Notes from Town Square: Planning with the URA

As 2015 comes to a close, we begin looking ahead to next year and all that we’d like to accomplish.

The Green River Urban Renewal/Main Street Agency will have their strategic planning session in January to set the goals of the organization. One thing we know we will be working on in 2016, is developing an Urban Renewal Plan for the Central Business District in downtown Green River. The city has been awarded a Business Ready Community Planning Grant from the Wyoming Business Council for the purpose of completing this plan.

Why do we need another plan?

The purpose of this project is to develop a planning and implementation process to be used to revitalize the Central Business District. To achieve this, the agency must develop and adopt an Urban Renewal Plan, according to state statute 15-9-107.

Downtown reflects the overall health of the community. This plan will provide a road-map for the creation of opportunities for small business development. Economic development will be enhanced as it helps to improve the quality of life of the residents, and the future health, safety and welfare of the community. The historical character of the community will also be preserved.

The goals and objectives of this plan will focus on revitalization efforts within the boundary which include historic preservation projects, community programs, zoning, special tax districts, incentives and volunteer involvement.

As stated above, in order for a municipality to utilize the Wyoming Urban Development Statute, this plan is a required step in the prescribed process. Additionally, this plan is critical to creating a workable and attainable course of action toward downtown revitalization.

Equally importantly, this plan will serve as a motivational tool, fueling the efforts of the board and giving clear direction to the volunteers that are working hard to revitalize the community.

Now more than ever the city needs to move forward with economic development efforts and this plan is a key component to unlocking great opportunities ahead.

If you have any questions regarding the URA/Main Street Agency or this plan, please do not hesitate to contact Jennie Melvin, URA/Main Street Administrator at 307.872.0592, or jmelvin@cityofgreenriver.org.