The update started in early 2023 and is expected to last until late 2024. The plan helps identify land use, development and redevelopment options, and inform other development-focused plans.
Assistant City Manager Charles Goff said the plan is updated as major development changes occur, and provides a long-term outlook for the city.
“The various components ... are tools utilized for day-to-day decision-making,” Director of Development Services Sam Chavez said.
Zooming in
As part of the update, city staff and consultants have identified five potential areas earmarked for reinvestment. Goff said the areas were a combination of those selected and identified by the community, and those that were part of the 2009 Future Land Use Plan, which is a potential development concept for Richardson.
He added that the update to the plan is needed because of population and zoning changes along with new development in Richardson.
Steve A. Klein, a longtime resident who attended a Comprehensive Plan presentation, said he appreciates one area of focus being around West Spring Valley Road because it is an opportunity to revitalize the area by investing in potential parks, recreation facilities or economic development.
“There is a lot of potential ... being so close to Dallas and Plano,” Klein said. “Instead of people just going through, ... hopefully they’ll start stopping and spending their money here.”
Why it matters
Goff said public feedback will help shape sections in the Comprehensive Plan and create the framework to help boost economic growth.
In addition to identifying uses for vacant land, the document also informs redevelopment and reinvestment opportunities in the city, he added.
“As economic trends and societal preferences change, existing land uses and development patterns may need to adapt to stay economically viable in the future,” Goff said.
What they're saying
“It sounds like it’s a revitalization of the city, and they’re coming up with innovative ideas, especially with the downtown area," Klein said.
“We want everyone to have that ability to say where they want our city to move with various plans and opportunities to grow our city," said Ken Hutchenrider, Place 5 council member
What's next?
Council and the City Plan Commission will refine the vision statement, guiding principles and initial draft of the Future Land Use Plan in February, Goff said.
“The plan will integrate all aspects of urban development ... to guide the city’s development and redevelopment for the foreseeable future,” Goff said.
