Working Groups (October): Key Strategies and Precedents

On October 23rd and 25th, the second round of working group meetings took place, featuring three virtual sessions that included presentations and interactive discussions focused on the core plan elements: People, Housing, and Neighborhood. The role of these working groups is to build upon the input, insights, and feedback gathered from residents during community meetings and surveys, ultimately shaping strategies, projects, and programs.

These sessions concentrated on brainstorming key strategies and reviewing precedents based on previous discussions around community challenges and desired outcomes. At the end of each breakout session, participants reconvened to collectively share their group’s key takeaways.

For the People element, participants shared strategies on education, wellness, safety, and employment. Proposed initiatives included low-cost programs for all ages focused on post-graduation success and career mentorship, free digital literacy training, and expanded access to technology resources such as free Wi-Fi and computer rooms. Holistic health initiatives, like trauma-informed services and group fitness classes, were also highlighted. Safety was a priority, with residents suggesting a neighborhood watch program, improved lighting, and enhanced security systems. Supporting local businesses was another key focus, with ideas for entrepreneurship programs, cultural events, and employment resource guides.

For the Housing element, strategies included the creation of multi-use indoor and outdoor community spaces, such as community kitchens. Discussions on homeownership emphasized connecting residents with financial literacy and credit repair programs, drawing on successful models for homeownership education from other cities.

The Neighborhood element discussions identified high-risk intersections, like Highland Avenue, where future improvements could include creative placemaking, additional green space, and tree planting. Participants shared ideas for using recreational open spaces to engage neighbors and increase awareness of resources in The Hollow. A key suggestion was fostering partnerships between local organizations and businesses to offer services such as neighborhood tours and transportation to nearby amenities. Finally, participants highlighted the importance of community belonging and proposed expanding arts programming and creating spaces for community art installations at non-profits and community centers.

The working group sessions illuminated essential strategies for neighborhood revitalization. Next steps include continued strategy development, followed by additional community and group meetings to begin drafting the plan.

Recordings of these meetings can be accessed at the following links:

Working Group: People

Friday, October 25th, 2024, 9-00-11:30 pm

(1) Recording 1: Main Room + Breakout Group #1

(2) Recording 2: Breakout Group #2


Working Group: Housing

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, 9:00-10:30 am

(1) Recording 1: Main Room + Breakout Group #1

(2) Recording 2: Breakout Group #2


Working Group: Neighborhood

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, 12:00-1:30 pm

(1) Recording 1: Main Room + Breakout Group #1

(2) Recording 2: Breakout Group #2

Share Working Groups (October): Key Strategies and Precedents on Facebook Share Working Groups (October): Key Strategies and Precedents on Twitter Share Working Groups (October): Key Strategies and Precedents on Linkedin Email Working Groups (October): Key Strategies and Precedents link