Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2018 08 13

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Aaron DeJong From: Kron, Norman F. "Rick" <rkron@spencerfane.com> Sent: Thursday, August 2, 2018 3:20 PM To: Steven Fisher Cc: Aaron DeJong; Blake Welch; Caleb Dickinson; Ciel Lawrence (ciel.lawrence@icloud.com); Cindy Mueller; Jenni Hlawatsch; Justen Staufer; Justin McClure; Katie Zoss; Larry Meyer; Marilyn Davenport Subject: Louisville Downtown Business Association - Project Suggestions Steve: Thank you for your attendance and positive comments at the LDBA Board meeting. This email follows up on the conversation that we had concerning potential downtown projects, some of which may be of interest to the LRC. 1. Retail Support. Although I do not know whether the LRC can, or wants to, address the issue, the retail sector in downtown needs support. Rents and increased property tax charges resulting from increased property values threaten the viability of downtown retailers. There was a recent newspaper article about this issue on the Pearl Street Mall, and the same cost issue that is arising there exists here. Answers are difficult, but seem to revolve around money and support. Money could take the form of various business tax relief. Support could include "Shop Louisville" and other marketing assistance to expand our retail clientele. Assistance with internet marketing (as has been very successful for Wildwood Music) could help our retailers as well. 2. Parking. (a) The LDBA supports the Voltage land swap for both its current public benefits (13 parking spaces, additional commercial activity, etc.) and potential future benefits (above or underground parking), even if the garage is not completed. (b) The LDBA supports the LRC's parking study and would be happy to review and comment on drafts and the final results as requested by the LRC. (c) The LDBA supports better parking signage (and applauds recent improvements), utilization of existing spaces (such as 2-3 hour time limits, opening private lots to public use, and better employee parking options), and perhaps a "parking app" to help customers find existing spaces. 3. Appearance and Streetscape. (a) The Chase Bank building and City Hall have very similar architecture, but City Hall has a much more pleasant and friendly appearance. Why? Because City Hall has far better landscaping, with trees, seasonal flowers, and art (the Miner's statue). Chase Bank should be approached and encouraged to revitalize its frontage on the corner. Trading a couple of parking spaces for trees and adding other features could greatly improve the site. i