Residents help shape the future of Newcastle's downtown at a workshop.
Planning for Progress
For many years, residents have envisioned a more active, vibrant downtown. The city's current Community Business Center Master Plan, containing this vision, was adopted over 16 years ago. Unexpected economic changes have taken place that are driving development. Newcastle is quickly growing, and so is its downtown. Strategies established today can ensure downtown grows into an even better place - a community centerpiece reflecting everything that makes Newcastle unique.
An effort to create an updated vision called the Downtown Newcastle Strategic Plan is in full swing. The first step was to compile data concerning economic and demographic conditions. View the BERK report and its appendices completed last year. The city recently engaged the community in a discussion about the downtown area with an involvement process that included a drop-in center, walking tours, workshops and a survey. Newcastle's Planning Commission is now working with staff to develop an updated plan and specific actions designed to improve downtown. Commissioners will forward recommendations to the City Council that could include zoning modifications, city code revisions or suggestions on how the city can work in tandem with developers to create inviting spaces and amenities that the community wants. View the Downtown Newcastle Strategic Plan website to see survey results and other information.
You can begin or continue your participation in the process by attending Planning Commission meetings. Commissioners will be discussing the downtown every fourth Wednesday of the month at Newcastle City Hall starting at 7 p.m. You can also email your thoughts or questions to Thara Johnson, Senior Planner, [email protected].