Where are we in the process?

This was the first of three public meetings. We introduced the goals for updating the Comprehensive Plan, the timeline (meetings on Aug 4 and Aug 18), and how your input informs draft updates that go to Planning Commission and City Council.

Why update the plan?

Central City faces declining visitation, aging infrastructure, and many underused commercial spaces. The update aims to protect what’s historic, improve safety and utilities, and enable right-sized, high-quality development that helps pay for the essentials residents rely on.

What we presented:

• Stability & change. We mapped areas of stability (historic core) and areas of change where new investment fits the terrain and services.
• “Villages” approach. Make it easy to walk/roll inside each area and connect them with trails and streets.
• Digital twin. A 3D model of the city that helps everyone see how things work today and test what-if scenarios.
• Design & code updates. Clear height/step-back rules, materials guidance, and view-shed protections—so new buildings fit without pretending to be old.
• Utilities & safety. Plans to loop the water system, repair storm lines, and improve redundancy for emergency access.

What we heard

• Protect our historic character. Keep the district authentic; let new buildings be compatibly contemporary (not faux-historic).
• Fix the basics. Residents want visible progress on roads, water, and public safety.
• Bring the energy back. Support eclectic shops, family-friendly activities, and better connections to trails.

What happens next

• We’ll publish a Design & Preservation explainer showing how the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards work alongside local design rules.
• Draft form-based design controls (heights, step-backs, materials, frontage types) will be posted for comment before Meeting #2.
• We’re building a maintenance & safety scoreboard so you can track near-term fixes.
• Meeting #2 (Aug 4) focuses on concepts; Meeting #3 (Aug 18) covers infrastructure and engineering