercial developments. The framework suggests providing pedestrian connections between adjacent neighborhoods and the canal as well as maintaining visual corridors from the street grid to the canal.  The design of waterfront open space should respond to the unique conditions of waterfront sites. 

The framework identifies parameters for height and density based on the specific conditions of each block identified as having potential for mixed use. The framework recommends that maximum densities generally be similar to those of nearby zoning districts. On canal blocks, it includes recommendations for varied limits on height to balance the need to address unique site conditions and the range of overall framework goals, including promoting affordable housing opportunities and considering neighborhood context.