Where are we in the process?

This was our second community session. We introduced the concept of “villages” as a way to organize future change, discussed how Main Street can become more pedestrian-friendly, and explored how trails and transit can better connect the steep parts of town. Your comments here will guide the refinement of a set of concepts at Meeting #3 and inform draft plan updates this fall.

What we presented.

• Stability vs. change. The historic core stays protected as an area of stability. Areas of change focus on growth where it fits the terrain and infrastructure.
• Main Street & arrival. A pedestrian-first block with unified paving and furnishings, plus a ceremonial gateway/roundabout that invites people to stop, park, and explore.
• Villages & sites.

• • Gregory Gulch (active application) can fund and frame a new linear park and public realm.
  • Quartz Hill/T-Lot uses step-down heights (lower near Main, taller stepped back) and a pedestrian bridge with an “adventure walk” so people of all abilities can enjoy the hillside.
  • Academy / Boodle Mill / Winnebago: the right mix of multifamily, duplexes, and single-family where access and services can support it.
  • Mobility & trails. Safer intersections (roundabouts), consistent street types, and a network of trails and gentle-grade paths. A Pulse Gondola concept could link Briggs lot ⇄ downtown ⇄ Academy, expanding car-free access and broadening the visitor base.
•  Preservation with integrity. We’ll protect what’s historic and ensure new buildings are clearly new and high-quality — not faux-historic — so the district stays authentic and alive.

What we heard

• Keep historic character front-and-center — especially near Main Street.
• Improve safety and wayfinding alongside any pedestrianization.
• Make nature and trails easier to reach for everyone, not just strong hikers.
• Ensure new development contributes to infrastructure and public space.

What happens next

• Translate the concepts into clear rules (step-backs, view-shed checks, materials) that applicants must meet.
• Pilot weekend pedestrianization and measure results.
• Advance a gondola feasibility study and a Trails Gaps Plan.
• Update our preservation guidelines so new work is compatible, contemporary, and honest about what’s historic.