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“Main
Street is everyone’s hometown”
~ Disneyworld Ad Slogan
~ Disneyworld Ad Slogan
New York State’s historic downtown areas are one of its greatest resources. The combination of history, architecture, government, and commercial activity make each one unique. However, many downtown areas are facing common problems such as vacant or underutilized buildings, deteriorated storefronts, and diminished economic activity.
In order to address these issues, communities should take steps to preserve and enhance the appearance of their downtown area while promoting it as a good place to do business. The creation of design guidelines and a sincere focus on increasing economic activity has been proven to revitalize traditional commercial areas.
- Design Guidelines - The most attractive downtowns are typically the result
of strong regulatory code language and flexible design recommendations. An
example of appropriate code language includes “All buildings in the downtown
zoning district shall have zero (0’) setback from the street (i.e. be placed
up to the sidewalk).”
By comparison, flexible design recommendations allow for creative interpretation, such as “doors or recessed corners may be set back from the sidewalk in order to create a variation in the building’s facade.”
- Economic Activity - The primary focus of any economic development effort should be to increase the incomes of businesses already operating in a community. As a result, an effective strategy should include recommendations on how to enhance local businesses while attempting to attract new enterprises.
The Main Street Institute is an excellent resource for information on downtown design and economic revitalization efforts from across the nation.
The Steinmetz Planning Group will work closely with elected officials and local businesses to craft design guidelines or an economic revitalization strategy to improve your community’s appearance and vitality
