2005-06-22 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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I I Experience & References On the following pages, we present descriptions of some recent planning projects that exemplify SRF's work with communities across the Twin Cities. r r: r.~ " St. Michael Downtown Plan Reference: MtJrt J. Weigle, City Pl4nn<r/EDA Direaar . City of St. Mitb8el' !II JO Ltmder Ave NE. St. Mitb"e~ MN JH76' 76:1.497.2041 St. Michael began experiencing a population boom in the late 1990" and, according to growth projections, the community will more than double over the next 25 years. This phenomenal population growth has challenged the City in many ways, including planning the future of their downtown. An emphasis 'llIfIS plated an creating 1m appealing, walWle pltut fir St. Michael residents to enjrIJ fir [ mtmy years. In 2003, the City Council began working with SRF to develop a Downtown Plan that sets a vision '"' fur the coming decades. A key part of the planning effort was preserving the downtowns unique character, which includes the historic St. Michael church, schools, recreation center, and locally significant businesses. One of the City's primary concerns was managing traffic at an increasingly busy intersection in the heart of downtown. A citizen's committee considered possible alternatives for downtown streets and furore development. Access to and retention of existing businesses and a welcoming environment for pedestrians were among the group's most important criteria for the plan. - ~ Approved by the City Council in 20M, the plan guides the expansion of Downtown, calling for new offices, retail, and residences and a possible addition to the St. Michael Elementary School. It also provides the most advantageous parking and access layout for e:risting business while maintaining key local landmarks. The emphasis on creating an appealing, walkable place ensures that Downtown St. Michael will continue to be a place for residents to meet and mingle in the years to come. Columbia Heights Downtown Master Plan The City of Columbia Heights asked SRF to prepare a master redevelopment plan to improve the image and vitality of their downtown. The area includes the traditional downtown commercial core, City Hall and Community Center area, and adjacent neighborhoods. An Advisory Task: Force, including citizens and SRF staff, established objectives and developed a vision for recommendation to the City Council. The Task: Force began its work by: · Analyzing the physical, demographic, and market factors impacting the study area. lP "b Centerville Downtown Redevelopment MASTER PLAN 4