Now, the City of Suwanee is poised to update its 2002 Old Town Master Plan in order to determine how best to create a unique synergy for its dual-personality downtown area.
"We want to find a way to merge these two areas," says Planning Director Josh Campbell. "Our desire is that both of these areas - these two sides of downtown Suwanee's personality - be compatible and tied to one another."
The City of Suwanee will contract with Ecos Environmental Design, an Atlanta-based landscape architecture, urban design, and planning services firm, to lead the 6- to 9-month downtown master planning process. Throughout the process, Ecos will collaborate with other firms: Market & Main will focus on housing; URS will concentrate on transportation issues; and architectural firm Smith Dalia also will consult. The cost for this downtown master plan will be about $85,000.
Consultants will work with City staff and a steering committee comprised of 12-15 residents, business owners, and other stakeholders as well as rely on public input in order to create the new master plan.
The process is expected to begin in September with the first of five community meetings anticipated for October. Community meetings will be open to Suwanee residents and downtown stakeholders. These meetings, notes Campbell, will offer opportunities for citizen involvement through review and input.
Says Campbell: "Despite the success of Town Center, we have some challenges in our downtown area. The master planning process will help us identify strategies for addressing these challenges and embracing new opportunities."
Part of Old Town Suwanee.
Part of New Town Suwanee.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/8/212769