Consultant to Assist with Buckroe Planning

August 9, 2006

A planning firm with experience in the development of urban parks will assist in the planning efforts for Lots B, the city-owned blocks in the Buckroe area.

Originally, the city had planned to use a citizen steering committee in the plan development. However, it became apparent that this new approach would be more efficient in terms of meeting the projects tight time constraints while still assessing citizen participation.

"Public input is an important element of the planning process," said City Manager Jesse Wallace. "This new approach will help expedite the process, while still giving the public sufficient opportunities for input."

The new consultant, LaQuatra Bonci, will work with Urban Design Associates, creators of the original Buckroe Plan, to develop options that will achieve the following objectives:

• Increase the amount of public open space in the Bay front Initiative
• Enhance public access to the public beach
• Provide a wider range of activities and enhance the appeal of the park
• Add additional public parking as close to the park/beach as possible
• Create a critical mass of new housing that will establish momentum for the revitalization of the neighborhood

After working with the professional designers a number of options will be generated. City Council will review the options and select up to three for more detailed analysis and design (Fall 2006).

Once those options have been further developed public hearings will be held for public comment and any changes will go before the Planning Commission.

Finally, City Council will vote on the preferred option by the end of the year and the Buckroe Master Plan will be amended to reflect the changes (Winter 2006).

Currently LaQuatra Bonci is also assisting Urban Design Associates with the Honor Park planning process.