What is Planning Support?
Planning support involves an understanding of a neighborhood or community, setting a direction and goals for growth and sustainability, and identifying strategies, programs, and projects to achieve those goals. Effective planning allows businesses and governments to create a roadmap for their activities, make informed decisions, assess risks, analyze the impact of external factors, and ensure the achievement of goals. Effective planning also involves real input from residents, businesses and other stakeholders.
Facilitating Planning Support in Our Downtowns
We are committed to providing robust planning support to the communities of Franklin County. Effective planning creates a clear roadmap that practitioners and policymakers can use to identify and take the necessary steps to realize their desired economic vision. This structured approach ensures that every decision is made with a clear understanding of its impact and contribution to the overall goals.
Spotlight on Success: Malone Downtown Strategic Plan
A prime example of successful planning support is the Village of Malone Downtown Strategic Plan (DSP). This detailed plan serves as an implementation guidebook for executing the projects and programs that will achieve the Village’s downtown revitalization goals.
The DSP includes:
- Public Projects — Enhancements such as parks, signage, and streetscape elements.
- Built Environment — Improvements to privately owned buildings.
- Community Initiatives — Efforts in branding and beautification.
- Policies and Programs — Strategies for enforcement and funding applications.
Additionally, the DSP identifies a list of funding sources, committed organizations, timelines, and designs for development. This plan builds upon the Malone Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, a document adopted in 2012 that identified community wide assets, goals, and needs. The community is now using the plan to secure grant funding to support the completion of priority projects.
By providing comprehensive planning support, we empower our communities to make informed decisions that drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life for all residents.
