On September 23, 2024, the planning team held the second community engagement meeting to share the first look at a proposed master plan for the Park Badger redevelopment site. We thank all who attended and shared their wants, needs, and dreams for the site’s reuse and redevelopment.
In a pair of public meetings – one held virtually mid-day and one held in person that evening – dozens of community members attended to hear about the initial plans for the site that were developed after the first round of community feedback earlier this summer, as well as share their thoughts about the planning efforts.
After a brief presentation showcasing the planning efforts, attendees rotated among three breakout groups to discuss (1) building and site design, (2) housing types and affordability, and (3) amenities and green space. We’re pleased to share a summary of the feedback collected in those breakout groups for your further consideration.
Breakout Group 1: Building and Site Design
Click to view the visuals from this breakout group.
- Density and Height: Attendees were pleased to see a total count of approximately 350 units of housing, and appreciated that the one eight-story building provided much-needed housing and fronted Park Street, matching the energy along that corridor. Some expressed concerns over the overall site density and felt that an eight-story building was too tall for the area.
- Safety and Accessibility: Pedestrian safety, especially in spaces connecting greenways and surrounding streets, was highlighted. Access to underground parking from Park Street was discussed, with suggestions for right-turn-only access and investigations into visual impacts on neighboring backyards.
- Lighting and Security: Ensuring the site and greenspaces are well-lit to enhance security was a recurring suggestion.
- Additional Suggestions: Participants recommended programming greenspaces for community events, like farmers markets, and considering additional indoor amenity spaces. The greenway’s bike-friendliness was questioned, and stormwater management emerged as an infrastructure concern.
Breakout Group 2: Housing Types and Affordability
Click to view the visuals from this breakout group.
- Affordability and Home Ownership: Attendees supported initiatives like “phase two” for the Burr Oaks senior housing, and the possibility of home ownership to build generational wealth. There was also positive feedback on the provision of free resident parking and examples of professionals benefiting from affordable housing. Some participants raised concerns that property values may rise, potentially pricing out long-term residents.
- Traffic Safety: Specific concerns were raised about traffic safety around the fire truck access points on Park Street, with suggestions for adding traffic signals and ensuring gates or similar mechanisms prevent unauthorized access to areas behind the fire station.
Breakout Group 3: Amenities and Green Space
Click to view the visuals from this breakout group.
- Greenway Feedback: Attendees showed a preference for a manicured greenway look over a natural one. They emphasized the need for well-lit spaces, seating (including accessible spaces for those with mobility issues), and playful elements for both children and teenagers.
- Safety Concerns: Participants expressed a strong desire for the greenway to feel safe, with some suggesting improvements to pedestrian crossings near fire truck routes.
- Landscaping and Design Preferences: A linear forest along Park Street was suggested to enhance the pedestrian experience. There were concerns about planting conditions and mosquito breeding. Additionally, participants suggested a larger group gathering space, support for adult activities, and covered pedestrian corridors for shade and weather protection.
- Rooftop and Additional Amenities: Attendees showed interest in rooftop spaces featuring garden beds, seating areas, and active elements. Permanent outdoor workout areas and spaces conducive to yoga were also suggested.
- Community Space: Attendees emphasized the importance of outdoor spaces that residents could feel ownership of.
Amenity Preferences
Several display boards were presented to show various amenity and design elements to consider for both the community greenway and the residential greenspace. Attendees were asked to place stickers delineating which elements they were most and lease in favor of.
- Most preferred amenities for the community greenspaces: Shade trees and gentle topography, built-in lighting, open lawn space, semi-private spaces, and table games.
- Most preferred amenities for the residential greenspaces: Raised garden beds, walking paths, play areas, dog run, grilling, pickleball, and open lawn space.
I wasn’t able to attend – how can I see the presentation?
Those who were unable to attend the public meetings can view a recording of the virtual meeting here. A copy of the slides shown at both meetings can also be found here.
What are the next steps?
The planning team continues to analyze the feedback received and evaluate how it can best shape planning efforts. The third and final community meeting will be scheduled later this year, likely in December.
What can I do in the meantime?
You can view the Frequently Asked Questions and continue sharing your voice with us.
