You may encounter unfamiliar terms while you learn about the Kirkland 2044 Comprehensive Plan. The following are some definitions to help you better understand the plan and its development process. These definitions are not official and have been simplified. For the official definitions of these terms and other terms you may encounter, please review the glossary within the current Comprehensive Plan.
Critical Areas: Types of areas and ecosystems that the State of Washington has designated as in need of protection from development.
Density: How much housing exists in an area or how many people live in an area.
Development: Adding or changing buildings on a piece of land or changing the way a piece of land is used, including dividing the land into smaller areas of use.
Growth Management: Guiding new development to prevent damage to a community and to boost the benefits of living in that community.
Multimodal Transportation: Includes different types and methods of getting around, including cars, public transit, walking, bicycling, and ride-sharing.
Visioning: Processes involving the public that determine values and ideals for the future of a community
Vision Statement: a summary of the desired character and characteristics of the community 20 years in the future that provides the ultimate goal for community planning and development.
Zoning: designating an area for certain uses, types of construction, and kinds of buildings.