Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2024 05 22

Home Browse Search

Revitalization Commission Minutes April 17, 2024 Page 5 of 9 Councilmember Dickinson commented on street crossings and asked if Front Street was redesigned as proposed would anyone want to undo it for a future parking lot. He didn't think that would be the case, but noted that, as a community, we have to solve the parking issue. Councilmember Dickinson expressed supports for the different uses of the space and would put the most emphasis on the design, thinking about the farmer's market, Street Faire, ice rink, etc. He asked where the ice rink would go if we have a lawn. He asked if Steinbaugh is a necessary structure and suggested removing the pavilion as it stands. He suggested getting community input on this suggestion and noted that assuming it will remain is limiting for the space. He also asked for clarification on how the park plays into this vision. The MIG representative noted that the park is still there and it will be shown for context in future presentations. He commented that a stage could be reconfigured at the north end of the space and the park could be part of the green area to enlarge the park and incorporate the space more fully. He noted that automated barriers could be installed for farmers market, etc. at South and Spruce streets. Louisville Resident and DBA President Rick Kron commented that he supports mid -block pedestrian crossings. He requested a meeting for the DBA to meet with the consultants about the plan. He also expressed concern about Front Street parking and removing parking at the library which would block the current underground parking. He still does not support the HWY 42 underpass. He asked how drainage works on a curbless street and requested a drainage flow diagram. Mike Kranzdorf, not a Louisville resident, expressed support for starting with Front Street and making it more pedestrian friendly. He asked the consultants to consider traffic flow on one way streets during events such as Street Faire and farmer's market. He supports moving the Steinbaugh Pavilion to the north and agreed that there is nothing special about the pavilion. He suggested that the park be included in the design and changed if needed to make the space more productive. He asked where the suggestion of having food trucks 6 months out of the year came from. The MIG representative commented that this is just an idea and that he would not be surprised to get pushback from the restaurant community on this concept. Mr. Kranzdorf noted that he would like Pine Street to be considered as a great entry point to downtown and designed accordingly. He noted that the Plaza downtown could also use some love. Property Improvement Program Direction The EV Manager presented a draft of the Property Improvement Program and requested final direction on this program and what parameters the LRC wants to set forward with the intent to set limits and a reimbursement structure so we can build marketing materials and present it to the public. This is for an interior improvement program as requested by the LRC. The LRC's mission is to eliminate blight. With this in mind and considering the rising vacancies, the LRC feels there is a complementary program to the already existing programs that will assist in addressing blight. $350,000 is included in the 2024 budget for this program to begin as a pilot. This program would include a component for new or expanding businesses and a component for existing businesses with the intent of making permanent improvements to the building interior and infrastructure. The intent of the program is for upgrades and necessities that make the building function in today's market, and not meant to be aesthetic in nature. For example, this could pay for a build out of space, including walls, utility relocation, ADA improvements, etc., which make the space function within the existing blueprint. It is not meant to be for paint or removable fixtures nor is it intended to address true deferred maintenance.