The City has embarked on a process to update the 1999 Downtown Vision Plan and replace it with a new Downtown Strategic Development Plan. There are three major goals:
- Update the vision for the downtown area
- Develop a strategy for the realization of the vision
- Develop a concept for the physical development of downtown
Three Products will be produced:
- Revised vision and action strategies report
- Urban design plan and guidelines
- New implementation regulations, including zoning
Nearly 10 years have passed since the last visioning process. The purpose of the 1999 process was to develop a vision and strategy for downtown Ferguson based on the Main Street Model of downtown revitalization, which includes four main components - economic restructuring, design/appearance, promotion, and organization
Since adoption of that Vision Plan in 1999, many efforts have been made to adhere to its goals and recommendations. The City invested substantial resources in streetscape improvements and established a downtown TIF district. New private redevelopment projects have followed the generalized design guidelines outlined in the 1999 Plan. Although many improvements and enhancements have occurred, downtown Ferguson has yet to attain its full potential.
The goals for the new process will be accomplished through a series of steps, beginning with the appointment of a Steering committee. The project will be facilitated by Terry Jones. The Steering Committee members are:
John Corson, Resident, Plan Commission Member
Michelle Wright, Community Advocate
Gene Stephens, Resident
Beth Thompson, Resident and Business Owner
Joe Lonero, Resident, Business Owner, Developer
Scott Negwar, Business Owner
Aaron Burnett, Resident, Landmarks Commission Member, Consumer
Farzad Faramarzi, Resident, Business Owner
Sue Odell, Resident, Consumer
Brian Fletcher, Mayor
The City Council will participate in the committee on a rotating basis. City staff who will provide technical support include:
John Shaw, City Manager
Sam Anselm, Assistant to the City Manager
Rosalind Williams, Director of Planning & Development
Terry O'Neil, Director of Public Works
Dave Smith, Director of Parks & Recreation
Beth von Behren, Public Relations
Ken Barnadyn, Zoning Administrator/Planner
The Steering Committee met on July 1, July 31, and August 21. Focus Groups and an Open House are scheduled in August and September (see schedule below). For more information about the Downtown Strategic Development Plan, contact the Planning and Development Department at 314-524-5197.
