4.13 SR 06-17-2024 - Laserfiche WebLink

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PROJECT APPROACH We believe for downtown Elk River to be successful, it should be a welcoming place that supports and invites a variety of experiences, activities, and attractions, all within walking distance of each other. On any given day, downtown should come alive with the patterns of daily life. While a master plan for downtown cannot dictate or script these experiences, a plan will help create the spaces for memorable experiences and friendly encounters to unfold; it will guide the uses and design of private development by setting clear and achievable expectations. We propose a team approach that will leverage the knowledge and experience of subject matter experts. The plan we create with you will be both aspirational and achievable. It will be a road map to an encompassing idea about what downtown can become. It will be based on sound analysis, design fundamentals, and an open and creative process that defines necessary actions, projects, and initiatives necessary to create a dynamic and vibrant downtown for years to come. To realize this aspiration, our approach is based on the following factors. We view these as key to a successful project approach and delivery: PROJECT APPROACH KNOWLEDGE -SHARING CONSENSUS BUILDING Elk River's greatest wealth is in its people, who we anticipate will bring an array of insight and curiosity. Leveraging this resource means making room for both general engagement and targeted information -sharing to dig deeper into topics of interest. We used targeted stakeholder engagement, such as with brokers and developers, to ensure a variety of input is gathered to reach a well-informed consensus on the best path forward CONNECTION MAPPING The downtown area is connected, and encumbered by, physical and economic networks locally, regionally, and beyond. Our approach looks at the relationships and dependencies, using quantitative and qualitative data, to demonstrate the significance of downtown, and determine what changes would mean at all levels. CHARACTER DEFINING SCENARIOS The transitional nature of the downtown means there is likely significant latitude in exploring options towards defining this as a cohesive place. This will include exploration of design scenarios that consider options for land use, public realm, infrastructure, natural amenities, and other improvements necessary to reinforce a unique sense of place while remaining responsive to the existing and surrounding character. PUBLIC/PRIVATE INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK Our team will ensure this project is grounded in an understanding of broader market realities, and the specific disposition of properties within the study area. In addition to addressing the technical aspects of the downtown vision, we will also look for implementation opportunities and tools to both meet and exceed expectations. 2024 DOWNTOWN SMALL AREA PLAN I ELK RIVER, MN 3 j Page 93 of 32