3. CCSR-HRSR 09-04-2012 SPEC JOINT (2)

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II. Illustrative Master Plan The Task Force felt that strengthening the perception of the downtown area was a priority. Introduction and expansion of The planning process which resulted in the Illustrative Master amenities, support systems,and activity are necessary to Plan (Plan) consisted of the following three steps: encourage people to come downtown and businesses to locate in the area. The Task Force understands that the history and 1) Task Force Visioning Process character of the study area,in particular the core downtown area, 2) Gathering of Public&Stakeholder Input is not replaceable. 3) City Board and Commission Review The Plan is a tool for shaping development in a manner Task Force Visioning Process consistent with the vision for the Study Area. The Plan uses a The Task Force met over several months starting in 2006. In variety of illustrations to depict the potential redevelopment and 2006, the planning process identified a number of variables revitalization of the Study Area. dependent on completion of a Highway 10 geometric plan. After determining that these variables were too numerous and The Plan is not a specific blueprint,but rather a series of impactful, the City Council suspended the Task Force,pending concepts and opportunities for change. The actual design of each resolution of the Highway 10 plans. This plan was completed in site will be determined through negotiations between the city and November 2008, the Task Force reconvened in November,2011. private parties seeking to invest in the Study Area. The designation of existing building(s) simply sets a basis for the The 2006 Task Force members had developed a Plan that was initial strategy concept for a site,but should not preclude future nearing formal public comment. Upon reconvening, the 2012 redevelopment. task force, after spending some time identifying their goals, agreeing on assumptions, and developing sketches of key "The Plan is not a specific blueprint,but rather a series of components of a successful downtown environment,broke into concepts and opportunities for change." small design charettes over several months to fine tune the Plan. Recognizing that the triggers to major changes are not likely to The Plan seeks to reinforce and create a variety of connections surface in the near term, the task force focused on enhancing the between the Mississippi River,which is unique to the Study Area, quality and value of the core area,as it relates to the Elk River and the rest of the Elk River community and region. The Plan community. The Task Force believes that the downtown area establishes a development framework to guide the necessary serves as the community center. Visitors through and to the relationships between areas of common and varied uses that are downtown area develop perceptions of the Elk River community important in the Study Area's form and function. The images based on these initial reactions. A vibrant,healthy downtown incorporated within the Plan are intended to provide guidance area strengthens the community by extension. Dr t as of September 4, 2012 - Part II,page 1 -_