Okay, but really...WHY a Neighborhood Plan?
A Neighborhood Plan is a formal document that records the goals and visions that the residents have for the neighborhood. In short, it:
Creates and confirms neighborhood identity, goals, and vision
Helps guide policy decisions that impact the neighborhood
Is used as a tool for community investment projects
Demonstrates to City leaders that the neighborhood is united
Here are a few examples in which a Neighborhood Plan can be valuable:
A developer has plans for a site in Kennedy Heights. The development will increase vehicular traffic, includes bright flashing signs, and aims for a liquor license. If the Neighborhood Plan has clearly stated parameters around pedestrian safety, an ideal quantity of liquor-licensed institutions, and expectations for electronic signage, those parameters can be shown to the City of Cincinnati. Because it is a formal document showing neighborhood-wide agreement, it will have greater influence over whether or not the development happens.
A resident wants to convert a vacant lot into a community space. The Neighborhood Plan can not only indicate whether or not the resident’s plans align with the visions of their neighbors, but it can provide basic information to guide the resident in achieving their plans: who to reach out to, how to communicate their ideas with residents, etc.
Another developer has plans for a site, but is short on the funds to purchase the full property. If the plans align with the Neighborhood Plan, the developer and the Community Council and the Development Corp can make a stronger case as to why the project should receive additional funding from the City or other grants, and make it more likely to move forward.
Kennedy Heights’ last Comprehensive Community Plan was passed in 2003. According to the City of Cincinnati, these kinds of plans are expected to have a 5-15 year shelf life—we are long overdue for an update! We had hoped to be much farther in the planning process by this point in 2020, but COVID had other plans. We are now trying to gain lost ground, but we need YOUR help!
If we are to create a plan that truly reflects the ideals and dreams of our residents, we need YOU. Visit this website to learn more about the goals, the process, and most importantly, complete a brief survey that will inform our priorities.
There is still plenty of time to get involved in this process. To learn more, email mary@kennedyheights.org or visit our Planning Website.