Downtown Redevelopment Planning

Revitalizing urban spaces gives communities a chance to enhance their strongest features and functionality while still addressing problems and preserving character. While these types of projects are an exciting opportunity, they also present unique challenges. When redeveloping an existing space, you must work within the existing conditions of that space. For example, urban design plans that navigate construction without disturbing nearby properties or traffic can be exceedingly difficult.

But McClure doesn’t shy away from difficult. We work with a team of innovative designers, architects and engineers to create spaces that foster accessibility and community interaction. McClure strives to ensure that each project aligns with the ever-changing needs of the community itself, giving them everything they need to thrive well into the future.

What Is Downtown Redevelopment Planning?

Downtown Redevelopment Planning, also known as urban redevelopment or revitalization planning, is the process of updating existing urban areas. Depending on the scope of the project, that could mean entirely new construction, extensive renovations or just adaptive reuse of existing structures. Finding new uses for these properties and the space itself helps to revitalize the physical, economic, and social fabrics. While the specifics may vary, most downtown planning projects’ key goals is to prevent the decay of a community while boosting its potential for growth.

Here are a few specific recommendations a redevelopment agency might make within a redevelopment planning project.

1. Land Use: To provide structure and clarity, we may propose a strategic plan for effective land use practices. They should allow for sustainable development while preserving the unique character of the area. The community strikes a balance between growth and conservation, leading to a vibrant and well-managed downtown.
2. Transportation: Accessibility is crucial for any urban space wanting to thrive. A plan focusing on transportation may promote active options such as pedestrian-friendly walkways and bike lanes. Additionally, our master plan could suggest installing right-of-way amenities for a more efficient flow of traffic. Such initiatives can encourage more people to explore the downtown, boosting foot traffic and economic activity.
3. Housing: Housing recommendations should advocate for a mix of affordable and market value units, making use of existing property when possible. This approach not only provides diverse housing options, but also helps reduce future vacancies and encourages sustainable urban growth.
4. A Sense of Place: ‘Placemaking’ is a powerful, if intangible, element of any effective redevelopment plan. A firm sense of place can transform abandoned public spaces into dynamic hubs of cultural and economic activity that offer a distinct identity. We draw inspiration from what makes your community stand out, bolstering those features to draw new businesses visitors and residents to the area.

How McClure Approaches Downtown Redevelopment Planning

At McClure, downtown redevelopment starts with a holistic perspective, combining our expertise in the relevant engineering disciplines for greater collaboration. Blending our experience with community leaders and local organizations allows us to create comprehensive and sustainable master plans for each project, even though your needs may be very different.

Because we’re often working within existing spaces, it’s important to make sure our landscape architects and designers are in close contact with these local organizations. This could include municipal governments, key businesses, and nonprofits involved with community development. For example, we’ll take special care to abide by ADA compliance standards to ensure accessibility for everyone.

Environmental conservation is another goal evident in many of our projects. By protecting the environment, we secure the benefits nature can provide for future generations. Specific tasks in these plans could involve preserving wetlands, implementing stormwater management solutions and incorporating sustainable design concepts into the development process.

Case Study – Westside Flats in Kansas City, Missouri

17th and Madison: McClure was involved in the development of a high-end, multifamily complex known as Westside Flats in Kansas City, Missouri. This urban-core mixed housing project aimed to maximize developable space while enhancing the downtown’s skyline. The project showcased our expertise, recommending new amenities like a fitness center or a rooftop terrace for dining options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Downtown Redevelopment Planning

Revitalizing urban spaces gives communities a chance to enhance their strongest features and functionality while still addressing problems and preserving character. While these types of projects are an exciting opportunity, they also present unique challenges. When redeveloping an existing space, you must work within the existing conditions of that space. For example, urban design plans that navigate construction without disturbing nearby properties or traffic can be exceedingly difficult.

But McClure doesn’t shy away from difficult. We work with a team of innovative designers, architects and engineers to create spaces that foster accessibility and community interaction. McClure strives to ensure that each project aligns with the ever-changing needs of the community itself, giving them everything they need to thrive well into the future.

What Is Downtown Redevelopment Planning?

Downtown Redevelopment Planning, also known as urban redevelopment or revitalization planning, is the process of updating existing urban areas. Depending on the scope of the project, that could mean entirely new construction, extensive renovations or just adaptive reuse of existing structures. Finding new uses for these properties and the space itself helps to revitalize the physical, economic, and social fabrics. While the specifics may vary, most downtown planning projects’ key goals is to prevent the decay of a community while boosting its potential for growth.

Here are a few specific recommendations a redevelopment agency might make within a redevelopment planning project.

1. Land Use: To provide structure and clarity, we may propose a strategic plan for effective land use practices. They should allow for sustainable development while preserving the unique character of the area. The community strikes a balance between growth and conservation, leading to a vibrant and well-managed downtown.
2. Transportation: Accessibility is crucial for any urban space wanting to thrive. A plan focusing on transportation may promote active options such as pedestrian-friendly walkways and bike lanes. Additionally, our master plan could suggest installing right-of-way amenities for a more efficient flow of traffic. Such initiatives can encourage more people to explore the downtown, boosting foot traffic and economic activity.
3. Housing: Housing recommendations should advocate for a mix of affordable and market value units, making use of existing property when possible. This approach not only provides diverse housing options, but also helps reduce future vacancies and encourages sustainable urban growth.
4. A Sense of Place: ‘Placemaking’ is a powerful, if intangible, element of any effective redevelopment plan. A firm sense of place can transform abandoned public spaces into dynamic hubs of cultural and economic activity that offer a distinct identity. We draw inspiration from what makes your community stand out, bolstering those features to draw new businesses visitors and residents to the area.

How McClure Approaches Downtown Redevelopment Planning

At McClure, downtown redevelopment starts with a holistic perspective, combining our expertise in the relevant engineering disciplines for greater collaboration. Blending our experience with community leaders and local organizations allows us to create comprehensive and sustainable master plans for each project, even though your needs may be very different.

Because we’re often working within existing spaces, it’s important to make sure our landscape architects and designers are in close contact with these local organizations. This could include municipal governments, key businesses, and nonprofits involved with community development. For example, we’ll take special care to abide by ADA compliance standards to ensure accessibility for everyone.

Environmental conservation is another goal evident in many of our projects. By protecting the environment, we secure the benefits nature can provide for future generations. Specific tasks in these plans could involve preserving wetlands, implementing stormwater management solutions and incorporating sustainable design concepts into the development process.

Case Study – Westside Flats in Kansas City, Missouri

17th and Madison: McClure was involved in the development of a high-end, multifamily complex known as Westside Flats in Kansas City, Missouri. This urban-core mixed housing project aimed to maximize developable space while enhancing the downtown’s skyline. The project showcased our expertise, recommending new amenities like a fitness center or a rooftop terrace for dining options.

Where We Make an Impact

Whether it’s adapting an old building for new apartments or building an event space from scratch, McClure’s Downtown Redevelopment Planning brings vibrancy, sustainability, and economic growth to your areas.