Scribe: Martha Woodroof
Convener: Bibb Frazier Clementine B 2:15
Attendees: Alexis Morehouse, Eddie Bumbaugh, Ande Banks, Dereck Criner, Joshua Hahn, Brian Shull, David Denman, Alan Finks, Benjamin Meredith, Jonah Pence, Matt Robertson, Roger Bryant, Becky Bartells. John Reeves, Joe Grandstaff, Mitchell Ball, Tip Parker, Charles Strickler, Cathy Strickler, Sam Nickels
Harrisonburg City has an excellent credit rating, as does the state of Virginia, so, as the economy continues to improve, Harrisonburg can expect increasing investment by private capital.
Bibb Frazier began by suggesting that most of future downtown development will take place through public/private partnerships. Private developers, who want to make money on these projects, will be working in partnership with city government that wants to create a downtown that remains an attractive place to live, work, and play.
A recent study was brought up in which city residents were asked what made them feel connected to their community. Number 1 on the list was green space — recreational space that also offered entertainment.
The consensus was that a connected series of green spaces (pocket parks and a more open-air Blacks Run) needs to be a part of future downtown development. The group talked of ways to help citizens visualize the presence and importance of green space downtown, and also to realize the importance of calling for it clearly in Harrisonburg’s Comprehensive Plan, which has been undergoing revision and will shortly be presented for public comment. 1-publicize the upcoming comment period for the comprehensive plan revision and educate Harrisonburg residence on the importance of reviewing the plan carefully and attending the public comment sessions.
2-create displays downtown that will help citizens visualize future green space development.
