Posted on April - 22 - 2010
CCC weighs new master plan for Downtown
The Center City Commission took a baby step Friday toward Downtown’s first new master plan since 1987.
The commission approved a 2010-2011 budget proposal reserving $95,000 for a comprehensive plan that’s envisioned as a joint venture with local governments and economic development boosters.
The budget action, which is subject to City Council and County Commission approval, came as officials said the agency will likely run an operating deficit of about $300,000 during the year ending June 30.
The deficit, which will be covered by reserves, resulted from unexpected expenses and revenues falling short of forecasts, finance director Jim Street said.
Board member Stuart McGehee said the board could decide later whether to pursue a master plan. It would be an opportune time, since Jeff Sanford is retiring from the presidency after 12 years on June 30, and a new leader will be settling in.
Sanford said despite more than $5 billion in investment since 1997, probably 60 percent of the area hasn’t been redeveloped.
Senior vice president of planning and development Andy Kitsinger said master plans of limited scope have been done of the Medical Center, the riverfront and elsewhere. A 2006 strategic plan focused on general qualities desired by the community, not the future of buildings, roads and other physical features.
Kitsinger said officials believe a group effort, perhaps involving city and county governments, the Greater Memphis Chamber and others, is appropriate. Issues could include land uses, transportation and development incentives.
For example, what’s the best location for a third bridge over the Mississippi River? Should Downtown’s one-way streets (Second and Third) be restored to two-way traffic? How should the Pyramid neighborhood and Wolf River Harbor be developed? How does Downtown fit into the airport-related economy?
Kitsinger said, “Where were we in 1987? That was before AutoZone Park. It was before all the public and private investment. It’s a different world now.”
–Wayne Risher: 529-2874
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