NEXT STEPS
The NEXTSTEPS for Downtown (TM) final report for Holly, Michigan has been released. The concept of NEXTSTEPS for Downtown (TM) is to generate fresh ideas for downtown enhancement and revitalization using experts in downtown planning, urban design, parking, and transportation.
The 30-day process begins with an intensive site visit by the consulting team. A walking tour and interaction with officials and downtown merchants and residents is part of the project kick-off. The planning team assembles an illustrated report describing what is working and what is not working downtown. A list of short-term and long-term action strategies (NEXTSTEPS) are developed to guide the community's implementation program. Included is the NEXTSTEPS Best Practices report, which illustrates what is working in other successful downtowns.
The final product is a NEXTSTEPS kit, which includes the report, best practices manual, interactive CD, and worksheets that guide a community through the short-term and long-term action strategies.
The NEXTSTEPS process is a great way for communities to promote economic development and investment on Main Street. Planning in a down economy establishes a framework to build upon the successes of the past and chart a new course for the future.
For more information visit the NEXTSTEPS web site (http://www.nextstepsfordowntown.com). NEXTSTEPS for Downtown (TM) is a service of Birchler Arroyo Associates, Inc., a community planning firm based in Lathrup Village, Michigan. The Village of Holly is a Main Street Oakland County community (http://www.mainstreetholly.com)
