The Downtown Anderson Plan presents recommendations for private development and streetscape improvements from Towne Center Way to Asbury Road on Beechmont Avenue. It was created to facilitate a new style of development and bring a greater neighborhood feel to “Main Street” in Anderson Township, Ohio.
Recommendations included improvements related to creation of plazas, amenities including landscaping, reconfiguration of travel lanes to introduce sidewalks, street lighting and other enhancements for a more “downtown” character.
The plan establishes the area as the Township economic and civic center, providing residents and visitors walkable, connected experiences, public spaces activated by retail, civic functions, employment and housing, by creating:
– A unique, downtown character
– A walkable, accessible pedestrian-oriented environment by narrowing road lanes, making room for sidewalks, pedestrian-scale lighting, and trees
– Vibrant, active outdoor gathering spaces
– Guided redevelopment of existing properties oriented towards “open spaces”
The plan was unique as it was led by corridor business owners. Collaboration between planning commission and ODOT was critical. Upon adopting the plan July 2013, the Township won a $1.5M grant in 2015 to construct public streetscape enhancements. In addition, The Kroger Company built 20,000 SF of retail and plaza. Through public and private partnerships, a substantial portion has been constructed within 5 years of adoption, followed by redevelopment of several parcels in the area.
Downtown Anderson Plan encompasses every variable to capitalize on private investment and targeted public improvements.