Title
Options for Addressing Issues in the Area of the Stephen Foster Neighborhood (B)
The City Commission is requested to consider options to identify and fund needed capital improvements in the Area of the Stephen Foster Neighborhood. **ESTIMATED STAFF PRESENTATION 15 MINUTES**
Explanation
On August 6, 2015, the City Commission considered creating a new Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Area in Northwest Gainesville. Attachment 1 is a map of the area considered. Although the City Commission voted 7-0 to forgo a new CRA Area, the Commission instructed staff to research and develop options to identify and fund needed capital improvements in the area.
Even though a Blight Finding Study indicated that the area met the State’s definition of “blight”, there has been some recent investment, both public and private, in the area. Most of the private sector investments can be placed into one of two categories: 1) environmental remediation and landscaping of residential properties between the Koppers Superfund Site and NW 6th Street; and 2) upgrades to the retail areas along NW 13th Street.
The City has also invested in this area. Attachment 2 is a matrix identifying recently completed (up to 3 to 5 years ago), in progress and planned City projects and initiatives within the area. For the planned projects, the matrix also gives information about the costs and availability of funds for the project.
In terms of identifying and prioritizing needed improvements, once the City has reviewed existing plans and reports, the City should gather information from all stakeholders within the area, including residents, property owners and business owners. There are several techniques such as neighborhood meetings, mailed surveys, in-person surveys and others, that are effective for gathering this information. In order to crosscheck the results, the City should use at least two of the techniques. City departments should then compile the information gathered into a clear...
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