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Vision Downtown and Comprehensive Downtown Planning Process
Planning Services Department CSty Hall 50 West 13th Street Dubuque, Iowa 520~4864 (563) 5894210 office (563) 5894221 fax planning~cityofdubuque.org November 30, 2001 The Honorable Mayor and City Council City of Dubuque 50 W. 13th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 RE: Support for Vision Downtown and a Comprehensive Downtown Planning Process Dear Mayor and City Council Members: The Long Range Planning Advisory Commission has reviewed the final draft of the Vision Downtown document that will be presented to the City Council on December 3, 2001 by the Downtown Planning Committee, a subcommittee of the Commission. The City Council directed that a comprehensive downtown planning process be implemented through the Long Range Planning Advisory Commission with assistance from the Downtown Planning Committee. The downtown planning area is the service area for Dubuque Main Street Ltd. The comprehensive downtown planning process has four steps: 1. Create a shared community vision for Downtown Dubuque - '~ision Downtownu. 2. Assess the Vision relative to reality. 3. Assess the Vision and reality relative to existing plans. 4. Create a comprehensive downtown master plan based on the Vision and assessments. The City Council sponsored the first step, a downtown visioning process, with an allocation of $30,000 in City funds. This funding was matched by the State of Iowa's Main Street Program with in-kind services of a facilitator valued at $7,500. The downtown visioning process utilized a citizen questionnaire, two community meetings, a reactor group session and a validation survey to develop the Vision Downtown document. The Commission believes this document reflects the communi~s consensus of a vision for downtown Dubuque. The cost estimate for a comprehensive downtown planning process is $100,000. The State of Iowa has a community development fund that provides grants of up to $50,000 to cities for this type of project. The Commission recommends that the City apply for this funding for creation of a comprehensive downtown master plan. The Commission has voted unanimously to endorse the Vision Downtown document, and to respectfully request that the City Council sponsor the comprehensive downtown planning process by budgeting $50,000 in City funds to match a $50,000 state grant. Sincerely, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Chairperson Long Range Planning Advisory Commission Service People Integrity Responsibility Innovation Teamwork Preparer: .Laura Carstens Address: City Hall, 50 W. 13th Street Telephone: 563-589-4210 RESOLUTION NO. 518-01 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE VISION DOWNTOWN DOCUMENT Whereas, the City Council has adopted a Comprehensive Plan that includes goals and objectives supporting downtown revitalization; and Whereas, the City Council has sponsored a downtown visioning process as a first step in the creation of a Comprehensive Downtown Master Plan. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA: Section 1. That the City Council does hereby adopt the Vision Downtown document as the community's shared vision for downtown Dubuque, and refer to the City Manager for consideration in the annual budget process. Passed, approved and adopted this 3rd day of December , 2001. Attest: /s/ Terrance M. Duggan, Mayor /s/ Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk 3 DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL USA SESTERFIENN JOHN WALSH Dear Stakeholder, December 3, 2001 It is our community's downtown, nestled below the magnificent bluffs that shape its western border, and proximate to the great river that runs just to its east, that is the true heart of our city. Our downtown best reflects our heritage and the unique character of our community that accompanies it. Our downtown is a major source of a strong community pride that has been nurtured since our earliest days as a Mississippi River settlement. There is no other precinct or neighborhood in Dubuque that holds more of what we have been, what we are, and what we can be than our downtown. There have been many studies, plans and programs toward fostering a revitalization of Down- town Dubuque over the years. More recently, many voices in our community have suggested that now is the time to begin anew a comprehensive effort to guide the heart of our city toward a future that we can all be proud of, The explosive development unfolding at the riverfront areas of our downtown brings with it the need for thoughtful dialogue on the impacts and opportunities that will doubtless arrive in its wake. VISION DOWNTOWN and the comprehensive planning effort that will follow are the products of that community dialogue. The VISION DOWNTOWN document captures the consensus community vision for the future of Downtown Dubuque. This archival binder captures the process that created it. The vision was crafted through a highly inclusive process that included community meetings, a citizen questionnaire, reactor group session, and validation survey. The document was initially developed and then refined at each step of the process and, in its final form, offers individual vision statements organized into six dimensions. It is important to note that, in this context, VISION DOWNTOWN is not a plan, but rather, a vision - a general unprioritized consensus description of a preferred destination. It will be necessary to create a plan that specifies the detailed action items and resources that must be applied to reach that destination. The Downtown Planning Committee recommends that a comprehensive downtown master plan be developed on the foundation of VISION DOWNTOWN and is prepared to lead that planning process as well. The downtown visioning process was sponsored by the City of Dubuque with support from Dubuque Main Street, Ltd., Main Street Iowa, and The Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce. The Down- town Planning Committee, a subcommittee of the City of Dubuque Long Range Planning Advisoi3 Com- mission composed of both commissioners and other members of the community, provided planning and implementation leadership to the effort. Many individuals and organizations have supported the community visioning process that cre- ated VISION DOWNTOWN. Over two thousand individuals have participated directly in the process; many more have offered indirect input as well. The Downtown Planning Committee wishes to thank all who have participated or otherwise supported the process. The success of the downtown visioning process must be measured in at least two ways. First, it is already apparent that success has been achieved in terms of the openness and inclusivity of the process. This is paramount to ensuring the community ownership necessary to fuel the effort to make the vision a reality. A second success criterion is more difficult and has yet to be measured - the degree to which our community sustains the vision through the creation and implementation of plans and actions to do so. You are asked to review this archival records binder and the VISION DOWNTOWN document and stand ready to offer additional input and support to the planning effort that will follow. Downtown Planning Committee City of Dubuque i Table of Contents i� �; VISION DOWNTOWN Archival Records Binder 1. Downtown Planning Committee II. Target Area Map III Meetings and Communication a) Presentation to City Council b) Meeting Minutes c) Communications IV. Previous Plans/Studies/Programs V. Planning Process VI. Visioning Process VII. Vision Downtown Rollout Process VIII. Questionnaire Materials IX. Community Meeting 1 Materials X. Community Meeting II Materials XI. Reactor Group Session Materials XII. Validation Survey Materials XIII. Vision Downtown Final Document XIV. Product Rollout XV. Press Clippings XVI. Budgetary Accounting I. Downtown Planning Committee DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE NAME ' . Jim Giesen ORGANIZATION Community Leader Doris Hingtgen Duggan Realty Bob Felderman Continental Realty & Felderman Appraisals Jim Holz Mid -State Associates Steve Harman Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce Jim Gibbs Remax Realty Pam Jochum State Representative Dan LoBianco Dubuque Main Street Ltd. Ann Michalski City Council Ruth Nash Community Leader Mary Lynn Neumeister Neumeister Animal Hospital Art Roche Mercy Medical Center Dave Rusk Julien's Journal John Walsh D B & T I r+- Jom Laura L dLeJ C:y or Dubuque Planning .Services Department David Harris City of Dubuque Housing Department Richard Russell City of Dubuque Building Services Department Lisa Sesterhenn City of Dubuque Planning Services Department 1[1 �5 DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE TASK FORCES AND CONSULTANTS SUPPORT TASK FORCES PROCESS TASK FORCE (PTF) 'Responsible for overall process development and guidance of process ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT TASK FORCE (ATF) Responsible for documentation, records, logistics and services for meetings; clerical and communications 'support PUBLIC RELATIONS AND, PROMOTION TASK FORCE (PRTF) Responsible for developing and implementing public awareness and participation in the process CONSULTANTS SUPPORT PROCESS FACILITATOR Responsible for helping guide/advise overall process, writing and presenting drafts of Vision Downtown, participating in all meetings of committee, community meetins, reactor group session, working with surveys consultant SURVEYS CONSULTANT Responsible for developing citizen survey instrument, advising on distribution & collection; analysis & presentati.on of citizen surveys; developing, executing and reporting results on validation survey; working with committee, task forces, and Process Facilitator as .required. II. Target Area Map Recommended Geographic Scope of Downtown Comprehensive Plan (Dubuque Main Street Limited Service Area) 0 500 1000 Feet — 4,,1 .04 O'A'13.1.9 D WDM+ b01RMNOfOpIMRV fnCM III. Meetings and Communication a. Presentation to City Council b. Meeting Minutes c. Communications A. Presentation to City Council I J.D. COYIVIUNICATIONS INC. publishers of Julien's Journal — The Dubuque Area Magazine — 700 Locust, Suite 850 • P.O. Box 801, Dubuque, Iowa 52004-0801 • Ph. (319) 557-1914 Fax (319) 557-9635 Date: April 24, 2000 To: Hon Mayor and City Council City of Dubuque From: Dave Rusk, Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group (An Action Initiative Task Force from the Community Housing Summit Action Conference) Subject: Request for inclusion on agenda of council meeting of 5/1/2000. - This is to request approximately ten minutes on the agenda of the council meeting of May 1, 2000 to present the attached request for council action. Media in receipt of this request and attached materials are asked to hold for coverage until after the May 1st council meeting. Promoting our Community, its Institutions and its People since 1976 Date: May 1, 2000 To: Hon. Mayor and City Council, City of Dubuque From: Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group (An Action Initiative Task Force from the Community Housing Summit Action Conference.) Subject: City sponsorship of comprehensive downtown planning process INTRODUCTION _ This communication is to formally request that the City Council officially endorse and sponsor a comprehensive planning process for the area known and to be defined as "Downtown Dubuque" and that that process be implemented through the City of Dubuque Long Range Planning Advisory Commission with assistance from the Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group, and, further, that the process include a highly participative and inclusive visioning element, an assessment of the resulting shared vision relative to current realities and also to existing plans, and, finally, the creation of an updated comprehensive master plan for the downtown based on the shared community vision. BACKGROUND On February 11, approximately 80 individuals came together at a Housing Summit Action Conference sponsored by the City of Dubuque Housing Services Department. The invited attendees included realtors, landlords, tenants, community leaders, representatives from commerce, essential services, housing development and management, and government interests. From that ten-hour day of rnmrnitterl riti7anc wnrlcing in rpairc, in mixed groups, in stakeholder groups, and together as a whole, came seven Action Initiative Task Forces whose work is to provide the strategic directions and actions that will form the heart of the city's Five Year Consolidated Plan for Housing, Community and Economic Development, and will consequently guide the investment of over $20 million over the next five years. The Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group is the name adopted by one of the seven task forces and was chosen to clearly reflect its mission of spurring the creation of a comprehensive master plan for Downtown Dubuque. The group has had several meetings since the February conference to discuss the state of downtown plans and planning, the need for a fresh and reenergized downtown planning effort that would engage the broader community, and strategies for approaching and implementing truly comprehensive downtown master planning: The group has reviewed our community visioning and comprehensive planning efforts of the 1990's and also the Downtown Development Strategy of January 1998 which included an overview of downtown districts and recent activity relative to them; the downtown traffic circulation study, ten prior downtown studies, and a downtown redevelopment strategy which in turn included an historic overview of recent and future initiatives, and potential initiatives. The group also discussed "Smart Growth" concepts and strategies and the confluence of community development issues that have a focus on the downtown. These include provision for housing alternatives across the affordability scale, commercial development and redevelopment, neighborhood revitalization, and historic properties preservation, among others. DISCUSSION The Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group is a broad cross section of community interests and leadership that came together over a common interest in seeing Downtown Dubuque reach a potential beyond what it today enjoys. The group was actually rooted in the Housing Action Conference through a shared recognition that the availability of adequate housing is critical to community growth and quality of life. The group has concluded that our downtown is a leverage opportunity relative to meeting the housing challenge but also to meeting other community needs as well. - It is our downtown, nestled below the magnificent bluffs that shape its western border, and proximate to the great river that runs just to its east, that is the true heart of our city. It best reflects our community's character and its heritage. It best defines the sense of place that is Dubuque. The downtown belongs to our entire community. It is the traditional center of our community and a key source of our community pride. There have been a number of events recently, in ndiiitinn to the rrmr,m,ir ity Housing Summit Action Conference, which point to the good timing for a renewed focus on downtown planning: The Council tabled ambitious renovation plans for Town Clock Plaza over a continued lack of agreement over the best approach to revitalizing the area. A recent seminar on historic preservation initiatives toward providing for affordable housing in downtown and other older neighborhoods brought together a unique partnership of the Center for Dubuque History, the City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission, the Dubuque County Historical Society, the State Historical Society, City of Dubuque Housing Services, the Dubuque Board of Realtors and the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce. Dubuque Main Street Ltd. held what has become an annual seminar of upper level residential/ lower level commercial use of existing, often historically significant, buildings in the downtown. Recent initiatives toward further expanding our community commitment to riverfront development and other growth strategies bring with them a need for thoughtful dialogue on impacts and opportunities relative to the downtown. As a backdrop to all of this, the annual budget presentation of the City of Dubuque Economic Development Department featured as a major theme, a "Smart Growth" approach to community development and redevelopment, representing a balanced approach to urban growth which includes among its stategies investment and reinvestment in our city center. There have been many plans and programs toward fostering downtown development and redevelopment. We would like to recommend building on these efforts with a highly inclusive and highly participative process of building consensus and ownership of plans and programs in the broader community. We have learned through Vision 2000 that the process of community engagement is a powerful engine. The broader community deserves an opportunity to help determine what kind of downtown we have. This concept of community visioning is at the heart of a process we recommend for the development of a comprehensive master plan for the downtown, The recommended Downtown Comprehensive Planning Process consists of four basic elements: • Create a Shared Community Vision for Downtown Dubuque • Assess the Vision relative to reality • Assess the Vision and Reality relative to existing plans • Create a Comprehensive Downtown Master Plan The final product could be something on the order of a mini version of the City - Comprehensive Plan. This is consistent with the strategy of the City Long Range Planning Advisory Commission in implementing neighborhood planning initiatives. CONCLUSION City Council sponsorship is crucial to ensuring the success of this effort. The Council, representing the interests of the city of Dubuque, is a key stakeholder in the future of Downtown Dubuque. City resources in the form of staff support and funding will be necessary. The council is itself an experienced visioning and planning body and can help guide the process. Clearly this effort is in need of city ownership and authorization to proceed. RECOMMENDED ACTION It is recommended that the City Council officially endorse and sponsor a comprehensive planning process for the area known and to be defined as "Downtown Dubuque" and that that process be implemented through the City of Dubuque Long Range Planning Advisory Commission with assistance from the Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group, and, further, that the process include a_highly participative and inclusive visioning element, an assessment of the resulting shared vision relative to current realities and also to existing plans, and, finally, the creation of an updated comprehensive master plan for the downtown based on the shared community vision. Attachments: Roster, Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group Downtown Development Strategy, January 1998. Downtown Comprehensive Planning to Plan Group (An Action Initiative Task Force from the Community Housing Summit Action Conference) Jim Burke City CED Department Laura Carstens City Planning Department Bob Felderman Continental Realty Giesen, Jim City Community Development Block Grant Advisory Commission Hingtgen, Doris Duggan Realty Holz, Jim MSA Professional Services Pam Jochum State Representative Dan LoBianco Dubuque Main Street Ltd. Ann Michalski City Council Ruth Nash Dubuque County Fine Arts Society Art Roche Mercy Health Center David Rusk Julien's Journal Rich Russell City Building Department John Walsh DB&T B. Meeting and Communication MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission November 5, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room,#2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Jim Holz, Dan LoBianco, Doris Hingtgen, John Walsh, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Ann Michalski, Ruth Nash, Jim Gibbs, Steve Horman, Jim Giesen, Dave Rusk, and Bob Feldennan; Staff Members: Laura Carstens, David Harris, Rich Russell, and Lisa Sesterhenn; Guests: Pat Callahan, Bill Baum, Len Decker, and Karen Turk. ABSENT: Committee Members: Art Roche and Pam Jochum. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:45 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: Motion by Feldelinan, seconded by Holman to approve the minutes of October 8, 2001 passed unanimously. Michalski added that she wanted to reiterate her support of downtown projects like the vision downtown process. ACTION ITEMS: Vision Downtown Final Product: Rusk distributed the Vision Downtown Product Rollout and Archival Records Binder handouts. He also distributed a mock-up of the City Focus insert which contains the vision document and a letter from the committee. The letter was copied for committee members and Rusk read the letter to the committee. After a discussion, it was agreed that Rusk would revise the letter so it reads as more of a "call to action", is shorter than the first version, and would move the process type infounation to the back of the document. Rusk stated that the product will be rolled out on December 3rd with a new conference in the morning and a presentation to the City Council in the evening. It was agreed by the committee that the City Council will be asked to adopt by resolution the vision document and refer the document to the City Manager for consideration during the 2002/03 budget process. Review Validation Survey Results: Representatives from Loras College presented a summary of the validation survey results and distributed an executive summary of the results. Len Decker, Loras College stated that the survey validates each dimension and statement in the vision document. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 1:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Sesterhenn, Assistant Planner Adopted 11 MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission October 8, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Jim Holz, Dan LoBianco, Ann Michalski, Ruth Nash, Jim Gibbs, Steve Holman, Jim Giesen, Dave Rusk, and Bob Felderman; Staff Members: Laura Carstens, David Harris, Rich Russell, and Lisa Sesterhenn. Guest: Pat Callahan (via conference call). ABSENT: Committee Members: Art Roche, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Doris Hingtgen, Pam Jochum, and John Walsh. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:45 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. I1 MINUTES: Motion by Harman, seconded by Felderman to approve the minutes of September 10, 2001 passed unanimously. ACTION ITEMS: Success in Main Street Planning and Development Audio Conference: Sesterhenn reviewed the materials for the audio conference call on Wednesday, October 10, 2001. Michalski, Russell and Rusk stated that they planned to attend the audio conference. Review Vision Document: Rusk distributed the 3rd draft of the Vision Document. He stated that the committee's goal is to finalize the vision document that should be tested via the validation survey. Rusk read through the draft and after a discussion the committee reached consensus on a 46 draft of the document. Review Validation Survey: Sesterhenn confirmed that Loras College is planning to work with Advanced Data -Comm on the validation survey and that Len Decker has already prepared a 1st draft of the survey. She stated that Len would finalize the survey based on feedback from today's meeting. Michalski asked Rusk if the media will be covering this phase of the visioning process noting the importance and the statistical significance of the validation survey. Rusk stated that the media will continue to be involved in the process. Review Budget for Visioning Process: The committee discussed the status of the budget and reviewed other funding sources. Rusk asked LoBianco to prepare a status report of funding requests for the next meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 1:10 p.m. Respectft submitted, Lisa esterhenn, Assistant Planner (46i Adopted ri MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission September 10, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Jim Holz, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Doris Hingtgen, Jim Gibbs, Steve Horman, Jim Giesen, Dave Rusk, Pam Jochum, Bob Feldeiinan, and John Walsh; Staff Members: Laura Carstens, David Harris, Jean Noel and Lisa Sesterhenn. Guests: Pat Callahan. ABSENT: Committee Members: Ruth Nash, Art Roche, Dan LoBianco, Ann Michalski, and Rich Russell. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:35 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: Motion by Harris, seconded by Homan to approve the minutes of August 13, 2001 passed unanimously. ACTION ITEMS: Logistics for Community Meeting 2: Rusk presented an update on the public relations campaign for community meeting 2 and then distributed the draft vision document. He asked the committee to refer to the document as the vision document which contains 6 dimensions and that each dimension includes multiple vision statements. Pat Callahan gave an overview of the agenda for the meeting and reviewed the instructions for the committee members. Pat also confirmed that the reactor group meeting will be held on October 4, 2001. Validation Survey: Sesterhenn confirmed that Loras College is planning to work with Advanced Data -Comm on the validation survey. Rusk requested that the results of the survey be ready for the committee's November meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 12:15 p.m. Respectful) submitted, Lisa Se terhenn, Assistant Planner MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission August 13, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Ruth Nash, Jim Holz, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Doris Hingtgen, Art Roche, DanLoBianco, Jim Giesen, Dave Rusk, Pam Jochum, Ann Michalski, Bob Felderman, and John Walsh; Staff Members: Jean Noel and Lisa Sesterhenn. Guests: Len Decker and Tom Pusateri. ABSENT: Committee Members: Jim Gibbs, Steve Homan, Laura Carstens, David Harris, and Rich Russell. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:40 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: Motion by Michalski, seconded by Felderman to approve the minutes of July 9, 2001 with the following budget process clarification passed unanimously: Michalski clarified that in order for staff to receive funds for new projects, it needs to be on the council's list of high or medium priorities. ACTION ITEMS: Review Questionnaire Results: Len Decker and Tom Pusateri reviewed the results of the 1411 questionnaires that were returned by the deadline with the committee. A handout of the results was included with the August agenda packet. Review Community Meeting Notes: Rusk asked the committee to review the small group presentation notes to ensure that they were inclusive of the discussions that were held at the first community meeting: Review 1 S` Draft of Vision Statement: Rusk reviewed the difference between a vision and a plan with the committee. He stated that a vision is a description of a destination. He then asked the committee if the vision statement adequately reflected the source documents (the questionnaire analysis and the community meeting notes). The committee discussed the vision statement and changes to the vision were recorded by Rusk. Motion by Walsh, seconded by Neumeister to approve the first draft of the vision statement with the changes noted by Rusk passed unanimously. It was determined that Rusk would give the changes to Pat Callahan for inclusion in the draft vision document. 2❑d Community Meeting Plans: The committee reviewed plans for the September 15, 2001 community meeting. After a discussion, it was determined that the 2❑d community meeting Minutes - Downtown Planning Committee August 13, 2001 Page 2 should be set up for 150 participants and that invitations, press releases, and PSA's would follow the same format as the first community meeting. By consensus, the committee also agreed that a short presentation of the questionnaire results should be included as an agenda item for the 2°d community meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 1:35 p.m. Respectfully s1 bmitted, Lisa Sesterh nn, Assistant Planner Adopted MINUTE S DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission July 9, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Ruth Nash, Jim Holz, Dan LoBianco, Jim Giesen, Dave Rusk, Pam Jochum, Ann Michalski, Steve Holman, Bob Felderman, and John Walsh; Staff Members: David Harris, Jean Noel, and Lisa Sesterhenn. Guest: Pat Callahan (via conference call). ABSENT: Committee Members: Jim Gibbs, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Art Roche, Doris Hingtgen, Laura Carstens, and Rich Russell. ACTION ITEMS: Community Meeting Plan: The committee reviewed the agenda, facilitator notes, discussion notes and meeting plans for Saturday's community meeting. Rusk requested that committee members be at Five Flags by 7:30 a.m. Staff will order carnations for committee members to wear and will bring extra copies of City Focus to the meeting. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:50 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: Motion by Giesen, seconded by LoBianco to approve the minutes of June 11, 2001 as submitted passed unanimously. ACTION ITEMS: Update on Promotion Plan: Rusk updated the committee on the ongoing promotion plan. He stated that the media should be commended for their coverage of the Vision Downtown process, the questionnaire and the community meeting. He also commended various community groups for sharing Vision Downtown information with their constituencies. Budget Update: Sesterhenn reviewed the Vision Downtown budget with the committee. The committee discussed the $1000 rental charge from Five Flags. Staff will discuss waiving the rental fee with the Leisure Services Manager for both community meetings. LoBianco updated the committee on other funding applications. Next Steps: The Committee reviewed tentative plans for the September 15, 2001 community meeting. After a discussion, it was determined that the final agenda for this meeting would be set at the committee's August meeting after the questionnaire results and initial draft of Vision Downtown are presented. Minutes - Downtown Planning Committee July 9, 2001 Page 2 Comprehensive Plan: Michalski reviewed the budgeting and funding process for FY 2003. She stated that in order for the council to allocate funds for a project, it needs to be identified as a top or medium priority by the council. She also stated that the council priorities are generally set at the end of August for the next fiscal year. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 12:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Sester enn, Assistant Planner MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission June 11, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Ruth Nash, Jim Holz, Dan LoBianco, Jim Giesen, Doris Hingtgen, Dave Rusk, Pam Jochum, Ann Michalski, and John Walsh; Staff Members: Rich Russell, David Harris, Jean Noel, Laura Carstens, and Lisa Sesterhenn. Guest: Pat Callahan ABSENT: Committee Members: Steve Horman, Jim Gibbs, Bob Felderman, Mary Lynn Neumeister and Art Roche. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:45 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: The minutes were approved by consensus. INTRODUCTIONS: Pat Callahan, Vision Downtown Facilitator, was introduced to the Vision Downtown Committee. ACTION ITEMS: Update on Promotion Plan: Rusk reviewed the promotion plan with the Committee including the news conference and recent news articles about the process. He stated that the radio stations will run PSAs starting on June 25, 2001. He shared a letter from the Cultural Alliance stating their support for the project and willingness to distribute information to their members. Rusk informed the Committee that he has posters advertising the survey and meeting available at his office. Community Meeting Plan: Harris reviewed the agenda for the community meeting. Callahan said he would deliver his instructions to the small groups, asking them to select a leader, complete the sign -in sheet, focus on their task, and write down their ideas. After a discussion, it was decided that each small group would report one new idea to the large group, rotating through the groups until all new ideas had been presented. After a discussion, it was deteimiined that the facilitators will come from the groups and committee members may rotate throughout the groups. It was suggested that committee members wear carnations or something to identify them as members of the committee. After a discussion, it was detefiuined that attendees should receive an agenda when they enter Five Flags. The agenda will have a number on it that will direct them to a table following the keynote. speech. LoBianco reported on the status of our agreement with Robert Gibbs, the keynote speaker. It was decided that the committee should meet with the speaker on Friday night and for staff to arrange a dinner at the Holiday Inn. Minutes - Downtown Planning Committee June 11, 2001 Page 2 Budget Update: Sesterhenn stated that she would provide an updated budget at the next meeting, and noted that we should be looking for other grant and in-kind opportunities. LoBianco stated that Alliant may give up to $2000, People's Natural Gas/Energy One $950, funding from National Main Street is "iffy" and the Diamond Jo Casino is a possibility to pursue. Next Steps: Sesterhenn confiinied that September 15, 2001 was the date of Community Meeting 2. After a discussion, it was decided that the committee would review a summary/outline of a draft vision document from Pat Callahan, and a draft report of the questionnaire analysis from Len Decker, at their August 13 meeting in preparation for the second community meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 1:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Sesterenn, Assistant Planner MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission May 14, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Mary Lynn Neumeister, Ruth Nash, Jim Holz, Dan LoBianco, Jim Giesen, Art Roche, Doris Hingtgen, and Dave Rusk; Staff Members: Rich Russell, David Harris, Laura Carstens, and Lisa Sesterhenn. ABSENT: Committee Members: John Walsh and Steve Horman. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 11:50 a.m. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: The minutes were approved by consensus. ACTION ITEMS: Confirm Community Meeting Plan: Rusk confirmed that the Community Meeting will be held on July 14, 2001 from 8-12. Harris gave an overview of the agenda and stated that the administrative task force should meet before the next meeting to determine the additional details regarding the meeting facilitation and agenda. Roche and Carstens agreed to join Harris and Rusk on this task force and noted that Pat Callahan needs to be at this meeting. LoBianco stated that the keynote speaker will be Robert Gibbs. Rusk will contact the Holiday Inn to arrange for lodging for Mr. Gibbs. LoBianco will let staff know if Mr. Gibbs would like any background information before his visit. Confirm Citizen Questionnaire: After reviewing the draft questionnaire, the committee discussed whether to add cleanliness and safety as variables to the questionnaire. Both additions were defeated by a vote of 2-6 for cleanliness and 3-5 for safety. Confirm Promotional Plan: Rusk reviewed the promotional plan materials. After a discussion, it was determined that the tag line for the logo should be: A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY instead of: A FUTURE FOR OUR CITY CENTRE. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 1:30 p.m. Respectful submitted, Lisa Se er enn, Assistant Planner 7/ Adopted MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission April 9, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Steve Holman, Ruth Nash, Jim Holz, Dan LoBianco, and Dave Rusk; Guest: Len Decker (Loras College); Staff Members: Rich Russell, David Harris, Laura Carstens, and Lisa Sesterhenn. ABSENT: Committee Members: John Walsh, Mary Lynn Neumeister, Jim Giesen, Doris Hingtgen, and Art Roche. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was not officially called to order because of a lack of Committee members for a quorum. The issue of attendance was discussed. It was agreed that Doris Hingten, Art Roche, and John Walsh should be contacted to deteimine if their schedules will peunit them to attend these meetings. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: The minutes were approved by consensus of the Committee members present. ACTION ITEMS: Representation of Historic Preservation Commission: By consensus, Jim Gibbs, Historic Preservation Commission, will join the Downtown Planning Committee starting in May. Review Draft of Survey: Rusk introduced Len Decker from the Loras College Center for Business and Social Research. Decker and Sesterhenn reviewed the draft Citizen Survey with the Committee. It was agreed that Sesterhenn would revise the survey and Decker would pre-test the survey. The committee will review the revised survey for final approval in May. Keynote Speaker and Facilitator: LoBianco reported that Pat Callahan has "penciled" in July 14, 2001 as the most likely date for the first community meeting and will be available to meet with the Committee for planning purposes before July 14, 2001. LoBianco also stated that he has been researching keynote speakers. He distributed information on Robert Gibbs and will have additional materials available at the next core process meeting subcommittee meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 1:30 p.m. Respectfully ubmitted, Lisa Seste enn, Assistant Planner Adopted 1 MINUTES DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE Long Range Planning Advisory Commission March 12, 2001, 11:30 A.M. Conference Room #2, City Hall Annex 1300 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa PRESENT: Committee Members: Mary Lynn Neumeister, John Walsh, Ruth Nash, Dan LoBianco, Dave Rusk, and Jim Giesen; Staff Members: Rich Russell, David Harris, Lisa Sesterhenn. ABSENT: Committee Members: Pam Jochum, Ann Michalski, Doris Hingtgen, Bob, Felderman, Steve Horman, Art Roche, and Jim Holz; Staff Member Laura Carstens. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was not called to order because of a lack of Committee members for a quorum. The meeting was continued for discussion purposes only beginning at 11:40 a.m. Consensus was that Committee members who have not been able to attend a meeting be noted as ad hoc committee members until their schedules are freed up to attend these meetings. It was noted that this will allow the group to conduct business according to the bylaws of the Long Range Planning Advisory Commission. By consensus, Pam Jochum, Ann Michalski, and Bob Feldelivan will be denoted as ad hoc committee members starting with the April meeting. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE: Staff presented an Affidavit of Compliance verifying that the meeting was being held in compliance with the Iowa Open Meetings Law. MINUTES: The minutes were approved by consensus of the Committee members present. ACTION ITEMS: Meeting Schedule Rusk distributed a schedule of Committee meetings for the remainder of the year and noted that the meetings will be held the 2nd Monday of each month at 11:30 a.m. The only exception is November when the meeting will be held the 1st Monday of the month. Status of Budget Request Sesterhenn reported that the Planning Services budget has been approved which included the Committee's $30,000 funding request for Vision Downtown. Status Report on Core Process Committee Rusk briefed the Committee on the work of the core process group and revised milestones chart. He noted that the first community meeting will be held in July. July 14 is the preferred date for the meeting and July 28 is the back-up date. Rusk also distributed and reviewed the proposed task force structure and April, May and June meeting agendas. By consensus, the Committee adopted the milestones chart, task force structure and meeting agendas. Minutes - Downtown Planning Committee March 12, 2001 Page 2 Private Funding Sources LoBianco reported that the Main Street Program will provide in-kind funds for Pat Callahan as the facilitator for the Vision Downtown process. It was agreed that LoBianco would research the contact names from the National League of Cities, American Planning Association, Center for New Urbanism, Urban Land Institute, National Civic League, and National Main Street for potential keynote speakers. He will bring a list of recommended speakers to the April meeting for action by the Committee. ITEMS FROM THE COMMITTEE: Nash updated the Committee on 7 new "Big City" cultural opportunities in Dubuque. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting ended at 12:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Ses_erhenn, Assistant Planner Adopt:d C. Communications November 26, 2001 Vision Downtown Planning Committee Planning Department City of Dubuque 50 West 13th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 Downtown Planning Committee and Dubuque Main Street Board of Directors: IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Dubuque is at an exciting crossroads in the development of its historic city center. If the riverfront is the community's front porch, Downtown Dubuque, with its unique and varied districts, must compliment and complete this historic mansion on the Mississippi. In our opinion, Downtown Dubuque is gaining momentum with an on-going public improvement program, new developments and enterprises including specialty retail and service businesses, as well as upper story rehabilitation for both commercial and residential uses. Considerable time and energy is being invested in the development of a comprehensive plan for downtown. This vision will serve as a catalyst for the further growth and revitalization of Downtown Dubuque. The completion of the Vision Downtown document is well timed and should help assure that the momentum of planned developments is felt throughout the heart of your community. The development of this vision statement also helped Dubuque Main Street attain national certification, a benchmark for outstanding downtown development. The National Main Street Center and Main Street Iowa award this certification to only those communities who have met or exceeded eleven defined criteria relevant to downtown revitalization. Dubuque Main Street Ltd. must continue to be the guardian of downtown's historic treasures and a champion for its future. Therefore, during our recent annual program visit, Main Street Iowa encouraged the board to work closely with the city in the further refinement and development of the comprehensive plan for downtown. The board was encouraged to consider the following points: • The focus of Dubuque Main Street's goals, objectives and activities should be directly tied to the comprehensive plan. • Each Main Street board member should review the vision in relation to the objectives of the Main Street committees and determine implementation steps for the next 12 to 18 months. • The Main Street board should schedule an extended work meeting (3 to 4 hours) to review the vision, prioritize action statements and develop a program of work to complete specific tasks with estimated budgetary needs. We applaud your continued efforts in protecting and revitalizing the commercial districts and neighborhoods of Downtown Dubuque. The successful implementation of this plan will serve as a model for other communities to emulate. Sincerely, Ja'Seaton,' State' Coordinator Main Street Iowa.Departrrent of Economic Development THOMAS J. VILSACK, GOVERNOR SALLY J. PEDERSON, LT. GOVERNOR C.J.Niles, Director o 200 East Grand Avenue • Des Moines, Iowa 50309-1827 • 515.242.4700 • Fax: 515.242.4809 info@ided.state.ia.us • TTY: 1.800.735.2942 • www.state.ia.us/ided IV. Previous Plans/Studies/Programs OVERVIEW OF THE DOWNTOWN BUSINESS DISTRICT A. Historic Old Main District The Historic Old Main District is an area from the Jones Street Connector to 5th Street and Locust Street to Highway 151/61. The area was the original commercial district in Dubuque and contains many historical buildings. The area has a mix of uses including retail stores, small offices and housing. The Five Flags Civic Center and the Five Flags Holiday Inn are also in the Historic Old Main District. B. Cable Car Square District The Cable Car Square area is an eight block area from lst to 5th Streets and Locust. Street to the bluff. The primary function of the Cable Car Square area is retail to serve the tourism market and the general population. The businesses are relatively small specialty shops. There is some residential housing in this area. Raphael's Cathedral is in this area. . C. Upper Main District The Upper Main District is an area from 9th Street to 14th Street from Iowa Street to the bluff. There is a mix of uses in this area, led by housing, retail and commercial business and office use. The area also houses churches, non-profit organizations and governmental institutions. There is some weakness in the retail sector of this district, with higher than average vacancy rates. There is also vacant upper story residential space. The areas east and west of the Town Clock Plaza are primarily office and commercial businesses. There is some housing along Bluff Street. The area includes the Courthouse and the Law Enforcement Center. D. Town Clock Plaza The Town Clock Plaza is an eight square block area from 5th to 9th Streets between Locust and Iowa Streets. The Town Clock Plaza is a pedestrian mall constructed in the late 1960's. The primary function of the TCP is commercial office. The secondary function of the TCP are commercial and retail businesses which serve the office businesses and their employees. There are a few retail businesses which serve a clientele outside of the TCP and the downtown area. E. Riverfront District The Riverfront area is located on the south end of the Fourth Street Peninsula along the Ice Harbor. The businesses are the casino and related river businesses, retail shops in the Ice Harbor Emporium and commercial businesses. OVERVIEW OF RECENT BUSINESS ACTIVITY The information on the downtown business districts used in writing the Business Activity Overview was prepared by the staff of Dubuque Main Street Ltd. It includes the time period of 1986-1996. The overview is presented to provide information on the levels of business activity in each district which can be used to determine potential trends and develop possible goals and strategies for future actions. A. Historic Old Main District The Historic Old Main District showed a net gain of 164 employees and construction improvements of $2,406,866 in the past ten years. Two-thirds of the employment growth was generated from hotel development. .The other one-third of employment growth came from the various small businesses in the district. There was a net increase of ten new businesses in ten years. The district has a strong concentration of small business which serve the retail and the service markets. The business district is relatively stable with many long time businesses. The district has experienced growth in the number of residential units. B. Cable Car Square District The Cable Car Square District experienced a net increase of twenty-eight new businesses since 1987, with six expansions. Most of the new businesses to the district were retail establishments who capitalized on the developing retail market. There was an increase of twenty-one jobs in the district in this time period. The district has a reputation as a center for tourists and for specialty items for local residents. This has contributed to the retail growth and to a certain amount of stability among the businesses. C. Upper Main District The Upper Main District experienced growth of 113 jobs from 1986-90 with much of the increase coming from three businesses. However, this increase was negated from 1991-95 with the decrease of 124 jobs in the district. There was a net loss of 23 businesses since 1986, with 27 business losses coming since 1992. There were several small businesses who located in the district in the past, but this was offset by a larger number of decreases in businesses. The Upper Main District experienced a higher level of business turnover than did the other downtown districts. The businesses in the district are not concentrated, but are spread throughout the area. There are a Targe number of residential units and several religious and non-profit organizations in the district. The reconstruction of the Dubuque Bank and Trust building was a major recent investment in this area. 3 D. Town Clock Plaza District The Town Clock Plaza District experienced significant growth in total employment and construction expenditures from 1987-96. There was a net increase of 406 jobs and investment in remodeling and new construction of $12,666,705. The majority of the increases in employment were generated from the businesses with office workers. There was a net gain of only 6 new businesses in the period, however, there were 53 expansions by the businesses in the district. An analysis was conducted of the kinds of businesses on the Town Clock Plaza to identify the employment levels in the different business functions. The analysis was confined to the businesses located in an area from Fifth Street to Ninth Street and Locust Street to Iowa Street. Five categories were used to define the businesses including: Large Office (generally businesses with over 50 employees); Moderate/Small Office (businesses with 50 employees or less); Professional (law firms, medical offices and mental health offices); Government (City, County and State; etc.); Non-profit (agencies etc.); Retail; Food and Beverage(Restaurants). Below is a summary of the results: Business Number of Number of Percentage/ Percentage/ Function Businesses Employees Businesses Employees Large Office 10 1,525 8 % 65 % Moderate /Small Office 66 369 55 % 16 % Professional Office 18 188 15 % 8 % Government Office 8 143 7 % 6 % Non -Profit Office 7 50 6 % 2 % Retail 8 48 7 % 2 % Food and Beverage 3 18 2.5% .76% 120 2,341 Some interesting aspects of the summary are that the ten businesses classified as Large Office represent 65% of the employees working on the Town Clock Plaza and the total employment of all of the offices represents 97% of the employees and 90% of the businesses. Retail and Food and Beverage represent the rest. The totals do not include a current plan to create an additional 120 office jobs on the Town Clock Plaza. The levels of each of the functions of the businesses on the Town Clock Plaza have changed in the past several years. In the early 1980's the area had several retail businesses and food and beverage businesses, which occupied the storefronts. The Town Clock Plaza has seen the addition of new Large Office businesses and growth in the Large Office businesses since the early 1980's. 4 Another interesting aspect of Town Clock Plaza is the difference in the occupancy rates in the past thirteen years. The occupancy rates in 1984 were between fifty and sixty percent, but now stand at over ninety percent. Much of the increase in occupancy can be attributed to the growth of the office businesses on the Town Clock Plaza. E. Ice Harbor District The primary businesses of the Ice Harbor District are located at the Portside and in the Ice Harbor Emporium. The employment growth of 356 and the investment in the district of $8,638,705 came from the addition of the casino. 5 3. REVIEW OF DOWNTOWN TRAFFIC CIRCULATION STUDY The Downtown Traffic Circulation Study began in 1995. The purpose of the study was to identify the current needs of the downtown area in terms of traffic, parking, streetscapes, and the Town Clock Plaza. The Urban Renewal Street System was established in the late 1960s and may not serve the current traffic needs for this area. The establishment of riverboat gambling, a new parking ramp in the downtown, the construction of the Trilog Building, and the Clarion Hotel are a few examples of developments which have had .a major impact on the services and needs of the downtown area. The opening of U.S. 61 has shifted the highway traffic from the downtown area to east of the downtown. Travel patterns leading to and from U.S. 61 through the area have also changed. The Locust Street connector, in tying in Dodge Street (U.S. 20) with the new U.S. 61 has physically separated the Historic Old Main and the South Main districts from each other. The connector acts as a barrier between these two neighborhoods. A. Traffic Issues Signalize the intersection at Seventeenth and White Streets Traffic volume and capacity studies were performed on the streets and intersections within the study district. They revealed that there are no intersections in which the traffic signals should be removed. They did reveal, however, that the intersection of Seventeenth and White Streets warrants the installation of a traffic signal. The traffic signal was installed in December, 1997. Convert One-way Streets to Two-way Streets Traffic volume and capacity studies were conducted on the streets with one-way traffic. The studies concluded that the traffic system would benefit if the one-way traffic on Iowa, Main, Fourth and Fifth Streets was converted to two-way traffic. City staff held a public meeting with business and property owners adjacent to the above streets to receive their input on the potential conversions. Their responses were very positive to the potential changes. The conversion of the streets to two-way will be completed by June 1, 1998. B. Parking System Issues Response to Current and Future Parking System Needs The consultant conducted a study of current and future parking demand, including a review of business growth trends. They concluded that the demand for parking may increase in certain areas and create the need for additional parking in the two to five year time period. They have identified specific areas in which business growth may create the need for additional parking. The consultant also worked with City staff, the 6 Chamber of Commerce and Dubuque Main Street Limited to identify potential sites for development as parking lots or parking ramps. The basis for future parking demand is based on predicted business growth. There are five sites that are identified as having potential for future development. They are in different areas of the downtown. A process is being developed to collect and review downtown employment data in five years, and then make a determination if there is an increase in parking demand which necessitates the development of one or more of the five sites. The City Council approved the use of the approach for the parking lot and ramp system to continue a dialogue with the local businesses on their parking needs and to look for opportunities to infill the downtown area with parking spaces to meet the needs of businesses. Based on business expansion in the Town Clock Plaza, the construction of an addition to the Fifth Street Parking Ramp is proposed in the Fiscal Year 1999 Budget. This improvement would add 250 spaces to the parking system. The budget also includes funds in Fiscal Year 1999 for the construction of 24 parking spaces near Third and Main. The five year capital improvement plan includes funding for 78 parking spaces in Fiscal Year 2003 and 88 parking spaces beyond Fiscal Year 2003. C. Gateways and streetscapes issues The City Council approved the recommendation for addressing the gateways and streetscapes, which included building partnerships between the City and the Dubuque Main Street Ltd., the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the property owners and businesses, and the public to study the issues and develop plans for consideration by the public and the City Council. Gateways The City Council reviewed the proposals in the study for potential gateway improvements and selected the Locust/Dodge connector, the Fourth/Fifth Street and Highway 61/151 •intersection and the Ninth Street and Highway 61/151 intersection as the three community gateways for improvements. City staff is working with the stakeholders in a process to develop the plans for the community gateway improvements. The funding for the improvements is in the Fiscal Year 1999 Budget. Streetscapes City staff is beginning discussions with the Historic Old Main property owners, Dubuque Main Street Ltd. and the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce on the benefits streetscape improvements would have for the district. If there is a consensus for making streetscape improvements, City staff would work with the stakeholders to determine the location of the improvements, the type of improvements and a plan to finance the improvements. This would be presented in the Fiscal Year 2000 budget process. D. Town Clock Plaza Issues The City Council approved the recommendation of the Downtown Traffic Circulation Study for making improvements to the Town Clock Plaza. The plan includes five primary points: Form a partnership with the businesses on the north end of the Town Clock Plaza to develop a plan to open to traffic Eighth Street from Iowa to Locust and Main Street from Eighth Street to Ninth Street. Also to determine the nature of the improvements and the methods to finance them. 2. Leave Sixth and Seventh Streets and Main Street from Fifth Street to Eighth Street closed to traffic. 3. Review the impact of the opening of the Eighth Street and Main from Eighth Street to Ninth Street in future years and determine if it would be beneficial for the Town Clock Plaza to open additional streets. 4. Consider a plan to make cosmetic improvements to the Town Clock Plaza, including replacing the light posts with more historic lighting, installing historic benches and trash receptacles, replacing the overgrown trees with new trees and replacing any overgrown landscaping and clearing obstructions, like the kiosks, from the center of the Town Clock Plaza. Do not make any improvements to the existing pavement in the Town Clock Plaza, outside of general maintenance and leave the Town Clock in its current location. Meetings have been held between City staff and the property owners on the Town Clock Plaza to develop a plan for the improvements to the Town Clock Plaza and to finance any improvements. The plans will be presented to the City Council at the February 4, 1998 budget hearings. Minutes of the meetings are attached. 8 REVIEW OF PRIOR DOWNTOWN STUDIES A: Dubuque Development Program The Dubuque Development Program was prepared for the City of Dubuque and the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce in 1965 by Victor Gruen and Associates. The Dubuque, Development Program was a comprehensive study relating all aspects of the city's future physical development and improvement into a single coordinated program of public investment directly proportioned to the community's development potentials and resources. The Dubuque Development Program was a condensation of eleven separate technical reports, one of which was a Downtown Study. The Downtown Study included: an economic analysis and evaluation of downtown functions, identification of opportunities for growth, and projections of land use requirements. ► detailed land use and circulation analysis, physical plan and design, and scheduled development program in relation to the projections for economic base, population and land use requirements. The Dubuque Development Program outlined a downtown development program for the regional business center and its immediately adjacent and interrelated residential and industrial areas, to include: ► a compact, business center developed along Main Street with a central pedestrian mall. a new department store site on the east side of Main Street between Fifth and Sixth Streets. ► immediately adjacent, off-street parking facilities along the parallel north -south streets. a concentration of offices at each end of the business center, with a new County - City Building at the entrance to downtown from U.S. 20. ► a renewed automotive service area adjacent to the east side of the retail core. ► organization of institutional, public and quasi -public uses adjacent to the business center between Bluff and Locust Streets. ► rehabilitation of the Jackson Park area as a residential neighborhood. ► limitation of any further business encroachment north of Eleventh Street, except for neighborhood business directly servicing the Jackson Park residential area. • clarification of neighborhood business between the Jackson Park and Washington Street neighborhoods. ► redevelopment around the St. Raphael Cathedral as a new apartment area. eventual creation of a civic center at the southern end of the retail core between the Julien Hotel and the proposed County -City Building. 9 definition to the existing wholesale -industrial areas south and east of the business center. B. Economic Development Plan The Economic Development Plan prepared by Welton Becket/Peat Marwick was completed in 1984. The study was initiated by the Dubuque Area Economic Development Steering Committee, a coalition of the local Dubuque business community, government and organized labor. As a result of this plan, the Steering Committee formed the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation. The basic purpose of this study was to determine the best overall strategy for economic development in Dubuque. A five-year plan for economic development and a one-year action plan were prepared. The study recommends initiation of a master development planning process for a tourism complex at the Ice Harbor, through the following actions: 1) Designate the Ice Harbor as a special planning district with the possibility of declaring the area as a redevelopment zone/tax increment district. 2) Prepare development guidelines and standards for the area. 3) Continue to monitor and coordinate with the State on the planning and construction of new highway extension. 4) Identify any parcels of land that must be acquired for development. 5) Prepare financing strategy to fund land acquisition, necessary site clearance and infrastructure. 6) Solicit proposals for a master developer of the site. C. OId Main Neighborhood Reinvestment Strategy The Old Main Reinvestment Strategy was the product of a neighborhood -based planning effort supported by Dubuque Main Street, Ltd. and the City. This strategy was adopted by the City Council as part of the amended Downtown Dubuque Urban Renewal Plan on May 2, 1994. The primary goals of the strategy are: 1) Creation of a thriving commercial and residential neighborhood, 2) Preservation of historic OId Main, 3) Creation of a clean attractive streetscape, 4) Improved pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and 5) Improved parking opportunities. To achieve these goals, twenty-four tasks were identified including a marketing plan, facade design projects, loan programs, building inspection program, removal of 10 overhead wires, traffic and parking study, and a streetscape plan. The Strategy included a provision that three years after adoption of the Strategy there would be a review of the efforts of property owners to bring their buildings into compliance with codes. D. Old Main Place Marketing Plan The Old Main Place Marketing Plan was completed in November 1996. This plan was prepared by Real Estate Planning Group and Clarion Associates for Dubuque Main Street, Ltd. and the City of Dubuque as an element of the Old Main Neighborhood Reinvestment Strategy. The purpose of the study was to assess the potential market support and to develop a comprehensive marketing, .recruitment and redevelopment strategy for the Old Main District. The plan includes demographic and economic analysis and a qualitative analysis of the downtown market. The results of focus group meetings, a telephone survey and a visitor intercept survey are presented. The plan recommends two priorities for the Old Main area: 1) find tenants for the two adult business uses on the street, and 2) focus business planning efforts on the intersection of 3rd and Main Street. Six objectives are outlined. These include: 1) Create activity in the Old Main area by introducing Live -work lofts that will encourage small business to occupy the upper floors as residences and provide ground floor business and commercial space. 2) Develop tourism on Ice Harbor with active museums and entertainment. 3) Develop a theme for promotion of Old Main as a "Live Work" area 4) Remember the details - package the image • provide a visual closure to the cul-de-sac on Main * signage is needed to direct people to parking * provide interpretation of the historical significance of the area • create excitement through lighting, signage, and outdoor activity * develop uniform design of street furniture with Cable Car Square * connect Cable Car, downtown and Ice Harbor with Old Main by a trolley beautify the bridges over the freeway - planters 5) Business recruitment program * target new start-up businesses * recruit business services that support live -work environment: print/copy shops, photo stores, travel agencies, computer shops, restaurants. * to recruit retail tenants: - begin "Live and Work on Old Main" promotion program - prepare leasing support materials - encourage existing retailers to help recruit 6) Risk mitigation * the greatest risk is to do nothing * an alternative is to associate more strongly with the Ice Harbor * must have full commitment and participation of community to be successful H. Dubuque Comprehensive Plan Adopted by the City Council in two phases in 1994 and 1995, the Dubuque Comprehensive Plan builds on the Vision 2000 community planning process conducted in 1991 and 1992. The Comprehensive Plan contains policies, goals and objectives for physical, economic and social aspects of the community, and a systems map that identifies development in potential growth areas. Dubuque's Comprehensive Plan consists of fourteen elements represented in three categories: Physical Environment -- Land Use and Urban Design, Transportation, Infrastructure and Environmental Quality; Economic Environment -- City Fiscal and Economic Development; and Social Environment-- Health, Housing, Human Services, Education, Cultural Arts, Recreation, Public Safety and Diversity. The Comprehensive Plan includes a number of goals and objectives related to downtown Dubuque. Here are a few examples: Protect downtown commercial core and encourage continued reinvestment and redevelopment. • Provide, maintain and improve a parking systendesigned to meet the needs of the patrons of downtown business and retail establishments"and downtown employees. Continue to encourage and enhance downtown development by striving to meet current parking needs and providing expansion programs that are cost-effective and innovative. Support downtown revitalization and neighborhood business development. F. Freeway 61/151 Corridor Plan The Freeway Corridor Plan was adopted in February, 1990 by the City Council. The plan was developed as a land use and development guide for public and private property along the freeway corridor by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Freeway Planning Committee. The purpose of the plan was to study the potential impacts and opportunities the new Freeway 61/151 would present the City. 12 The Freeway Corridor Plan addresses the three-mile long corridor as a whole made up of twelve specific target areas. The plan makes recommendations which primarily affect the physical appearance and the economic redevelopment of lands adjacent to the new roadway. The majority of the recommendations presented in the plan require some form of public intervention, whether in terms of public policy, public funds or staff time. Six target areas of the Freeway Corridor Plan overlap the boundaries of the Downtown Circulation Study. These are: Flat Iron Park, Little Dublin, Historic Old Main, Ice Harbor, Central/White Corridors and 9th Street/11th Street Interchanges. For each area, the Freeway Corridor Plan provides background information on existing conditions: physical constraints and opportunities, development history, property ownership, current land use, and current zoning. The plan also delineates goals and recommended policy/implementation steps for each target area. G. Riverfront Plan The Riverfront Plan represents a compilation of ideas generated from surveys of the general public, riverfront property owners and businesses, as well as brainstorming sessions and public meetings coordinated by the Long Range Planning Commission. Several meetings were held between the property owners and City staff on the future of the Fourth Street Peninsula. The City Council adopted the plan and its action agenda in March 1994. Implementation of the plan depends on both public and private sector efforts to improve the riverfront. Based on a site analysis and a market demand assessment, the goals of the Riverfront Plan are grouped into four planning components: (1) Recreation, Entertainment, Culture and Education; (2) Public Infrastructure; (3) Environmental; and (4) Economic Development. The Riverfront Plan recommends focusing redevelopment on the 4th Street Peninsula, adjacent to the downtown employment base. The plan also recommends protecting and enhancing links between the 4th Street Peninsula, downtown and the extension of Heritage Trail through the community. In February of 1993, the Fourth Street Peninsula property owners recommended to the City Council to -put into place techniques for the cooperative public/private efforts for the development and revitalization of the area. It also called for a review after the five years to determine if the cooperative efforts were successful. The City Council approved the proposal on February 15, 1993. Riverwalk and Amenities The City, Chamber of Commerce, and Convention -and Visitors Bureau developed the private sector Riverfront Development Committee to conduct public information, marketing, and fundraising. These efforts will augment the City's financial commitment to three major riverfront development projects: Heritage Trail, Mississippi Riverwalk, and Water Works Park. 13 City Staff and the consulting firm of BRW, Inc., have developed and evaluated design alternatives for the Mississippi Riverwalk and Amenities project on the Fourth Street Peninsula. in July, 1997, the City Council approved designs for: ► A riverside walkway along the floodwall and levee; ► A river's edge plaza on both sides of the floodwall gate to the riverboat landing outside the Ice Harbor; ► A decorative plaza and public amphitheater at the Star Brewery and urban design and streetscape elements; ► Designs for a harbor walkway linking the river's edge plaza and Iowa Welcome Center with the south rim of the Ice Harbor are being developed by BRW, Inc., and City staff to coordinate with the River Discovery Center. City efforts on the Riverwalk project are being coordinated with the Dubuque County Historical Society's River Discovery Center and the Dubuque Museum of Art's Floodwall Mural Project. H. Heritage Trail Master Plan The Heritage Trail Master Plan was adopted by the City Council in October 1996. The principal route will extend Heritage Trail 7.5 miles from 32nd Street from the north end of the City through neighborhoods and downtown Dubuque to the Ice Harbor, and then south to the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area. The principal route is the backbone of an 18 -mile Heritage Trail riverfront system, with connections to riverfront parks and attractions. The Heritage Trail will be another element in the City's tourist economy and a. link between downtown and the riverfront. The Heritage Trail Riverfront System also may become the spine of a citywide bike and hike trail system with links through downtown neighborhoods and historic districts to the west and south ends of town. I. Cable Car Square Development Plan j The Cable Car Square Development Plan was prepared in July of 1991 by the Dubuque Main Street Ltd. The Design Committee of the DMSL reviewed many aspects of the Cable Car Square area and used property owner and resident input to create the plan. The purpose of the plan is to provide strategies, design guidelines and a design concept for retaining and enhancing the historic character of the Cable Car Square area. The Design Committee wrote the plan in the context of meeting several objectives, Including: (1) Preserve and enhance the historical integrity; (2) Increase the quality of the streetscape and structures; (3) Create an identity of visual consistency, festiveness and ambience; (4) Facilitate access to, and involvement with, the area; (5) Increase economic viability and attractiveness; (6) Create public amenities. The Design Committee made several recommendations to improve the appearance and the viability of the Cable Car Square area. Many of the recommendations related directly to the initiatives of the City of Dubuque, which resulted from the Downtown Traffic Circulation Study. They include: (1) Increase the number of two hour parking meters; (2) Create two-way traffic on 4th Street; (3) Provide theme for surfacing sidewalks; (4) Maintain the historic style of existing structures; (5) Improve directional and informational signage; (6) Visually connect Cable Car Square, Historic Old Main District, and the Third Street Overpass with historical lights; (7) Develop a street planting plan; (8) Install benches, a clock, and plantings. The plan recognizes Cable Car Square's special character and the need to create specific improvements to maintain and enhance. its vitality. J. Convention and Meeting Market Study The Dubuque Convention and Visitors Bureau contracted with Certec Inc. in 1994 to conduct a study of the potential of the convention and meeting market in Dubuque. The study resulted in the following findings: (1) There is a strong potential to increase the number room nights in Dubuque; (2) There is a lack of sufficient meeting space to compete effectively for convention business; (3) Several modifications to the Five Flags Civic Center were suggested to increase meeting space. The study concluded that, "The primary limitation [to increasing the convention market is the lack of sufficient size and quality to compete effectively against other communities that offer such a facility." The study suggested a growth strategy to increase the number of conventions in Dubuque each year. The growth strategy is to: (1) Remove the ice rink and let other facilities meet this need; (2) Expand the Five Flags Civic Center west across Fifth Street with meeting rooms for 1,500 to 2,500 delegates; (3) Use the existing Five Flags Civic Center for exhibition space; (4) Undertake community initiatives to make Dubuque more attractive to groups holding conventions and meetings by; (1) Improving the downtown; (2) Developing the riverfront; (3) Completing the highway improvements; (4) Increasing shopping opportunities for attendees; (5) Improve tourism signage. 15 DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT STRATEGY A. Historic Overview In 1967, the City of Dubuque began redevelopment of its downtown core to revitalize the region serving retail activities of the area. The plan, as contained in the Downtown Dubuque Urban Renewal Plan, was comprehensive in scope. It sought not only to provide cleared sites for construction of new commercial facilities, but also addressed needs for additional parking facilities and other public works, for improvement of traffic access and for creating a new sense of identity. Much of the early momentum of the plan was lost when some major retail tenants, Rosheks and Montgomery Wards, relocated outof the downtown area in the early 1970's. However, the decade of the '70s was a period of rapid growth in the Dubuque economy. After a brief period of limited downtown development activity, there was renewed confidence that an expanding economy would support the new regional retail complex envisioned in the City's Urban Renewal Plan. The years 1976-1983 witnessed a series of attempts to capture that perceived development opportunity. Those efforts, however, stalled due to the lack of a timely commitment to construction of primary highway entrances to downtown and the inability of developers to gain commitments from department stores to occupy the project. The onset of the 1981-1983 recession caused a significant loss of local economic momentum. At the same time, major retailers were reassessing their regional development strategies. In late 1982, the designated retail center developer, withdrew from the project. Shortly thereafter, JC Penney, thekey target department store tenant, announced its plan to occupy a vacated space in the Kennedy Mall. With the lack of interest by other major retailers, including Van Maur and Dillards, the redevelopment plan, based solely on major retail development had to be re-examined. In May, 1983, the City arranged a round -table discussion of the downtown situation. This meeting was attended by key players in downtown Dubuque, including the banks, retail interests, and property owners as well as the City. Don Zuchelii of Zuchelli, Hunter Associates facilitated the discussion which ultimately reached consensus that: 1) Development of major new retail facilities in downtown Dubuque was not feasible for sometime to come, and The community should refocus its downtown redevelopment efforts to a mixed- use strategy. It was agreed that it would still be possible to achieve the City's underlying purpose in the original Urban Renewal Project which was to re-establish downtown Dubuque as a center of community activity and, thereby, to generate support for the continued maintenance and redevelopment of the adjacent areas, which might otherwise suffer ii growing obsolescence and blight. This essential goal did not have to rely exclusively on new retail investment. It could be served as well by more diverse types of development. Based on these conclusions, the City concentrated its redevelopment efforts downtown on recruitment of service and information industry employers, development of a hotel adjoining the Five Flags Center, and enhancement of the Ice Harbor area as a tourist destination. The Holiday Inn, Fifth Street Parking Ramp, Trilog, and Ice Harbor casino projects are the result of these efforts. In addition to pursuing physical development projects, the City determined that a successful downtown strategy must include a broader base of participants. This was based on the recognition that downtown development is a process which requires ongoing management and coordination of private as well as public resources and that there needs to be a strong private sector partner. For this reason, the City sponsored a local site for a National Trust video conference on downtown development and submitted an application for selection as a Main Streetpilotcity in 1984. Since that time, the City has provided annual financial support for Dubuque Main Street Ltd. B. Recent and Future Initiatives With a mixed-use strategy for downtown redevelopment and a new partner in place, the City since 1984 has undertaken a number of initiatives within the various areas which make up downtown. These areas include Town Clock Plaza, Old Main, Cable Car Square, Upper Main, and Ice Harbor. Town Clock Plaza. In the Town Clock Plaza area a tax increment financing district is in place and a building rehab loan program has been created. Future initiatives include opening 8th Street and Main Street between 8th and 9th to traffic; providing streetscape improvements throughout Town Clock Plaza; and, expansion of parkingthrough construction of another level on the 5th Street Parking Ramp. The keys for success in this area include; improving access for employees and customers; creating a campus -like atmosphere with improved amenities; increasing parking; and, encouraging a mix of businesses, including retail and eating establishments, which will support the primary office activity within this area. Old Main. In Old Main, the City continues to work with property owners and Dubuque Main Street, Ltd. to implement the Neighborhood Reinvestment Strategy. Current programs include a building rehab loan program, building facade improvement grant program, enhanced code enforcement, and the improvement of the freeway frontage by burying overhead wires. Dubuque Main Street Ltd. Is currently developing an action plan for improving downtown, including strategies for business retention and recruitment. The property owners from the Old Main area have been the most active thus far in the process. This 17 has led to the emergence of their issues as the center of the discussions. Staff is working in partnership with Main Street and property owners in this process. Future initiatives will include: gateway improvements along Locust Street and the freeway; streetscape improvements along Main Street; acquisition and disposition of the Merchant's Hotel and Cinema X buildings; development of off-street parking; and, enhancing linkages to the Ice Harbor and Cable Car areas. The keys for success for redevelopment of this area include: addressing the deteriorated condition of the Merchant's Hotel and Cinema X buildings; improving the public streetscape on Main Street; development of upper floor housing; expansion of off-street parking; and, provision of improved directional signage. Cable Car Square. The Cable Car Square area has benefitted from past projects including rezoning to the OC Office -Commercial District and funding for improvements to the Redstone Inn. Future initiatives include the installation of historic lights funded . partially by property owners and through an ISTEA grant. The keys to success in this area are: continued collaboration with property owners; improved traffic circulation; and, improvements to directional signage and parking throughout the area. Upper Main. The Upper Main area has benefitted from the City's designation as an urban revitalization area; modification in parking regulations; and, funding for rehabilitation of housing. The Farmers' Market, now managed by Dubuque Main Street, Ltd. continues to be an important part of the vitality of this area and the entire downtown. Future initiatives will include: the renovation of the Iowa Inn as the Stout Place Apartments; and, work with Prescott School for possible conversion of 12th Street to school grounds. The keys to success in this area include: increasing housing opportunities; intensifying code enforcement, particularly for older under-utilized properties; and continued collaboration with neighborhood organizations and institutions. Ice Harbor. The Ice Harbor and adjoining 4th Street Peninsula Area have been the focus of significant public improvements including development of docking facilities for the casino gambling boat, improvements to 5th, 6th, and Bell Street, and construction of the 3rd Street overpass. Private development activities have included development of the Iowa Welcome Center and National River's Hall of Fame as well as the Diamond Jo Casino facilities. The City has supported continued development of the area through. establishment of a special zoning district which permits flexible use of property and by engaging property owners in ongoing dialogue about the area. The five year timeframe in which the City Council agreed to review efforts for further development of the Fourth Street Peninsula will end in February of 1998. 18 The City, Chamber of Commerce, and Convention and Visitors Bureau developed the private sector Riverfront Development Committee to conduct public information, marketing, and fundraising. These efforts will augment the City's financial commitment to three major riverfront development projects: Heritage Trail, Mississippi Riverwalk, and Water Works Park. City Staff and the consulting firm of BRW, Inc., have developed and evaluated design alternatives for the Mississippi Riverwalk and Amenities project on the Fourth Street Peninsula. In July, 1997, the City Council approved designs for: A riverside walkway along the floodwall and .levee; A river's edge plaza on both sides of the floodwall gate to the riverboat landing outside the Ice Harbor; A decorative plaza and public amphitheater at the Star Brewery and urban design and streetscape elements; Designs for a harbor walkway linking the river's edge plaza and Iowa Welcome Center with the south rim of the Ice Harbor are being developed by BRW, Inc., and City staff to coordinate with the River Discovery Center. City efforts on the Riverwalk project are being coordinated with the Dubuque County Historical Society's River Discovery Center and the Dubuque Museum of Art's Floodwall Mural Project. Future initiatives will include the construction of the River -walk and other improvements; construction of gateway improvements at 5th and White Streets; pedestrian linkage improvements between downtown and the Ice Harbor area; and, upgrading of directional signage. The keys to success in this area include: supporting and building off of the planned museum expansion; diversification of entertainment and activity; expanding public access to the River; and, development of a consistent and helpful directional signage system. C. Potential Initiatives In addition to the future initiatives described above, there are other initiatives identified in prior planning studies which the City Council may wish to include in the City's downtown strategy. These include: a comprehensive directional signage program, planning for the development of additional meeting space to accommodate business and convention needs, and a program to encourage development of additional housing in downtown. V. Planning Process THE CITY OF IQUE . .,105.:,- Downtown Planning. - Create a sharedcommunity vision - Assess vision vs. reality - Assess vision/reality vs. existing plans - Create plan [Comprehensive Downtown Master Plan] DOWNTOWN COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROCESS • Create Downtown Vision • Assess Vision vs. Reality • Assess Vision/Reality vs. Existing Plans • Create Downtown Plan SEEK COUNCIL SPONSORSHIP (Link to Harris presentation on Housing Action Conference) • Create Presentation • Test with Ann Michalski • Test with Downtown Planning Group PRESENTATION ELEMENTS • Roots of Downtown Planning Group (who are we?) • Why we need a Downtown Comprehensive Plan • Recommended Process (see above) • Why we need council sponsorship - Key stakeholders - Experienced visioners and planners - We need city ownership/authorization to proceed - We need city resources • Recommend referring to Long Range Planning Advisory Commission (Neighborhood/area subplanning) • Possibly use Downtown Planning Group as Process Steering Committee 4 VI. Visioning Process Vision Downtown Creating a shared community vision through a highly inclusive community dialogue - Citizen Questionnaire - Community Meeting I - Community Meeting II - Reactor Group Session - Validation Survey Final publication/documentation 1 VISION DOWNTOWN MILESTONES ADOPT VISION DOWNTOWN MILESTONES COMMUNITY MEETING I / CIT.IZEN SURVEY FIRST DRAFT VISION DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY MEETING II SECOND DRAFT VISION DOWNTOWN REACTOR GROUP SESSION THIRD DRAFT VISION DOWNTOWN MAR JUL AUG SEP OCT OCT NOV VALIDATION SURVEY NOV (DOWNTOWN COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING NEXT STEPS) NOV FINAL DRAFT VISION DOWNTOWN DEC PRINT VISION DOWNTOWN DEC DISTRIBUTE VISION DOWNTOWN JAN VII. Vision Downtown Rollout Process Downtown Planning Committee Rollout Promotion Plan May 28-31 Brief media executive contacts June 4 Rollout entire planning process & expectations Mailing to key stakeholder groups list*, downtown property owners 10 a.m. news conference Council presentation June 25 Promote questionnaire & Community Meeting I News release & personal follow up/tracking, posters June 30 City Focus** plus extra inserts at City Hall and CSPL Front page teaser, intro & explanation page, questionnaire, poster July 1-13 Promote questionnaire & Community Meeting I Public service announcements Editorials & interviews July 14 Community Meeting I * Key stakeholders list includes Chamber clubs and orgs, DACU Churches, city boards & commissions, neighborhood associations, city council, others ** Regular mailing of residences (24,292) plus businesses (2175), P.O. boxes (1428), downtown property owners (1000) (total 28,895) i DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS CONFERENCE Monday, June 4 10 a.m. Majestic Room Five Flags Civic Center Please attend this important news conference on the City of Dubuque Downtown Planning Process Help Plan a Future for Downtown Dubuque There have been many plans and programs toward fostering the revitalization of Downtown Dubuque over the years. More re- cently, many voices in our community have suggested that now is the time to begin anew a comprehensive effort to guide the heart of our city toward a future we can all be proud of. The explosive growth and development just beginning on our waterfront brings with it the need for thoughtful dialogue on the impacts, opportuni- ties and synergies that will doubtless arrive with it. It is our downtown, nestled below the magnificent bluffs that shape its western border, and proximate to the great river that runs just to its east, that is the true heart of our city. It best reflects our commu- nity character and heritage. It best defines the sense of place that is Dubuque. The downtown belongs to our entire community and is a key source of our community pride. The City of Dubuque has embarked on a comprehensive planning. process for its downtown and all our citizens are invited and en- couraged to participate in what is expected to be a highly inclusive effort. The Downtown Planning Committee, comprised of a cross section of community leaders and planners has been assigned by the City Council and its Long Range Planning Advisory Commis- sion to lead a comprehensive downtown planning process. The overall downtown planning process is to include four essential elements: * Develop a Shared Community Vision for Downtown Dubuque • Assess that Vision relative to Today's Reality * Assess the Vision and Reality relative to Existing Plans • Create a Comprehensive Downtown Master Plan The creation of a shared community vision for our downtown is appropriately and necessarily the foundation to the entire down- town planning process. We have learned from the community -wide Vision 2000 and comprehensive planning process of the 1990's, that broad citizen engagement is a powerful engine. It is a commit- ment to an open and inviting visioning and planning process that lies at the heart of the work strategy of the Downtown Planning Committee and, in particular, its sponsoring of VISION DOWN- TOWN A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY. VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY, is a multi -step process that will culminate in a shared com- munity vision for Downtown Dubuque. The process will include a citizen questionnaire, community meetings and a validation survey, all designed to together ensure that the product is truly a shared community vision and therefore a credible and legitimate founda- tion on which to build a comprehensive master plan for our down- town. The first opportunity to participate in VISION DOWNTOWN is to complete and return a Citizen Questionnaire to help the Downtown Planning Committee initially assess overall community sentiment regarding general attributes to be considered in the visioning and planning process. The questionnaire will be distributed through the July issue of City Focus in a convenient tear -out and mail format, no postage required. The Downtown Planning Committee asks that all citizens who receive the questionnaire complete and mail it per the instructions. For any who, for whatever reason, do not receive City Focus, copies of the questionnaire will be available at City Hall and at the Carnegie -Stout Public Library beginning July 2nd. A second opportunity to participate in VISION DOWNTOWN is to attend the initial community meeting scheduled for Saturday, July 14, 8 a.m.-noon in the Five Flags Civic Center Arena. We will hear from a nationally recognized urban planning executive who will challenge us to think openly and boldly about our downtown and then break out into discussion groups to "envision" a future for our downtown. The results of the Citizen Questionnaire and first community meet- ing will together form the first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. An additional community meeting, reactor group session, and valida- tion survey will later result in additional drafts and, ultimately, in a final shared community vision for our downtown, VISION DOWNTOWN A FUTURE', FOR THF HEART OF OUR CITY. The Downtown Planning Committee asks that all our citizens watch for developments and announcements regarding additional opportunities to participate in the downtown planning effort in the local media as the process further unfolds. In the meantime, we remind all to complete and mail questionnaires and attend the com- munity meeting July 14. It's our downtown...let's all be a part of its future David Wm. Rusk, chair Downtown Planning Committee logo I'd like to say a word about our logo. Anyone who was at all attentive to the Vision 2000 effort of the early 1990's will no doubt recognize that the Vision Downtown logo is decidedly reminiscent of the logo used in Vision 2000. This is a deliberate result of our effort to link this downtown visioning effort to the success of that earlier effort. The visioning process that we are employing is substantially similar as well. We ask that whenever possible the Vison Downtown logo be used... when referencingthe project in the media or elsewhere. This will greatly aid our effort in keeping the project and its importance highly visible in the community. As to the logo itself, we hope that its diamond .shape conjurs thaoughts that perhaps our downtown is our next Field of Dreams, and .that the sun shines brightly overhead of. our downtown in its special setting between the river and our magnificent bluffs. OTHER THINGS HAPPENING TODAY 2 MAILINGS The approximately 600 property owners in the designated downtown area will receive a mailed briefing on all this plus 2 a list of approzimately 300 key stakeholder groups ate being advised in a similar fashion and asked to in turn alert and encourage their constituents to participate. This listing incloudes clubs,and organizations, neighborhood Associations, civic and service groups and the like. In fact the whole reason that we called this news conference at this time is to ensure that all parties get the initial overview of our visioning and planning process together at the same time as a cohesive message. We wanted all these parties as well as our friends in the media advised at once. We will be asking for further help in getting the word out again as we approach the distribution of the citizen questionnaire in City Focus and as we get closer to the July 14 community meeting DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL USA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: June 4, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 COMPREHENSIVE DOWNTOWN PLANNING PROCESS TO BEGIN WITH COMMUNITY VISIONING The Downtown Planning Committee for the City of Dubuque is today announcing that the downtown comprehensive planning process will begin this summer with a series of steps to develop a shared community vision for the future of Downtown Dubuque. VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY, will engage the broader community in the downtown planning effort through a citizen questionnaire, commu- nity meetings, and a validation survey. Background and further detail are contained in the attachment, "Help Plan a Future for Downtown Dubuque." The Downtown Planning Committee asks that local and area media join us as community partners in publicizing this critical planning effortand fostering participation, including an initial program of urging citizens to complete and return the questionnaire and attend the first community meeting on July 14. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL., LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH SPECIAL MEMO TO KEY STAKEHOLDER GROUPS June 4, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 COMPREHENSIVE DOWNTOWN PLANNING PROCESS TO BEGIN WITH COMMUNITY VISIONING The Downtown Planning Committee for the City of Dubuque is today announcing that the downtown comprehensive planning process will begin this summer with a series of steps to develop a shared community vision for the future of Downtown Dubuque. VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY, will engage the broader community in the downtown planning effort through a citizen questionnaire, commu- nity meetings, and a validation survey. Background and further detail are contained in the attachment, "Help Plan a Future for Downtown Dubuque." As the current leader of your group, please advise your constituents of this information via newsletter or other means and encourage their participation in the planning process. In particular, please urge them to complete and return the questionnaire and attend the first community meeting on July 14. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAMJOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH SPECIAL MEMO TO DOWNTOWN PROPERTY OWNERS: June 4, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o)557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 COMPREHENSIVE DOWNTOWN PLANNING PROCESS TO BEGIN WITH COMMUNITY VISIONING The Downtown Planning Committee for the City of Dubuque is today announcing that the downtown comprehensive planning process will begin this summer with a series of steps to develop a shared community vision for the future of Downtown Dubuque. VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY, will engage the broader community in the downtown planning effort through a Citizen Questionnaire, com- munity meetings, and a validation survey. Background and further detail are contained in the attachment, "Help Plan a Future for Downtown Dubuque." DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS B013 FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: June 25, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY CITIZENS OF DUBUQUE URGED TO COMPLETE THEIR QUESTIONNAIRES AND ATTEND JULY 14 COMMUNITY MEETING The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque is urging citizens to complete and return the questionnaires to be distributed in the July issue of. City Focus. Additional copies of the questionnaire are available at City Hall and the Carnegie -Stout Public Library. Citizens are also encouraged to attend the July 14 community meeting at Five Flags Civic Center Arena, 8 a.m.-noon, during which they will have the opportunity to exchange views on -the future of our downtown. According to Dave Rusk, Chair of the Downtown Planning Committee, "VISION DOWN- TOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY is intended to be a highly participa- tive and inclusive process and we hope citizens willtake full advantage of these opportunities to offer input to the future of our downtown." Note attachment: "Help Plan a Future for Downtown Dubuque" DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH VISION DOWNTOWN PSA - 30 sec. Hello, I'm Dave Rusk, Chair of the Downtown Planning Commit- tee for the City of Dubuque, urging you to participate in VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY. Please complete and return the Citizen Questionnaire distributed in the July issue of City Focus per the instructions. Also, please plan to attend a community meeting to exchange views on the future of our downtown on Saturday, July 14, 8 a.m.-noon at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena. It's your downtown...be a part of its future! d, It's YOUR DOWNTOWN. be a part of its future • • Help plan the future of DOWNTOWN DUBUQUE FILL OUT YOUR CITIZEN QUESTIONNAIRE Available in July issue of City Focus or at City Hall or the Carnegie Stout Public Library ATTEND THE COMMUNITY MEETING 8 a.m.-noon, Saturday, July 14, Five Flags Civic Center Arena fl DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: July 10, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY CITIZENS OF DUBUQUE URGED TO COMPLETE THEIR QUESTIONNAIRES AND ATTEND JULY 14 COMMUNITY MEETING The Downtown Planning Committee of the City. of Dubuque is urging citizens to complete and return the questionnaires distributed in the July issue of City Focus. Additional copies of the questionnaire are available at City Hall and the Carnegie -Stout Public Library. Citizens are also encouraged to attend the July 14 community meeting at Five Flags Civic Center Arena, 8 a.m.-noon, during which they will have the opportunity to exchange views on the future of our downtown. According to Dave Rusk, Chair of the Downtown Planning Committee, "VISION DOWN- TOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY is intended to be a highly participa- tive and inclusive process and we hope citizens will take full advantage of these opportunities to offer input to the future of our downtown." DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER Rusk reminds citizens that returning their questionnaires by July 23 will ensure that their ART ROCHE voices are included in the first draft of Vision Downtown. RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: July 16, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE URGES CITIZENS TO RETURN QUESTIONNAIRES BY JULY 23 The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque is urging citizens to complete and return by July 23 the questionnaires distributed in the July issue of City Focus. Additional copies of the questionnaire are available at City Hall and the Carnegie -Stout Public Library. yjy til According to Dave Rusk, Chair of the Downtown Planning Committee, "VISION DOWN- TOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY is intended to be a highly participa- tive and inclusive process." Rusk added that, "Over 1000 questionnaires have been returned already and over 100 people participated in a community meeting on Saturday." VIII. Questionnaire Materials It's YOUR DOWNTOWN... be a part of its future HeIp p the future of DOWNTOWN DUBUQUIE FILL OUT YOUR CITIZEN QUESTIONNAIRE ATTEND THE COMMUNITY MEETING 8 a.m. - noon, Saturday, July 14, Five Flags Civic Center Arena 1. elp Plan a Future for Downtown Dubuque [here have been many plans and programs toward fostering the •evitalization of Downtown Dubuque over the years. More recently, nany voices in our community have suggested that now is the time o begin anew a comprehensive effort to guide the heart of our city oward a future we can all be proud of. The explosive growth and ieveiopment just beginning on our waterfront brings with it the need br thoughtful dialogue on the impacts, opportunities and synergies hat will doubtless arrive with it. t is our downtown, nestled below the magnificent bluffs that shape ts western border, and proximate to the great river that runs just to ts east, that is the true heart of our city. It best reflects our :ommunity character and heritage. It best defines the sense of place hat is Dubuque. The downtown belongs to our entire community incl is a key source of our community pride. Che City of Dubuque has embarked on a comprehensive planning irocess for its downtown and all our citizens are invited and encouraged to participate in what is expected to be a highly inclusive ffort. The Downtown Planning Committee, comprised of a cross ,ection of community leaders and planners, has been assigned by the :ity Council and its Long Range Planning Advisory Commission to ead a comprehensive downtown planning process. Che overall downtown planning process is to include four essential dements: • Develop a Shared Community Vision for Downtown Dubuque • Assess that Vision relative to Today's Reality • Assess the Vision and Reality relative to Existing Plans • Create a Comprehensive Downtown Master Plan Che creation of a shared community vision for our downtown is appropriately and necessarily the foundation to the entire downtown Manning process. We have learned from the community -wide Vision 000 and comprehensive planning process•of the 1990's, that broad :itizen engagement is a powerful engine. It is a commitment to an ,pen and inviting visioning and planning process that lies at the heart rf the work strategy of the Downtown Planning Committee and, in ,articular, its sponsoring of Vision Downtown, A Future for the 3eart of our City. by David Wm. Rusk Vision Downtown, A Future for the Heart of our City, is a multi -step process that will culminate in a shared community vision for Downtown Dubuque. The process will include a citizen questionnaire, community meetings and a validation survey, all designed to together ensure that the product is truly a shared community vision and therefore a credible and legitimate foundation on which to build a comprehensive master plan for our downtown. The first opportunity to- participate in Vision Downtown is to complete and return a citizen questionnaire to help the Downtown Planning Committee initially assess overall community sentiment regarding general attributes to be considered in the visioning and planning process. The questionnaire comes to you in this issue of City Focus in a convenient tear -out and mail format, no postage required. Please complete and mail the questionnaire per the instructions. - A second opportunity to participate in Vision Downtown is to attend the initial community meeting scheduled for Saturday, July 14, 8 a.m.-noon in the Five Flags Civic Center Arena. We will hear from a nationally recognized urban planning executive who will challenge us to think openly and boldly about our downtown and then break out into discussion groups to "envision a future for our downtown. The results of the citizen questionnaire and first community meeting will together form the first draft of Vision Downtown. An additional community meeting, reactor group session, and validation survey will later result in additional drafts and, ultimately, in a final shared community vision for our downtown, Vision Downtown, A Future for the Heart of our City. Watch for developments and announcements regarding additional opportunities to participate in the downtown planning effort in there local media as the process further unfolds. In the meantime,' complete and mail your questionnaire and attend the community meeting July 14. It's your downtown...be a part of its future! Vision Downtown: A Future for the Heart of our City Please complete the following .questions to help the Downtown Planning Committee learn about your opinions concerning downtown Dubuque. Your responses will remain totally anonymous. Please feel free to duplicate this form, however, only one questionnaire should be completed per person. For planning purposes, the Committee has defined "downtown" Dubuque as shown on the other side of the questionnaire. Please mail the questionnaire back by July 23, 2001. The postage is prepaid. If you were planning an ideal downtown for Dubuque, how important is each of the following to your vision? Circle the number that represents your opinion of the importance of each. Low to moderate housing Upscale housing Mixed housing (low, moderate, upscale) Very Important Somewhat ; Not Important Important Important 4 3 Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities General retail businesses Corporate offices 3 2 1 1 1 Professional and service types of business Increased employment opportunities Cultural arts and recreational opportunities Educational opportunities • Public open areas and green spaces Maintain historic character Mass transit accessibility Pedestrian/bike accessibility Parking 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Of the following 15 features of downtown, rank the top five that are most desirable to your ideal vision. Use a "1" to indicate the most desirable feature you would like to see, and up to a "5" as the fifth most desirable feature. General retail businesses Maintain historic character Upscale housing Pedestrian/bike accessibility Professional and service types of businesses Mass transit accessibility Low to moderate housing Parking Cultural arts and recreational opportunities Educational opportunities Public open areas and green spaces Mixed housing (low, moderate, upscale) Corporate offices Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities Increased employment opportunities Please use this space for any comments you would like to share regarding your vision for downtown Dubuque. answer the following demographic questions so we know we are getting opinions from a wide variety of people in the Dubuque unity. is your age? ❑ 18 or under ❑ 19-34 ❑ 35-59 ❑ 60 or older check one of the following: ❑ Male ❑ Female many times do you visit the downtown area in an average month? Five times a week or more 0 Once a week 0 2-3 times per month ❑ Once a month or less 1 of the following statements apply to you (check all that apply)? • I live in the downtown area ❑ I operate a business located in the downtown area • I own property in the downtown area 0 These statements do not apply to me. • I work in the downtown area r"..\ Please fold along the dashed lines and tape shut. BUSINESS REPLY MAIL FIRST-CLASS MAIL PERMIT NO. 1115 DUBUQUE, IA POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE CITY HALL PLANNING SERVICES DEPARTMENT 50 WEST 13TH STREET DUBUQUE IA 52001-9928 NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES 1111111111111111 11111111111111111111111111111111111 Vision Downtown: A Future for the Heart of Our City Produced by The Center for Business and Social Research Loras College Dubuque, Iowa 52004-0178 by Thomas Pusateri, Ph.D. CBSR Senior Research Associate Professor of Psychology and Len Decker, Ph.D. CBSR Director August 2001 VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary Introduction Data Gathering Procedures Characteristics of the Sample 3 Age and Sex 3 Figure 1A: Age of Respondents Compared to Census 4 Figure 1B: Sex of Respondents Compared to Census 4 Frequency of Visits and Connections to Downtown Area 5 Figure 2: Frequency of Visiting Downtown 6 Figure 3: Connections to Downtown 7 Ratings of Importance for Each Downtown Feature Figure 4: Ratings of Importance for each Downtown Feature Ratings of Top Five Most Desirable Traits Figure 5: Rankings of Top Five Desirable Downtown Features Differences in Response Patterns 8 9 10 12 Differences based on age 12 Differences based on sex 13 Table 1: Differences in Response Patterns Based on Demographic Characteristics 14 Differences based on connections to downtown 15 Table 2: Differences in Response Patterns Based on Connections to Downtown 16 Table 3: Differences in Responses of Owners/ Operators, Residents, and Employees 17 Transcription of Open-ended Responses Appendix A VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 2 VISION DOWNTOWN: A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The following summary statements are based upon the responses of 1411 Dubuque citizens who completed a questionnaire contained in the July issue of "City Focus": 1 Those who responded to the survey were disproportionately 35 years of age or older and more often female than male compared to the age and sex composition of the City of Dubuque as indicated by 2000 U.S. Census data. 2. Approximately one-third of respondents indicated that they visit downtown Dubuque five or more times a week and about a quarter indicated that they visit once a month or less. 3. Approximately one-third (453 of 1338) of those who responded to questions concerning their connections to the downtown area indicated having one or more connections. Among these 453 respondents, 71% work downtown, 31% live downtown, 21% own property downtown, and 20% operate a business downtown. 4 Six downtown features received ratings of "very important" or "important" from at least 75% of the respondents: Unique. shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities; Maintain historic character; Increased employment opportunities; Cultural arts and recreational opportunities; Public open areas and green spaces; and Parking. 5. - Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and tourism amenities and Maintain historic character were the two downtown features that received the most ratings of "very important" as well as the most rankings in the top five most desirable traits for downtown Dubuque. 6. Five additional features of downtown Dubuque were ranked among the top five desirable traits by at least one-third of respondents: Cultural arts and recreational opportunities, Public open areas and green spaces, General retail, Parking, and Increased employment opportunities. 7. Respondents aged 60 or older rated General retail businesses, Mass transit accessibility, Corporate offices, and Low to moderate housing as more important to their vision of downtown Dubuque than those under the age of 60. Those younger than 60 rated Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and tourism amenities, Cultural arts and recreational opportunities, Public open areas and green spaces, and Pedestrian/bike accessibility as more important than those aged 60 or more. Respondents 35-59 years of age gave more importance to Maintaining historic character than those younger and older than them. 8. Females, more often than males, rated the following as more important to their vision of downtown Dubuque: Maintain historic character, Parking, General retail, Mass transit accessibility, Increased educational opportunities, and Low to moderate housing. 9. Those who visit downtown Dubuque more than_once a week, compared to those who visit less than once a week, rated the following as more important to their vision of downtown Dubuque: Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and tourism amenities; Cultural arts and recreational opportunities, Pedestrian/bike accessibility, and Mixed housing. 10. Those who live, own property, work, or operate a business downtown rated Upscale housing as more important to their vision of downtown Dubuque and ranked Professional and service types of businesses in their top 5 choices more frequently than those who do not have these connections. Owners/operators of downtown businesses and downtown employees rated Corporate offices as "very important" more often than residents of downtown Dubuque. Owners/operators of downtown businesses also gave lower ratings and rankings than downtown employees and residents to Low to moderate housing while downtown residents gave more extreme ratings to this item, compared to downtown employees. VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 3 VISION DOWNTOWN: A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY INTRODUCTION This report represents the "citizen questionnaire" phase of a multi -stage process for developing a shared community vision for Downtown Dubuque. The Dubuque City Council and its Long Range Planning Advisory Commission assigned the Downtown Planning Committee, comprised of a cross section of community leaders and planners, the task of leading a comprehensive downtown planning process. Previous and future community meetings, as well as a validation survey of Dubuque citizens, will be combined with the results of this citizen survey to create the foundation for building a shared, comprehensive master plan for downtown Dubuque. DATA -GATHERING PROCESS The data for this report was gathered by means of a self-administered questionnaire that appeared as an insert in the July 2001 issue of "City Focus," the quarterly newsletter of the City of Dubuque. This newsletter containing the survey instrument was sent to an estimated 28,000 households, downtown businesses, and post office boxes in the City of Dubuque. Surveys were returned from 1411 addresses, representing a response rate of 5%. The instrument used in this survey was constructed from the input provided by members of the City of Dubuque Planning Services Department as well as representatives of various segments of the Dubuque community who are also members of the Downtown Planning Committee. Six major categories were included in the questionnaire: 1) housing, 2) commerce, 3) culture and education, 4) public open areas, 5) historical features and 6) transportation. Respondents provided opinions on fifteen items representing specific examples of each of these features of downtown Dubuque. They were first asked to indicate the level of importance they attach to each of the fifteen items and, secondly, they ranked the top five items they considered most desirable to their ideal vision of downtown Dubuque. Respondents also provided data on three demographic characteristics: age, sex, and the frequency with which they visit downtown Dubuque. The final section of the questionnaire asked respondents to indicate the types of connections they have with downtown Dubuque: do they live downtown, own property downtown, work downtown, operate a business downtown, or. none of the above. Respondents were also invited to share comments regarding their vision for downtown Dubuque in an open-ended item at the end of the questionnaire. These responses are provided in Appendix. A of this report. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SAMPLE Age and sex. A total of 1411 respondents completed and returned the survey. When compared to the population of the City of Dubuque based on the 2000 U.S. Census, the sample of 1411 respondents contains disproportionately (87% v. the 61% expected from the U.S. Census data) more citizens whose age is 35 years or older and 16% fewer citizens between the ages of 18 and 34 (see Figure 1A). The sample also contains 5% more females and 5% fewer males than expected from the U.S. Census data (see Figure 1B). One possible explanation for these disparities is the manner in which surveys were distributed. Each survey was mailed to a household. The person who completed and returned the survey was more likely to be an older member of the household and a female. Caution should betaken when interpreting the following data because the opinions of younger adults (age 18-35) and males are underrepresented in the data. A later section of this report will discuss differences in the opinions of respondents based on age and sex, which will help provide a more accurate interpretation of the results. FIGURE IA: AGE OF RESPONDENTS (INNER RING) versus DUBUQUE 2000 CENSUS DATA (OUTER RING) ar; 29% 13% zetit 28% m 19 to 34 IS 35 to 59 0 60 or over 37% The sample overrepresents the opinions of Dubuque citizens aged 35 and older. This may be due to -the way surveys were distributed by mail to households. Only' one member of a household responded; this person tended to be an older member of the household. FIGURE 1B: SEX OF RESPONDENTS (INNER RING) versus DUBUQUE 2000 CENSUS DATA (OUTER RING) The sample also overrepresents the opinions of females. VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 5 Frequency of visits and connections to the downtown area. When asked how many times they visited downtown Dubuque in an average month, approximately one-third of the respondents indicated that they visit five times a week or more and about one- quarter indicated they visit once a month or less (see Figure 2). Similarly, when asked the types of connections (live, own property, work, operate a business) they have to the downtown area, approximately one-third (453 of 1338) who responded to the question indicated one or more connections (see Figure 3). Of these 453 people connected to the downtown area, 71% work downtown, 31% live downtown, 21% own property downtown, and 20%operate a business downtown. There are no census -type data with which to determine how well the patterns of responses to these questions represent the citizens of Dubuque. Nevertheless, there appear to be sufficient numbers of respondents who have multiple contacts as well as no contact with the downtown area with which to make meaningful comparisons. FIGURE 2: FREQUENCY OF VISITING DOWNTOWN N 350 (1) 0 300 ca. a) 250 8 L t200 E Z 150 How many visits downtown? si 5 or more Once/week 9 2-3/month 1/month or Tess El No response 0 0 H 0 u) as 0 0. 0 .0 E z 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 FIGURE 3: CONNECTIONS TO DOWNTOWN Of the 1338 respondents who checked one or more responses to these five statements: 324 checked one connection 76 checked two connections 38 checked three connections 15 checked four connections 885 checked no connection Of the 1411 total respondents: 73 did not provide a response 1 live downtown El I own property downtown ®I work downtown 1=11 operate a business downtown These do not apply tome V Percentages are are based on the 1338 respondents who provided a response. Some provided more than one response, so the percentages add up to more than 100% of the total. VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 8 RATINGS OF IMPORTANCE FOR EACH DOWNTOWN FEATURE Figure 4 displays the respondents' ratings of the importance of all fifteen features to their vision of the ideal downtown on a four -point scale (very important, important, somewhat important, not important). Some citizens provided no response to some of the features. In Figure 4, the features are organized with the item receiving the most ratings of "very important" at the top and the feature receiving the fewest ratings of "very important" at the bottom. Six features received ratings of "very important" or "important" from at least 75% of the respondents: Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities Maintain historic character Increased employment opportunities Cultural arts and recreational opportunities Public open areas and green spaces Parking The first two items, "Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities" and "Maintain historic character" were rated as "very important" by approximately two- thirds of the respondents, while the other four items listed above were rated as "very important" by about half of the sample. Two items, both related to downtown housing, received ratings of "very important" or "important" from fewer than 50% of the respondents: Upscale housing Low to moderate housing The other feature related to housing, "Mixed housing (low, moderate, upscale) was rated as "very important" or "important' by slightly more than 50% of the respondents. FIGURE 4: RATINGS OF IMPORTANCE FOR EACH DOWNTOWN FEATURE Very Important Z Important LE Somewhat Important 0 Not Important ❑ No response Unique shopping Historic character Increased employment Cultural arts Public open areas Parking General retail Mass transit Pedestrian/bike Professional/service Educational opportunities Mixed housing Corporate offices Low to moderate housing Upscale housing 11111111111 IC' rq " loy.,Arr' '.i /.r+ . .441111111111111111111111111111060111110 /// /. /'. '/A I1111II111I I II I11II I1 ° ;" ;.1 // ''///' Z1111I11 111111111111 11111111111 a:'g.�. 10'0"..rt�"",r+"�►+ ."."". I I I I II II II I II II11111111111111�'"'MI� Af. ../' 11 11111111111 111 11111111 11111:4«,,4,,,N ./V/ /././1./.6)///7.111 111111111111 11111111111 1111111111N ' .',0+.' \.." " ,,' .` . '.�.- :r- �. 0% 10% • 20% 30% • 40°/U 50% 60% Percentage of 1411 responses 70% 80% 90% i 100% VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 10 RANKINGS OF THE TOP FIVE MOST DESIRABLE FEATURES Figure 5 indicates how frequently respondents ranked each item among the top five most desirable features. The two items most frequently ranked among the top five features were the same items that received the most ratings of "very important": Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities Maintain historic character Each of these items was also ranked #1 by approximately 25% of the respondents. No other item received more than 10% of the rankings as the #1 item. Respondents to this survey appear to view these two items as most essential to the future vision of downtown Dubuque. Five other items were ranked among the top five features by at least one-third of the respondents, four of which had also received high ratings .of importance: Cultural arts and recreational opportunities Public open areas and green spaces General retail Parking Increased employment opportunities The same two items that were rated as least important were also the items ranked among the top five features by fewer than 10% of respondents: Upscale housing Low to moderate housing FIGURE 5: RANKINGS OF TOP 5 DESIRABLE DOWNTOWN FEATURES Ranked 1 Z Ranked 2 Ul Ranked 3 Ranked 4 ISI Ranked 5 0 Unranked Unique shopping Historic character Cultural arts Public open areas General retail Parking Increased employment Mixed housing Pedestrian/bike Professional/service Mass transit Corporate offices Educational opportunities Upscale housing Low to moderate housing 497 oro; 1 401/77P,Ill 4g 111111 i:so /1111111 14 r . IIII F 1 . 11'11 Ili NOTES: "Unique shopping" was the most frequently ranked feature. "Historic character" received the most #1 rankings and was the second most frequently ranked feature. "Cultural arts" and "Public open areas" were next in the rankings. "Upscale housing" and "Low to moderate housing" were the least frequently ranked features, although "Mixed housing" received more overall rankings than some other features. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% Percentage of 1411 respondents 3 f 100% VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 12 DIFFERENCES IN RESPONSE PATTERNS Table 1 identifies differences in response patterns based on respondents' ages and sexes. These differences were identified via the chi-square statistic. This statistic compares patterns of responses from different groups (e.g., age groups) and indicates how likely the different patterns are simply due to chance fluctuations. Differences with a low probability of being simply due to chance fluctuations are indicative of probable differences in the response patterns provided by those groups. Because the chi-square statistic is more likely to indicate non -chance differences with larger samples, the CBSR chose a conservative level of probability (p<0.005) for reporting differences between the groups in this analysis. Differences based on age. Several age-related differences emerged (see Table 1), primarily when comparing Dubuque citizens aged 60 and older to those respondents under 60 years of age: When compared to younger respondents, those respondents aged 60 and older rated the following features as more important to their vision of downtown: General retail businesses Mass transit accessibility Corporate offices Low to moderate housing They ranked the following feature more frequently in the top five features: Low to moderate housing They rated the following features as less important to their vision: Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities Cultural arts and recreational opportunities Public open areas and green spaces Pedestrian/bike accessibility They ranked the following feature less frequently in the top five features: Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities They also: Visit the downtown area on a less frequent basis Have fewer connections (e.g., live, work, own property, etc.) to downtown For example, whereas 75% of those under 60 rated "Unique shopping..." as "very important", only about 60% of those 60 and older rated this feature as "very important". In contrast, approximately 43% of those 60 and older rated "General retail" as "very ' important" compared to approximately 37% of those under 60 years of age. Respondents between the ages of 35 and 59 gave more importance to "Maintain historic character" than the other two age groups; 72% rated this feature as "very important" compared to 67% of respondents under the age of 35 and 60% of the respondents aged 60 or older. In addition, they ranked this feature more frequently among the top five features than the other age groups. The 35-59 age group was also more likely to operate a business downtown than the other groups, whereas the under 35 group was more likely to live downtown. Except for these differences, the patterns of responses provided by respondents under the age of 35 did not differ substantially from those respondents in the 35-59 age group. However, the sample of respondents contains fewer individuals under the age of 35 than expected from the U.S. Census data, so it is difficult to know whether these two age groups actually share a similar vision for downtown Dubuque or whether this shared vision is restricted to those who took the time to complete and,mail back a survey. VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 13 Differences based on sex. There were several differences in the response patterns of males and females (see Table 1): When compared to males, female respondents rated the following features as more important to their vision of downtown: Maintain historic character Parking General retail Mass transit accessibility Increased educational opportunities Low to moderate housing Females rated the following features as less important to their vision: Corporate offices Females also: Visit the downtown area on a less frequent basis Are less likely to own property or operate a business downtown TABLE 1: DIFFERENCES IN RESPONSE PATTERNS BASED ON DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS Statistically significant differences are reported and are based on the chi-square statistic, p<0.005) DOWNTOWN FEATURES (Organized in declining order by importance ratings) AGE-RELATED Under 35 DIFFERENCES 35 to 59 60 or older SEX-RELATED Male DIFFERENCES Female Unique shopping, restaurants, ... Maintain historic character Increased employment opportunities Rated+ Ranked+ Rated+ Ranked+ Rated+ Ranked+ Rated - Rated+ Cultural arts &.recreationan Public open areas & green spaces Parking Rated+ Rated+ Rated+ Rated+ Rated - Rated- Rated+ General retail Mass transit accessibility Pedestrian/bike accessibility Rated+ Rated+ Rated+ Rated+ Rated - Rated+ Rated+ Professional & service businesses Educational opportunities Mixed housing (low, mod., upscale) Rated+ - Corporate offices Low to moderate housing Upscale housing Rated+ Ranked+- Rated+ Rated+ Rated - Rated+ Frequency of visits to downtown Visits less Visits more I live downtown own property downtown work downtown operate a business downtown These do not apply to me Yes, more often Yes more often No more often No more often Yes more often Yes more often Yes more often _ Yes more often NOTES: Rated+ = This group gave this feature higher ratings of importance than the other group(s). Rated- = Lower ratings. Ranked+ This group ranked this feature more frequently than the other group(s). Ranked- = Less frequent rankings VISION DOWNTOWN PAGE 15 Differences based on connections to downtown. Table 2 compares respondents who are more frequent visitors or have connections to downtown Dubuque to those who visit less frequently or have fewer connections: When compared to respondents who visit downtown Dubuque less than once a week, respondents who visit downtown Dubuque once a week or more rated the following features as more important to their vision of downtown: Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment, tourism amenities Cultural arts and recreational opportunities Pedestrian/bike accessibility Mixed housing (low, moderate, upscale) They also: Are more likely to work downtown Respondents who visit Dubuque less frequently than once a week rated the following features as more important to their vision of downtown: Parking They gave more extreme ratings (both more "very important" ratings and more "not important" ratings" to: General retail They also: Have fewer connections (e.g., live, work, own property, etc.) to downtown Whereas the more frequent visitors were more likely to rate "Unique shopping..." as "very important", the less frequent visitors were more likely to rank this feature among the top five most desirable features for the downtown area. When compared to respondents who did not indicate a connection to the downtown area, those respondents who live, own property, work, or operate a business downtown rated the following feature as more important to their vision of downtown: Upscale housing They rated the following feature as less important: Parking They gave more extreme ratings (both more "very important" ratings and more "not important" ratings" to: Mass transit accessibility They were also more likely to rank the following feature among the top five: Professional and service types of businesses Based on the responses to the question about connections downtown, respondents who indicated as least one connection were divided into three categories (see Table 3). First, respondents who indicated that they own property and/or operate a business downtown were classified as "Owners/Operators". Second, those who indicated that they live downtown but who did not own property or operate a business were classified as "Residents". The final group of "Employees" comprised respondents who indicated that they work downtown but who did not indicate that they own property, operate a business, or live downtown. The analysis of differences in the response patterns of owners/operators, residents, and employees indicated differences on only two features. (1) Owners/Operators and Employees rated "Corporate Offices" as "very important" more often than Residents of the downtown area. (2) Owners/Operators gave lower ratings and rankings to "Low to moderate housing" and Residents gave more extreme (both more "very important" and more "not important") ratings to this item when compared to Employees. TABLE 2: DIFFERENCES IN RESPONSE PATTERNS BASED ON CONNECTIONS TO DOWNTOWN (Statistically significant differences are reported and are based on the chi-square statistic, p<0.005) DOWNTOWN FEATURES (Organized in FREQUENCY OF VISITS declining order by importance ratings) At least 1/week Less frequently'. Ranked+ Unique shopping, restaurants, ... Rated+ CONNECTIONS TO DOWNTOWN Own/Live/Work Does not apply Maintain historic character Increased employment opportunities Cultural arts & recreationan -: Rated+ Public open areas & green spaces Parking Rated+ Rated - Rated+ General retail Rated + and _ Mass transit accessibility Rated + and - Pedestrian/bike accessibility Rated+ Professional & service businesses Ranked + Educational opportunities Mixed housing (low, mod., upscale) Rated+: Corporate offices Low to moderate housing Upscale housing Rated + I live downtown I own property downtown I work downtown ;Yes more often I operate a business downtown These do not apply to me Yes more often NOTES: Rated+ = This group gave this feature higher ratings of importance than the other group. Rated- = Lower ratings. Rated + and - = This group gave more extreme (both higher and lower) ratings of importance than the other group. Ranked+ = This group ranked this feature more frequently than the other group. TABLE 3: DIFFERENCES IN RESPONSES OF OWNERS/OPERATORS, RESIDENTS & EMPLOYEES (Statistically significant differences are reported and are based on the chi-square statistic, p<0.005) DOWNTOWN FEATURES (Organized in declining order by importance ratings) CONNECTION TO DOWNTOWN DUBUQUE Owner/Operator ResidentEmployee�' Unique shopping, restaurants, ... Maintain historc character Increased employment opportunities Cultural arts & recreationan Public open areas & green spaces Parking General retail Mass transit accessibHity Pedestrian/bike accessibility Professional & service businesses Educational opportunities Mixed housing (Iow,mod., upscale) Corporate offices Low to moderate housirig Upscale housing `1(r '`. �. .'` -~� Rated+ Ranked- ' �� •�r�� How respondents were classified as Owner/Operator, Resident, or Empioyee Own property Operate business Live Work Owner/ Operator Owner/ Operator Yes Yes Yes Yes Owner/ Operator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yet Owned Operator Owner/ Operator Owner/ Operator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Owner/ Operator Owner/ Operator Yes Yes Yes Yes Owner/ Operator Yes Yes Owner/ Operator Yes Yes Owner/ Operator Yes Owner/ Operator Resident Yes Yes Yes Resident Yes Employee Yes NOTES: Rated+ = This group gave this feature higher ratings (Ranked- = lower ratings) than the other groups. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 5 Jobs, Jobs, Jobs- Parking, Parking! Major retailers are gone in our lifetime. Office Park, the final answer. 6 Unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment(including recreational & cultural arts) should be the primary focus. This part of the balance is most lacking. We need visitors & citizens (of Dubuque) alive to see downtown as the place to be. When people think of downtowns with a lot of character and charm (a perfect match to America's river), they think of downtowns with these amenities, i.e. great restaurants unique shopping, mixed styles of entertainment. 10 Some type of vehicle traffic is a must. 12 Maintain existing historic building renovate instead of demolish. 18 Your downtown area for this questionnaire is too large. Some areas will be housing only, while other areas will be business (retail and or corporate) while yet another area may be tourism only. Thanks for asking for our input. 20 The old downtown Dubuque was fascinating, continual parking tickets actually killed it. Most of us felt we were penalized (by the tickets), for shopping downtown. It would greatly enhance this area if we could revert back to many of the stores (even a smaller annex type). Getting the good xmas decorations back. Nostalgia is what most tourists desire. Figure out how to allow people to pack for an hour without the ticket cop waiting for there meter to expire. 21 Too far to walk from meters. By the time you do businesses have a parking ticket. (2 bedroom apt) for people w/15,000 less a year. Get rid of meters use ramps. Open main st.-to traffic. Why pay, parking free at malls on west side. 24 I remember as a young person going shopping downtown stopping for a sandwich and really enjoying the downtown stores. We went downtown several times a month to shop & dine. Now I don't go downtown at all. It would be so nice to bring those times back. 26 We need to make downtown Dubuque a place to want to go for everyone. Unique shopping, free entertainment so all the low income families can take their children for an enjoyable day. Bike paths for safe riders on bikes. Educational opportunities for teachers and other staff that need to get GEDs every year. Have this all year long at different times & send info to those interested. 27 The businesses on the riverside of Kerper have destroyed its beauty and usefulness toward tourism. We need to maintain a balance between historic and tourism while giving downtown some of the real world access to shopping, restaurants & working. We also need to be careful of destroying the rivers natural beauty & attraction. 28 Downtown should be kept clean. It should be a safe and friendly place for people to visit. Buildings should not be run down looking. 29 Do not open the plaza to auto traffic. 31 People may think the old buildings are seen as historic but other people including myself thinks it's beginning to look like an eye sore. People want to make downtown so attractive and so profitable but Dubuque has jammed so many buildings and left a poor amount of parking locations that they're killing the meaning of downtown. I wish downtown would be leveled and rebuilt in a properly efficient manner. 32 I sure wish the plaza could remain closed. We miss the little park that was by the Grand Theatre. Downtown needs public open areas. 34 A.landowner wants to demolish buildings whole another owner want to open Main St. I think it should remain closed. 35 We don't need another water/amusement park. The river project is going in the wrong direction. Don't spend $2.1 million on the brewery- use it downtown. Taxes are too high for what you get. Get a better service. Improve existing facilities and school buildings. 36 We have so many empty downtown buildings that John Groen should stay out of other people's business. He should concentrate on tilling the empty ones instead of blocking people from filling the existing ones by making more parking. 38 Building up lower main should be the priority. The real mall should be left to the office members. 40 The main reason our friends and relatives come downtown is to see the great architecture. If we continue to demolish buildings, we'll look just like any other town, and thus no reason to come here. 41 . We have to stop ripping down buildings. Every time an old is destroyed, we as a city; loose! Iowa St. should be renamed Parking Ramp BLVD. How about a scenic bike tour route around downtown? Encourage the city of Dubuque to maintain the old stairways along the bluffs. 42 Downtown should stay closed to traffic- make it a Gas lamp quarter- walking areas, increase parking- have fun areas rather than opening streets. Waste of money. Move forward-building up what we have. 48 European cities have begun mall-type areas in their centers with great success. This supplements the earlier successful pedestrian zones in the historic center. The malls are designed to blend in & give pride a place to be historic. I enjoy visiting Iowa City that has a lot of this. 50 Lets take this opportunity to make downtown a gathering oplace of beauty, history and recreation. Look at Old Town in Kansas City- historical character, restaurants, shops, outdoor theater, dance, and music- A beautiful area that beckons people & activities. We can combine history with the present to create a beautiful area that draws people in. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 53 A mixture of corporate offices and new tourism opportunities. Developing the Harbor with more moderate to upscale housing. 60 Move the clock back to its former location 66 Think downtown needs restaurants — discount stores. Person living downtown walking has no where to get groceries - basic daily necessities - Bring life back to downtown - traffic heavy on central yet no one stops to shop - don't even know what's downtown anymore 69 I would prefer using downtown for general needs - currently, except to where I get my haircut, MOJO's newly located on 4th & bluff, I shop west end 70n I do not approve of the subsidization of new businesses that will be, or are i competition with established businesses now operating in any area of the city. Everyone should depend on their own restaurants. To do otherwise is unfair. 71 Need a promotion thrust for downtown amenities - shops, galleries, trendy bars, festivals, cost living 72 There is`already low income housing in and around the downtown area. With more activity, the rivers project and the opening of Main St, we should promote upscale housing for professionals and retirees. 73 Cant read 76 Dubuque is a city with a lot of potential. If historic places like the Greystone and historic Main Street (Betty Jane, etc.) keep getting torn down, Dbq. Will actually lose character and potential. Please use, codes for city planning! Some houses/districts just need a little upkeep! 77 Cant read 79 I think downtown Dubuque could be a tourism type place, similar to Galena if it would upscale some areas & put special shopping & entertainment to attract people locally & out of town with the river, Eagle point park & the gambling that is already an added attraction. The beautiful bluffs and the colors in the trees in fall attract out of towners who live in the city. They'll come here for weekend getaways if there were nice restaurants, shopping & recreational activities such as jet ski rental, pontoon rentals, etc. 80 More department stores, like a Wal-Mart. Better housing opportunities so it doesn't -look like the slums downtown. 81 I would come downtown much more often if it provided shopping, dining, entertainment options and if parking was available to a reasonable cost. Get the downtown people and the Bluff street people to co-operate & work together - tours, regular hours all are open - unique idea with a trolley type train/bus would make regular route of shopping area. 82 First do away with the parking meters, believe it or not its one of the main reasons people don't like to go downtown. Put in a quality RV, and camping facility. Cut back on the extreme rules for the historic housing repairs & remodels, be more flexible! Some people don't have unlimited funds! 84 We have an older town with great buildings, A few shops (Landsend, Old Navy? Specialty stores, restaurants would be some ideas.) Corner drug store with fountain? The Grand Opera is great! * 86 I think opening the plaza is not going to bring people back downtown to shop. There aren't any decent inexpensive stores to shop at and why pay to park when you can go to the mall and park for free? Why don't they eliminate the meters? 88 There needs to be low cost housing because not enough employers are paying enough wages, so people can find housing and still have something to live on - no way can someone with family afford 400$ - 600$ per month on 650$ per hr. wage 89 Why would anyone want to go downtown to see more office buildings? 92 Open the Mall! Downtown: Look at Platteville, I.C., Independece, C.R. etc. 94 We need to maintain downtown character. We need public rest rooms for tourism in the downtown area. 100 If you open it up put on street parking. Those "drop-offs" are a Joke. That doesn't help a business if you can't park to enter it. Put 20 -minute max meters.. The meter nazis will enforce is as well as they do the drop-offs. Can we screw the downtown up any further? Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 101 In many European countries, they would never think of tearing down historic properties that lend charm & character. Hopefully downtown can retain what is left instead of becoming a concrete parking lot mecca. City leaders might develop programs to entice anchor retailers & other entities that would lure citizens to this area. Plant more trees and utilize creative landscaping techniques. 106 I would open up the town clock plaza with the exception of the block where the town clock is located. 108 Encourage accessibility to downtown, reasons to re -visit and spend time and money. Outdoor dining/bistro options. A free shuttle that operates between limited stops during the summer, anyone can use it. Ensure the re -opened main street is one way with only one row of diagonal metered parking with extra wide sidewalks on both sides, many places so sit and people friendly sculptures 109 I would like to see downtown as it was when I was growing up. Like Kaesskey's and Stampfers also stores that are reasonably priced soda shops & deli's on Coney island. Bring back the old downtown area. Ramp dancing and more for the teens & kids 110 Please stop tearing down the old buildings! 113 The city should encourage more apartments * lofts above 1 floor businesses. With the large amount of ramp parking you should consider removing most to all of the parking meters and post "2 hr zone" etc. Enforcement dollars would still come in but the downtown would be more visitor friendly, as it is in Galena, Lancaster, and more other towns around. 117 As a new resident to Dubuque I would like to see Dubuque maintain its uniqueness. Wish we had discovered it 20 yrs ago when we were raising our children. Feel we have a lot to offer tourists and part of the "vision" should include advertising our uniqueness. 118 Downtown is dead - there are empty buildings from 12th to let and ideas wont find them 119 Tourism is the goal. Vision downtown needs to have easy access to an attractive area & attractions to keep tourists returning. 120 We have the beautiful Miss. River & we've never taken advantage of our view- a park setting with a walking path, benches, flowers, etc. so people can walk after shopping or working - visiting art galleries, eating at fine restaurants (NOT fast food) with outside tables. When visiting downtown Bilboa, Spain, there riverfront was so enjoyable & beautiful, Keep the historic buildings 122 I think it is totally foolish to open the downtown plaza to the traffic and even more foolish to move the town clock AGAIN. He will not come downtown just for retail shopping there we have to pay to park esp. when all retail we need is on the west end. 124 I would not open Main St. between 5th and 7th St. If Main St. is extended from 9th and 7th I would make it one-way going south and turning west at the Town Clock. 125 Downtown businesses have to compete with easy mall parking. Smokefree restaurants downtown would be a big attraction! 127 Downtown should return to the "hub" of the city status as it was years ago. The need for retail & tourist elements to attract tourists, but most of all local residents back to downtown! 128 Feel utmost importance is to capitalize on our architectural element 133 I enjoyed going downtown as a child. The closing of the Main Street was a big mistake. Do away with all the parking lots, and bring back downtown, transit buses will benefit also 134 Don't open the Plaza. Leave as is with improvements for workers downtown to enjoy lunch/breaks 136 I would like to see the area remain a place to gather. With convenient parking a must. 137 Get rid of gambling industry in our town. Include Prescott school in your plan, great opportunities there, a wonderful school. 138 How bout a downtown transit route, grocery store needed for lower income residents. 139 I like the plaza the way it is! It is a delight to see students and office workers be able to use the benches on breaks. The activities under the town clock are unique and I get a sense of pride when visitors also find it so. I cant understand it when KDTH sponsors events there and the T-H wants to destroy it. 141 Bring back the brewery! 142 An open Main Street with parking spaces so people can stop and shop there or have something to eat - not just drive by like 8th St. just a plane paved street to save money to go where needed much more than fancy bricks and plants with no place to park. 143 Do not want main street open to road - hate the brick sidewalks- ugly- hard to walk on — cigarette catcher, dirty, keeps ice on, bad for wheelchairs, walkers, high heels, .uneven 146 It will be exciting to watch the development & enjoy spending more time in downtown Dubuque. 147 Dubuque needs recreational opportunities and unique shopping and restaurants in order to attract and refrain young professionals. I am looking forward to moving away from Dubuque due to the lack of these items. 148 More family activities for children - children's museum! Saee COSI in Toleto, OH as a good example. 149 I would like tosee 2 way traffic through the plaza but still have sidewalk eating & sitting areas. Also have it available for special events that might rescue closing off traffic for a time. Fill up those store fronts! Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 151 Please keep plaza as is. It is unique, relaxing and tourism friendly. Traffic is not needed- it would be like the 50s. Please remain closed- close new part also. I/we really question what has been changed -Absolutely not worth what ...Can't read 152 Keep sights on the future. Stop demolishing, here to use the structures that are historic. Don't keep moving the old town clock, changes need to ... Can't read 153 Upscale housing.is important. Low housing is important too, but needs to be in historic character and well maintained. I'm sorry I had only 5 ratings. Others are very important too. Obviously we need pedestrian/bike accessibility and public open areas and green spaces. (we can't lump together the entire downtown. Different areas lead themselves to different features.) 154 We don't need retail businesses downtown. Have plenty on west side. Try to rebuild and clean up the old mess along the river.. Fill up main st. And surrounding areas with as many office headquarters as possible. 155 I would like to see better paying jobs in the area. 157 Leave town clock area closed. Continue jazz festivals and art fairs. 158 I don't agree with the decision to open the plaza. When's it going to open anyway? Vcan the city pave the street to look like brick or some type of stone to add character? Use patterned colored asphalt, if there is such a thing. 159 Mixed housing very important to maintain healthy balance of people living downtown they are more apt to shop downtown. Historic character is important- adds the uniqueness & flavor of Dubuque but zoning issues etc. must not be so confining... Can't read 162 There must be a need for people to come downtown. If there is not a large need no matter how much money we've spend, it will be a loss. 166 Open up streets. 168 Needs to be a place for growth, primarily business -wise, in order to attract people to come downtown, like the west side is now. 171 Don't re -open Main St. Go back to more one way streets! 172 I don't wish to see the plaza opened; I feel that my tax dollars could be better spent. 174 You need things that will attract younger people to move and stay here. 178 As a person who lived in Dubuque all his life, I think it's a shame that the city is stuck with the problem of downtown, if the old time landlords would have taken care of the property, the city would not have this problem._ 179_ I think it's too late now to backtrack to what downtown was. The cost would be prohibitive and it still won't bring people back from the west end. 181 I see increased tourism as the answer for downtown Dubuque as businesses are not coming back from malls. Also, undesirable tenants will keep shoppers away. 182 We need a mix of the 15 above. We need all 15 to some extent so it will be a complete are. 183 Would like to see downtown used more for things like Dub & all that Jazz or things that bring people from the community together to enjoy the area. 193 Do something to reduce the ugliness of buildings (roofs, equipment) as seen from the bluffs. The view of downtown from above Isnot attractive. 196 We think the people of Dubuque should have a right to vote on opening or keeping the downtown plaza closed. It's a travesty to tear down all of the nature trees and rip up a wonderful gathering center for no beneficial purpose. 197 Tie in with America's river and bluff street stores with better upscale restaurants and mixed housing for all living downtown. 198 In my travels I have noted that many areas experiencing revitalization of downtown have free parking as an, incentive. Keep green area, place for people/employees to congregate. Need retail to support employees. 199 I ma retired from working in the psychiatric field & the stress caused by the pace of today's living standards is enormous. Please restore Dubuque's downtown to the historic character which reflects a time serenity & genteel living that the populace of today is searching for, Dubuque's potential id enormous. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 202 I favor keeping the area closed 203 (Plaza) Downtown should remain closed. Cost to open it too expensive. Shouldd-increase public open areas and green areas. Encourage more corporate offices and more employment opportunities 204 Dubuque is a beautiful place with the exception of large signs and billboards. If Dubuque had better control of this it would be a better place. Good Luck with the River Front Project, it sounds great. 206 I don't understand why millions of dollars are being spent to tear up Main Street when you can no longer drive on the streets in the north end - especially White Street. It is deplorable and fastly becoming a ghetto -looking area. I do not even live in the north end. Something must be done! 207 The downtown needs specialty shops, trees, flowers, people walking, people laughing, and plenty of cultural events 209 Would like to see stores like there used -to be so people on North'•end have a place to shop & not have to go to the west end of town for everything 211 Good Survey 217 Traffic Patterns Terrible, No north -south thorough fare 219 Tourism including local interest, historic preservation 220 Cable Car square & America's river project need to be connected by a free or low tram or bus 222 Just do something with the downtown!!! 226 It must be economically viable. All business, and service must not be at west end of town cause we need a highly trained population for economic development 229 Do not open the downtown area to through traffic 233 Try to keep and maintain historic buildings and try to build less businesses as possible, make more educational but yet entertaining places for the younger generation and parents to get involved in 238 Get rid of the parking meters 240 To be successful the downtown area must gave a full 2 lane street with parking on both sides. Anything less will doom it to failure 245 I think with the river front development we have an ideal opportunity to create an atmosphere that is unique and has a variety of unique shopping, cultural, and recreational opportunities! 246 Brighten up downtown buildings. Keep historic look, but a neat clean look. Get rid of parking meters - have a safe downtown area, day and night 247 Have you been to Boulder, Co.? Their downtown is a plaza. It is always crowded, They offer so much, why cant we? 248 I believe that our first priority should be to preserve our historic architecture. Bringing unique businesses to our downtown would truly compliment the vision of .a prosperous, progressive community. Tax incentives to get new businesses downtown, penalties for building owners who live outside the Midwest? Also bring regular shopping downtown so we don't have to go to the west end. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 251 Leave the plaza alone, alone - we don't need streets there - downtown will never never be like it use to be - leave it alone - we have lived down here 43 years . 253 I envision downtown as a center for "weekend events", where you can count on something happening every weekend, indoor or out, all year round. Unique shopping centers, music, food, all ages - family oriented; Children's museums, aquariums, a place you can always find something to do 257 It would be nice to have more stores available, so I would not have to drive clear across town to shop i.e. Aldis, another grocery store besides Eagle, movie theatre 259 Do not bring jobs that are min. wage and brag that jobs were added. Make sure the jobs added can pay basic bills, put food on the table. Make sure jobs added do not keep a family on the low income bracket. They deserve better than that. Have current businesses clean up/ remodel the outsides of their . buildings so they don't look rundown and neglected. If they're buildings are nice to look at people are more apt to want to venture into building. If its rundown/ugly I wouldn't want to go inside because the inside could be neglected too. If they neglect their area they will probably neglect me as a customer. 261 Don't open the Clock Plaza 262 Unique shipping, restaurants, entertainment, Says it all for me 263 We need a downtown where people of all ages, cultures, etc. feel welcome. Many stores for the shop-o-holics, restaurants, for all cultures - Mexican, Italian, etc. A recreation/green area/trail for the kids to come play ball, lovers to walk, old men to play chess, etc. A creative downtown would make a respected and.well-visited toured Dubuque. 266 Get back to what it once was. "Mainstreet, USA!" Open up Main St. without parking meters, Ramps can be used to long term parking and overflow develop businesses. 270 Several buildings and lower White St. need to be torn down. (across from the court house) 271 I feel upscale housing will bring tenants demanding and finding ways to provide many of their downtown needs. Some transportation methods area must to tie the riverfront and downtown area together. The casino/related businesses may want to limit the area to their territory but I feel for downtown to come back there must be a close tie-in component. 274 We need businesses to increase employment opportunities - decent family recreational places - good price range for these recreational opportunities - all year long - not just summer events. 277 Do not open town clock area with a street! 278 Keep it environmentally sensitive 279 Diversity is the primary ingredient missing in the Dubuque mentality - You just don't get it! 281 "General" retail is just that, general. With literally thousands of general retailers/ strip malls across the US, the only thing that distinguishes downtown is unique things and excitement. Trying to compete w/ the "big boxes" would not only destroy our unique downtown, it would be an exercise in futility. YES! Its that simple! 282 Would like to encourage more retail and corporate business establishments 283 In LaCrosse, WI, there are several older buildings with boarded upper story windows that are painted with Victorian lace curtains and ladies looking out the windows. A fun project for some of the artists in our city! I have the 1000 block of Main St. in mind. Also, we downtown employees need a retail store like Hartig's again! Keep area for Jazz fests, etc... 284 Make it well lighted and easy to keep clean 285 In addition to opening Main St., open 6th and 7th streets west of Main St. This will make it easier to enter and exit the former plaza. This talk of giving artists etc. preferential lease rates on main street to lure them in is non -sense. They should pay the market rate. I do not own any real estate on main street, good luck dave! 287 I don't see downtown as a major shopping area with dept. stores ever again but I do see it as a cultural & recreational area on nights & weekends & a major work place during the day. The downtown workforce are the ones who'll be using any downtown businesses the most. I think it's the cultural & recreational things that will draw others. 290 May/June issue of AAA "Home and Away" has an interesting article on pages 20, 21, and 22. Downtown not only for Dubuquers, but also to attend visitors at the riverfront facilities. 291 Downtown Dubuque needs more energy and vitality. It needs a facelift to keep the wonderful old buildings and history alive. 292 Thanks to "urban renewal" we've already lost numerous historical treasures. We must act to keep our history preserved. 296 My belief in upscale housing and unique shopping & restaurants will push the drugs and the violent prone individuals out of the downtown, giving us a downtown where people aren't afraid to walk, day or night: Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 301 Historic Dubuque has been on the part of our city fathers, Lip service only! We need people, not vehicles, downtown should have trolleys & carriages only through it! 302 Get rid of the oil tanks! Synchronize the stop lights, Fix the streets ; create a downtown Dubuque web site, Thank you! 304 I don't go downtown after because there isn't a lot of stuff for me to do. I enjoy doing activities such as all that jazz. I like Iowa City's downtown - there are a lot of people and things to do 308 Opening downtown to traffic is a waste of time and $$ This is now a professional sector. Retail business has moved to the west end and it and will continue to expend there. 309 Don't waste time opening up Main! People like to walk there - Not dodge cars, put a Capital roof over Main 9th and to 6th - Daily entertainment and food vendors like Peoria, IL & St. Paul, MN. Control loose dogs —should be in pens or fenced in, no walking big dogs! Damn dangerous to walk. More pedestrian rights like Portland, OR. Tell cops to serve, not harass! Then hire more - be polite. Less Meters - More jobs - hire more people - Dubuque streets are the worst! Fill holes - Pave - fill cracks — sweep - fix shoulders with black top not stupid rocks - I love dubuque - ask for volunteers - mow , sweep, paint, ask ask ask hire more including young people - instill pride in people - More history memorials & modern 0 tourist sites - encourage people to give & philanthropists to beautify and donate! We only gamble on Boat or track 3 or 4 times a year, but support it for Jobs and Tourists / Do a good job on River Front! Get packing house open, even if the city has to buy & sell shares. More Jobs, why is Maquoketa so successful? We have gone to NICC for classes - We need a Coney island 312 With the new river development, I hope the downtown is revitalized as a cultural and recreational area 313 Although I don't go downtown very often but I'm very much interested and supportive of the above "visions" for Dubuque. I would very much like to have the town clock remain in its present location - work Main street around that area as I have seen this done in another city - especially in Boston. 315 Keep our historic buildings. Downtown movie theatre & a variety of restaurants would be beautiful to new downtown vision, Riverfront park is a must. 318 Please try and remove the parking meters around most popular businesses, don't put anymore money into beautifying the Plaza. Just get more connivance stores to get milk, bread, thread, etc. 319 It would great for this section of downtown to become a neighborhood with residents, shop owners and area employees to interact daily and to provide an attraction for west end residents to come downtown with plenty of parking. 320 Lets leave the downtown streets the way they are. We've spent more than enough money with/on consultants, tearing out streets & putting them back in. Provide attractions & opportunities and people will come. We don't have to drive right to every establishments door. 322 Get rid of the parking meters 324 People wont come downtown if they feel that it is not worth paying to park. You can go to the west end of town and parking is free. Maybe the city could offer free parking specials events. The parking (pay to park) is what detours a lot of people from downtown Dubuque. 326 1- 2 way traffic on one way streets parking, open the streets. 2- Restore downtown area to pre -1960's 3- Tourist appeal to historic character connects with River Front project 332 Leave the plaza area alone, there is no need to change it 333 Keep T.C. Plaza the way it is 335 Parking is vital making downtown successful and appealing. Along with parking goes mass transit accessibility. Of course there must be reasons to go downtown. I believe a heart of a city is "its downtown" and gives it the soul & foundation it needs to thrive. . 341 If shopping, cultural activities etc are there, employment opportunities will follow. Education, in general, is now available 344 I've heard from the Chamber that historic tourism is critical to our economic base yet they were unwilling to locate in a historic buildings. A major downtown bank likewise took a swipe at our historic downtown. I wonder if they realize that in addition to offering historic Dubuque we pay more at the landfill b/c of these kinds of development plans. Whatever the plans is be consistent with your theories & actions. Have good reasons and be sure people know what your doing. 347 Leave pedestrian mall alone - Eight street reopening solved nothing - parking ramps are a joke - very little public. parking - all reserved - unique shopping, restaurants etc would be great if parking available - not drop off zones. - 348 Don't put street on Main St. Mall- Just improve some 349 Keep Main street closed to traffic, Spruce it up - 350 I feel that cleanliness is very important - downtown should not have an old, shabby look - but an historic, clean, appearance. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 351 It needs something unique to attract both visitors and native Dubuquers that incorporate Dubuque's historic character. 353 We have many miles of streets in town perhaps over 50 miles. The pedestrian mall in downtown is a unique area that needs to be maintained and enhanced to better serve the overwhelming users of the area. The downtown office worker has been seriously overlooked in this process. We don't need more streets. The city is not serving the downtown office worker and opening main street will just make the problem worse. A real slap in the face. 357 I would like to see Main street active again. You go downtown and there is no one down there. More stores, restaurants, unique shopping, etc... 358 Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on the downtown Dubuque area. I don't drive a car, and feel that as a pedestrian or user of public transportation I see things at ground zero level: up close and slowly. 359 Its imperative the Main Street be restored to two lane traffic allowing limited timed parking on both sides of'the street as originally configured. This would allow a better two way traffic flow encouraging people to come downtown to patronize amenities of area. 365 Model Main St. and downtown clock plaza after State St, in Madison. Model various industrial buildings around railroad tracks after Cleveland lakeside area. Need restaurants and drinking establishments, small retail shops. 366 A good mix of entertainment, unique tourism amenities and also corporate offices would keep downtown alive 24 hrs. a day 7 days a week. What we strongly have to offer is the historic character and river. Middle to upper housing in the way of condos would give people places to live with some retail business to support their needs. 370 I commend John Butler for preserving the history of the downtown buildings. He has incredible vision for what downtown corporate should be. I appreciate his efforts and hope the city continues to support him. The buildings he has renovated area compliment to the area. 372 I would like to see Main St. open to two way traffic and parking on at least one side. Both sides would be better. 373 To get the Main St. area to a historic 60s, 70s era open Main St. Attract good restaurants, specialty shop. Get back some mom and pop business. Look to the future with office and small business, but get a team to attract people to come downtown. 375 We need a nice downtown to make a good impression for visitors. We need to tear down old nasty looking buildings. 376 The downtown needs to be an attractive tourist destination with core businesses, to bring people to the heart of our city during the day and activities to bring people there nights and weekends. Transportation, parking and safety are big issues when locating a business or accommodating the tourists. 378 Making better use of the river front area is a step in the right direction. 379 Keep the old buildings. Put shops and restaurants in the lower portion. Put condos on the upper levels (moderate to up scale.) Use the uniqueness of the old downtown Dubuque and Mississippi river to draw people to live, shop and recreate. 383 Plaza should remain closed. 384 I think we are not doing the best job in getting our most important things solved. In my opinion they are good paying jobs, better schools, elderly assistance and good streets. Forget about the expensive riverfront, it will only create more minimum wage jobs. We don't need them. 385 I think we should have more tourism, offices and entertainment. Housing shouldn't be in the downtown area. We have enough parking. 386 Open the plaza! Take back what our founders envisioned. 388 The days of urban renewal are sad remembrance. Your efforts are commendable and I wish you well. Downtown Dubuque will never be the same. Fortunately one's memories that we senior citizens have can never be taken from us. 390 I would appreciate intellectually honest, mature and fiscally responsible people making these decisions that which involve our tax dollars. Please don't monument to yourself. 395 If housing is important, then close necessity shopping is very important. Walking distance. (food and general shopping.) 399 Someone called into Pat Fleming's 12:40 radio show and suggested an enclosed glass structure for the exciting plaza. It could have greens as plants etc... flowers etc... Can't read Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 401 Downtown DBW boasts a flavor of its own - the architecture is beautiful - if we lose this special character, in my opinion we lose the downtown. These buildings and parks are priceless. I think we need to entice businesses downtown to draw people back to increase traffic. 403 We must stop tearing down the old buildings. Although any one old building may mot have historic value, it is the large number of -old buildings that create the atmosphere. 412 This quarterly newsletter of our city Is Indeed Very Impressively Done, Great Job! 415 A downtown with actual individual stores to -shop at; Keep offices - west end - open main street. Open arms to new stores and variety of such. Personal owned & operated. 419 Re: City of Dubuque employees: Get rid of some of those "lazy lumps" that are not carrying a work load. I work in a retail business on the west end and on an average of twice a -week, there are 2 men who come into our store and shop. City employees (street maint) have been sites in remote areas- Sleeping! Investigate this stuff - Klosterman & Vogt are well aware of what's going on. 421 All of the items identified are important to revitalizing downtown. In my vision for downtown is that it becomes a - bustling hub of our city where people live - walk - and go for entertainment - It must be all encompassing 422 I think there is nothing of interest in the downtown anymore, about the only thing that brings people down are the Jazz . festivals, arts and crafts. It would be nice to see a Kohls Store or something that would spark an interest for the whole family. 423 We continue to lose/tear down our historic & beautiful old buildings --Main & Iowa St from 8t' to 139' is a neglected area. Too much emphasis on parking ramps and Gambling. Our downtown is dark - underlit - We removed about '1 our street lighting about 17 years ago after Vern Norton, our city elect inspector worked long and hard to get us a state of the art lighting system. Why is 3=d street overpass the first street to have snow removed? And downtown the last? Ever tried to walk across a downtown street in the winter time - absolutely no snow removal for pedestrians! 430 Let the "have" give to the "have nots", clean peaceful place where people get along, variety of people, housing/businesses/services green spaces with beauty neighbors helping neighbors! 431 Item 3 may seem to be an oxy moron, but intergenerational and socio-economic groups can co -exist. Housing's good, but it doesn't bring tourism. If America's River Center/Harbor and Vision downtown are to be viable (and profitable) they must be complimentary not competitive - Retail has already moved west, likewise upscale housing. 432 Downtown needs to be the center focus of the area. It needs to be nice to look at. It needs to be able to have a good first impression for passerby's and usability by those who stop in to visit and for residents 433 The city should not allow any businesses to build new, unless. the create a structure that matches the historic look of - downtown. Plus they would need to find ways to limit the number of cars/trucks for their employees for parking. Parking ramps are huge money pits and the city should not construct any more. 436 An extreme amount of money is being channeled to fund the River Front development. I personally feel a good portion of these funds could be used to improve city services and roads. 437 Downtown has great potential for both beauty and function. Pride in neighborhoods will go a long way toward enhancing other facets. Unfortunately, the behavior of some downtown residents deters others from living on frequenting the area. 440 We need more affordable housing for seniors in the middle income bracket. Also affordable mass transportation. We are very unhappy that all the old buildings have been torn down to put up new parking ramps. Our old Rivertown is no more. 442 I would like to see an area where you can walk along shops, bookstores, etc. A variety of restaurants and some park-like space. Possibly limited vehicle streets similar State Street in Madison, WI. 444 Why provide services (Parking snow removal, maintenance, etc) for downtown businesses. When outlying businesses pay for their own - cut tax money for area 445 Would like to see it opened and -more attraction - restaurant - a good one! Continued use of programs, etc. 448 Remove parking meters Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 453 One glaring omission in the present downtown arrangement - no public restrooms - I work downtown and am frequently asking for directions to restrooms/water fountains etc by tourists. If you want to attract tourists make accommodations for their personal comfort. Be hospitable! They shouldn't have to go to a business/restaurant to use facilities. 455 I would like to see the parking meters on the streets removed. I would stop downtown more often if I would park on the street without looking for change! I never have it 456 We need more things for the teens in this community. Maybe thew. downtown area could provide something recreational for those individuals. 457 Dubuque needs good restaurants neat the river, bakeries, outdoor dining, a good variety of ethics. Nice landscaping such as flowers, trees as well as park benches etc. will make the downtown more appealing as a tourist destination. 458 I think Dubuque should keep the beautiful flowering crab trees in town clock plaza. They are so pretty and I enjoy them every year. Don't cut them down. 459 Unless something is extremely unique or special, I would not have any interest in going downtown. It would surely have to sit up and talk to me. Metered parking is a real problem. 460 I would love to see Dbq. Develop a vision for keeping it's citizens "home." We go to Galena for great dining, Madison to shop, the QC's for great bike paths. Id love to stay home to do those things. I love Dbq. but I also love the aforementioned amenities. 461 Take some of the money needlessly spend on City Hall and Bunker Hill and help the poor to low income in Dubuque for rent, food bank, and patrolling high crime areas. Or else take the money and expand 5 flags across fifth street so we can get come decent entertainment here in Dubuque. It's a. shame we have to go out of town for big name entertainment. 462 Make certain that whatever is done involve our vast culture, not sparse segmented groups. - 463 Looking forward to continuation of bike/pedestrian path with accessibility to River Front project & would love to see unique shopping, restaurants with historic preservation that would make a visit downtown., a must when anyone comes to Dubuque. Open downtown main street/small shops. 464 We really need to also keep in mind our 18th thru 21 year olds, there is nothing at all for this are group to do, for there socializing, which is a very important part of growing. Other Iowa cities offer 18-19 year old bars for young adults to socialize. Leave downtown (town clock) the way it is! 465 Town clock to be left on present plaza location with European "Round about" driving and mall designed to be closed to vehicles for special occasions; shows & displays etc. 466 I feel that there should be more spots for kids 5 and under to do besides parks. Also pools closer by. Not just Sutton pool. Not lot of people got money or transportation. I hope in your next new letter you guys will answer these questions. Thank you for your time. 467 Don't want town clock plaza opened 469 I feel we lost downtown Dubuque when they closed off main street and closed all the small stores. They could have been a tourist attraction like Galena. I am sorry our Fore Fathers had no vision. The number 1 priority should be to black top the cow paths you call streets. 470 For a viable downtown people will have to live there. There should be stores to supply everyday needs. All segments of society should be welcome. It should be biker & pedestrian friendly. 471 Public parking seems adequate. Traffic flow would make life easier for tourists. Good signs on streets. 474 Keep Dubuque at its original character - no Glitz. Preserve history - the much advance with changing times but do not need to copy - they are "original". That is why I left Chicago and am happy to say I am from Dubuque. 476 Keep the plaza as is, Closed 478 Make downtown more accessible to cars 479 Leave town clock plaza alone 481 I don't think the downtown will ever compete or lure retail business to the area. Rather than spend a lot of money trying to build a retail base, we should be sure we don't loose any of our existing tenants, by' providing green areas, etc. This type area also good for special events for our general public. 483 Its about time! Much better than Lower main & 4th St. (you're beating a dead horse) 486 I used to live by Jackson Park, but now I love on the west side. I know I would spend more time downtown if "fun" activities were available. Also, parking spots/lots need to be abundant (it's the biggest complaint I hear about downtown). Thanks for allowing me to share my thoughts. 487 Back to the way it was before urban renewal 491 Why ahs the city stopped giving much attention to flowers and trees in Town Clock Plaza? This is where many festivals are held. Many out-of-town people visit these areas. Can planters be placed along the streets._Locust, Bluff, Main to beautify? Preserve historic buildings Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 501 I would like to see more small business people. 502 Outside coffee shops, movie theatres showing good, old movies. Dance place, free parking. Can't read.. 506 All are important. 511 Parking is critical. No one will come if they can't find a parking space. Be consistent in planning. Have the big picture always in mind. 512 It's a shame we won't have the town clock plaza to enjoy any more. What friendlier place is there in the downtown? The river walk will be nice but it won't be close enough to enjoy .for those of us who live within walking distance of the town clock. Don't make the same mistakes as Norfolk. 513 Don't open Main St. 519 Would love to see some businesses again. Keep busses running. Grocery store. Touch of historic Dubuque. 520 Having biked in other towns that have bike paths through the downtown areas is a major tourist attraction. Chicago, Duluth, Des Moines, Davenport, Cedar Falls, Minneapolis and especially Madison attract bikers from all over the Midwest. All of these paths connect to paths outside the .cities. 524 It's important that we hear all sides of this issue. Any naturally recognized urban planning executive must consider that the downtown belongs to the entire community. Not to a landlord and not to the chamber of commerce. We need to make sure this is truly a shared community vision. Not just a big show. 526 Regular activities much like all that jazz to attract people downtown. Develop the downtown into a Galena like destination with many things to do. 527 Please make it easier and less complicated to make improvements on properties ,through easier wording and less paperwork in the city code system and stop taxing people twice on their improvements by making them buy useless permits to make improvements on property that they own not the city. Then putting those improvements on their property taxes the next year, why not give them a tax break for a few years to enjoy the fruits of the labors. 529 There are enough parking ramps. 532 I don't feel that general retail businesses will ever locate in downtown Dubuque. The present make up of this area consists of professional and service types of businesses and small to medium eating establishments -to serve the employees of these businesses. Opening up the plaza will almost destroy a great place to eat lunch, relax and visit. 537 Nothing in survey about police presence; already good but should be encouraged & sustained.- Goals set early when planning begins early. Why not create an environment that encourages film production, and then establish a film commission to market Dubuque to production companies? We have some wonderful settings, including much that is historical. 538 My vision for downtown Dubuque includes keeping the town clock closed. I feel it was a mistake to open 8th St. between Locust and Main. 541 Similar to Galena downtown with artists, specialty shops, good restaurants and entertainment, add cultural arts & rec. and corporate offices and prof. Accountants & lawyers, green spaces and good parking. 544 We need something besides parking ramps. Keep it scenic and relaxing. 546 More ethnic owned businesses like Sugar Ray's downtown. 549 If they need to open the town clock plaza, allow parking. Otherwise it is a waste of money. 550 Open up Main St. to two-way traffic including curb meters and sidewalks. Take a good look at 8th and see what failure looks like. Cut the bull crap and touchy feely philosophy that caused all this in the first place, and drove out the business. Have you ever been to Bakersfield, California? It looks like a concrete desert. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 551 I think the citizens of Dubuque should have a right to vote on whether or mot the downtown plaza is reopened. '553 A business with video games, board games and popular recreational machines. It should be for all ages, no alcohol,. drugs or cigarettes. Just good clean fun downtown year round. 554 There is too much money going to be spent on opening Main St. There should be no parking meters, and there are not enough parking spaces. 556 Offer more things to do downtown and attract more business downtown instead of promoting the west end. Offer special privileges for new businesses downtown. Possibly cheaper rent and not being so strict on historical preservation rules. An occupied building is better than an empty one. 557 I was under the assumption that the town clock could not be moved again. Opening downtown to 2 way traffic now is a...Ca.u't read 558 Instead of fussing over demolition, focus should be on the space•in empty buildings, general maintenance and less billboards and signs. It Betty Jane really wants to remain downtown, there was plenty of space to rent then where they were. A clean downtown is a must. 560 My vision is that local residents, workers downtown and tourists see downtown as a place, which is an agora marketplace of entertainment, dialogue, commerce & (?)_ 562 Model downtown after Ann Arbor, MI or Chicago as both have done great things to keep stores, restaurants & people in the heart of downtown. Need to stop the west end spread of stores and shoppers. 563 I fear if we upgrade the area and yet include low to moderate housing the area will not be taken care of very well. What low housing we now have is, in general, very un kept and unattractive. 567 I was not in favor of opening the downtown plaza to traffic. There will be no place to park, as people employed in that area use up most of ramps. The town clock plaza is nice the way it is now. - 568 General maintenance right now is shameful, shaggy grass, garbage & cigarette butts all over the place. We snagged our clothes on rotten scenic tables. 569 I see downtown Dubuque as a unique area which offers a variety of employment and cultural activities. Quaint shops and open spaces which enhance the historical character of the -town would be ideal. 570 Main St. should keep its historical character. Open Main St. as in like lower Main, parking and all. Give financial incentives for small businesses to locate downtown. 571 No more parking ramps. Galena does fine with no meters or ramps. All we need is something to do downtown. In Chicago those brownstones are worth a fortune. 572 Upscale housing is key to the success of many of the other features and the area in general. People who have the finances need to be downtown residents to ensure its business viability. - 573 I don't believe any housing should exist in downtown and if so upscale. If we had a better affordable transit system people could commute to downtown for job opportunities. 574 I think signing (directions) could be greatly improved. 579 DBQ. needs things for young adults (18-23) to do besides bars and teen clubs. Simple recreational internet cafe or lounge area. 581 If you open the streets I would hope all the empty all the empty store spaces are filled so that people don't just drive there but stop & shop. Aldo hope that businesses like Betty Jane & Hartig will hopefully relocate...Cant read 582 Dubuque probably has 300 miles of streets open to traffic. 3 blocks for pedestrians to walk or seems_a trivial coercion to walking. There is no place over a block from cheap parking lot or curb. Car traffic wont bring 1940s retail. 584 Minimize the use of parking meters. Re -do streets, roads are shambles; the city is progressing backwards in their maintenance. Encourage more professional & service businesses with an emphasis -on paying living wages. Limit or discourage low rent housing in area. These buildings are an eye sore and give a negative image. 586 If the plaza is to be opened up the street should be wide enough for parking on both sides of the street: Not just drop off parking as on 8th street. 590 Unless there is more downtown that is worth going to, it won't make any difference I don't think opening the .plaza isthe answer. Feeding meters is another turn off for downtown. 592 The past years of work by many has created a name for our city as a historic and neat downtown area with shops. We must build on that success and add more offices and additional unique shops. 594 Mall should remain closed and used as an office park. Everything from alliance to 11th St. should be condemned, torn down and reclaimed as office and educational area. 595 I strongly oppose opening the, plaza. Leave -it as it is. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 601 I don't approve the opening of Main St. 605 I don't wish to see Main St. opened to automobile traffic. 610 Grocery store for DT residents. Owners keep up appearance. Clean! Clean! Clean! Happy environment. 614 Our historic integrity is top on the list. We have been systematically gutting the character of our downtown. 616 We need more culturally divers shopping, entertainment, and restaurants. We definitely need more to do besides hit the bars in this town. We also need to do some big time updating on some of the housing. 617 I don't feel that opening the plaza -pedestrian mall downtown will benefit the city; i.e. cost of renovation vs. the hope enticing businesses to relocate to the plaza. Downtown office workers presently enjoy the use of the plaza's benches, picnic tables, shade trees, etc... 621 Can't read.. 624 I think the more attractions you have, the more people you'll interest. 628 Opening Main St. will not attract more business to downtown. Downtown must first supply something unique to attract them. Opening the street furnishes only 18 spaces to park per block. It disrupts an already attractive pedestrian mall and invites more accidents, auto as well as pedestrian! Parking ramps presently... Can't read 630 Please make an effort to preserve the historical uniqueness of the downtown area. It's our greatest treasure; we owe this to future generations. 632 Free, cultural, recreational and educational opportunities should be offered so that more low-income families may also enjoy our city. Many activities are too expensive & out of reach for the low income. 635 The downtown should be for all. Not a playground for the rich and tourists. Housing is key. Services and restaurants etc. will follow. Old buildings should be renovated for housing, not torn down. Why was the flat building next to Art Museum destroyed with no comment? 636 More shopping centers downtown. . 643 Historic preservation very important to Dubuque in general. We must preserve historic buildings, as it is part of the crown to Dubuque. Also important to economic development. 648 Have regular tours of historic buildings, beginning or ending with a downtown restaurant or the casino. Encourage small businesses to enhance storefronts and insides with low interest loans from city. Sometimes, a coat of paint with good color will attract customers. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 651 Any ideas to bring people downtown are great, plays, craft fairs, Friday night jazz are wonderful. Keep parking reasonable & eliminate parking fees on Saturdays & holidays. Post downtown activities 657 I thought we should have been promoting our downtown as a "business - es. Corporate." I was approved to opening the plaza. A lot of money is being wasted on that project. 658 I envision downtown Dubuque with the flavor of "Old Dubuque" or "Old town".. an extension of what has begun in the 4th St. area with bars and restaurants, shops & attraction for tourists & Dubuquers alike. 659 Keep it simple! A place we can be proud of, which will encourage tourism and local support. 663 With shopping malls and retail chains I feel that a "downtown" area is obsolete as for as retail outlets are concerned, the downtown area should provide corporate offices, restaurants & entertainment. Also, upscale housing and should have green areas,_I feel the opening of main street is a mistake! 667 I hope the present buildings can be restored inside and outside to make them unique. With loft type apartments on the upper floors, there is such a great opportunity for this to happen in Dubuque. 668 Restore historic character buildings by eliminating remodeled store fronts, aluminum awings, overhanging signs and other "tacky" appearances. Create loft apartments in upper floors of existing in area. 674 I feel it is important to open Main street to provide continuity & access & visibility of the businesses in the downtown. You can always close off the street for an occasional evening for music and entertainment. 675 Enforce (possibly update and make more stingent) regulations relating to upkeep of buildings & properties help by landlords responsible for the upkeep & appearance of their rental properties. -All the Jazz and beer is fun occasionally but getting rather old. Need other activities downtown. 678 I feel it was a big mistake to open the downtown are again, Many people enjoy having an area to sit and enjoy the downtown. 681 Pleas DO Not Move The Town Clock! Do not open Main Street._ Teen drivers & 20 somethings would use it as driving the gut. 682 More power to you making Vision Downtown a reality. 683 We need to have more entertainment for our young adults ages 16-20. They have no where to go - its all on the West End of town. We have a lot of young adults who still live on North - South (downtown) their great kids too who need a place too (ramp dances) we use to have them, they were fun! These young adults are our future too! And leave our town clock where it is! 689 We would like to see more grocery stores downtown. Also eagles, why not an oldies? Hyvee? 690 People will take advantage of a downtown Dubuque if they have something to do there to see and do. See how successful the 4th street area is 692 Main Street opened 693 I am totally opposed to money being spent to open the town clock Plaza to vehicular traffic. Why can you spend all that money without taking a vote of the people - and the business community. The downtown has been unsupportive of more education money for Dubuque. I will vote no to any of your projects until there is support (financial) for public education in this community. 694 I believe that maintaining historic character is important but not it that makes revitalizing downtown Dubuque cost prohibitive; or will turn away business/restaurants/shops from choosing to locate in downtown Dubuque._ 697 Keep town clock closed! Remodel with new look rather that putting in a road. Restaurants are key. 699 Eliminate meters all together preferably - at least eliminate them on Saturdays & during public events downtown. 700 Need a civic center that can offer larger venues (conferences, meetings, sports, special events). The corporate presence downtown is important so the area can help support itself during non peak times without a regular flow o£ people on a daily basis #1 above will not survive. Above sky -way for pedestrians from, Diamond Jo boat area downtown (Like Des Moines). Name hotel chains (Marriott, Adam's Mark, etc...) typically found in downtown areas. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 701 As a recent newcomer to the city (1998), I see much that is positive happening downtown. However, I don't go down often personally_ because not much retail as a draw, when I'm on the west side of the city. Also just not easy to learn downtown area because of bluffs, river, one-way streets etc. 703 Don't knock down any more buildings! Didn't they do enough wreckage 40 years ago? No wonder its such a big project to rebuild. 705 More to do on river downtown. Brew Pub downtown. Resurface roads downtown. Tax incentives needed for downtown development - commercial & housing - very bad. Maintain and Restore historic character downtown - do not tear down old buildings, restore them. 708 I have observed from personal experience,how an older part of Chicago just north of the loop was safe and vibrant when these young people came home from their jobs and lived in nice apartments above the stores to enjoy the restaurants and made the area safe at night. 710 Open Main street! Too much emphasis on low-income housing - we need to attract the professional who will Work there. Plenty of educational opportunities in Dbq already. Keep the parks we have.. 711 I do not agree with the opening of the plaza. Feel that it should not be reopened. Feel that downtown is easier to get around with Plaza closed. 712 We've got to do it NOW! Times a -wasting. Look\at Galena! Check out Aspen, Co! Both of these "big towns" have earned the value of an historic downtown which houses wonderful businesses both unique & necessary as well as providing areas for great cultural and educational events. — Nancy Woodin 713 I came from a small:town in Iowa - to visit friends living in Dubuque in 1998 & have art degrees- I ended up staying here because of the opportunities & the historical appeal to me. I'm sorry to see the downtown area deteriorate continually since I've lived here & the increase of,crime obviously some people take no pride living here! 715 Downtown should be better than downtown Galena 716 I live close to downtown Dubuque, and it would be nice if downtown Dubuque had some of the same discount retailers as the West End i.e. Aldi's, Dollar stores, etc. There is no discount grocery store on this end of town and it is inconvenient for folks to always have to run out to the West End just for milk and bread.. 719 Have special events: such as: Jazz fest, taste of Dubuque, etc. 720 I feel Downtown Dubuque needs to be like a little. Galena lots of small shops & some outlet malls would be nice. But restrooms around for outside activities. Don't go so elaborate stay simple and grow. 722 If people are going to live downtown we need to have stores with general everyday needs instead of having to run out to the west end. 724 Do not open main street 725 Until you get people living downtown and with money to spend, you are not going to revive downtown. 729 To open up Town Clock makes me sick, the money being spent will not help retail business reopen. Use your head - look at other cities, unless something really unique is accomplished, the money will be wasted. 731 Historic character emphasized to enhance tourism 732 The main street area should remain closed! I like many other Dubuquers stopped coming downtown long ago.. 1 got tired when every time I came downtown to shop I got a parking ticket. We finally said "that's enough" and we just don't come down unless its absolutely necessary. 733 Do something with meters. It is a down fall when it comes to shopping or events downtown. When you have to keep checking meters. 736 _ Would love. to see condos overlooking the river area. See Cincinnati for a beautiful river areas. 737 I think its time we forgot about retail business in this area and accept the fact that the west end has that. This whole area is an office area. , 738 Downtown needs to cleanup,- it looks dirty and rundown; when I have to drive there that I don't want to go! 740 Don't compete with the west side of town. Utilize the waterfront. Continue to host festivals to draw people there. Encourage cleanup of the old buildings upon entering our city from the Dubuque -Wisconsin bridge. Attract tourists and residents with unique offerings - re-establish music in the park at Washington park. 745 I gave 3's and 4's to the fifteen categories above because I believe all of these are important. I would like to see cultural arts, professional businesses, and shopping, with mass transit accessibility. Give priority to green -spaces, too. 747 Most downtown buildings have multilevels which are vacant - low or no interest loans so property owners could develop this space for professional offices - apartments,- unique shops - restaurants - elevators a must! 748 Mass transit available at night! 749. Leave the old historic buildings stand to maintain for futuregenerations. As of this date (7-2-01) there has been too many torn'down parking lots(have enough of them now). Also consider transit for night (had it years ago!) Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 753 Get rid of the parking meters - they are chasing business away from downtown. Thank goodness the west end isn't bombarded with these nuisances. 755 Restrooms in cable car square, other areas. People of all ages come to see, shop, experience Dubuque. No meter parking, more parking for customers. Events & activities for people to come to. 756 Should you choose to put more housing in the area you need other amenities so go with it. You cannot have one without the other. Fulfill their needs to keep them there and to being others 759 We would like to see the downtown are to be offices, few small restaurants, elderly housing. We would like to see the riverfront Development to be area of action - shops, activities, civic events, etc. 766 Keep it clean & inviting to all 767 Need restaurants, cafes, a place to walk around with family in evenings. Don't tear down old buildings if they're still_ useful or can be restored. 768 Remove parking meters from dubuque 771 I do not want to see Main street and the adjoining streets opened to traffic. I would like the plaza environment maintained and enhanced. 772 More fun activities, cultural events. Some more modern buildings, we now have too many old historic boring buildings, the old historic stuff is overdone already - unless you are somewhere in the 60+ age range. 773 I worked in downtown Dubuque for nearly 60 years and would like to see the downtown mall closed to vehicular traffic. 774 I think it is wonderful to try to make our downtown as beautiful and useable as the many great places we have in this city. 775 Would like to maintain and even enhance the historic character of downtown. Rejuvenateold buildings, providehistorical data about significant buildings that could be read at all the sites. Encourage town square atmosphere. 776 The use of preservation & tax incentives to create cultural, historical, and economic growth. 778 Opening main street will accomplish nothing. We need a campus type downtown. Keep traffic out of area, route around. 779 Nothing downtown for the average person 780 Dubuque is a beautiful, historic city. I'd love to be able to keep the charm and lure new business to the downtown to keep it alive. 783 Something needs to be done about the unsafe buildings. More upscale housing would improve property values in general plus having more law abiding citizens. Downtown living is wonderful but people fear that it is safe. Bad landlords have bad tenants. Like Key Apts. 784 Stop all the little shops and try to get larger shops in. We can only have so many craft & novelty stores. Id like to be able to purchase things like in the past but too old to enjoy that era again. Once the Roshells & Stamp fers moved out so did the town. Tourists might be able to be fine for the tourists but not for us who have to live & shop for our daily items. 787 Leave the Plaza closed to traffic. 8th St. did not help our downtown at all! 788 Keep plaza closed, use money to fix street in town. 790 Just a note: instead of all the services for the poor, maybe teach in school, community & in church how to respect things care for homes, toys, self, cars! Also to manage money. They all seem to smoke, waste food, let garbage smell, have TV, lounge, expect others for childcare & payments of all sorts. Most drink, have out of wedlock or numerous children, even computers! & 791 You will never get people back downtown for regular retail or grocery shopping, but more unique shops,-restaurants, tourist attractions. 792 I do not see downtown as a retail hub. That is not to say there is no need for some rental businesses: drugstore, shoe repair shop, etc. 798 I believe there needs to be 2 way traffic movement on bluff street - public restrooms & public green spaces in the cable car area - maintain the historic integrity of the downtown & make it more difficult to tear down historic buildings. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 802 Everyone is doing a great job, keep up the good work, we look forward to the future of the Dbq downtown. Out future in DBQ is very bright. 804 Fewer Tway streets, no parking meters 805 My vision includes all of the above elements, also and especially my vision includes a lighted rail trolley car type system. 808 Historic buildings should me saves and preserved wherever possible. Any new designs (buildings, store fronts, parks, etc.) should reflect the Victorian river town motif. Dubuque has the potential to do this better than any other town on the river. 809 I would like to see more education offered to adults to get better job opportunities. 812 Get rid of parking meters. 816 When I go downtown I visit the bluff street stores. It would be nice to see it built up like ,Galena, a few more unique shops` or outlet stores, if we can maintain the historic character. Washington park is the perfect place for the arts fair. The five flags theatre upstairs needs to be changed, the seats are too close together and I refuse to buy tickets to be uncomfortable for 2 hours. 820 We visited Prairie du Chien last week and they have done great things with their riverfront,.but neglected the downtown area. I hope we don't make that same mistake. 825 I would like to see some corporate offices locate in this area. These people may be interested in upscale apartments. I would think that the apartment houses would have their own parking facilities. 826 Maintain and restore buildings, open more shops, beautify the area, patrol for safety of all, get people gainful employment and limit welfare aid. 827 I am very upset with the decision to open up town clock plaza to traffic. Opening up the street won't substantially increase parking or consumers' desires to shop in the area. Dubuque is losing out. 829 Eliminate one-way streets. Open Main St. to traffic and handicapped parking, stop blocking streets with buildings and encourage restoration of storefronts. 834 Please don't waste any more money on opening Main St. It will not bring people downtown to shop. 837 At the corner of Dodge and Hwy. 20 it would be neat to have a fountain & a color wheel of lights reflecting on it. 838 Dubuque could be the top transit area in the Midwest. Preserving our historical buildings is a must, along with other unique tourist activities. And not priced sky high. 840 Cultural arts, recreational opportunities, entertainment, tourism amenities will bring in the tourists with the money to help Dubuque to continue to grow and prosper. Helping employment and also keep your local residents. 841 I very much want DBQ. to live up to its potential. We are going in the right direction. Thank You! 842 Many people like myself worked most or all of our lives, in a field of low'pay. NO benefits of anykind. We had to pay all of our lives for our health insurance and, now at this stage particularly, our prescription drugs. This did not allow us to save in any appreciable amount for our senior years. But we did manage to keep our creditors from our doors, by living very frugally. I know this has nothing to do with this survey in most peoples' opinions. However, it does affect the way we are now able to live. We have no pensions, but still as the ravages of ages creep up on us, we would still like to a have an affordable living unit in a safe environment, that also has enough space to allow our grown children and grandchildren to visit for a weekend. 845 Provide free parking, to bring people back to the area. 846 Quit making parking lots. Offer incentives to.improve living spaces above stores (especially by making larger apartments.) Maybe develop an old factory building, e.g. eagle Window or Regency buildings into middle or upscale housing. 847 I as well as many others in my age group would like increased employment opportunities in DBQ. Many people in my age group have left DBQ. to pursue better paying jobs. 848 I don't like to see the town clock moved. It.was a nice asset to the clock area. Still want special downtown as food vendors and crafts etc... 849 This spring I went to many historic towns. Burlington, IA, Fort Madison, IA. nd St. Louis to name a few. All these towns' have one thing in common; they don't have parking meters. Get rid of those ugly things. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 852 For mass transit: the idea of a trolley car rail service is a perfect way to connect the downtown, cable car square, new riverfront attractions and future growth up and down stream. It's not as expensive as the mayor believes. If Sioux City, IA. Can do it...so can Dubuque. It's another attraction for tourists and it would match the historic downtown character. 853 Since the downtown includes the ice harbor and main street there should be a unifying.theme that brings together the ice harbor, cable car square and the main street area into a cohesive downtown. As a river city the main street/town clock area has to have a river theme. The river is the hook- its what made Dubuque & that's what brings the tourists. 855 - Emphasis on Dubuque being the oldest city in IA. Cleanup and maintain the old buildings. No more parking lots and don't tear our treasures- the historic buildings. Old buildings must be appreciated! Dubuque should not be like Davenport,. Waterloo or Cedar Rapids. 856 Don't• tear down historical buildings for anything, including jail space. 859 Dubuque definitely needs better/more restaurants. I would also appreciate more smoke free environment. As a relative newcomer to Dubuque, I have been extremely impressed with the efforts of all our city/civic leaders and planners. The city has already improved a great deal in the past 5 years. Thank you & keep up the great work. 863 Make landlords keep up their property. Keep the low income out. 864 I understand we now have a new manager for the 5 flags center. Maybe now it will start being used more. 865 Dubuque cannot prosper on tourism alone. We need better paying jobs so Dubuquers can also afford to be tourists in their own town. We need decent paying, not minimum paying, jobs. Educated people that will draw good companies to come to Dubuque. 866 Can't read.. 868 Although I don't visit downtown area as often, it is because there is nothing down there to offer me. It's very important to me that downtown include more shopping, restaurants and entertainment etc... 870 Dubuque utterly lacks an excellent restaurant other than the country club. Why should outstanding food be limited to Galena? I'd like to see the quality of Perry St. Brasserie- in Dubuque. The town would certainly support it. Non-smoking establishments. 872 This questionnaire is a little disappointing. Of course we all want green space, bike access, and increased employment. This city has to realize people don't come to see parking spaces & new office buildings. If you have ever traveled anywhere you would realize that our Dubuque treasure is in our old buildings and unique beautiful bluffs. 875 The pedestrians should have access to assortment of shops, nightly entertainment, arts and poetry, both professional and amateur theater. 876 The need for building to look welcoming to visitors. 879 Bike access is also very important! 880 We bank at Amer. Trust, shop at Walkers & Grahams, and use N.I.C.C. services. Go to the casino and eat lunch. 881 The city has collected a lot of tax money from the downtown area and spent it on other places. It's about time they spent some tax money back downtown where they got it. 887 Resources used to re-create downtown as a major shopping center are resources wasted. We have a good start on a successful transition due to a changing market place. Build on what we have. 888 I would love to see the plaza stay closed, but redone, could be a beautiful area for walkers in area & visitors also. 894 ' Would like to stop building parking ramps; that is all you can see downtown as far as new construction. 895 This town desperately needs unskilled labor jobs in the 12- dollar an hour amount. The 8 dollar an hour amount is nothing but slave labor and is hard for the country and the community. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 902 I would like to see downtown rejuvenated to help prevent sprawl. 904 The first and most important is to open Main Street to vehicular traffic. This is the age of the automobile, and the total downtown just be accessible, even just to drive by and observe the business located there. With Lower Main Coming to life, upper Main will become totally isolated if the street is not opened to traffic. 906 Retail will never happen. I agree with River Project but dead against this! 909 Shame on the "city" for allowing American Trust to own the blackstone and not maintain it, then cry financial hardship regarding the rehab of it. If they would of maintained it as a private citizen would have had to do, we would .have one more piece of our important historical architecture still standing. American Trust violated the vision for the heart of our city. May it never happen again! 912 1- Keep town clock as focal point - 2- If main street opened - no parking on street - pick up and drop off online, I prefer closed AsIs. 3- Preserve pedestrian atmosphere as much as possible. 913 Maintaining historic character is very high on the list. We are going to be a tourist center and people want to look'at beautiful, old buildings that are restored! Galena! 914 I would like to see something like Galena, IL for our downtown with the easy accessibility you might see in a city in Minnesota (where they cater -to fitness - walking, hiking) there is always a trail with easy access to get to. 916 I hope for a downtown that's inviting to all ages, young & old, and people of many ethnic backgrounds. I look for beauty (flowers, green spaces, restful benches) as well as buildings & streets that are clean and well maintained. 919 Dubuque, IA has a downtown full of history - it is located on the Mississippi and the city itself has a spectacular view - what a beautiful city. My vision for downtown is to have an inviting atmosphere for cultural diversity and entertainment. With three colleges here we need to give some culture to the city, inviting students, professors & tourists. We need to utilize our assets to be unique. 922 I would like to see a downtown easily accessible with wide open green spaces, but it should be enjoyed by all and not just ones who can afford to live in a very nice area. In other words, not exclusive to the wealthy. 923 I feel opening the downtown mall to traffic is a waste of our money. It should be up dated to reflect Dubuque's history. The fact that this area has parking meters is ridiculous. This area should be redone for the food of the community not just for tourism. 924 A bike path connecting all parts of Dubuque would be very nice! Check out Cedar Falls or Rochester for some examples. Wide cement paths for running, biking, rollerblading, family walks. That would be great! 927 I would like to see better street accessibility - its very complicated driving in the downtown area. Also no ticket enforcement on Saturday. Merchants should be giving priority for their loading"and unloading as that I feel is also important to attract merchants to the area. 928 Make total use of restored buildings with business on main floor, all other floors can be used as office space or housing areas - there are three parking ramps in a few block areas that are never -full that can"cover business personnel. Keep street for customers or for housing tenants. 929 Like to see more retail for shopping and entertainment like a movie theatre. 930 It would be nice to have a downtown with enough interesting. exciting lively things to do without having a mass exodus to the mall or bars outside of Dubuque. Downtown needs to keep people downtown. 934 There is a great need for visitors restrooms"in the cable car area. 935 Downtown ahs been overlooked way too long. Property owners pay taxes too. What is the problem? All one ever hears about is the west end of Dubuque. Have we lost the real start and heart of Dubuque? Wake up! 937 Mixing upscale housing with low to moderate housing will not work. 939 Some businesses like the logging are part of history & shouldn't have to move. A riverwalk like in Davenport with benches, picnic areas, shops, restaurants, lodging would be nice to have along the river. Have discounted tickets for Dubuque residents for the riverfront project. It sounds expensive to return over and over. Wanttoexperience it without the cost. 944 We must replace Prescott school in order that our "downtown" kids have a decent facility to attain their educational needs. We absolutely need a "General" merchandise store and some good restaurants in our downtown. "Convenient" mass transit services/schedules are very important. 946 Maintain a strong distinction between educational and cultural opportunities and gambling possibilities. 949 Building up the downtown would be beneficial to those of us by Linwood. Tired of everything on the west end. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 951 Too bad you're opening the plaza. Why can't you have better public transportation like we had in Washington, DC and California - 2 places I've resided where I always used public transportation. 952 I just returned from Oshkosh, WI and was annoyed by the vibrancy of the city. I cant put my finger on it exactly, but it seems alive. The downtown is full of retail and services (not big department stores, however) even with a 60+shop outlet mall on the west end. They also have very distance neighborhoods. 957 Maintain historic character as much as possible 959 Having live at one time in the downtown area for 15 years, fi- you have housing downtown, you need to provide free parking too. Unique shopping and historic character are complementary to each other. If you want people to live downtown, you need to remember to provide them w/ "basic needs" shopping or appropriate mass trans. 960 Listen to the comments and discuss - soon not over a period of time 965 It seems to me that priority has to be given either to attracting people to visit and do business downtown or make it a more residential area with necessary services. I would hope for some of both but favor the former over the latter. 967 It must draw tourists, and it must be a place Dubuque residents want to go to - day and night. Activity attracts activity 968 The parking in Dubuque is ridiculous. I spend more hundreds of dollars a year for parking (meters, tickets, permits, towing expenses) Parking is the only reason I have considered moving from my bluff St. Apt after 4 years. Need more business & restaurants. Town clock section needs work. 969 Opening Main Street will not make a difference but what is located there & parking will. 972 For a truly revitalization of any downtown, mixed-use, especially housing (so people are there -in evenings and on weekend) is crucial. Another feature that is necessary are real limits on outer -region development on the edges of town to force development back inward (Portland is the best example of this) 977 I think the city should fix the streets in Dubuque instead of spending all that money for downtown because it not going to help. Randy does a good job with taking care of the flowers in the plaza and it looks very nice. Fix the streets _in the city then think about downtown. I don't think 8th street did any better opening it up. Fix the streets they need it bad all over. 979 We need to maintain our historical character culture while bringing new and exciting food, culture, business to bring people back downtown. 982 Maybe a K -Mart or Wal-Mart - restrooms handy - good paying jobs 984 I see the America's River Project as the key to uniting downtown both to attract tourists as well as Dubuquers who never go downtown. The new artists focal points provide a great place but we need a variety of good restaurants & shops to get people in the habit of going downtown. 966 Why not ask for public input about keeping or opening Town Clock Plaza? I think most of the citizens do not want the street reopened. It will not be beneficial. 990 One thing that is important to the downtown vision is linking the entire downtown to the riverfront project. Opening Main street to traffic is necessary to accomplish this. Having culture, arts, recreation, housing, shopping, restaurants, etc. are important to show we have a vibrant downtown beyond office hours. 991 We cannot go back to the way downtown was in its prime. SO lets make sure it is attractive enough for people & businesses to want to spend time and $$ here instead of going "west" 992 Unfortunately I think downtown is dead and cannot be brought back to what it used to be. 993 Don't open Plaza 995 Instead of focusing on the "need" for parking, get together to find ways to reduce the number of cars "needing" parking. Work on employer - sponsored incentives to employees who walk, bike, car pool, or take the bus. Do this together. It must be part of any serious vision of a sustainable future. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1001 Don't waste money opening Main St. It won't bring any new retail stores or customers. The area is for banking, Ins. & offices. 1005 I am -opposed to moving the town clock. It is a beautiful landmark in its present location and the plaza is a great meeting place for many activities. Any slow downtown will have to keep mall hours if they are to succeed; safety is a concern for me. 1006 Could a balcony be installed along the east side of Main, king tad floor accessible for businesses, pedestrian traffic. Housing then on upper floors. Hooking all buildings together or an interior traffic corridor. 1008 Provide a theatre complex to encourage citizens and visitors additional reason to go downtown. Provide various types of restaurants, cafes, cocktail lounges, upscale shopping and unique shops. 1009 More trees, flowers everywhere downtown. 1010 I won't name names, but I'm disappointed that a couple people can be so domineering to city government when they get product for free and demand the free material. Just because they have money they are allowed to be ignorant. People without money who act that way aren't tolerated, much less allowed to get away with chicanery. - 1012 Dubuque is a wonderful city. It has wonderful buildings and atmosphere. Let's stop tearing the buildings down and start restoring them to their days. 1013 Downtown must be different from the Westside. I wouldn't go downtown if a similar business were elsewhere because you have to pay to park. Businesses must be one of a kind for Dubuque to get locals downtown. 1015 Enticing developers to build/remodel housing in the downtown area is far preferable to having them add to urban sprawls to the west and south. Cooperating with other groups such as school district and social service agencies is also very important.. 1017 Parking is also an important aspect of a future downtown. This should not come at the cost of historic buildings. Use' current open spaces and areas on the edge of the downtown area for this. Develop shuttles to transport pedestrians to areas of interest. Also shuttles from west side hotels/motels. 1019 Downtown Dubuque could be a place of education, socialization and tourism. If possible the buildings on Bluff St. named.. Can't read. - 1021 I believe all the apartments over the stones on both (?) and central should be renovated and brought up to standard that would appeal to young people working downtown & one -parent families. 1022 To bring "vitality" back to downtown, it needs people. But there needs to be something there that people want/need. Once that is there, the people need to be able to get to it. At the same time, if care is not taken to maintain a pleasant and safe atmosphere, the people will not stay. 1023 Great, over due issue. A collective vision will allow synergy, but only if choices are made. A11 things to all people will be failure. We must create a plan. A vibrant city center community is vital, and possible. Loft housing, shops, restaurants and businesses all for it. 1033 Having people living downtown again so that downtown shows some signs of life after 5:30. 1035 I think it's very important for tourism guests to get a nice first impression as they come across the bridges. These are both beautiful areas coming over the river. Let's keep this area clean and polished. 1036 Stop allowing businesses such as American Trust and Fisher Co. to tear down our historic architecture because they didn't bother to maintain these buildings. Open Main with parking. Small businesses will come if people can access them, not just drive by. 1037 I would like to see an increase in the parking areas & not just building parking ramps. You need to bring more shopping areas & entertainment. If it would turn out like Galena has there downtown area I think everyone would enjoy the downtown & the businesses would see more patrons. Thanks for doing the survey. 1038 Money makes the mare go. 1040 Dubuque should focus on creating quality, higher paying professional employment opportunities. River project'and a trendy downtown will create below minimum wage jobs and put money into only a few pockets. Hotel is being built to support casino. One can drive to Galena for the tourist - experience but if good jobs are not available people will and are leaving Dubuque and the tri-state area. 1041 We have enough low-income housing; we need more upscale restaurants, open-air entertainment & pedestrian accessibility. I live and work downtown. 1044 It would be lovely to see Dubuque keep its unique historic character & not just parking lots. We need to take focus off cars & put it on more green methods of transportation. 1045 We have been Dubuquers for over 60 years and the riverfront has never really been developed. As baby boomers are reaching 55+ years, we need recreation by the river not the casino. The gamblers already have multiple problems & tourism is at their expense. We just want an area to have a sandwich & watch the boats and barge go by. 1048 1. Streets. 2. Restaurants and stores (sidewalk cafes, bagels, coffee, etc.) 3: Direct link to waterfront customers via San Fran. Style cable cars. 4. Tax incentives for property owners to spruce up and remodel w/emphasis on original or, period appropriate restaurants.. 1050 Don't open all the downtown streets. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1102 Many people live on the west end and I believe they prefer to visit business & retail shopping closer to home. Personally, I see no need to go to the downtown area for shopping and many others share that sentiment. 1104 Restaurants with outside seating, Cinema center/theatre, etc. Free off street parking. Keep our unique historical flavor and some more retail businesses/shops. 1106 Don't please spend money for retail businesses! Unique shopping fine, who's going to go downtown to do retail shopping? A very few, everything is at the west side. I live at the point area and would by pass downtown. 1107 I think in order to revitalize the downtown district the city needs to create an area that has something unique to offer. Something that is not available in another area of the city. 1108 I believe downtown needs to be better organized and many houses should be rebuilt. Definitely tear down the boarding house on 12th & Jackson St. Build a shopping center. Leave the town clock are alone. 1110 As businesses and homes move onto farmland on DBQ. fringes the downtown must keep and develop additional unique features. Tourist attractions, musical & cultural events, gathering spaces & a sense of pride in the location. 1111 I chose to live in DBQ. Dubuque has character. We need a place to come together often as a community, Any way we can. Provide for the businesses, shops and housing to create a critical,'self-sustaining mass is important. 1112 Quit trying to make it a retail center & go for the unique. 1114 I think Main St. should be opened to traffic, with parking meters for short-term parking. There should be, city grants for renovating property downtown. 1115 I think police should be concerned for you to be there when you call them to not show up 1.5-2 hours later, search your car, verbally abuse use and don't even offer first aid to you when you've been beaten, robbed and left laying on the steps of.Keane Hall. 1118 Keep Main St.,closed! 1119 The city focus is an outstanding informative and timely newsletter. Quality of printing, paper and articles reflect professionalism. 1120 The more I travel, I realize what a special place Dubuque is. I'm always saying "the people of Dubuque don't really realize how special the downtown area is." I'm thrilled when a building is renovated. Great that the TH told us about the funeral home changes and its new use. 1121 Main St. should be opened as soon as possible. 1123 Open Main St. It will bring business. 1128 As a youngster I recall all the hours I spent downtown at shops, movie theatres and other businesses. I think we need to get back to that concept for not only our young people but to also create more job opportunities and tourism. 1129 A successful city should have a diversity,of people, housing, jobs, cultural attractions and opportunities. Can't read.. 1130 Don't destroy our beautiful buildings any more. No more parking lots, please. 1132 Dubuque should prevent more parking lots. There are more important needs to keep our historical buildings. 1133 Open Main St. to traffic, leave clock tower where it is & incorporate a round about for traffic. Incentive plans for new businesses to open downtown. Wide sidewalks/areas for tables etc. for outside Main St. dinning. 1134 Don't worry about downtown w/o a way to get people there. Take a drive down Kaufman, Asbury, West Locust or University and tell me why anyone would want to go downtown. Narrow streets, sharp corners and no maintenance won't get people there. You can also throw in Central and Jackson. People must travel on Dodge or ruin their cars. 1135 Keep Main St. Closed from 5th to 9th. 1136 Rebuild some buildings to keep the historic look and put modern fixtures inside like lights, water and heat. 1138 I like my historical building I live & work in and would like the city to help remove roadblocks in helping to keep it in repair. ,By the way, we have enough parking lots. Thank you. 1144 Don't spend money to open up the plaza. Leave the town clock where it is. Update and rehab. what is there, downtown is now a business district, banks, and law offices. 1145 I remember as a teenager how exciting it was to go shopping downtown & then go to the Hollywood cafe for lunch. I know those days are gone, but even a small amount of excitement would be great for downtown. 1147 I believe it is critical to the successful future of DBQ. to retain the wonderful character of its old houses & buildings. This will enhance tourism. Please work to stop needless destruction of older properties, which are all part of the fabric of our history& the inherent charm of the city. 1148 Keep the plaza on Main St. closed. 1149 It was a mistake to close downtown. It was a mistake not to get business financial commitment when originally renovated. Thinking persons predicted the eventual arrival of jackhammers! City fathers cannot design or demand a viable profitable downtown. Whatever happens must be individually financed, not by population. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1153 Dubuque needs a change. 1157 We just moved here from Fort Worth, Texas. While there we loved that we felt safe walking around the downtown area at night! You always saw a police officer tooling around. Safety, great restaurants & beautiful architecture. _1.158 Since the 60s urban renewal downtown Dubuque has pretty well been gutted of most of its historic character and this continues to be a threat as other fine old buildings are endangered. If Dubuque is planning a -huge improvement along the riverfront they should keep in mind that tourists don't come to see acres of parking garages and empty retail 'storefronts. Shopping is dead in downtown for most retailers but specialty stores that can be visited on foot or by shuttle would draw visitors downtown. 1159 Don't forget about the good jobs that are currently in the downtown area. Both that use the river and those that don't. I feel people are trying to push out businesses that need river to operate. -People around the world need these goods too! And the Mississippi is just one of the ways to get there. We all need to eat. 1160 Be sure to make it handicap accessible, one-way traffic & be able to block off street for festivals. Have angled parking like Galena. Benches are important. 1163 Let's build on unique strengths the history and architecture and make it something both Dubuque and its visitors find user friendly. So all guests and Dubuquers feel welcome. 1164 Save downtown & make it all look old. 1167 • I remember a downtown w/Christmas trees in Washington Park, Dubuque being called X-mas Angel City, I think it was. Now the area is dead. Reopening the downtown plaza is the right thing to do, it's long over due, when I was a kid it was being torn up, I knew then it wasn't going to work. 1170 Don't open Main St. Use HBO building for events like Xmas displays, Halloween, etc. Also work with 5 flags for more affordable events. Don't move townclock again. Listen to the people who respond. Thanks. 1171 Increasing downtown housing of all types will increase opportunity for general retail owners. 1175 Maintain character of downtown. Work with buildings in existence to create something unique & special to Dubuque. 1176 Downtown has a unique historic character. Keeping it is very important. 1177 Please clear up this tower and fix your pothole patched up streets. Dubuque looks run down and poverty bound. There's trash and run down buildings all over town. Get out of the year 1972! How about a decent mall? - 1179 Can't read.. 1182 Condos w/river view & within building parking ramps. A new civic center seating 1500. Low-med housing to north end. Restore old buildings & build old buildings. 1185 Although I don't work downtown now, I did enjoy taking my lunch and visiting w/other employees of the downtown district, walking and shopping. I still shop there and also enjoy attending the performances and different activities around the town clock. It would be shame to lose that area by opening to a street. 1186 More street lighting on Locust, Main, Iowa, and Central. Downtown is too dark to encourage new businesses and people. Also lift the ban on business signs etc. Signs lit up make the area to look alive and welcome people. 1187 Dubuque must fight to keep it's historical character. Get tough about it. Stand strong. 1188 No more parking lots please. Save what little historical buildings we have left. Help owners with funds to renovate and use these buildings. 1189 Top priority is to keep the historical character. Dubuque could have been more beautiful than Galena, but it has allowed too many of its historical buildings be destroyed. Don't allow this to continue. 1190 The city has allowed too many of our beautiful buildings to be torn down. Stop this now. 1192 Make more green areas along river w/picnic benches to sit and enjoy the riverw/out buildings blocking you or benches filling up the view. Get a set of public restrooms for the 4th and Bluff area. 1193 The city must make its number one priority Maintaining historic character by not allowing any historic buildings destroyed. 1194 The river & ice harbor provide a good base for drawing people for leisure activities. An opportunity to expand upon this as a focus. Keep the historic flavor & when the people come, the growth of business will follow. 1195 Pleas no more parking iota. Save. our 1800-1900 beautiful buildings. 1196 No more parking lots. City should use funds to help preserve historical buildings and improve downtown streets. 1197 Dubuque has good schools, three colleges and many cultural opportunities. There is a need for good low to moderate housing preferably mixed. We have a great historical character that can be enhanced by unique. shopping and restaurants, etc. I have great hope that the America's river project will bear much fruit. 1198 I can't see where opening the mall will help the downtown unless there are major retailers and grocery stores to draw, people. 1199 Our downtown should be restored to its original state. Our downtown should offer beauty of our historic buildings along with business access. We need to be able to have access to shopping downtown and.have it thrive just as the west end. Our downtown had many good things years ago and it should not have changed. town clock. It would be shame to lose that area by opening to a street. 1186 More street lighting_on Locust, Main, Iowa, and Central. Downtown is too dark to encourage new businesses and people. Also lift the ban on business signs etc. Signs lit up make the area to look alive and welcome people. 1187 Dubuque must fight to keep it's historical character. Get tough about it. Stand strong. 1188 No more parking lots please. Save what little historical buildings we have left. Help owners with funds to renovate and use these buildings. 1189 Top priority is to keep the historical character. Dubuque could have been more beautiful than Galena, but it has allowed too many of its historical buildings be destroyed. Don't allow this to continue. 1190 The city has allowed too many of our beautiful buildings to be torn down. Stop this now. 1192 Make more green areas along river w/picnic benches to sit and enjoy the river w/out buildings blocking you or benches filling up the view. Get a set of public.restrooms for the 4th and Bluff area. 1193 The city must make its number one, priority Maintaining historic character by not allowing any historic buildings destroyed. 1194 The river & ice harbor provide a good base for drawing people for leisure activities. An opportunity to expand upon this as a focus. Keep the historic flavor & when the people come, the growth of business will follow. 1195 Pleas no more parking lots. Save our 1800-1900 beautiful buildings. 1196 No more parking lots. City should use funds to help preserve historical buildings and improve downtown streets. 1197 Dubuque has good schools, three colleges and many cultural opportunities. There is a need for good low to moderate housing preferably mixed. We have a great historical character that can be enhanced by unique shopping and restaurants, etc. I have great hope that the America's river project will bear much fruit. 1198 I can't see where opening the mall will help the downtown unless there are major retailers and.grocery stores to draw people. 1199 Our downtown should be restored to its original state. Our downtown should offer beauty of qur historic buildings along with business access. We need to be able to have access to shopping downtown and have it thrive just as the west end. Our downtown had many good things years ago and it should not have changed. Additional Coumments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1201 I would like Main St. to be the center for educational institution, corporate offices and public green areas with mini gardens where people can relax. Central avenue can be the Can't read.. 1202 Parking is very important also, but not tearing down historic building to make parking lots. Keep the flavor of the area unique'. Its our old town, leave the existing homes. 1203 Downtown Dubuque of pre 70s is best, revitalize. Tourism businesses should be contained; downtown Dubuque should target citizens, not tourists. Don't sell out and don't be afraid to try something unique. Money isn't everything 1209 Hope you open Main to traffic. Make accessible and make it brighter. Now no one goes downtown at night too dark & deserted. Would like to see restaurants and stores. 1211 Our downtown should be a nice place with safe, easy access and be interesting. Maintaining the historical features and making it a focal point for culture, art and education will drive tourism and bring Dubuque more money for future development. 1212 Can't read.. 1213 You will never get the downtown area back to what it used to be. Urban renewal ruined our downtown. But_at least, preserve what we ,have left. The new buildings & parking lots will never have the character and ambiance the old buildings have. 1216 Spend some money to save the remaining buildings, maintaining the uniqueness of the downtown area. Create opportunities for people to come and visit Dubuque & enjoy our, great town. Dubuque could be the Galena of IA. 1217 Downtown must be a comfortable, open area 'where people can gather. 1218 Must open plaza. Connect to other things happening downtown. 1220 Dubuque is the oldest city in Iowa & I feel very proud that I live here. I love all of her older gorgeous buildings. The architecture & building styles are magnificent. We as a city should be doing everything possible to preserve these buildings. Not raising them for more parking lots. 1222 Get rid of the parking meters. .Make use of the riverfront. Wouldn't it be great to make a man made swimming area, beach area and park? 1223 Its foolish and short sighted to open Main St. The area already has solid office workers and student base. Build on that. Include tourist to this and fill empty buildings with businesses meeting needs of these 3 groups of people. Housing is interesting too. 1224 People don't visit Dubuque because its like everywhere else, yet we seem to be tearing down so much of our historic buildings because it costs less to build new structures. Cost can also be measured in what is taken away from us. We need to restore & require consistent architectural designs. (Betty Janes). We need to restore and design consistent architectural deigns. 1225 To be most successful, downtown Dubuque needs to include everything from Retail 2 public spaces, to corporate offices, to housing. Already does this to some extent, but it could be much better, I believe that phase of movement throughout the downtown could be the most effective way to accomplish our goals. 1226 Encourage college and young people to work and live downtown, cultural and arts in certain areas. 1231 Do not reopen main street. 1235 Leave the plaza closed, small unique shops could surround-the plaza, goto St. Cloud'Minnesota and see what they've done,' pay a decent wage, the economy in Dubuque is horrible, you ever tried to live on 7 dollars per hour? Terry Dougan is the only one in office who cares. 1237 I believe Main Street has to be opened to traffic from one end to the other for downtown to remain the heart of the city. 1238 When a plan is drawn up, follow it, don't start without finishing a project, make the whole area look good before the completion of the Riverfront Project so the rest of downtown isn't underconstruction when the adventure opens. _1239 I like the closed downtown. 1241 I feel that the place should remain closed and the vision should concentrate on what is existing and making that better, not change from what it is. 1242 I'm not in favor of opening town clock plaza, If you-do, don't move the town clock, no more shops like 4th street, enough is enough of that stuff, now that Mr. Hartig got his way, he should put his money where his mouth is and open a store in town clock plaza again, we need one there. 1243 If you restore the old buildings downtown, the rest will fall into place, don't put parking ahead of the real substance. 1244 Make it your goal to save the old buildings. 1245 Retain the historic stock of homes and commercial businesses isvery important. This is one of the aspects that makes our city unique, as well as marketable to others. Please do not sacrifice viable historic properties for parking space. 1246 I see-the downtown with open air, restaurants, and unique shops. A festival environment with trees and decorative lighting at night. Bus and trolley and tram services that continually runs from riverfront to parking structures to downtown. 1247 Not only to maintain historic character, but to incentivize. First and foremost is to stop tearing them down, the to work with people to restore them. I wish people would realize what the historic.assets Dubuque has instead of looking for more parking lots. 1248 Downtown employees should work with- mass transportation - to get schedules worked out for employees something into harbor and lower main, if mass transit is not improved, the more old buildings will have to come down for parking. 1250 Do not open main street to auto traffic, with new ramps there is adequate parking available. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1251 The reality s that housing will not support a happening downtown scene. Commerce and cultural opportunities coupled with historical open and green areas are the only workable sustainable combination . 1253 Increased employment opportunities are a number 1 to the city overall, not to just downtown. 1256 Do not remove the plaza, it is an awesome place for festivals, music, etc. Putting a street back through there is the worst thing you can do. 1259 A rail trolley idea is fantastic, put parking somewhere else, protect architecturally beautiful buildings, give those with vision the opportunity to restore them to their original glory for future generations. We cant bring back the ones that are gone, but we must appreciate the ones that we have left. 1260 Important, bring in a grocery store for downtown, rather than expensive mini -marts, Aldis would be' ideal 1262 I would like to see free parking meters on Saturdays, you want people to attend activities that are usually on weekends and have to worry about getting back to car before meter expires? 1263 I feel we need so spend some money to refurnish our money to use clock are, but do not want to open it to offices. 1264 The city is too dependant on park meter revenue, find a new source for that money and remove the meters, stop demolition of older buildings for parking lots. 1265 More parking would get people like me back downtown, eliminate the town clock square. 1266 We need to erect the drug pushers in the downtown area with extreme prejudice, cleanup the area if you want people downtown. 1269 The quaint historical nature of Dubuque is one of our most valuable assets. Increasing historical districts and support for rehabilitation of these districts will help provide a unique setting in which arts tourism and culture can flourish. 1270 Make parking in such a way so trucks vans sport utility vehicles cannot park at corners, they are so big that one cannot see traffic until your in the street, also change your mind and don't open the plaza. 1274 We have plenty of parking, start maintaining the historical buildings; Dubuque has incredible potential to become a wonderful tourist town, it has been held back by outdated thinking and apathy by its leaders, enough of this, lets get moving into the future. 1275 We believe that opening main street is a mistake even though that thought is now a moot point. 1276 Red lobster books stores, green spaces fixed up, fix up old buildings 1278 More activity on main street between 10u and 8th, examples bars, restaurants, shopping, outdoor activities. 1281 Check with Grand Junction; Co for their "Art on the Conners" and main street parking design. 1282 You wont have a successful downtown without a residential base, the city should offer financial incentive to renovate or build new rental units downtown. These rental units should offer off street parking, ect. While the present trend continues, downtown Dubuque will consist of empty buildings and parking lots owned by the fisher companies. 1283 It would be nice to be able to get a bagel and good cup of coffee before work, a convenience store would be nice too, more restaurants too, please. 1285 Take a look at other towns & cities to see how they successfully maintain their downtown, I moved from Dallas even though it is a large scale, the core is the same historical area and warehouses that were transformed into nightlife for residents. 1288 Something that really ties our downtown with the riverfront. 1290 If we make the downtown more open -historic and desirable, I feel business will come, If we get unique business, more people will go downtown for them 1292 The downtown vision is very important, it should be comprehensive - extended from Dodge to 17th street. The city should focus more on the revise of downtown property and downtown structure than spending dollars on industrial and tech parks that create urban sprawl. 1293 If they are going to spend the money, do it right and make it classy, provide open spaces for the professionals downtown and get rid of the slummy apartments and make living downtown a privilege and not a punishment. 1297 Your downtown map boundary should be expanded to include the block between 8th and 9th street which is west of bluff and east of hill street even though this are includes the TH and dry cleaners, it includes some old commercial buildings are a direct link to downtown. Also, a decision on opening or closing of downtown plaza should have not have been made prior to thecompletionof the downtown comprehensive master plan. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1302 Don't use term downtown, it is too reminiscent of something that will never again exist like it once did. Heart of the city is a better term or city center. Real need for public restrooms at strategic locations, 4th street, shops, etc. 1304 Do not open main street, do necessary maintenance to mall, use money saved to reduce weekly parking rate, thereby making it easier for people to work downtown. The days of big stores and shopping downtown are gone, attempt to recreate 40's and 50's are equal to pushing on a rope. 1305 Leave town clock plaza as it is, do not open to traffic, at the least, please leave the tower clock where it is, the area is great for the craft shops, jazz festivals, and for walking with no traffic. 1306 Do not destroy buildings to create parking. 1314 Dubuque needs better restaurants more than most things. I am willing to pay more for a nice meal with atmosphere but there is perhaps one in Dubuque where the food is worth eating and one with great atmosphere, but the food is second rate. I usually go to Galena, parking meters should go. 1316 Upon the opening of the plaza, we- need to increase business, fine restaurants, and tourism which will increase employment. Dbq needs to. enter the new century but acknowledge its historical roots. 1319 This is not for downtown, but there is a need for parking at the airport for people who are either seeing people off. or meeting people, Monday we parked off in the boonies, but a blue car was parking -1 ' hours in the loading zone. 1323 Pay parking penalized the use of downtown for shopping and events, St. Lukes Methodist Church is our Church 12th and Main keeping the downtown alive 7 days a week is a positive reflection on our Church being an alive Church 7 days a -week. 1324 I believe this is a great time to add to the tourism possibilities brought forth by the Americas River Project. I envision the area south of 9th street a bustling area of - shops, bars, and light retail. 1328 My vision of downtown would be very similar to that of downtown Loveland, Co. Please check their website too. You will know what I mean. Www.Loveland.org Then click on chamber of commerce, then go to arts and cultural. This questionnaire was complete after discussion with my sister now living in southwest Iowa: Hopefully she will come back to see hometown in a few years. 1330 Rather than complete the survey enclosed, I prefer to express my thoughts in general, as some of the choices on the survey clash with others. In my opinion, I think the most obvious effort for the are in question should be aimed at tourism. I've lived through the glory days of downtown Dubuque and they were great days. But lets face it, times change and those days cannot be relived. With the coming transformation of the 4th street area and the expected influx of tourists to Dubuque everything possible should be done to make it easy and convenient to get these tourists to Main streets where shops should be encouraged to locate. This would call for the opening of main street, even though I have been opposed to that up until now. Parking then on main street would have to be eliminated to shoppers only. Other parts of the vision downtown are could be used for mixed housing, culture arts professional services, etc. Historical preservation should be an important factor when considering changes but it should necessarily be the dominant factor. There should be give and take while working for the overall good. Example: the merchants hotel, what an improvement! Now they should clean up the back end of the buildings located on the east side of main street between 3rd St. and 4th Sat. They are an eye sore. The thoughts listed above are for whatever they are worth. 1333 Renovate the old factory buildings, maybe into housing, also use other vacant buildings, rehabilitate as much as possible. 1335 I favor the saving of old historic buildings, I also favor saving and creating green spaces. Hope that someday the new museum of art will be enlarged. I'applaud your commitment to the great Mississippi project. 1336 My vision would include maintaining the tower clock plaza as it is. This is a beautiful center around which to build. It is absolutely ignorant to spend 4 million dollars to tear the plaza apart, get real! 1337 Maintaining the historic character is important but it foolish for the historical society to continue to save buildings and wait for occupants that never come. Old empty buildings are an eye sore to the downtown are where they are not cared for. 1340 The downtown needs small grocery stores, pharmacies, vision centers for eye screening and eye glass repair. 1341 Keep historic buildings, plant more trees. 1342 Downtown should appeal to the local people as well as to the tourists. It should not support just high priced eateries and diving spaces, etc. So that the locals -get pushed out. 1343 More "feel under the table' restaurants -with free parking. People wont come downtown to shop unless the absolutely have to for anything. They are spoiled with the "free" mall parking. 1345 I enjoy downtown Iowa city, both during the day and at night. I would like to have a downtown welcome to all age groups. 1347 Try to make decisions that will benefit more than Dubuque Society. 1349 Readily available comfort stations are needed in Dubuque. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1351 No way to blend new with the old. As much of the best of the old was stupidity destroyed by urban renewal. Now a scow - paced renewal should take place with quality and beauty and emphasized in architecture, efficiency, and adornment with beauty. Style - best of 1880's to 1920's. Five flags would not qualify. 1353 1- Please do not open main street. 2- put skywalks from parking ramps to buildings and connect all major buildings. 1354 DO not believe general retail will ever return downtown, too accessible elsewhere. Maintaining historical character will bring tourists, enhance chopping, more employment, and full time residents. The current mall with tourists amenities plus adequate parking and green spaces should be kept as is. Publicity needed to connect downtown, will remain, 4th street and new river area when finished possibly trolley service with 1,2, or 3 day tickets. 1355 We would support pedestrian accessibility strongly, we would be less enthused with bike accessibility. Thank you for the opportunity to voice our choices. 1361 Parking must be cheap or free - with a lot of room. Control river themes, a tie in with French theme or Irish would be good. 1362 It would be nice to have a downtown like Galena with a variety of specialty shops with free parking. Also, more educational facilities to inform tourists and locals of Dubuque. In the early days, and how it developed into what it is today. 1363 Leave the plaza remodel the town clock area, but no street. 1364 I feel mixed housing combats buildings income and therefor educational ghettos which do not serve our community. Tourism alone will not sustain a business. Local customers are part of any local business. 1365 There is enough low income housing downtown. 1366 Visit Door county, Galena, or any other tourist area. Downtown Dubuque has no chance of surviving unless it develops those types of activities. We spend an average of 1000$ per year in Door county. We'd invite friends here to do. the same. 1367 Central should have 2 way traffic with 3=d lane for 20 min parking, deliveries, etc. Bus system -running throughout Dubuque with parking allowed on Bus route at resident locations rather than parking ramp expenses, property owners would be able to profitize on auto parking. 1368 Save the old buildings downtown. 1369 Please leave main street closed to traffic. I've traveled all over the world and don't look for places to shop or to fight traffic. We have a beautiful downtown, lets keep it. 1370 A great place to live is a great place to visit. American's River should join the beginning of a revitalization of the downtown. Encouraging building owners to remodel upper floors into attractive apartments would be much appreciated. 1371 I think -the America's River Project should and could be a big benefit to downtown Dubuque. I worked in downtown Dubuque and hated paying for parking. 1372 No parking meters downtown. Same as the west side. 1373 Dubuque residents should receive free or reduced entrance fees when bringing visitors to downtown museums and attractions. This could be called "Ambassador of Dubuque pass." 1374 I believe if there were varied types of entertainment in the plaza every weekend, there would be less congestion when there is entertainment plus a larger array of people would be drawn to the area to see what is available downtown. The opening at 8th street town plaza in its present condition, served only to remove the playground from the downtown area. 1376 There is too much parking downtown, but it's not utilized properly. Get rid of meters. Dubuque has targeted certain areas for low-income housing. As a result, there is an imbalance in housing downtown. 1377 I am in favor of leaving downtown clock plaza as it is and not to open it up to traffic, It is so pretty peaceful to work and sit there. I also think there should be a public vote at the polls for this. Ps. They have good entertainment down there now, the trees are beautiful. 1378 Parking is a big problem but most of the time lots of meter spaces on the streets and private lot space open. We need better management of available spaces and less parking lots. 1383 For an improved downtown, if you want people to visit the area, free and more parking is needed. Events such as "all that Jazz' at the town clock plaza should be held into consideration and the town clock plaza should stay where it is. 1384 If business is thriving, there will be employment, if no, nol will work downtown. 1385 I believe to get people to downtown you must clean it up, especially the crime. 1386 Retail like Walsh and Hartigs, how about a Cole's dept. store in the old trilog headquarters. (Lots of ramp parking nearby) Small shops in the first mall -buildings . Leave mall area traffic free turning lane for signal instead of huge sidewalks. 1388 We need more access to existing buildings. We need small parks, shops, laundrys, and grocery stores. Need to repair old store fronts in an appropriate manner. 1389 I would like to know who decided the boundaries of the "downtown" area. 1390 The city must cease tearing down historic properties and cease the process of turning our downtown into one great parking lot. Get rid of the stupid meters, and control the use of all available lots. 1392 Is this the "heart" of our city because it's the center? The origin of Dubuque? Or Dubuque's "lifeblood"? Is it for us residents? Or is it to be an impression and "good time" we give to visitors? Answers to all of these make a big difference in the survey answers. 1393 Must we plan everything? Why not an area or zone where anything more can happen? It might be surprising what can be generated 1396 Public restrooms would be useful, a fairly large area of free parking, more flowers, plants_, shrubs, (well maintained) public arts foundations, summer ice cream parlors, public information. 1397 I feel the opening of main street is a monumental mistake especially when it comes to making an area unique, I feel the timing couldn't be worse for what we want to achieve. I wish someone could see the vision and reverse the decision to open main street. 1399 Thanks to all for your interest in Dubuque. Restore buildings back to restaurants promote the history of and the mighty Mississippi. Bring downtown Dubuque will flourish. our beautiful downtown originals, have shops and our city of majestic bluff in the new tourists and Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1402 I would like to see Town Clock Plaza stay as it is, with specialty shops and restaurants built or occupying existing buildings on surrounding the Plaza. Downtown can never go back to what it was in the 40's and 50's. .We need to improve on what we have. 1403 Any housing must be esthetically pleasing or it will make people fearful downtown will never be a retail destination. It should be targeted as an office park with the plaza maintaining closed. Retail business should cater to workers and tourists. 1404 All of the above amenities are more or less important. The question is how to encourage or finance their development. Some taxpayers resist any public expenditure not realizing that Investing in the future of Dubuque is Essential to economic health of the entire community." 1406- I think downtown should be a place that Dubuque residents are attracted to for entertainment as well as making it attractive as a.residential area. 1407 I would not like to see Dubuque follow the path Galena has taken which is to create opportunities for tourists at the expense of opportunitiesfor the people living there. I envision corner groceries that sell produce raised by local farmers; restaurants featuring quality, Midwestern cuisine; landscaping that includes plants native to Dubuque. 1409 Don't take down anymore old historic buildings, keep tourist traffic with masstransit system, public restrooms handicap access and upper level living 1410 Stop tearing down historic buildings, stop turning them into parking lots, get rid of ugly `modern' buildings i.e. Moose Lodge Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 2 Mt age and other older cars & wont be able to afford a car. We need our old downtown to come back to life. Stores to go shopping, Dr.'s Offices, and to live in Low income housing & mass transit., A lot of us want to stay independent. Thank you for this questionnaire. - 7 Parking meters are a determent to business, forget the deer hunting (slaughter, anywhere within the city limits!) 8 ALDI Grocery store 22 Signage is needed to find things - all signs need lights that word, skateboards a problem - on ramp and sidewalks - people smoking and throwing butts on sidewalks a problem, by ramps and public buildings, need benches for people to sit - 23 Open main street from 9th to 5th like it was when I was younger, take out meters there are enough parking ramps which hardly no one uses. Put in more shopping places and entertainment places like Movies Houses instead of having to go way out on the west end to see a`movie. And get rid of that tin thing on 5th street 54 I think the downtown is beautiful, leave it alone 59 Please take a close look at the Madison capital area & I think that would be a good representation of my view of what downtown. Dubuque could be. Thanks. 65 Leave it like it is, no street - 75 Clean it up! Fix the streets and alleys - (biggest problem) instead of spending more on these flyers go a cheaper route, most of them end up in the garbage anyway 115 Leave the owners to fix up their own buildings. Coming across the Wisconsin bridge into the city, some of the buildings around first & second St. need cleaning up especially the backs that you see coming off the bridge, not very impressing for tourists coming into Dubuque. 121 I believe downtown Dubuque is a thing of the past. No one is going to shop and feed parking meters! I think opening up main street is a waste of tax money. I would like to know who is benefiting from this. 123 Make sure. you open main street to two way traffic, with parking - 167 The downtown area. is the heart of the city so -in order to get people to the heart they need good streets to get around. Our city fathers should be ashamed of the disrepair of the downtown streets. We seam to find money for everything but we cant fix the streets that people drive on to get around town. I know that these streets have been patched but they seed more than patched. They have patch on top of patch, its time to do' something else. Before anything else we need to fix the streets downtown - Iowa, Main, Locust, Bluff, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th,10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th - most of these streets need more than patch they need to be overlaid. Fix the streets and more .people will come downtown - 170 I believe your own way of creating a good down project, friends and family are excited, keep up the good work! 177 Please get the owners to fix up their buildings. The boarded windows, plants growing in gutters. They don't need tax cuts. They should get a cut after their buildings are improved. The downtown area is a disgrace to Dubuque, that is why the tourists don't come, and Galena gets more than us. 190 There is a need to draw a better selection of fast food/ family friendly restaurants to the downtown to encourage families to spend more time there after visiting the art museum, library, etc. Lack of parking also keeps people from coming downtown - more spaces are needed. Work should begin now to recruit & entice to work in the future downtown businesses. 214 Take a bank at Dyersville lately. Consignment shops places take 4th streets shops in nicer settings. Moderately priced but unique places to eat. Children's hands on play centers. Tourists will follow if we have something to offer. 218 The city manager & mayor Duggan are the best thing that happened in Dubuque for the last 50 years. I am opposed to opening to traffic the main street. 231 Like all tourist cities, make the downtown a tourist trop 234 I used to go downtown three or four times a week -but seldom go downtown anymore. There is nothing there, we need a good department store or maybe a K -Mart or Target. 236 Parking Meters 243 Open up Main St. and bring dead downtown back to life, leave the town clock in place and drivearound it. Cut the present cement side walk to regular width and remove center for new paved St. This would cost much less than 4 million. 273 Try to improve area around shot tower, mainly get rid of the fertilizer building. Turn the whole area into a public area and green space. 280 I quit going downtown when you closed main street! 307 An ideal vision involves all aspects as a priority. Don't fall for standards simply because of fashionable thinking. 352 Leave the downtown plaza like it is. Don't waste our taxpayer money. 364 Lets open main street all the way. Get retail business back. I see no need for apts. or housing on Main St. There are plenty now. 390 It will be great to see Main Street open in the downtown. I would be there a bit more if it were open. 398 When the rates were lower the Locust ramp was always full. Now there is usually lots of space. 400. When there is a special event downtown there should be free parking, this includes the farmer's market, etc. prefer that meters be removed. 402 I do not come downtown as there is nothing to shop for. Also I do not like the parking meters. I can go to target Kmart Wal-Mart, the Mall, take the time I want and not worry about parking meters and getting a ticket. 426 This was a difficult survey to narrow downtown the priorities because all the categories together would make an incredible downtown Dubuque. But the charm of Dubuque is found in its architecture. Still people have to have a reason to go downtown be it work, recreation, the arts or to shop and parking has to be accessible. It will be a tough job deciding what's to be done. Good luck. 427 I wish it would have stayed the way it was back in '59 when we had Penny's, the boostone, 5+10 store, Knesies, and some of the others and there was traffic. It was a shame now I really enjoyed walking then blocks on weekend to shop. 441 A southwest expressway is needed for properly development of shopping, restaurants, etc. Factory development would come alone the expressway. 443 I think you will have to get stores like Penny's -Montgomery Ward and others like it back - throw out meters - get back to what it was in Dub. I have and am sure it can be done that way. At least we would have a place to shop, walk the draw & meet friends once again. 454 Downtown is dead, leave it as it is, spend the money on more worth while projects. 484 Leave street closed 485 Downtown will never be retail again! Forget it! 488 I do not support opening main street.- I believe the city should take more care in trimming the trees in the downtown area, would greatly improve the looks and safety, the cost est. are very high, need more bids._ 489 Preserve old buildings 490 Preserve the beauty of city by keeping its historic value alive. Find a motivation device to draw more people to DBQ. other than gambling, but capitalize on that to build up the town. Too many pretty old homes are being turned into low income housing & thus being stripped of their character to accommodate profit. - 492 I feel Dubuque needs to be more open to change and needs to provide more positive opportunities for its youth to become responsible adults. 495 I don't like the mall, get stores by downtown and some -cafes Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 505 My vision to help Dubuque would be to stop jake breaking. The signs (the few we have) aren't enough! Lets make Dubuque a quiet exciting place to visit. All other cities have "no jake breaks" and its enforced. 507 Make use of the old facilities & buildings by making apts. Out of them. Like other cities are doing. More shops and small businesses. There is no reason to go downtown now. 517 I would like to see it like it was in the 40s and 50s. Very accessible & places to shop. Dubuque should have left it as it was. " 533 Forget about the downtown & help get the traffic out Hwy 20 with auto stoplights. I live across from Kennedy Mall. The traffic that many times I go to Davenport to do my shopping. 552 My pet peeve about coming downtown is parking & the cost of it. 2"d, please fix up the streets. 3=d,_ retain historical background, especially the Brewery. Turn the brewery into a restaurant and shops. 565 Parking on Main St. will be a problem because the employees still use the parking spaces. 576 Use for more tourism, restaurants and corporate offices, etc. Too many shopping centers for a downtown to compete with. Would like to see it stay closed area for outdoor activities. 589 Dubuque's hottest attraction is its old world feeling. This must be maintained. The river, with the changes being made to the waterfront will really enhance old Dubuque. It should be a place where everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or income. Thanks_for asking. 591 I seldom visit the area as there are only four places that have any interest for me. They are True Value hardware store, city hall, Green Auto and the boat. I used to visit the area quite often until all the larger retail businesses moved. 596 General retail businesses plus ample parking. No 15 -minute meters. Clothing stores such as Zuckies formerly downtown. Another store like Walsh's 603 Please enhance Dubuque's unique beauty as a pivotal vantage place to see & experience the mighty Mississippi. 611 Charming atmosphere, dining, not -eating with charm and atmosphere. It should be a... Can't read. Specialty shops perhaps... Can't read. 634 I would not like to see Main St. opened, not even to one lane. 642 The city council favors the opinions of a few (business owners) over the voice of the many (downtown area workers). Downtown businesses should pay more of the cost of change. 650 Don't go to the expansion of opening up Main St. traffic. The plaza is good as it is. Have as much free parking as possible 655 The grand theater & five flags theater are big draws. I feel that a movie theatre would be great. More restaurants in lower Main would be great.• I see the whole area becoming a vibrant busy place. More & more summer flowers are very attractive. 656 You have delayed it long enough. Do It. 661 We don't believe in spending a lot of money to change downtown. We spent a lot of money when we changed it and ruined all of downtown. Now we feel as though it is only for professional use, etc. Please don't change the town clock & don't open the streets. Downtown has completely lost its use as a general retail business. 670 Get rid of those silly looking lights. Keep it closed. 679 I would like to see a combination of retail and commercial, which can succeed if the rents aren't too high. It will never be what it.was before Cuban disaster, but it can be better. 707 Keep Main St. as a park/pedestrian mall. Look at 8th St. all you see are cars/trucks with parking tickets on them. Use the town clock plaza as a memorial to veterans. We need something to liven up the area. Good luck in your decision. 718 Don't screw this up by putting in low housing. If you want that, put it on the west end. You people are always willing to report as long as they don't live in your rich neighborhoods. 723 I am totally against opening Main St. 743 I disagree with opening up the mall area to traffic. Enough with the TIF. Our school system needs this lost revenue. 744 Opening Main St. is highly unfeasible. 751 I would like to see specialty shops that are still needed & that would bring tourists & Dubuquers back downtown. Like a bakery with a coffee shop. Shoe repair shop, antique shops, old fashion (?). Give the people who want to start a shop. 757 Leave pedestrian mall as is. 761 Open Main St. to through traffic. 762 Upscale housing but not at expense of arts historic character. 763 We go out of town to shop on a regular basis. We find towns that have no meters and love it. Give us good shopping but keep the historic look. Get rid of the meters. 764 Store buy milk other things. Clock tower area people disabled? 765 I would like to see more free parking downtown. 786 More housing for poor people like myself. More help, more jobs and more opportunities for Hispanics, Please. 794 Whenever possible (monetary wise) I can take a cab to 5 flags, Capri, Eagle and the barn opera house. The owners of 5 flags & the barn have a little entertainment that I can save up for and partake in. 801 Keep our downtown clean. 811 I would like to see it like it was before the mall came. But I know that's not possible. I miss seeing the hustle and bustle of people there. 817 I would like to see the plaza as a place for unique shops such as it is on Bluff St. & antique shops & good restaurants. I have people. come from Las Vegas to shop on Bluff St. at the great shops there. Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 843 I haven't been downtown since they changes it there is nothing down there you changed in another 25-30 years you'll want to spend more money to put it back. If you think us old people are going to move down town cause we have no less service no way. 857 Many buildings need a `clean up' look 860 Mass transit to coincide with 'Downtown Districts and riverfront out to the point area (dog track) Walking capabilities between riverfront and downtown areas. 869 User friendly transportation to and from tourist areas - clean signage 893 "Important" can & should be more carefully and accurately defined because it can be measured in some manners "desirable" is aesthetic in its core meaning. This survey doesn't really deal with anything tangible. It is so flexible that nothing can be pinned down = no standard. 896 Any improvements or changes should be assessed to land owners similar to streets. 897 Open the mall 899 Downtown will never fully return to its yesterday appearance. 900 Downtown property owners should shoulder the bill for any changes in the area. 903 The whole Dubuque metro area must be in a plan with the downtown 907 Downtown should not only be for tourists but also for the people of Dubuque. As a historic Rivertown, the city needs to expand upon this. Attract people with small town heritage and have the shops and business for them to shop at once they get here. 936 I think there on the right track right now, the way it is - Just add it - more art type galleries in plaza - they have a built in clientele right now for small restaurants etc. from thousands of office workers 940 I do not think it is wise to open the street on main street. It is too expensive and I like it as it is. Downtown will never change as long as it casts money to park. '946 I think the most important thing is to strive for a mixed use downtown to achieve a good balance. I would like to see living spaces above store fronts, stores that provide basic goods and services so people could live downtown and not even need a cat to get what they need. Too bad Walsh's'closed! 948 Fix that street in front of post office this is so bad, what a bad first impression of DBQ. Have no meters on late Friday, all day Saturday 954 Bus service to take people from riverfront to downtown and back, old main etc. historic signage telling about areas/information signs, on location (maps) areas to hold art fairs and festivals and out door concerts, public art, places to sit 958 Get rid of the motor cycle noise 963 Leave downtown alone. You messes it up with urban renewal, get rid of parking meters & you might get something going. You cant function on tourism alone. `964 Residents/consumers are traveling out of our city for retail purchases and services. Tremendous need for retail business and "anchor" dept. stores in out beautiful downtown, thank you. 1007 I believe we are missing a strong housing market by not making "loft" or upscale apartments in the old warehouses. I also believe the arts and parks will bring so much money to town as corporations. 1026 I would like a general merchandise store, K mart, Wal-Mart. Now I have to go a distance to get home necessities. 1039 No more tearing down old buildings to make parking lots. 9-5 businesses for people on lunch hours. More restaurants/side walk cafes - Additional Comments Regarding The Vision for Downtown Dubuque 1083 1. Must be accommodated to make it easier for public to access what we already have available, plus additions to come. 2. Capitalize on our charm as Iowa's oldest city on the bluffs. 3. Get us back downtown, instead of the malls. 1088 Selective education perhaps business education or School of fine arts. Above all attract tourists with a Main St. ave of trees. Keep the town clock as is on a reduced platform. Make it town clock corridor. 1117 Need green space for events and keep the plaza area open. You are missing great opportunity for arts & crafts/drama events. By opening the street, you will not encourage business, please review the decision. 1124 Poor access to downtown takes 30 to 45 minutes from Wal-Mart to downtown on Hwy 20. 1140 Along with the river beautification project, this will be our bets opportunity to ever se our downtown revitalized. I hope it goes through for those Dubuque's living today and for future generations to come. 1141 This will mean a lot to us older people and to the younger generations to come. 1142 The positives for the downtown versus the mall, or the positives for the mall versus downtown: close some streets in the downtown area -very important. Restrict traffic flow in the downtown area -very important. Have street parking meters in the downtown area -very important. The on -way streets keep retail stores out of the downtown area -very important. The mall & other stores in the West Dubuque area have free parking which people like and enjoy -very important. Downtown street parking meters create stress, pressure and an enduring desire not -to shop downtown or for any other activity -very important. Affordable housing was and is limited downtown to have and create a successful base for retail stores downtown & other activities. 1143 Get rid of parking meters. If your businesses or other things take longer you get upset to find a ticket on your window.. 1152 I think,that no one in their right mind would open the plaza to motorized traffic. It is so nice -to seerthe workers, students, etc... enjoying the plaza. I believe.people want to. stay closed, and it should. 1161 Cannot see opening plaza, too much money fax what? Will not bring shoppers there. 1172 I have good memories of downtown Dubuque -but please as is. And use that money to fix our bad and rough streets that practically knock off parts of our cars & tires. Thanks! -1173 I worked downtown for about 45 yrs. 1174 I'm not sure if opening plaza would do any good and feel you should leave it as it is. Its basic office space & don't think you'll get enough traffic for any businesses to survive. 1191 I see Dubuque as a historic downtown with professional offices for businesses with a strong tie to the tourism that will come from lower Main St. 1206 The mall should not be changed, it's a definite waste of $. 1229 On the issue of Main St., I believe the street should be opened to limited auto traffic & bicycle traffic to encourage retail and restaurant etc. to open. 1234 of the street for cars one way going from north to south, the other half for trees, picnic tables, flowers etc. 1258 Keep shops small & specialty and please keep some green spaces. Eliminate parking meters stop the destruction of old buildings. 1267 I think opening up Main St. is a waste of $ and don't believe the city g=has the money to waste. When they closed it most people in DBQ didn't want that done. It will not increase business downtown. You aren't going toallowparking so just leave it be. 1268 I would like to see restaurants, entertainment, shopping and cultural arts downtown, and its priority number one. Are you people going to actually listen to the public's input? I only hope you do. 1271 .Please keep it historic, accessible and no parking meters. 1279 Get our downtown area back to the way it used to be before urban renewal. Also-remove parking meters from certain areas & limited parking for businesses and employees. 1287 I love the sculptures and artwork and the small coffee shops & restaurants that are in Cedar Rapids (!). 1312 This is a monument to stupidity. Citizens won't benefit from the operation and their pocket books will never open. Sure the money... Can't read. IX. Community Meeting I Materials DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAMJOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH COMMUNITY MEETING I 8 a.m.-Noon • Five Flags Civic Center July 14, 2001 AGENDA 8:00 RECEPTION 8:15 WELCOME & INTRODUCTION - David Wm. Rusk 8:30 KEYNOTE ADDRESS - David Feehan. 9:15 MISSION & INSTRUCTIONS - Patrick Callahan 9:30 BREAK 9:45 SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS 11:00 SMALL GROUP PRESENTATIONS 12:00 CONCLUDING REMARKS AND ADJOURNMENT * David Wm. Rusk is chairman of the Downtown Planning Committee for the City of Dubuque. * Patrick Callahan is an independent consultant with Municipal and County. Management Services. * David Feehan is executive director of the International Downtown Association. The purpose of today's meeting is to engage in an inclusive dialogue about the future of downtown Dubuque and to begin developing a shared commu- nity vision that will serve as a foundation to a comprehensive downtown master plan. Community Meeting I July 14 Welcome & Introduction (DWR) Good morning. I'm Dave Rusk, chairman of the City of Dubuque Downtown Planning Committee. Thank you for being here this morning. On behalf of the committee, welcome to what we hope you'll find a provocative and productive morning exchanging views on the future of our downtown. Welcome to Community Meeting I of the downtown visioning process that the committee has put in place, VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY. Our gathering together this morning is the second step in the downtown visioning process. The first step was to distribute to all postal addresses in the city a citizen questionnaire designed to separately gather overall community sentiment as to a number of general attributes to be considered in the downtown visioning and planning process. Incidentally, if you haven't completed and returned the questionnaire that was contained in the July issue of City Focus, please do so by July 23. There are extra copies here today should you have misplaced yours. Our mission today is to gather input from all of you that will help form an initial draft of VISION DOWNTOWN that will be tested and revised as necessary through subsequent steps in the visioning process. Those steps include a second community meeting on September 15, a reactor group session, and a validation survey. The visioning process will culminate in a shared community vision of what we, collectively as a city, see for our downtown. We anticipate that the visioning process will conclude late this year with the publication of a final version of VISION DOWNTOWN. Those of you who are familiar with Dubuque's VISION 2000 process of the early 1990's will recognize this approach as mirroring that very successful program that layed the foundation for the creation of Dubuque's first city council adopted comprehen- sive plan since 1936, adopted by the council in 1995. Just as a shared community vision lies at the heart of Dubuque's comprehensive plan, so will the work we do today and through the fall eventually lie at the heart of a downtown plan. In the new year we will begin work on other elements of the overall downtown planning process. They include the assess- ment of existing downtown plans and current realities of the downtown relative to the shared community vision, and ultimately, the creation of a comprehensive downtown master plan. Guiding this process is the Downtown Planning.Committee. The committee is made up of 18 members that bring together talents and expertise in planning, housing, real estate development and finance, commercial and retail interests, historical preservation and the cultural arts community. The inclusion of all these interests and perspectives is essential to the collaborative and inclusive effort of planning for the future of our downtown. But in the end, and this is a critical point, the planning committee is only the facilitator of the process. We believe that for any plan for our downtown to be truly credible and legitimate, it must be founded in broad input and participation by our entire commu- nity. And of course that's why we're all here together today. Whether we live or work downtown, own or rent property downtown, or simply recognize that downtown is truly the heart of our community, we are all stakeholders in its future. Our downtown belongs to all of us. Our downtown is the touchstone of our community. Within it is the mother lode of our heritage and the identity which it has nurtured since our earliest days as a modest Mississippi River settlement. There is no other precinct or neighborhood in Dubuque that holds more of what we have been, what we are, and what we can be than our downtown. Our downtown embodies the unique charac- ter that is our Dubuque on the Mississippi. With the ambitious transformation of our historic Ice Harbor and waterfront peninsula underway, we have a unique window of opportunity to capitalize on the synergies that that effort brings to the overall downtown. Our downtown can be an inviting and hospitable city centre that boasts a vitality beyond what we know today. It can be a place to gather, to work, and to live that is the envy of other communities. Just as our community has thought boldly about our riverfront so must we think boldly about the rest of our downtown. For example, many of you, I know, have heard myself and others speak of the powerful synergistic potential of a light rail trolley system linking our riverfront with our other historical downtown areas. Certainly a bold but, I think viable idea. One of our real advantages in all this is that our downtown already has many of the assets and infrastructure elements in place that much of a new urbanist movement seeks to create or recreate in communities that lack them; we have unique architectural treasures and a potent social and cultural infrastructure that can be building blocks to a revitalization for example. We need to discover and develop a mix of attributes and amenities that is right for us, and that is practical for us - for, in the end, whatever we envision and plan for must be viable. There is no formula, perhaps, but logic suggests that that mix might include elements of retail shopping, commercial & office presence and the employment opportunities that accompany it, housing, cultural arts, dining and entertainment elements, all within a framework of historic preservation of existing assets and thoughtful design of new - ones, set in an attractive and inviting land and streetscape with multi -mode transportation access amenities for both vehicles and pedestrians. It goes with saying that our downtown needs also to remain safe and clean. The challenge to make our future downtown all that it can be is before us. And now I want to introduce our keynote speaker who will offer some educated insight on the matter of downtown revitaliza- tion... u, �i David Feehan David Feehan is the president of the International Downtown Association, or IDA, based in Washington, D.C. Dave has devoted a 30 -year career to rebuilding and revitaliz- ing cities. He has directed downtown programs in Des Moines, Detroit, and Kalamazoo, and neighborhood development programs in Pittsburgh and Minneapolis. He helped found and served as the first director of the Citizens League of Southwestern Pennsylvania, a Pittsburgh -based regional public policy organization. He has been active in IDA for 15 years, and the programs he has directed have won several awards, from I -DA, the Internal Parking Institute, and the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Dave has served IDA as a board member and officer, most re- cently as chairman. He was appointed by the board to serve as president and chief executive officer in April of this year. Dave has maintained an active consulting practice for several years, assisting a number of cities in downtown planning activities. Dave holds a Masters Degree in Social Work Planning and Administration from the University of Pittsburgh. He has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Iowaand Metropolitan State University in St. Paul, MN. Please help me welcome our keynote speaker, David Feehan. Thank you David and now we turn to the most important part of the program in which we ask for your input on the future of downtown. I do need to say up front that the decision on opening Town Clock Plaza has been made by our elected representatives. We need to put that long and arduous discussion behind us as a resulr,and it should not be part of our discussion today, regardless of your personal position on that decision. That train has left the station. We need to think about and discuss the broader issues facing our downtown. Patrick Callahan Serving as our facilitator today is Patrick Callahan from Mu- nicipal and County Management Services based in Maquoketa, Iowa. Pat is an independent consultant providing consulting ser- vices for local government. His services are contracted through the Iowa Department of Economic Development and Main Street Iowa. In addition to his work with us today, Pat will be compiling our comments and suggestions into a draft vision and then working with us over the coming months in testing and revising that vision through the additional steps of the process. I want to stress that he is not a committee member or city em- ployee but an independent consultant which the committee thinks is appropriate to his role as facilitator. You may be interested to know that Pat is a former Dubuque County resident from the Cascade and Bernard area and is a gradu- ate of our own Loras College. He is the former city manager of Maquoketa. Please welcome Pat Callahan. VISION DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY MEETING I - DUBUQUE, IOWA JULY 14, 2001 Instructions to Facilitators (Downtown Planning Committee Members) 1. Please split up so that there are no more than two facilitators advising any single table or group. 2. Urge the group to select a leader or spokesperson from within the group. 3. If someone seems to indicate a willingness to be the group leader, then offer words of encouragement and support and assure them that it is not a complicated task. Wait for a leader to emerge. If a leader does not emerge, drop a gentle, but subtle, hint to one or two people in the group who give you the impression as someone who could be the group leader. Encourage.them! If no one indicates a willingness to be the group leader, volunteer to be the group leader. Identify yourself as someone from the Committee. Indicate your willingness to be the group leader or facilitator for the group. Ask if there are any objections. Start the discussions, but don't "lead" the group to reach certain conclusions. Seek the comments and suggestions of all members of the group. If necessary, go around the table and give everyone an opportunity to offer at least one comment. If a few people tend to dominate the discussion, seek the opinions of the "quiet ones." If the entire group is somewhat quiet - ask these leading questions: (1) How could the Downtown Area be more "user friendly." (2) What would be ideal Downtown Area look like in 5, 10, or 20 years? (3) If you could change one thing about the Downtown Area, what would it be. (4) Name a positive aspect of the Downtown Area and make one suggestion on how the community could build, expand, or enhance that positive feature. Refrain from offering your comments and suggestions. Remain positive. Don't let your voice or body language indicate that any idea or suggestion that is offered is one that you personally would not support. Remain neutral. 10. Keep things moving. Watch the clock. 11. Record on the flip charts the various comments and suggestions. 12. Keep things on the "light side." Make the experience an enjoyable process for people. Closing (DWR) In closing I want to thank everyone involved in today's meet- ing, certainly the Downtown Planning Committee for all it's work and the City of Dubuque and City Council for sponsorship of the Vision Downtown process, all the local and area media for their wonderful partnership committment in promoting the visioning process. A special thanks to Dubuque Main Street, Ltd. for significant contributions to the process and to the Iowa Department of Eco- nomic Development and Main Street Iowa. Thanks to Patrick Callahan and to David Feehan. And most of all, thanks to all of you for being a part of Vision Downtown. Please watch for further developments and plan to par- ticipate in future steps in the process. We'll hope to see you here for the second community meeting September 15. If you haven't completed and returned your questionnaire please do so and also encourage others to do so before the 23rd. Thanks again and this concludes our. meeting. Enjoy the day and the weekend ! • VISION DOWNTOWN Community Meeting 1 Saturday, July 14, 2001 Five Flags Civic Center Small Group Presentations Encourage year-round visitation • create destination for recreation/shopping • create attractions • Encourage downtown residents • Encourage development co-hesiveness Develop serpentine waterway • allowing access to water • additional riverwalk residential • Design zoning plan • Create visual destination plan • Individual neighborhood development (Ex. Old Main, Cable Car Square, etc.,) • Create organization to partner ideas/$ • Develop comprehensive beautification plan • Cooperation program with colleges • Marketing plan "Get your butt downtown". • Downtown transportation/parking system • Build daylife and nightlife • Capture historical feeling but not limit restoration to only historically accurate projects • Allow the energy and funk of our current diverse culture to show through • Importance of neighborhoods and districts , strong identity, voice and branding by • allowing separate BIDs for each district How do we fit into the Tri-State area, the greater downtown and into our neighborhoods, include emphasis on assets, beauty, fun, entertainment and fmancial incentives for moderate and high-income housing Emphasis on being inclusive, quality of life issues for everyone (youths, seniors, family and singles) • Activity centers focused on youth • Parking - develop lower levels into retail use ground level and take advantage of sidewalks - increase activity levels Widen sidewalks with encouraged activities • Opportunities for upscale housing (Chicago River, Milwaukee) Warehouse District • . Connectivity • Give it an identity • Inventory of buildings and services (where are the opportunities?) • Incentives • • How do we help make these things happen? Amenities • Schools, public services, bicycle access, street scrape design • ° Parking • Green space - balance • Inspection • Force people to maintain their buildings • Have incentives or $ for people to effectively accomplish these repairs and upkeep. Give incentive to sell - positively or negatively • Historic Old Main • Fischer Companies (frowned face as ex.) Plant seeds in Dubuque • Show and demonstrate all the great things that can happen (VISION) • Restoration • Keep old buildings • Showcase what we have already • Get people to move back downtown Upper story living Showcase our history Transportation Traffic flow Signage • Points of interest • Trolleys Marketing • Events/attractions/promotions • Keep tourists here for more than one day • Self guided tours Things to do at night • Educate: what is downtown? Dubuquers' re -discover Dubuque. Attract new businesses • Match ideas with money Street Scape • Visual: trees, flowers, fountains, lighting/night lighting and benches • Make people walk • Green space • More space for bicycles • PUBLIC RESTROOMS Positive Aspects Restaurants • Wide variety • "Eat street" • Need to market restaurants • Incentives to locate there • Buildings being repaired/renovated • Bishop Block • Old Main • Busted Lift Security Building • Town Clock Building - Old • Architecture • Churches • Old buildings • Bluffs • Museums/Art Centers/Cultural Centers Festivals (Boo -Bash) • Theaters • Galleries Many people travel and work downtown • "Ownership" of area • Existing audience/market Suggestions • Add color/greenery to Central and all downtown • Mandolin Inn • Incentives to businesses to add • Pocket parks • Improved transportation • Longer bus hours (early morning; late nights) • Bike lanes • Opening streets • Trolley routes from Pennisula to upper Main -link whole area • Amtrac Service (Chicago) • Another like downtown to pennisula • Improve downtown housing • Develop and market family housing • Offer multiple choices • "Upscale housing" Parking opportunities for housing • Housing near river - singles/retired people • Youth-oriented activities Childcare Relocate industrial uses from street pennisula • New retail opportunities throughout area • speciality shops bookstores • street retail Nightlife ▪ Light up downtown at night • Illuminate buildings • Activity generators (movies, bowling, sport activities, classic films) • Stadium seating in theaters • Twinkle lights in winter Outdoor dining • Directional signage • Gateways 1' & Locust, 5th and White, 11 th Street and Elm • Maps • location for information Drive-up/drive through • Telephones • Ambassadors • Helpful in busy areas during busy times More historical markers • Explain special/unique features in downtown • Add community art/sculptures • Continuum • Washington Park • Cathedral • Public are throughout are in all developments • Light sculptures/art at night • Add design/color to amenities/structures • Wrought iron fencing • Add something for the senses: • Sound/music Scent • Carillons/church bells • Market churches • Church tours Change One Thing? • Nightlife more; something to do • Remove barrier of railroad • Fill the storefronts - new businesses • More restaurants/more choice • Upper/lower/pennisula all tied together same lights • trolley travel whole area • pedestrian links • Coordinate/promote/support the arts • Directional signage added Riverfront the Catalyst • Push development into downtown • Packaging - connect riverfront activity to Bluff St., cultural areas, such as theaters and museums. How much can we invest in initially (how large an area be geographically) Historic structures restored and used Design standards for commercial enterprises, so we know what we want our downtown to look like (attractive) • Transportation, parking and signage to connect harbor and downtown areas. • Dreams • Lower Main - vibrant shopping, and night life for residents and visitors "Our Galena" • Building emphasis at harbor and Port of Dubuque • and other areas will develop on own perhaps. • Restore upper level living in stores with nice amenities - this places people downtown. • More public restrooms • Trolly that connects lower Main to Jackson Park area and Port of Dubuque. More boat rides, water taxi's • Basic Things • Beautiful, colorful front restored doors. • More flowers and planting • Window boxes • Buy Out • Modern looking buildings in .Old Main or tastefully redesign those buildings. • Downtown in preservation district • More handicap accessible • An 11th St. elevator with restaurant • Tax incentive to restore boarded up windows with cooperation of local window companies • Old warehouse - multiple artist studios More shopping downtown for residents to acquire every day needs Entrance from Illinois is uninviting, new entry should help • Need open air type bar/restaurant • Area by One Flight Up/Busted Lift/Silver Dollar/nightlife area • Light rail loop - connect Riverfront, Downtown - (Connectivity) • Real money = Mom, Dad, Kids • What will keep people from just passing through • River is destination • Dubuque vs. Galena - We are the destination - Hub, spokes out from Dubuque • Don't want to be " CR on the Mississippi". • Integrate river into community • No beaches • More nightlife • More office buildings • Need people living downtown, they need a reason to • Connect downtown and river events/attractions maintain historic character • • • People who work downtown don't want to stay after 5 p.m. What would an incentive be for a new restaurant to open • Cheap lunch • Upscale dining Minor league baseball Dinner Theater More "Town and Gown" connections Sunday nights at arboretum (Big Success) - Duplicate it Downtown Investment in pride and knowledge of what it is More accessible • Parking (not surface parking) - underground • Trails and other ways to get downtown and move around downtown • Trollys • No meter parking • Create "pockets" or distinct areas within the downtown - mixed housing, arts/culture area, restaurant/cafe area; retail area; work place • Comprehensive planned area Bring ethnic diversity to downtown More festivals, events (ethnic) Need Teen Center movie complex, dance hall Better design standards as part of city code, street furniture, landscape architecture, sidewalk cafe's More public art (pigs, cornstalks) Better Marketing to capitalize on existing events that draw people together (i.e. farmers market) Connect downtown with the development of the Riverfront Media - promote_whats good about communtiy Sidewalk cafes in addition to other places to help/foster "accidental encounters" Family events Strong public/private partnerships are needed More ethnic festivals/events (Milwaukee) Convert existing buildings that are empty into new uses/work places Role of absentee landlords Proactive marketing of commercial properties Inventory and prioritize historical building stock • Publicize and educate public and buyers of what incentives are available, (one stop shopping) Public restrooms • Outdoor cafe's • Design guidelinesfor buildings • Expand restaurants • Market Dubuque in Chicago, Milwaukee • Railroad passenger service (Amtrac) • Too many one-way streets • Shuttle bus to and from downtown • Quality daycare downtown • Public transit - trolleys with regular schedules • Shuttle paid for by Hotels • Improve traffic flow • Put up path finding signs • Provide public restrooms • Have more activities available after 5 p.m. - stores, restaurants • Print brochures with hours of businesses • Have a comprehensive restaurant guide • Provide customer service training for employees • Have more variety in restaurants • Save older buildings/homes • Capitalize on friendliness • Have more bicycle police present (perception of safety) • Make a list of photo opportunities • Market to Seniors • Encourage use of facade -improvement incentives • Fill area between downtown and river boat with attractions • Develop self -guided walking and driving tours • Encourage unique retail • Have more thing for kids to do • Have more outdoor dining • Have more street performances in more locations • More street vendors • More color and lights • No more surface parking • Promote new attitude, willingness to adapt • Restrooms • Develop attractive buildings at entry points (visual and activity -wise) • More housing • Rent windows of empty store fronts for displays • Look at complete downtown area - provide continuity • Develop attractions contiguous to existing attractions • Financing from a BID of SMID from entire City- "not to put a burden on small struggling • starters" • Family orientated activities • Historic preversation • Unique shops Restaurants - theme • • gift shops destination shops promote/upgrade shopping in Dubuque, keep our money here Create a friendly/safe environment of downtown Access for everyone - elder/handicapped/special needs Festivals/music/cultural events • Encourage local talent Transportation throughout downtown to all areas Funding available for restoration of historic buildings Tourist friendly • Parking available • public facilities • street work complete • car/bus/motor home • historic info of the city/area • amenities for families Green space with trees and flowers • Benches to sit and listen to music • Customer service and training to welcome people �,i Marketing activities - inform residents and tourists Enhancements • Safe/clean, keep it that way • architecture is great • promote river/landscape • museum/arboretum - attractions - Five Flags - Colleges - Grand Opera House • Expand tolley further • Pull into educational them of the City • Riverboat tours • Shot Tower renovation • History tours/lessons • More conventions • Preserve 4th Street bricks Historic Preservation/People Preservation • Business development of unique shops/restaurants • Green spaces with flowers and places to sit • Tourist/access friendly • Festivals/art events/musicians • Parking for people with every need • Keep peole living downtown • Hospitality training - people should feel welcome • Specialty businesses • Attractive - people find it welcoming/beautiful • Downtown community organization for residents and organziations Engage significant property owners to be involved in order to be successful • Market- to current residents and tourists Maintenance Plan • Bring minor league baseball to Dubuque User Friendly • Circulation • More people • Welcoming/Inclusive Attitute • Signage • Traffic Control • Restaurants/cafes • Inclusive downtown Bike lanes/racks Public transit convience Future Downtown Growth in residents •, Plants/trees/landscaping Renovations/preservations • 24/7 • Concentation of arts/culture • Outdoor restaurants Beautiful/colorful What would you change? • More housing/more people No butts or poop • More colors • Inappropriate architecture Free access/more activity to art museum • Fewer empty storefronts • Draw in more young people • Perception Positive • Gifford Society • Lobby group to promote downtown • Historic Architecture • Rehab/renovation/Preservation/restoration • River and Bluffs - downtown is setting • Library • Capitalize on strengths X. Community Meeting 11 Materials. ...PROMOTION PLAN - COMMUNITY MEETING II Aug 14 Forward short alert to monthly newsletters/publications, also article for October City Focus Aug 31 Mail invitations to: Key Stakeholder Groups Downtown Property Owners Community Meeting I Attendees Sep 1 Mail news release Sep -4- Fax news release Sep 4 Marquis blitz, posters, PSAs begin Sep 1-0 Fax news release TH Editorials? Meeting intro DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAMJOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH SPECIAL ALERT TO MONTHLY NEWSLETTERS/PUBLICATIONS August 14, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 Note: Please include this information in your upcoming publication/newsletter or other communications as appropriate to advise your readers/constituents. Thank you. ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING II ON VISION DOWNTOWN The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque will sponsor a second commu- nity meeting on September 15, 8-11 a.m., at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena as part of VISION DOWNTOWN. The results of the first community meeting, held on July 14, and the citizen questionnaire, distributed in the July,issue of City Focus, have been compiled into a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. The purpose of the September 15 community meeting is to review the draft to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should be included in it. All citizens are encouraged to attend the September 15 community meeting to ensure that their voices are included in VISION DOWNTOWN, according to Dave Rusk, chair of the Downtown Planning Committee. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH SPECIAL MEMO TO COMMUNITY MEETING I ATTENDEES: August 31, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk Laura Carstens (o) 557-1914 (o) 589-4210 (h) 588-2340 ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING II ON VISION DOWNTOWN The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque will sponsor a second commu- nity meeting on September 15, 8-11 a.m., at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena as part of VISION DOWNTOWN. The results of the first community meeting, held on July 14, and the citizen questionnaire, distributed in the July issue of City Focus, have been compiled into a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. The purpose of the September 15 community meeting is to review the draft to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should be included in it. All citizens are encouraged to attend the September 15 community meeting to ensure that their voices are included in VISION DOWNTOWN, according to Dave Rusk, chair of the Downtown Planning Committee. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH SPECIAL MEMO TO DOWNTOWN PROPERTY OWNERS: August 31, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o)557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING II ON VISION DOWNTOWN The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque will sponsor a second commu- nity meeting on September 15, 8-11 a.m., at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena as part of VISION DOWNTOWN. The results of the first community meeting, held on July 14, and the citizen questionnaire, distributed in the July issue of City Focus, have been compiled into a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. The purpose of the September 15 community meeting is to review the draft to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should be included in it. All citizens are encouraged to attend the September 15 community meeting to ensure that their voices are included in VISION DOWNTOWN, according to Dave Rusk, chair of the Downtown Planning Committee. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH SPECIAL MEMO TO KEY STAKEHOLDER GROUPS: August 31, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk Laura Carstens (o) 557-1914 (o) 589-4210 (h) 588-2340 ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING II ON VISION DOWNTOWN The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque will sponsor a second commu- nity meeting on September 15, 8-11 a.m., at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena as part of VISION DOWNTOWN. The results of the first community meeting, held on July 14, and the citizen questionnaire, distributed in the July issue of City Focus, have been compiled into a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. The purpose of the September 15 community meeting is to review the draft to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should be included in it. All citizens are encouraged to attend the September 15 community meeting to ensure that their voices are included in VISION DOWNTOWN, according to Dave Rusk, chair of the Downtown Planning Committee. As the current leader of your group, please advise your constituents of this information. In particular, please urge them to attend the community meeting on September 15. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: September 4, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE URGES CITIZENS TO ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING II The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque will sponsor a second commu- nity meeting on September 15, 8-11 a.m., at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena as part of VISION DOWNTOWN. The results of the first community meeting, held on July 14, and the citizen questionnaire, distributed in the July issue of City Focus, have been compiled into a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. The purpose of the September 15 community meeting is to review the draft to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should be included in it. All citizens are encouraged to attend the September 15 community meeting to ensure that their voices are included in VISION DOWNTOWN, according to Dave Rusk, chair of the Downtown Planning Committee. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS H1NGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAMJOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH COMMUNITY MEETING II PSA - 30 sec. Hello, I'm Dave Rusk, Chair of the Downtown Planning Commit- tee for the City of Dubuque, urging you to participate in VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY. VISION DOWNTOWN is an inclusive process of engaging our commu- nity in a dialogue over the future of our downtown. Please plan to attend Community Meeting II to review the first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN on Saturday, September 15, 8-11 a.m. at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena. It's your downtown...be a part of its future! It's YOUR DOWNTOWN... be a part of its future ,s,\T C.) Help plan the future of DOWNTOWN DUBUQUE ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING 11 8-1 1 a.m., Saturday, September 15 Five Flags Civic Center Arena OWntowrt DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE NORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL USA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: September 13, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 DOWNTOWN PLANNING COMMITTEE URGES CITIZENS TO ATTEND COMMUNITY MEETING II The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque will sponsor a second commu- nity meeting on September 15, 8-11 a.m., at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena as part of VISION DOWNTOWN. The results of the first community meeting, held on July 14, and the citizen questionnaire, distributed in the July issue of City Focus, have been compiled into a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. The purpose of the September 15 community meeting is to review the draft to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should b,i included in it. All citizens are encouraged to attend the September 15 community meeting to ensure that their voices are included in VISION DOWNTOWN, according to Dave Rusk, chair of the Downtown Planning Committee. DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH COMMUNITY MEETING II 8 a.m.-11 a.m. • Five Flags Civic Center September 15, 2001 AGENDA 8:00 RECEPTION 8:15 WELCOME & INTRODUCTION - David Wm. Rusk 8:30 SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS - Patrick Callahan 10:00 LARGE GROUP PRESENTATIONS - Patrick Callahan 11:00 CONCLUDING REMARKS AND ADJOURNMENT - David Wm. Rusk * David Wm. Rusk is chairman of the Downtown Planning Committee for the City of Dubuque. Patrick Callahan is an independent consultant with Municipal and County Management Services. The purpose of today's meeting is to review the initial draft of VISION DOWNTOWN and to confirm that it reflects the input gathered thus far in the downtown visioning process and also any additional input that should be included in it. Community Meeting II September 15, 2001 Good morning, My name is Dave Rusk. I am Chairman of the City of Dubuque Downtown Planning Committee. On behalf of the committee, welcome to Community Meeting II of VISION DOWNTOWN, A FUTURE FOR THE HEART OF OUR CITY. VISION DOWNTOWN is a highly inclusive community visioning process intended to engage our community in a dialogue over the future of our downtown. The process includes the distribution of a citizen questionnaire, community meetings, a reactor group session, and a validation survey. As each step of the process is completed, the evolving vision for our downtown is to be documented until, ultimately, toward the end of this year, we produce a final draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. It is hoped that VISION DOWNTOWN will provide the foundation a consensus community vision for the future of our downtown for further planning steps that will lead to the creation of a comprehensive downtown master plan sometime next year. It is anticipated that these planning steps will include the assessment of current realities and existing plans relative to VISION DOWNTOWN, as well as the creation of the comprehensive downtown master plan itself. It is important to recognize in all this that a vision is not a plan. A vision, in this context, is a target; it is a description of a destination. We will later need to make plans and initiate actions to help us reach that destination. A vision is neither so specific as to be confused with a plan, nor so general as to be of little value. A vision is more the outline of a desired future than its detail. It is more about values and ideals than about bricks and mortar or specific programs. It is more about results than about the means to achieve them. Those of you who have been participating in VISION DOWNTOWN already„ will likely discover that our first draft is more general, and constructed at a higher level, than perhaps your own input thus far, or the input of others, either through Community Meeting I or the citizen questionnaire. In other words, we have collected a great deal of input that is more detailed and specific than is appropriate for a vision as we have defined it. And yet our purpose here this morning is to ensure that all that input is reflected in the vision. We need to ensure that the spirit and intent of specific suggestions is somehow contained in the generalized vision statements. That, in a nutshell, is our task this morning. Let me add that clearly, the specific action -item or planning type suggestions will not be discarded or otherwise overlooked. All the input we have received, and will continue to receive, will be kept for later use. It will be summarized and published in the final VISION DOWNTOWN documentation and it will be reviewed for consideration and inclusion in the planning steps to follow. Again, our mission at this point is to create a vision - not a plan. Now, having said all that, here's where we are today. Nearly 1500 citizen questionnaires were returned and they have been thoroughly reviewed and processed. Approximately 100 citizens attended an initial community meeting July 15, from which we gathered substantial input - 14 pages of input to be exact. From all of that input, we have created a first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN. You all have a copy in front of you. The draft is organized into six areas, or dimensions, of the vision. They are: • Residential Living • Commerce • Culture and Education • Public Space and Open Areas • Transportation • Historical Features The closed-end portion of the citizen questionnaire was generally organized around these dimensions. It would appear that they were well chosen. I say this with confidence because it is the case that virtually all of the open-ended input from the questionnaires, (over half of the_questionnaires contained write-in, open ended comments) and the input . from the entirely open-ended dialogue of Community Meeting I, fell within these six dimensions in the estimation of the committee. This makes our job easier to say the least. I should say that our friends at the Loras College Center for Social Research, which was contracted to process the questionnaire data, provided us with an exhaustive analysis as to demographic differences in respondents and their responses, and the rank ordering of input. All this will be most useful in the subsequent steps in the planning process that I described earlier. Let it suffice to say at this point that there is clear evidence that all the dimensions of the draft vision are strongly advocated by respondents and therefore belong in the vision. With all this as introduction, I hope I have amply characterized the status of the VISION DOWNTOWN process at this point, and what we need to accomplish this morning. Again, our objective this ,morning is to confirm that either the first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN reflects what it should as presented, or that it should be enhanced or modified in some fashion. Again, we must keep our bearings in this as to the difference between a vision and a plan. Now, to lead us in meeting that objective, let me introduce, Pat Callahan. Patrick Callahan Serving as our facilitator today is Patrick Callahan from Municipal and County Management Services based in Maquoketa, Iowa. Pat is an independent consultant providing consulting services for local government. His services are contracted through the Iowa Department of Economic Development and Main Street Iowa. Those of you who participated in Community Meeting I will recall that Pat facilitated that gathering. Pat led the committee in creating the first draft of VISION DOWNTOWN and, in addition to his work with us today, will continue to work with us over the coming months in testing and revising that vision through the additional steps of the process. I want to stress that Pat is not a committee member or city employee but an independent consultant which the committee thinks is appropriate to his role as facilitator. You may interested to know that Pat is a former Dubuque County resident from. the Cascade and Bernard area and is a graduate of our own Loras College. He is former city manager of Maquoketa. Please welcome Pat Callahan. SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS 8:30 Instructions 8:40 Table Introductions Overview Discussion 9:00 Six Dimensions Discussion (10 min ea.) LARGE GROUP PRESENTATIONS 10:00 - One dimension at a time - 1st group critiques 1st dimension - Additional groups add new points and/or points of emphasis - 2nd group critiques 2nd dimension Additional groups add new points and/or points of emphasis - etc. until all six dimensions covered. - any other input One more task - Each group should designate a delegate to the reactor group session for a date to be determined. We need name, address and phone number. We will be contacting the delegates to schedule the session. IJ VISION DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY MEETING II DUBUQUE, IOWA SEPTEMBER 15, 2001 INSTRUCTIONS TO ALL PARTICIPANTS The main purpose of the small group discussions is to learn and record your comments, suggestions, ideas, and recommendations regarding the proposed community vision for Downtown Dubuque. This shared vision will then be used to help create a comprehensive downtown master plan in 2002. 1. Please take a seat at the table that corresporids to your number and please print your name on the nametag and wear it so that others may address you by name. 2. Go around the table and introduce yourself. ■ Name ■ Address ■ Brief background —if you like, your interest in the Downtown Select a leader and a recorder for your group. 4. The leader's job and recorder's job: ■ Lead the discussion ■ Record the comments and suggestions on the paper 5. Downtown Planning Committee members are present — Feel free to call on them, if you have questions. 6. If you are having trouble getting started, here are some questions to consider: (1) Do the dimensions and vision statements accurately reflect the vision of what the Downtown should represent? (2) What changes or corrections would you make to the proposed Vision document? 7 Take approximately eight to ten minutes to discuss each dimension and the corresponding vision statements. The facilitator will give you a reminder when the groups have spent ten minutes on each dimension. Please try to conclude your discussion on that dimension and move to the next. Your goal will be to spend about eight to ten minutes discussing each dimension. 8. If your group concludes the discussion on a specific dimension within ten minutes please proceed to the next. There is no need to wait for the facilitator's ten- minute reminder before proceeding to the next dimension. (Turn over) 9. After the small group discussions have concluded, each group will be assigned a dimension and asked to report back to all the participants on their recommendations. Following the individual group's report, all other groups will be given the opportunity to respond and offer additional comments. We will proceed from group to group until all six dimensions have been discussed. 10. The group leaders and recorders should place their names and phone numbers on the recording sheets. 11. Each group will be asked to select one representative and one alternate to serve on a Downtown Vision Document Reactorf Group. This group will meet Thursday, October" at 7:00pm to review the final revisions to the Vision Document. Please try to select these two people prior to the conclusion of your discussions. It is important to note that whoever is selected to serve on this group must be available for this one meeting. VISION DOWNTOWN FIRST DRAFT SEPTEMBER 15, 2001 Residential Living Commerce Culture and Education Public Space .and Open Areas Transportation Historical Features RESIDENTIAL LIVING We envision our downtown as a "home" to many people that provides a mix of amenities and opportunities including: • A blend of housing options across the affordability range. • A renewed emphasis on preserving and promoting downtown's residential historic architecture. • A mix of businesses within a short walking distance that meets the needs of downtown residents. • A clean and safe environment. • Employment and childcare opportunities in close proximity to housing. • Occupied housing units above the storefronts. • Neighborhoods that link people together on a twenty-four hour basis which will ultimately create a sense of community. • Accessibility to quality K-12 education. COMMERCE We envision the downtown area as a diverse commercial center pro- viding economic opportunities that include: • A broad mix of businesses and services that encourage frequent and year- round visitations. A "user friendly" environment for current and potential employees in terms of access to work sites, parking, and safety. Recognition of the five unique districts in the downtown and their inter- relationships. An environment that encourages the. start and growth of new businesses, such as technology based businesses. Promotion of the downtown as a regional center for retail/specialty shop- ping, restaurants and entertainment, tourism, education, government,; ser- vices, and professional/office facilities. An ongoing coordinated effort to advise business and property owners on marketing, property management, incentives, streetscape amenities, preser- vation, and financial resources. CULTURE AND EDUCATION We envision our downtown as a cultural and educational center that includes: • Promotion of the arts and educational opportunities as a means to enrich our lives and value. • Promotion of the arts and educational events so as to complement the community's appeal to tourists. • Cultural and educational events and "projects" that will ultimately enhance the economic and historic revitalization of the downtown. • Cultural and education based businesses as means to spur the historic preser- vation of buildings and economic development. • Encouragement of frequent cultural related events and activities that enhance downtown's image as the "place to be." PUBLIC SPACE AND OPEN AREAS We envision our downtown as an area that appeals to all the senses through the creation of an environmentally pleasing setting that includes: • Recognition that public open areas and green space are vital to the livability of the downtown. • Public open areas that are aesthetically pleasing to employees, customers, tourists, and residents of the downtown area with the goal of appealing to sight, sound, smell, and touch. • Open space for social events and gatherings, access to the Mississippi River, and a view of downtown's natural landscape. • A streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and vibrancy of the down- town area through such things as trees, grass, flowers, paths, shrubs, public art and lightning, and comfort facilities. • A downtown environment_that is a source of pride for the entire community. TRANSPORTATION We envision our downtown as having a multi -modal transportation system providing numerous means of access that include: • A variety of mobility options such as mass transit, bicycles, pedestrian walk- ways, automobiles, trolleys, and rail for people with differing needs. • Coordination of all modes of transportation so as to maximize accessibility. • A transportation "experience" that blends the historical past with current needs, linking together the historical areas of our downtown. • Visual destination guidance for travelers reflecting various transportation modes which will alert them to destinations and attractions. HISTORICAL FEATURES We envision our downtown as a place where the restoration and preservation of our unique historic sites includes: Increased appreciation, education, technical assistance, and funding of our historical and architectural heritage. Recognition that historic preservation and development must be in concert and mutually beneficial. Comprehensive identification of our downtown historic resources and the education of the community on their value. Ongoing efforts that incorporate our downtown historic treasures and market them as unique and distinctive features that showcase our colorful history. The coordinated design and construction of new and additional, or when necessary, replacement structures that reflect the architectural heritage of the area. VISION DOWNTOWN Community Meeting 11 Saturday, September 15, 2001 Five Flags Civic Center Small Group Presentations Residential Living • A blend of housing options across the range, from upscale housing for low to moderate income households • Occupied housing units above storefronts with adequate parking and transit options • Overall dimensions: Accessibility to physically, visually, hearing, economically and language challenged persons • Accessibility to higher education • Pedestrian friendly access to nearby downtown businesses, ie: crossing dangerous intersections • Facilities for activities for youth groups • Create and/or develop upscale housing mixed with affordable or low income housing throughout the downtown • Provide ample parking and green space for all housing developments Ensure even distribution of mixed housing throughout downtown area • Promote all downtown historic architecture • Affordability defined more "physically" to assist a planning program "variety of housing options across an economic scale" ??? • Walking distance, what is considered short walking? • Store ftonts with occupation above not specifically defined as housing • Education - define schools in the neighborhood • Upscale housing (Rental) - Density • Parking for residents living downtown • Adequate restaurants and small grocery stores • Mix of businesses within short walking distance • More trash (receptical) cans to eliminate litter. Make them historic looking • Add flowers for color and softening of streets' and non green space available Educate people and children not to litter (PSA) • Accessible Housing Commerce • Raise visibility of downtown for commerce and locals to use. More public restrooms • Cultural diversity in commerce • Assistance from City, SBDC, Economic Development, and Main St. Ltd. to help businesses start and promote themselves Commerce - Continued Educate and promote downtown to all people and businesses outside area (more public relations) Flexibility Support 24/7 businesses Multi -cultural businesses, opportunities and events Regulate detrimental businesses Identify and address impediments to business development, such as: parking, childcare services, residential living, and support services Expansion of existing businesses Encourage existing business growth Good paying jobs for residents, so they can enjoy the same things as higher income visitors Adaptive reuse of the historic red brick warehouse district An ongoing coordinated effort to advise service to business owners and employees on welcoming customer service, hospitality, providing an good first impression, promoting continuity of our downtown vision, and exceeding expectations An environment that encourages the start and gowth of new businesses, with cultural specialities, and that celebrate Dubuque's German/Irish heritage Hospitality Training - Educate residents and business operators what Dubuque has to offer and what our unified vision is Culture & Education • Create a sense of neighborhood with cultural and educational activities that occur year- round and 24/7 • Accessibility • Diversity of offerings - customs, foods, goods & services • Include residents as well as tourists appeal • Create cultural affairs commission • Title: "Add Entertainment" • Accessible mainstream entertainment • Culture commission? • Provide a performing arts center to host cultural and educational activities Investigate the possiblility of a city -school partnership with Prescott Elementry. Events to promote Historical Culture of Dubuque Recognize the downtown as the historical religious center of the city Promote music and live events Art representative on all important committee's (DBQ 365 Everyone's Neighborhood Committee) More school field trips to downtown culture, educational, and art facilities Involve/invite educational system to work with cultural groups to have kids and parents get more involved More trolley type tours More promotional information and brochures on walking tours and communication (signs) on historic properties Close cooperation with riverfront development Culture & Education - Continued All cultural groups need to work together and advertise each other Better communication uptown about downtown events Public Space and Open Areas More flowers and trees (softer feeling) City assistance or grant money to turn problem areas into green spaces • Pride ownership of more public spaces to residents (painting, art, etc.) • Organize more clean-ups for downtown work with colleges to assist More trash cans on streets. Attach to phone poles or light poles that are architecturally correct • Create a park like atmosphere over top the highway by 3' St. overpass (create tunnel) t connect Main St. Ice Harbor Adequate Trash receptacles • Adequate restrooms, drinking fountains and benches widely distributed • Public art & fountains Re-evaluate use of city property - convert to green space/playgrounds • Development of the recreational element (activities for all ages, youth centers, parks, facilities) A safe harbor that promotes water activities on the river Add color: public art Seating: benches/tables • Trash/ash receptacles Plan for future events Accessibility Public improvements that create a standard of excellence Enhance gateway to city Signs for public facilities Make "Lighting; pescribe "con-ifort facilities" as restrooms Emergency call boxes Transportation Parking, shopping, services, arts and guides to get people back out. Accessibility • An accessible transit system that is expansive in service geographically and schedule -wise, connecting downtown with the community • An accessible transit system that connects Dubuque with other locals Special attention to accessibility for transit dependent people Accomodation for all transportation • Fun and entertaining carriages Upgraded taxi services Availability of mobility options that connect and extend beyond downtown Re-evaluate type & system of bus operation Emphasis on signage. • Regulate the aesthetic's and location of private parking lots • City to provide incentives to private businesses to share parking lot usage with other businesses (empty lots) Transportation - Continued • Free trolley services with several stops in downtown (pick up travelers at hotels) Transportation brochure on options for people Better marked roads for bicycle paths and pedestrians Brochures that give transportation and itinerary suggestions (i.e. places to eat, etc.) Adequate parking in all areas of downtown (open to public and not reserved) More courtesy tickets for out of town guests and eliminate Saturday tickets/meters Historical Features • Communication brochure on architecture in downtown for tours • Make more owners aware of grants for fixing buildings for historical preservation • Happier medium with historical preservation community and owners on financial concerns (better compromises) on fixing properties • Emphasize adaptive re -use over new construction or additions • Recognize the historic contribution of each building to the whole • Recognize buildings that do not merit preservation • Targeted list of prime development projects • Ground rules established to assist developers to understand what is involved in historic preservation Coordination • Introductions: Historic sites add history • New structures should be sensitive to (not imitative of) the architectural heritage of the area • Promote and encourage viable use of historic buildings for commerce, entertainment, culture, education and residential uses for a wide age group (wider than present) • Accessibility Overall - General Comments • "One Coordinated Effort" • Should we prioritize? • Emphasize - residents & tourists • Marketing entire community (identity -meaningful) • Accessibility • Design guidelines • Design review board • Intensified inspections • Funding sources, public and private • Legal • Carrot & Stick approach • Marketing • Education • Cultural Affairs Commission XI, Reactor Group Session Materials CommunityVisioning It is important to recognize in all this that a vision is not a plan. A vision, in this context, is a target; it is a description of a destination. We will later need to make plans and initiate actions to help us reach that destina- tion. A vision is neither so specific as to be confused with a plan, nor so general as to be of little value. A vision is more the outline of a desired future than its detail. It is more about values and ideals than about bricks and mortar or specific programs. It is more about results than about the means to achieve them. Those who have been participating in VISIO DOWNTOWX already, will likely discover that the vi- sion is more general, and constructed at a higher level, than perhaps their own input thus far, or the input of others. We have collected a great deal of input that is more detailed and specific than is appropriate for a vision as we have defined it: Clearly, the specific action-item or planning type suggestions will not be discarded or otherwise over- looked. All the input we have received, and will con- tinue to receive, will be kept for later use. It will be summarized and published in the final VISION DOWNTOWN documentation and it will be reviewed for consideration and inclusion in the planning steps to follow. Our mission at this point is to create a vision - not a plan. VISION DOWNTOWN SECOND DRAFT OCTOBER 4, 2001 Residential Living Commerce Culture and Education Public Space and Open Areas Transportation Historical Features RESIDENTIAL LIVING We envision our downtown as a•"home" to many people that pro- vides a mix of amenities and opportunities including: • A blend of housing options across the affordability range throughout the downtown including housing that meets the needs of physically, visually, hearing economically and language challenged persons. A renewed emphasis on preserving and promoting downtown's residential historic architecture. A mix of businesses within walking distance that meets the needs of down- town residents. • A clean and safe environment. • Employment and childcare opportunities in close proximity to housing. • Occupied housing units above the storefronts with adequate parking, green space, and transit access. • Neighborhoods that link people together on a twenty-four hour basis which will ultimately create a sense of community. • Quality education facilities for both traditional and non-traditional students of all ages and interests. • Facilities and activities for young people. COMMERCE We envision the downtown area as a diverse commercial center pro- viding economic opportunities that include: • A broad mix of businesses and services that encourage frequent and year- round visitations. • A "user friendly" environment for current and potential employees in terms of access to work sites, parking, child care services, support services, and safety. • Recognition and promotion of the five unique districts in the downtown and their inter-relationships. An environment that encourages the start and growth of new businesses, including enterprises that are not traditionally housed downtown. • Promotion of the downtown as a regional center for retail/specialty shop- ping, multi-cultural businesses, restaurants and entertainment, tourism, education, government, services, and professional/office facilities. • An ongoing coordinated effort to advise business and property owners on marketing, property management, incentives, streetscape amenities, preser- vation, and financial resources, adaptive reuse of historic sites, customer service and hospitality. CULTURE, ENTERTAINMENT AND EDUCATION We envision our downtown as a cultural and educational center that includes: Promotion of the arts and educational opportunities as a means to enrich our lives and value. Promotion of the arts and educational events so as to complement the community's appeal to tourists and local residents. Diverse cultural and educational events and "projects" that will ultimately enhance the economic and historic revitalization of the downtown. Cultural and education based businesses as means to spur the historic preser- vation reservation of buildings and economic development. Encouragement of frequent cultural related events, entertainment, and activi- ties that enhance downtown's image as the "place to be." An environment that creates a sense of neighborhood with cultural and educational activities that occur year — round and in close cooperation with the riverfront development. PUBLIC SPACE AND OPEN AREAS We envision our downtown as an area that appeals to all the senses through the creation of an environmentally pleasing setting that includes: • • • • • Recognition that public open areas and green space are vital to the livability of the downtown. Public open areas that are aesthetically pleasing and accessible to employ- ees, customers, tourists, and residents of the downtown area with the goal of appealing to sight, sound, smell, and touch. Open space for social events and gatherings, access to the Mississippi River, and a view of downtown's natural landscape. A streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and vibrancy of the down- town area through such things as trees, grass, flowers, paths, shrubs,foun- tains, signage, public art and lighting, restroom facilities, decorative trash receptacles, benches, and drinking fountains. A downtown environment that is a source of pride for the entire community and that serves as a `gateway to the city with a recognized standard of excellence." TRANSPORTATION We envision our downtown as having a multi -modal transportation system providing numerous means of access that include: • A variety of mobility options such as mass transit, bicycles, pedestrian walk- ways, automobiles, trolleys, and rail for people with differing needs. • Coordination and accomodation of all modes of transportation so as to maxi- mize accessibility. A transportation "experience" that blends the historical past with current needs, linking together the historical areas of our downtown. • Visual destination guidance for all travelers reflecting various transportation modes which will alert them to destinations, attractions, parking, shopping, services, and arts. • An accessible transportation system thatis geographically expansive in service and connects the downtown with the community and other localities. • The shared use of public and private parking areas that are easily acces- sible, convenient, and aesthetically designed. HISTORICAL FEATURES We envision our downtown as a place where the restoration and preservation of our unique historic sites and history includes: • Increased appreciation, education, technical assistance, and funding of our historical and architectural heritage. Recognition that historic preservation and development must be in concert and mutually beneficial. Comprehensive identification and promotion of our downtown historic resources and the education of the community on their value. • Ongoing efforts that incorporate our downtown historic treasures and market them as unique and distinctive features that showcase our colorful history. • The coordinated design and construction of new and additional, or when necessary, replacement structures that reflect the architectural heritage of the area with an emphasis on the adaptive re -use of historical structures. • Coordinated effort to recognize the historic contribution of each building to the whole of the historic downtown, but with the realization that somestruc- tures do not merit preservation. • The promotion and encouragement of the use of historical structures for commerce, entertainment, cultural arts, education, and residential uses for people of all ages and backgrounds. XII. Validation Survey Materials DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAMJOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS RELEASE: October 10, 2001 Contact: David Wm. Rusk (o) 557-1914 (h) 588-2340 Laura Carstens (o) 589-4210 TELEPHONE VALIDATION SURVEY TO BEGIN The Downtown Planning Committee of the City of Dubuque is pleased to announce that the telephone survey to validate Vision Downtown has begun. Those parties receiving calls are encouraged to dedicate the few minutes it will take to provide confidential answers to the survey. The survey is being conducted by the Center for Business and Social Research at Loras College under contract with the Downtown Planning Committee. According to Dave Rusk, Chair of the Downtown Planning Committee,"This is in many ways the most important step of the downtown visioning process. It is the effort that will validate Vision Downtown as the true consensus community statement as to a future for our down- town." The Vision Downtown process has included several steps to engage the community in a dialogue over the future of Downtown Dubuque. These steps have included a citizen ques- tionnaire, a pair of community meetings, a reactor- group session, and the validation survey now underway. At each step, the Vision Downtown document has been updated according to the input received. It is expected,that the final Vision Downtown document will be published as an insert to the January issue of City Focus after presentation to the city council later this year. The city is then expected to initiate a process -to develop a comprehensive downtown master plan based on Vision Downtown. VISION DOWNTOWN DRAFT FOR VALIDATION OCTOBER 8, 2001 Residential Living Commerce Culture, Education & Entertainment Public Space and Open Areas Transportation Historical Features RESIDENTIAL LIVING We envision our downtown as a "home" to many people that pro- vides a mix of amenities and opportunities including: • A blend of housing options across the affordability range throughout the downtown with adequate parking, green space, and transit access, including housing that meets the needs of physically, visually, hearing, economically and language challenged persons. • A renewed emphasis on preserving and promoting downtown's residential historic architecture. • A mix of businesses and institutions within walking distance that meets the needs of downtown residents. • A clean and safe environment. • Employment and childcare opportunities in close proximity to housing. • Occupied units above the storefronts. • Neighborhoods that link people together on a twenty-four hour basis which will ultimately create a sense of community. • Quality education facilities for both traditional and non-traditional students of all ages and interests. • Facilities and activities for young people. COMMERCE We envision the downtown area as a diverse commercial center pro- viding economic opportunities that include: • A broad mix of businesses and services that encourage frequent and year- round visitations. A "user friendly" environment for current and potential employees in terms of access to work sites, parking, childcare services, support businesses and services, and safety. Recognition and promotion of the unique districts in the downtown with their historic architecture and their inter -relationships. • An environment that encourages the start of new and growth of existing businesses, including enterprises that are not traditionally housed downtown. • Promotion of the downtown as a regional center for retail/specialty shop- ping, multi -cultural businesses, restaurants, entertainment, tourism, educa- tion, government, services, and professional/office facilities. • An ongoing coordinated effort to advise business and property owners on marketing, property management, incentives, streetscape amenities, preser- vation, financial resources, adaptive reuse of historic sites, customer service, and hospitality: • . Occupied units above storefronts. CULTURE, EDUCATION & ENTERTAINMENT We envision our downtown as a cultural, educational and entertain- ment center that includes: Promotion of cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities as a means to enrich our lives, and to enhance the economic and historic revital- ization of the downtown. • Promotion of diverse cultural, educational, and entertainment events so as to complement the community's appeal to visitors and local residents. • Cultural, educational, and entertainment based businesses as means to spur the historic preservation of buildings and economic development. • Encouragement of frequent cultural related events, entertainment, and activi- ties that enhance downtown's image as the "place to be." • An environment that creates a sense of neighborhood with cultural, educa- tional, and entertainment activities that occur year-round. PUBLIC SPACE AND OPEN AREAS We envision our downtown as an inviting area that appeals to all the senses through the creation of a clean, safe, and environmentally pleasing setting that includes: • Recognition that public open areas and green space are vital to the livability of the downtown. • • Public open areas that are aesthetically pleasing and accessible to employ- ees, customers, visitors, and residents of the downtown area with the goal of appealing to sight, sound, smell, and touch. Open space for recreation, social events and gatherings, access to the Missis- sippi River, and a view of downtown's natural landscape. • A streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and vibrancy of the down- town area through the use of color and texture in such things as landscaping and amenities. • A downtown environment that is a source of pride for the entire community and that serves as a gateway to the city that demonstrates a high standard of excellence. TRANSPORTATION We envision our downtown as having a multi -modal transportation system providing numerous means of access that include: • A variety of mobility options for people with differing needs and desires. • Coordination and accommodation of all modes of transportation so as to maximize accessibility. • A transportation "experience" that blends the historical past with current needs, linking together the historical areas of our downtown. Visual destination guidance for all travelers reflecting various transportation modes which will alert them to destinations, attractions, parking, shopping, services, and arts. An accessible transportation system that is geographically expansive in service and connects the downtown with the community and other localities. The shared use of public and private parking that is easily accessible, conve- nient, and aesthetically designed. HISTORICAL FEATURES We envision our downtown as a place where the restoration and preservation of our unique historic sites and history includes: • Increased appreciation, education, technical assistance, and funding of our historical and architectural heritage. Recognition that historic preservation and development must be in concert and mutually beneficial. Comprehensive identification and promotion of our downtown historic resources and the education of the community on their value. • Ongoing efforts that incorporate our downtown historic treasures and market them as unique and distinctive features that showcase our colorful history. • The coordinated design and construction of new and additional, or when necessary, replacement structures that complement the architectural heritage of the area with an emphasis on the adaptive re -use of historical structures. • Coordinated effort to recognize the historic contribution of each building to the whole of the historic downtown, but with the realization that some struc- tures do not merit preservation. • The promotion and encouragement of the use of historical structures for commercial, entertainment, cultural, educational, and residential purposes for people of all ages and backgrounds. Vision Downtown Dubuque: Results of the Validation Survey Produced by The Center for Business and Social Research at Loras College Dubuque, Iowa 52001 by Kerri Turk, Ph.D. CBSR Research Associate Assistant Professor of Psychology and Len Decker, Ph.D. CBSR Director November 2001 Executive Summary Introduction Table of Contents Data Gathering Procedures Table 1. Age and Sex Distribution of City of Dubuque and Survey Sample - Results Residential Living Chart 1. Residential Living Chart 2. Residential Living Chart 3. Residential Living Storefronts Chart 4. Residential Living Diverse Population Commercial Activity 1 2 2 2 3 - Blend of Price Ranges ----4 - Above Downtown - Meets Needs of Chart 5. Commercial Activity Chart 6. Commercial Activity - Advise Business Owners and Property Owners Culture, Education, and Entertainment Chart 7. Culture, Education, and Entertainment Chart 8. Culture, Education, and Entertainment - Opportunities to Enrich Lives Public Space and Open Areas Chart 9. Public Spaces and Open Areas Transporta tion Chart 10. Transportation Chart 11. Transportation - Experience that Historic Past with Current Needs Chart 12. Transportation Experience that Historic Past with Current Needs Historical Features 8 9 10 12 12 Blends (Age) 13 Blends (Gender) 14 Chart 13. Historical Features. 15 15 Conclusions 16 1 Vision Downtown Dubuque: Results of the Validation Survey Executive Summary The following summary statements are based upon a telephone survey of Dubuque residents chosen from the 2001 Dubuque Qwest Dex telephone directory. A systematic random sample of 501 citizens, proportionate by age and gender, was selected to provide responses to the survey. 1. All items mentioned in the Residential Living section, with the exception of housing above storefronts, were viewed as very important or important by at least 69% if those surveyed. 2. Over 81% of the sample indicated that a clean and safe environment was very important. 3. Housing above storefronts was viewed as a lower priority with only 9.4% of sample members indicating that this issue was very important. An additional 30.7% viewed this issue as important. Individuals 60 years of age or older were significantly more likely (48.9%) to indicate that this item was either very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. 4. Individuals 60 years of age or older were more likely to indicate that a blend of housing options with a range of prices (76.3%) was very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque and more women (77.3%) than men (71.3%) indicated that meeting the needs of a diverse community was very important or important to their vision. 5. Responses to items concerning Commercial Activity were evaluated as very important or important by 75% to 87% of the sample. A "user friendly" environment that is safe and provides access to services was viewed as very important by 43.5% of the sample while only 22% of sample members considered unique interconnected districts with their own historic architecture as very important. However, this latter item was felt to be very important or important to a vision of Downtown Dubuque by two-thirds of sample members. A higher percentage of women (84%) than men (76.3%) responded that it is very important or important to advise business and property owners about property improvements, streetscape amenities, customer services, and the financial resources available to implement these activities. 6. Items concerning Culture, Education and Entertainment were consistently evaluated as very important or important by 80.4% to 84.2% of sample members. More women (84.8%) than men (78%) indicated that opportunities to enrich people's lives was very important or important to their vision. 7. Items concerning Public Space and Open Areas were consistently evaluated as very important or important by 81% to 90.4% of respondents. Open space for social events and access to the river were evaluated as very important by 46.5% of sample members and creating a streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and vibrancy of downtown was considered very important by 33.3% of respondents. 8. In terms of Transportation considerations, the use of public and private parking that is easily accessible, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing was viewed as very important or important by 89% of Dubuque citizens surveyed. Providing a transportation experience which blends the historic past with current needs and links together the historic areas of downtown was viewed as very important or important by two-thirds of all respondents but a significantly higher percentage of persons 60 years of age or older (73.3%) and women (74%). The remaining transportation items were regarded as very important or important by 80% to 85.2% of those surveyed. 9. All items regarding Historical Features were rated as very important or important by 68.3% to 73.8% of those interviewed. Vision Downtown Dubuque: Results of the Validation Survey Introduction This report represents the "validation survey" phase of a multi -stage process for developing a shared community vision for Downtown Dubuque. The Dubuque City Council and its Long Range Planning Advisory Commission assigned the Downtown Planning Committee, comprised of a cross section of community leaders and planners, the task of leading a comprehensive downtown planning process. Previous and future community meetings, as well as the results of a citizen survey conducted in July of this year, will be combined with the results of this validation survey to create the foundation for building a shared, comprehensive master plan for downtown Dubuque. Data Gathering Process The data for this report was gathered by means of a telephone survey of a sample of Dubuque residents chosen from the 2001 Dubuque Qwest Dex telephone directory. A systematic, random sample of 500 citizens, proportionate by age and sex according to 2000 census data, was selected to provide responses concerning their vision of downtown Dubuque. Table 1. provides a breakdown of the age and sex distribution of the City of Dubuque and sample respondents. Table 1. Age and Sex Distribution of City of Dubuque and Survey Sample MALES Age Category Number Percent of Population Number of Sample 18 - 34 6,657 15% 76 35 — 59 9,162 21% 105 60 & over 4,579 10% 51 Total: 20,398 - 46% 232 FEMALES Age Category Number Percent of Population Number of Sample 18 - 34 6,964 16% 80 35 — 59 9,438 21% 105 60 & over 7.249 17% 84 Total: 23,651 54% 269 Grand Total: 44,049 100% 501 The instrument used in this survey was constructed from input provided by members of the City of Dubuque Planning Services Department as well as representatives of various segments of the Dubuque community who are also members of the Downtown Planning Committee. Six major categories were included in the questionnaire: 1) residential living 2) commercial activity 3) culture, education and entertainment 4) public space and open areas 5) transportation and 6) historical features. Forty-one items representing specific examples of each of these features of downtown Dubuque were addressed by respondents. Citizens were asked to indicate the level of importance they attach to each of the 41 items, using categories of very important, important, somewhat important, and not important. Respondents' sex and age were also recorded during the interview. The survey -instrument is contained in Appendix A of this report. 3 Results Residential Living Eleven items related to residential living in the downtown area. The importance of a clean and safe environment was clear. Over 81 percent of the sample indicated that a clean and safe environment was very important. An additional 16.2 percent indicated that this item was important. Thus, 97 percent of the sample indicated that this trait is very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. Facilities and activities for young people and access to quality educational opportunities were also indicated as very important or important by over 88% of the respondents. Conversely, housing above downtown storefronts was viewed as a lower priority with 9.4% of the sample indicating that this issue was very important to their vision for Downtown Dubuque. An additional 30.7% viewed this issue as important. All items mentioned in the residential living section, with the exception of housing above storefronts, were viewed as very important or important by at least 69% of those surveyed. Chart 1 depicts the responses to all items concerning residential living. Chart 1. Residential Living price ranges parking diverse historic arch business/walk clean/safe employ/child housing above community education young people 1 11 ■ Very Important ® Important lit Somewhat Important ❑ Not Important El No Response 20 40 60 Percentage of Responses 80 100 120 The percentages of individuals responding that these 11 residential living concerns were not important ranged from .4 percent to 10 percent, with the exception of the item about housing above storefronts. Approximately 26 percent of the sample indicated that this issue was not important. Significant differences by age were found in responses to the residential living item about a blend of housing options covering a variety of price ranges. When combining the very important and important responses categories, a significantly higher percentage of individuals 60 years of age and older (76.3 %) responded that this item was important to them compared to other age categories of respondents. Chart 2 provides age comparisons for this item. Chart 2. Residential Living -Blend of Price Ranges (Q1) 90 80- 76.3 70 - 60 - 0 0. 50- w 0 a,. 40 - rn R ami 30 - m 20- 10- Important 11.9 11.1 0 Somewhat Important Not Important No Response Importance 111118-34 035-59 ❑ 60+ 4 Significant differences by age were also found in responses to the item about housing above storefronts. When combining the very important and important responses categories, a higher percentage of individuals 60 years of age and older (48.9 %) responded that this item was important to them compared to other age categories of respondents. Chart 3 provides age comparisons for this item. Chart 3. Residential Living- Above Downtown Storefronts (Q8) 60 50 m 0cc 40 - 0 (1) a) 0 30 - a) rn g..20- a`) n. 48.9 Important 30.1 29 17 Somewhat Important Not Important Importance 2.4 3 No Response 1118-34 135-59 ❑ 60+ 5 Significant differences by gender were found in responses to the residential living item about meeting the needs of a diverse community. When combining the very important and important response categories, a higher percentage of women (77.3%) than men (71.1%) responded that this item was important to them. Chart 4 provides gender comparisons for this item. Chart 4. Residential Living -Meets Needs of Diverse Population (Q3) Important Somewhat Important Not Important Importance No Response ID Male IR Female 7 Commercial Activity Seven items addressed issues pertaining to commercial activity. Responses were fairly consistent with between 75 to 87 percent of the sample indicating that all items except one were very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. A "user friendly" environment that is safe and provides access to services was indicated as very important by 43.5 percent of the sample. An additional 43.5 percent of sample members responded that this issue was important to them. The lowest percentages of important or very important responses were recorded for the item concerning unique interconnected districts that possess their own historic architecture. Approximately 22 percent of the sample rated this issue as very important and 44.3 percent rated it as important. It is noteworthy that this item, despite receiving the lowest percentages of very important and important responses, was still felt to be important to the vision of Downtown Dubuque by two-thirds of sample members. Chart 5 provides responses to specific items concerning the category of commercial activity. Chart 5. Commercial Activity Visitation Unique Dist. User Friendly Commercial Region/Tourism Region/Business Advise ■ Very Important ® Important ® Somewhat Important 0 Not Important No Response 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 Percentage of Responses The percentages of individuals responding that these 7 commercial activity concerns were not important ranged from 3.4 to 7.6 percent. Significant differences by gender were found in responses to the item about advising business and property owners on property improvements, streetscape amenities, customer services, and the financial resources to implement these activities. When combining the very important and important response categories, a higher percentage of women (84%) than men (76.3%) responded that this item was important to them. Chart 6 provides gender comparisons for this item. Chart 6. Commercial Activity -Advise Business and Property Owners (Q18) kiportant Somew ha Important Im portance Not Important No Response 8 Male mg Female 9 Culture, Education and Entertainment Five survey items pertained to culture, education and entertainment. Responses in this category were fairly consistent with between 80.8 to 84.2 percent of sample members indicating that these items were very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. Chart 7 provides responses to specific items concerning the category of culture, education, and entertainment. Chart 7. Culture, Education, and Entertainment Enrich Lives Tourism Econ/Revit Neighborhood Place to Be 0 20 40 60 80 Percentage of Responses 100 II Very Important ® Important ® Somewhat Important EI Not Important ® No Response 120 The percentages of individuals responding that these 5 culture, education, and entertainment concerns were not important ranged from 2.4 percent to 4.4 percent. 10 Significant differences by gender were found in responses to the item concerning opportunities that enrich lives. When combining the very important and important response categories, a higher percentage of women (84.8%) than men (78%) responded that this item was important to them. Chart 8 provides gender comparisons for this item. 90 Chart 8. Culture, Education, and Entertainment -Opportunities to Enrich Lives (Q19) 80 - 70 H t 60- o 0. N 50- o, 2 30 - a, a 20 10 84:8 Important 16.8 Somewhat Important Importance Not Important 0.4 0.7 No Response Male Female 11 Public Space and Open Areas Five survey items addressed issues concerning public space and open areas in Downtown Dubuque. Again, responses in this category were fairly consistent with 81 to 90.4 percent of respondents indicating that these items were very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. The item concerning a streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and vibrancy of downtown Was considered to be very important by 33.3% of respondents and important by 47.9% of those surveyed. This issue received the lowest percentages of very important and important responses of the 5 items contained in this category. Open space for social events and access to the river were evaluated as very important by 46.5% of respondents and important by 39.9% of those surveyed. A downtown environment that serves as a gateway to a city that is committed to high standards of excellence was deemed very important by 42.9% of sample members and important by 47.5% of those surveyed. Chart 9 provides responses for each of the individual items in this category. Chart 9. Public Space and Open Areas Recognition Public Open Open Space Streetscape Gateway • Very Important ® Important ll® Somewhat Important ❑ Not Important No Response 20 40 60 80 Percentage of Responses 100 120 The percentages of individuals responding that these public space and open areas items were not important ranged from 1.8 to 3.0 percent. Transportation Six survey items addressed transportation issues, The use of public and private parking that is easily accessible, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing was viewed as very important or important by 89 percent of the respondents. Only 2.2 percent of sample members said thatthis item was not important. Approximately 67 percent of respondents indicated that providing a transportation experience which blends the historic past with current needs and links together the historic areas of downtown was very important or important to them. Between 80 to 85.2 percent of sample members reported that the remaining items in this category were very important or important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. Chart 10 provides responses for all the specific items addressed in the transportation category. Chart 10. Transportation Variety Coordination Experience Guides Connects Parking ®Very Important El Important ® Somewhat Important ❑ Not Important FM No Response 20 40 60 Percentage of Responses 12 The percentages of individuals responding that these transportation items were not important ranged from 2.0 to 8.6 percent. Significant differences by age were found in responses to two transportation items. When combining very important and important response categories, a higher percentage of individuals 60 years of age and older (73.3 %) responded that a transportation experience that blends the historic past with current needs was more important to them than other age categories of respondents. Chart 11 provides the age comparisons for this item. 80 Chart 11. Transpprtation-Experience That Blends Historic Past With Current Needs (Q31) 70 - 60 - N N °a 50 N `5 40- u rn 30 - u tip 20 - 10- 73.3 25.6 25.2 14.8 Important Somewhat Important Not Important Importance 0.6 1 1.8 No response 13 III 18-34 D 35-59 60+ 14 Secondly, again when combining very important and important response categories, a higher percentage of women (74 %) than men (59.1 %) responded that a transportation experience that blends the historic past with current needs was important to them. Chart 12 provides gender comparisons for this item. Chart 12. Transportation -Blends Needs and Historical Past (Q31) Important Somewhat Important Not Important Importance No Response 15 Historical Features Seven survey items addressed issues concerning the historical features of Downtown Dubuque. All the items in this category were considered to be very important or important by 68.3 to 73.8 percent of those interviewed. Chart 13 provides the responses for specific items addressed in the historical features category. Chart 13. Historical Features Preserving Recognition EducNalue Unique New Structures Coord Effort Use of 20 40 60 80 Percentage of Responses 100 H Very Important ® Important ® Somewhat Important ❑ Not Important 0 No Response 120 The percentages of individuals responding that these historical feature items were not important ranged from 4.4 to 7.4 percent. 16 Conclusions Overall, the vast majority of survey items were consistently endorsed by over 90% of respondents. That is, over 90% of those surveyed indicated that they consider the items mentioned to be very important, important, or somewhat important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. On the other hand, only .4 to 10 percent of respondents consistently indicated that the items mentioned were not important to their vision of Downtown Dubuque. The one issue receiving a larger percentage of not important responses was the item concerning housing above downtown storefronts. Approximately 26 percent of sample members indicated that this issue was not important to them. When the number of responses for very important and important were combined, significant differences by age and gender were noted for a number of items: 1) a higher percentage of individuals 60 years of age and older (76.3%) responded that a blend of housing options covering a range of prices was important to them compared to other age categories of respondents; 2) a higher percentage of individuals 60 years of age and older (48.9%) responded that the availability of housing above downtown storefronts was important to them compared to other age categories of respondents; 3) a higher percentage of women (77.3%) than men (71.1%) responded that meeting the needs of a diverse population was important to them; 4) a higher percentage of women (84%) than men (76.3%) responded that it was important to them to advise business and property owners on property improvements, streetscape amenities, customer services, and the financial resources to implement these activities; 5) a higher percentage of women (84.8%) than men (78%) responded that it is important to provide opportunities that enrich people's lives; 6) a higher percentage of individuals 60 years of age and older (73.3%) responded that a transportation experience that blends the historic past with current needs was important to them compared to other age categories of respondents; 7) a higher percentage of women (74 %) than men (59.1%) responded that a transportation experience that blends the historic past with current needs was important to them. Appendix A Vision Downtown Validation Survey October 2001 ID# Name of Interviewer Date/Time of Interview Phone Number Good evening. Is this the residence? This is (First and Last Name) and I'm working on a survey ofDubuque Citizens concerning their vision of Downtown Dubuque. (Be prepared to indicate, if necessary, that this survey is one of a number of information -gathering activities being used by the Downtown Planning Committee to create a plan for Downtown Dubuque. The unique feature of this survey is that information is being gathered from a representative sample of Dubuque citizens.) Could you help me out by answering a few questions? "Yes" — proceed with Introduction (Be prepared to indicate that the survey is short and will take only a few minutes of their. time.) "No" — Thank you for your time and have a nice evening. Introduction — You have been chosen as part of a random sample of Dubuque citizens and we would appreciate your honest responses to our questions. Your answers will be part of an overall tabulation so no specific response will be identified with any particular person. Your answers will be held in the strictest confidence. This interview is voluntary — if we come to a question that you don't wish to answer, just let me know and we will go on to the next question. Please indicate how important each of the following is to your ideal vision of Downtown Dubuque. Is the item very important, important, somewhat important, or not important to your vision of Downtown Dubuque? (Read each and circle the number of the response given by the respondent) Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important No Response In terms of residential living, how important is each of the following? 1. A blend of housing options covering a variety of price ranges 4 3 2 1 9 2. A blend of housing options with adequate parking 4 3 2 1 9 3. A blend of housing that meets the needs of people from various language backgrounds or who are physically challenged 4 3 2 1 9 4. A renewed emphasis on preserving and promoting the downtown area's historic architecture 4 3 2 1 9 5. A mix of businesses and institutions within walking distance that meet the needs of downtown residents 4 3 2 1 9 6. A clean and safe environment 4 3 2 1 9 7. Employment and childcare opportunities in close proximity to downtown housing 4 3 2 1 9 8. Housing units above downtown storefronts 4 3 2 1 9 9. Neighborhoods that link people together in such a way as to create a sense of community 4 3 2 1 9 10. Access to quality educational opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional students 4 3 2 1 9 11. Facilities and activities for young people 4 3 2 1 9 Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important No Response In terms of commercial activity, how important is each of the following? 12. A mix of businesses and services that encourage frequent and year-round visitation 4 3 2 1 9 13. Recognition and promotion of unique interconnected districts that possess their own historic architecture 4 3 2 1 9 14. A "user friendly" environment that is safe and provides access to work sites, parking, childcare and support businesses for downtown employees 4 3 2 1 9 15. A commercial environment that encourages the start and growth of businesses, especially enterprises not traditionally housed in the downtown area 4 3 2 1 9 16. Promotion of downtown as a regional center for retail/specialty shops, restaurants and entertainment, and tourism 4 3 2 1 9 17. Promotion of downtown as a regional center for multi- cultural businesses, education and government services, and professional services and office facilities 4 3 2 1 9 18. An ongoing effort to advise business and property owners on property improvements, streetscape amenities, customer services, and the financial resources to implement these activities. 4 3 2 1 9 Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important No Response In terms of culture, education and entertainment, how important is each of the following? 19. Promotion of cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities that enrich our lives 4 3 2 1 9 20. Promotion of cultural, educational, and entertainment events that support the community's appeal to tourists 4 3 2 1 9 21. Cultural, educational, and entertainment -based businesses that will enhance the economic development and historic revitalization of the downtown area 4 3 2 1 9 22. An environment that creates a sense of "neighborhood" with cultural, educational, and entertainment activities that occur on a year-round basis , 4 3 2 1 9 23. Encouragement of frequent cultural events and activities that enhance the downtown area's image as the "place to be" 4 3 2 1 9 Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important No Response In terms of public space and open areas, how important is each of the following? 24. Recognition that public open areas and green spaces are vital to the livability of downtown 4 3 2 1 9 25. Public open areas that are aesthetically pleasing and appealing to the senses of those who work, live, and visit in the downtown area 4 3 2 -, 1 9 26. Open space for social events that also provides 4 3 2 1 9 access to the Mississippi River and a view of the downtown's natural. landscape 4 3 2 1 9 27. A streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and 4 3 2 1 9 vibrancy of the downtown area through the use of 4 3 2 1 9 landscaping and amenities 4 3 2 1 9 28. A downtown environment that creates a sense of 4 3 2 1 9 pride and serves as a gateway to a city that is 4 3 2 1 9 committed to high standards of excellence 4 3 2 1 9 Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important No Response In terms of transportation, how important is each of the following? 29. A variety of mobility options for people of differing needs and desires 4 3 2 1 9 30.Coordination of all modes of transportation so as to maximize accessibility 4 3 2 1 9 31. Provide a "transportation experience" that blends the historic past with current needs and links together the historical areas of downtown 4 3 2 1 9 32. Provide visual destination guides for travelers using various modes of transportation that will alert them to destinations and attractions 4 3 2 1 9 33. An accessible transportation system that connects the downtown with the larger community and other localities 4 3 2 1 9 34. The use of public and private parking that is easily accessible, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing 4 3 2 1 9 Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important No Response In terms of historical features, how important is each of the following? 35. Increased appreciation of and technical assistance and funding for preserving the downtown's historical and architectural heritage 4 3 2 1 9 36. Recognition that historic preservation and development must be coordinated and mutually beneficial 4 3 2 1 9 37. Identification of downtown historic resources and education of the larger community about its value 4 3 2 1 9 38. Efforts to market downtown historical traits as unique and distinctive features of our colorful history 4 3 2 1 9 39. Coordinated design and construction of new, or when necessary, replacement structures that complement the architectural heritage of the downtown area 4 3 2 1 9 40. Coordinated effort to recognize the historical contribution of individual buildings while realizing that some structures do not merit preservation 4 3 2 1 9 41. The use of historical structures for commercial, educational, cultural, and residential purposes for people of all ages and backgrounds 4 3 2 1 9 Finally, we'd like to ask a couple questions to ensure a representative sample of Dubuque citizens 42. Sex (Record from conversation or ask to confirm) 1. Male 2. Female 43. Which of the following age ranges contains your current age? (Circle one) 1. 18-34 2.35-59 3.60 or older These are all the questions I have. Thank you very much for participating in our survey. Your answers will be part of an overall tabulation, so your privacy is assured. Again, thank you. XIII. Vision Downtown Final Document i VISION DOWNTOWN DECEMBER 3, 2001 Commerce Culture, Education & Entertainment Historical Features Public Space and Open Areas, Residential Living Traasportation COMMERCE We envision the downtown area as a diverse commercial. center pro- viding roviding economic opportunities that include: • A broad mix of businesses and services that encourage frequent and year- round visitations. • A "user friendly" environment for current and potential employees in teinis of access to work sites, parking, childcare services, support businesses and services, and safety. • Recognition and promotion of the unique districts in the downtown with their historic architecture and their inter -relationships. • An environment that encourages the start of new and growth of existing businesses, including enterprises that are not traditionally housed downtown. • Promotion of the downtown as a regional center for retailspecialty shop- ping, multi -cultural businesses, restaurants, entertainment, tourism, educa- tion, government, services, and professional/office facilities. An ongoing coordinated effort to advise business and property owners on marketing, property management, incentives, streetscape amenities, preser- vation, financial resources, adaptive reuse of historic sites, customer service, and hospitality. • Occupied units above storefronts. CULTURE, EDUCATION & ENTERTAINMENT We envision our downtown as a cultural, educational and entertain- ment center that includes: • Promotion of cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities as a means to enrich our lives, and to enhance the economic and historic revital- ization of the downtown. Promotion of diverse cultural, educational, and entertainment events so as to complement the community's appeal to visitors and local residents. Cultural, educational, and entertainment based businesses as means to spur the historic preservation of buildings and economic development. • Encouragement of frequent cultural related events, entertainment, and activi- ties that enhance downtown's image as the "place to be." • An environment that creates a sense of neighborhood with cultural, educa- tional, and entertainment activities that occur year-round. HISTORICAL FEATURES We envision our downtown as a place where the restoration and preservation of our unique historic sites and history includes: • Increased appreciation, education, technical assistance, and funding of our historical and architectural heritage. • Recognition that historic preservation and development .must be in concert and mutually beneficial. • Comprehensive identification and promotion of our downtown historic resources and the education of the community on their value. • Ongoing efforts that incorporate our downtown historic treasures and market them as unique and distinctive features that showcase our colorful history. • The coordinated design and construction of new and additional, or when necessary, replacement structures that complement the architectural heritage of the area with an emphasis on the adaptive re -use of historical structures. • Coordinated effort to recognize the historic contribution of each building to the whole of the historic downtown, but with the realization that some struc- tures do not merit preservation. • The promotion and encouragement of the use of historical structures for commercial, entertainment, cultural, educational, and residential purposes for people of all ages and backgrounds. PUBLIC SPACE AND OPEN AREAS We envision our downtown as an inviting area that appeals to all the senses through the creation of a clean, safe, and environmentally pleasing setting that includes: • Recognition that public open areas and green space are vital to the livability of the downtown. • Public open areas that are aesthetically pleasing and accessible to employ- ees, customers, visitors, and residents of the downtown area with the goal of appealing to sight, sound, smell, and touch. • Open space for recreation, social events and gatherings, access to the Missis- sippi River, and a view of downtown's natural landscape. • A streetscape that enhances the beauty, charm, and vibrancy of the down- town area through the use of color and texture in such things as landscaping and amenities. • A downtown environment that is a source of pride for the entire community and that serves as a gateway to the city that demonstrates a high standard of excellence. RESIDENTIAL LIVING We envision our downtown as a "home" to many people that pro- vides a mix of amenities and opportunities including: • A blend of housing options across the affordability range throughout the downtown with adequate parking, green space, and transit access, including housing that meets the needs of physically, visually, hearing, economically and language challenged persons. • A renewed emphasis on preserving and promoting downtown's residential. historic architecture. • A mix of businesses and institutions within walking distance that meets the needs of downtown residents. • A clean and safe environment. Employment and childcare opportunities in close proximity to housing. • Occupied units above the storefronts. • Neighborhoods that link people together on a twenty-four hour basis which will ultimately create a sense of community. • Quality education facilities for both traditional and non-traditional students of all ages and interests. • Facilities and activities for young people. TRANSPORTATION We envision our downtown as having a multi -modal transportation system providing numerous means of access that include: • A variety of mobility options for people with differing needs and desires. • Coordination and accommodation of all modes of transportation so as to maximize accessibility. • A transportation "experience" that blends the historical past with current needs, linking together the historical areas of our downtown. • Visual destination guidance for all travelers reflecting various transportation modes which will alert them to destinations, attractions, parking, shopping, services, and arts. • An accessible transportation system that is geographically expansive in service and connects the downtown with the community and other localities. • The shared use of public and private parking that is easily accessible, conve- nient, and aesthetically designed. XIV. Product Rollout VISION DOWNTOWN Product Rollout Dec. 3: NEWS CONFERENCE (9 a.m.) Vision Downtown Document Archival Records Binder (10) Jan.: PRESENTATION TO COUNCIL (6:30 p.m.) Vision Downtown Document Archival Records Binder (7) Planning Budget Request ADDITIONAL BINDERS DISTRIBUTION Downtown Planning Committee (18) City Hall (5) Library (1) Main Street (1) Chamber (1) MASS DISTRIBUTION City Focus Insert Extra Copies City Hall Library Main Street Chamber TH Editorial Radio/TV Interviews CITY CHANNEL 8 SERIES (Jan. -A g.) DAVID WM. RUSK CHAIR LAURA CARSTENS BOB FELDERMAN JIM GIBBS JIM GIESEN DAVID HARRIS DORIS HINGTGEN JIM HOLZ STEVE HORMAN PAM JOCHUM DAN LOBIANCO ANN MICHALSKI RUTH NASH MARY LYNN NEUMEISTER ART ROCHE RICH RUSSELL LISA SESTERHENN JOHN WALSH NEWS CONFERENCE Monday, December 3 9 a.m. Majestic Room Five Flags Civic Center Please attend this important news conference to announce VISION DOWNTOWN. I� XV. Press Clippings I v w U 1 H I. a) cn -V 'i3 Ti Cu 0 c. a)+ V) rr,� o.� o c0 X00 ro'''�S cs-,Oaaim Q'0U o 14 oQ vv 00cu u° a 4-3 JE', '�. N' -I, 4 i as OTS ¢, O h0 v0 - a.- 0 ou ' C.) t7110 4'.-g g rn w `-'9 0 O 0 i v O U N g..I. w F". o cd '� 00 -G. 17 w0 O r" v) a O bA O U •.. 0 o ;_.4 4-,,,, r.as 2 „al U 5,4 o2 U•�' as \'o a1a›)Hvo=va'ato m°'aC j 4A Amy Gilligan City EDITOR 563/588-5671 800/553-4801 OUR OPINION Canthereality match the vision for Main Street? Tourist -magnets: It would behoove the city to provide enticements for artisans and businessesthat will • excite and engage the passersby In a drama, whether a play, a movie or a story, the author can make anything happen. That is not necessarily real life. A movie can claim as a lead to its denouement, "you build it, and they will come." The Dubuque City Council has decided to open Main Street. The next move is up to the owners and store operators to match the taxpayers' investment, Opening streets by itself is not a they -will -come reality. The differences between a dream and a vision for the future are considerable. The best vision to come to Dubuque in recent years is the America's River project — a wonderful proposal that is moving toward reality. The project envisions attracting as many as 500,000 visitors per year. If the community could devise a way to direct only a portion of the visitors from America's River to the downtown area, then they -will -come would be a reality, too. One step already proposed is to provide for an inexpensive, frequent people -mover from the riverfront to nearby areas. A hop -on, hop -off trolley is needed to extend the river experience to include Old Main Street, the Cable Car Square, the Dubuque Art Museum and the Town Clock Plaza area. But first downtown has to offer enticements to visitors. More of the commonly found shops, anchor stores or boutiques are not magnets. Downtown needs to seek encounters, businesses and experiences that are exceptional, exciting and engaging. Those out to discover the fascinations and uniqueness of Dubuque, and to spend their cash, seek such • adventures. One concept is an art center of studios and workshops. Every one seems to stop to watch an artist or artisan at work, whether painting, carving, throwing clay, or what have you. Watching the creation of a work is fascinating. Owning the work that we see created is personal and more meaningful than the piece's visual attractiveness alone. Can the community persuade artists and artisans to set up workshops downtown? Can the community attract candle-makers„cowers,-jewelers, painters,. • potters, quilt -makers, sculptors,- stained-glass cutters, tin smiths, bead and fabrie,weavers? Cavi the community.createa)spiecial place for shops that are not merely for selling, but shops and galleries in which creative people actually work during the times, when visitors pass through? Our region certainly has a wealth of artistic people, most in places less accessible than:a centralized, heavily trafficked district. If the costs of setting up workshops or relocating studios are prohibitive, artists and artisans will not come, and perhaps tourists will not come either. Can the city and the landlords make downtown an economically inviting location for artists -at -work? Right now, rents for space in the area are prohibitively, if not artificially, high for the typical . artist. Perhaps property assessments can be adjusted. Perhaps rent subsidies can be arranged.; Or, perhaps innovative rent arrangements' can be offered. . ; The lures in the "Field of Dreams were the new baseball field and the draw of playing with the best. Creating enticements can move a dream through vision to reality. The decision to open the downtown is in place. While work progresses on the renovation, the next step to reinvigorate the area needs to emerge. AMY GILLIGAN CITY EDITOR 563/588-5671 800/553-4801 OUR OPINION etty Jane's closing will leave a hole Downtown: Revitalization needs some help to get moving Old timers recall their sadness when the Popper at 10th and Main closed. It was a favorite place to stop after shopping or on the way home from work for a bag of caramel and popped corn. Now we learn that Betty Jane, the candy store neighbor of the Popper, will close its doors today. Betty Jane's Main Street store is a cherished memory for the older generation and those that worked in the area. The significance of the candy store's closing, along with the closing of Hartig's Drug Store on Town Clock Plaza, the Office Grill in the Fischer Building and Take 5 on Eighth Street, is a regrettable trend in downtown. We might think these closings are minor scratches on Main Street that bandages of regret can cover, but that is not the case. Downtown is hemorrhaging. However welcomed the news, every business that relocates anywhere outside downtown, and every new business that locates elsewhere in Dubuque, are ,opportunities lost. Those opportunities will not resuscitate the downtown as a former business center. Opening Main Street to vehicular traffic is a hope that needed revival will come. But downtown needs more than hope. It needs a master plan based on a firm vision and a pro -active pursuit of that plan. Are we waiting for downtown property owners to get. their act together? Are we waiting for city officials to do the planning? Are we waiting for good fortune to smile? Or a miracle? Whose responsibility is it to move the downtown to action? If all we hear is, "Not mine," then we will never experience the good old days when the likes of the Popper and Betty Jane were needed downtown. Tomorrow's news should be that the downtown :property owners, city officials, supporters and investors announce a grand vision and a dateline for implementing that vision. TUESDAY June 5, 2001 Dubuque, lowa 'eiegraph ty acuses Vision `A master plan': Council awards contracts, sees unified goal, in developing riverfront, opening plaza By ERIN COYLE TH staff writer A Vision Downtown poster faced the Dubuque City Council Monday night as the council moved forward on two major downtown development projects. David Rusk chairman of the Downtown Planning Committee. hung the poster on a podium in the Carnegie -Stout Public Li- brary. The Vision Downtown project in- vites the community to suggest necessary improvements in the area stretching from Fourteenth Street to the Locust Street Connector and Bluff Street to the river. "When we hear the Vision Downtown discussion tonight, it's starting to all take form here," said council member John Markham. "I can see all of that coming together in a master plan." The city council approved four items re- lated to opening the Town Clock Plaza and the America's River project development. The council voted 6-1 to award the Dur- rant Group, Inc. the engineering contract ® Main Street loan pool created/3A a City leaders seek community input on downtown's future/3A for opening Town Clock Plaza from Fifth to Ninth streets. The contract amount ranges from $181,000 to $221,000. The amount depends on the amount of inspec- tion the city requires. Councilman Joe Robbins said he voted against opening the plaza, not against the Durrant Group Inc. I just don't see what the purpose is going to serve," Robbins said. Markham said he also preferred the plaza remain closed, however he believes 50 cents 165th Year, No. 156 2 sections, 22 pages Herald � r - ownto the council needs to move forward with the project that passed, 4-3, on April 17. Council member Ann Michalski, who has favored opening the plaza, said she was glad the council chose the engineering firm the same night it brought the America's River project closer to the construction phase. "To me they are not two separate pro- jects. To me they are really one project," Michalski said. The council unanimously approved HOK Venue, of Kansas City, Kan., as the architectural firm to design the Missis- sippi River Conference and Education Center. A review committee recommended Council: Groundbreaking set for after July 4 Continued from Page IA consider reducing the original pavilion size. Schiesl said the larger size left only 15 feet between the pavilion and the plaza edge. "I think if we made it smaller, it would look out of place." said council member Dan Nicholson. Council members voted, 7-0, to build the larger pavilion. Mayor Terry Duggan, who is a Realtor, excused himself from voting on the consent and subor- dination to mortgage agreement for Platinum Holdings, L.L.C. The council approved, 6-0, the land lease, which was contingent upon a $14,800,000 mortgage agreement. Robbins, mayor pro -tem for that vote, and Jim Rix, chief executive officer of Platinum Holdings L.L.C., sat side by side signing three agreements that approved the hotel and water park's land lease and agreements for parking and facility management. "What tonight does allows us to start construction," Rix said. Rix said developers plan to break ground after July 4. He said they are cautiously but optimisti- cally shooting for the hotel to open Labor Day of 2002. In other items the council: ✓ Approved, 7-0, a resolution of support for Star Development, L.L.C., to apply for an Iowa af- fordable housing tax credit for de- veloping Raven Oaks Senior Apartments on Raven Oaks Drive. ✓ Approved, 7-0, a resolution to support the Community Housing Initiative's Iowa affordable - housing tax credit program appli- cation. The council said it would not consider allocating any money to the project until the developers exhausted all other local resources for a $26,000 contribution to de- velop the River Oaks Apartments on the Medical Associates West Campus. ✓ Voted, 7-0, to award the con- tract for reconstructing Algona Street to Horsfield Construction Inc. for $553,669. ✓ Unanimously awarded the contract for the Center Grove Storm Sewer Project to Horsfield Construction Inc. for $73,854. Voted, 7-0, for Portzen Con- struction to complete the Jackson Street Relief Storm Sewer Project for $158,222. ✓ The council unanimously ap- proved a resolution to support the development of an additional two- lane bridge for U.S. 20 across the Mississippi River. the city choose HOK Venue, which bid $1,510,000. rather than the low bidder. Thalden Entertainment, of Las Vegas. Nev., bid $1,254,000. "This firm is the recommended choice because they have proposed a comprehen- sive scope of work with an approach that meets the objectives of both the city and private -sector developers," said Cindy Steinhauser, assistant city manager. The council also considered whether the River's Edge Plaza pavilion should be reduced from a 50 -foot diameter to a 40 -foot diameter. Bob Schiesl, a civil en- gineer for the city, suggested the council Council/Please turn to Page 2A Committee seeks input for Dubuque's downtown development River project: Initial survey. will be available in July •::- By ERIN COYLE TI -1 staff writer Dubuque leaders called upon the com- munity Monday morning to shape the vision for downtown development. Members of the. Downtown Planning Committee called a press conference -at Five Flags Center to encourage commu- nity involvement. The committee said the America's River project.has provided a catalyst to change the entire down- town area. It hopes to complete a com- prehensive plan for the area stret@hing from 14th Street to the Locust Street • Connector and Bluff Street to the river by the end of the year. . "The explosive growth and develop- ment just beginning on aur waterfront brings with it the need for thoughtful dialogue on the impacts, opportunities and synergies that will doubtless arrive with it," said David Rusk, chairman of the committee. - The city council created the commis- sion in 1990 and charged it by ordinance to coordinate and supervise the prepa- ration and maintenance of the city's comprehensive plan. The plan, com- pleted in the 1990s, intended for each neighborhood to be addressed in a de- tailed manner. "This is the first neighborhood to be chosen," Rusk said. • The committee referred to down- town as the neigh- borhood .that belongs to the en- tire community. One member said this plan ulti- mately affects a wider area than the city limits. "The smart growth is to take your city centers and to build up from them so you don't have so much urban sprawl," said Linda Herbst, president of the Main Street Ltd. Board and a committee member.• The committee hopes to prioritize the community's desires for cultural, resi- dential, commercial and other changes in the next few months. Leaders hope to gather the opinions 'of local residents and downtown workers through surveys . and public meetings. "I think this is the way to go," said Ruth Nash, board member of the Du- buque Fine Arts Society. "This process is the place to start." Laura Carstens, planning -services manager, said several studies have•indi- ' sated the need for a comprehensive plan to integrate each district's plans into a whole-. Carstens said more than synergy from the America's River project con- tributed to the necessity to complete the plan quickly. ."Part of the energy of the process is in keeping it in a fairly short time frame,". Carstens said. Steve Horman, executive director of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Com- merce, said the plan .will help develop Dubuque's downtown as a regional pre- mier destination. "People are really going to be amazed by what Dubuque is going to be like a decade from now," Horman said. Rusk said the initial survey will be available July 2 at the. Carnegie -Stout Public Library and Dubuque City Hall and in the July issue of the City Focus newsletter. "The creation of a shared community vision for our downtown is appropri- ately and necessarily the foundation to the entire downtown planning process," Rusk said. 4A AMY GILLIGAN CITY EDITOR - 563/588 -5671 800/553-4801 OUR OPINION in Attention residents: You are vital. to a new vision for the growth of Dubuque's downtown « You might call it,a second miracle for Dubuque. he first one is the work of a dedicated group of itizens who planned and successfully advocated. for the America's River Project that garnered millions from Vision Iowa earlierthis year. Now Comes another miracle of no less 'scope and impact, Ilision Downtown:; o' In, a recent editorial, the Telegraph Herald asked whose responsibility is it to plan for. downtown 14uoting from that editorial, Dave Rusk, chairman 4°. jrf the Vision Downtown shouts, "All of ours." Yes, X11 of us should, ought, must respondto the steps,,, other dedicated, hardworking and forward d okiiig group of volunteers are putting before us.r" The group hopes to complete a comprehensive 'Plan for growth and development for the area ;;;::. tretching from 14th Street to the Locust Street Connector and Bluff Street to the:river by'the.'end`; 6,f the. year.a , .�r The specific steps the group is taking ask Our pinions in the beginning, middle and end of the` isioning process. The first step is a questionnaire at will appear in the July issue of City Focus the .. newsletter that's direct -Mailed to all Dubuque esidents, and will be available at City Hall and earnegie-Stout Public Library. Everyone, but everyone, is asked to'fill out and return that "uestionnaire. The group hopes to have 30,000 uestionnaires answered. These will form the basis for a computer-generated analysis. '-: The second step, a meeting on July 14 at the Five ;lags Civic Center, is open to all of tis. Residents lhould try to be there to voice our concerns, our, 4upport and our appreciation. "+. Two more steps will follow with the hope that a Anal vision can be presented before the end of this Oar. Nothing could be greater for our city than a owntown that reflects what the community' "' ants. This plan is not the sole property of owntown landowners and businessmen. It is.not sole ideas of city officials. It is ours, from peginning to end. But it can only be ours if we articipate Vision Downtown is an enthusiastic movement. that enthusiasm can infect all of us if we articipate and make our thoughts known. The.next, miracle is the responsibility of all of us. Get involved in downtown's renaissance Creating a vision: The planning process promises to be highly inclusive A recent editorial piece in the Telegraph Herald asked "Whose responsibility is it to move the downtown to action?" The Downtown Planning Committee of the city of Dubuque would like to suggest that the responsibility lies with all of us. There have been many plans and programs toward fostering the revitalization of downtown Dubuque ,'throughout the years. More recently, many voices in our ':community have suggested that now is the time to begirt anew a comprehensive effort to guide the heart of our city 'toward a future we can alt be proud of. The explosive growth and development just beginning on our waterfront brings with it the need for thoughtful dialogue on the impacts, opportunities and synergies that will doubtless arrive with it. It is our downtown, nestled below the magnificent bluffs that shape its western border, and proximate to the great river that runs just to its east, that is the true heart of our city. It best reflects our community character and heritage. It best defines the sense of "DAVID place that is Dubuque. The downtown belongs to our entire community and is a key source of our community pride. The city of Dubuque has embarked on My View a comprehensive planning process for its downtown, and all our citizens are • Invited and encouraged to participate in what is expected to be a highly inclusive effort. The Downtown Planning •Committee, comprised of a cross section of community :;leaders and planners has been assigned by the city council :and its Long Range Planning Advisory Commission to lead ,a comprehensive downtown planning process. The overall downtown planning process is to include ;;four essential elements: ▪ / Develop a shared community vision for downtown :Dubuque. ✓ Assess that vision relative to today's reality. • / Assess the vision and reality relative to existing plans. ✓ Create a comprehensive downtown master plan. ;' The creation of a shared community vision for our ',downtown is appropriately and necessarily the foundation ,to the entire downtown planning process. We have learned {'from the community -wide Vision 2000 and comprehensive 'planning process of the 1990s, that broad citizen 'engagement is a powerful engine. It is a commitment to an ;,open and inviting visioning and planning process that lies :at the heart of the work strategy of the Downtown .Planning Committee and, in particular, its sponsoring of ;Vision Downtown: A Future for the Heart of Our City. Vision Downtown: A Future for the Heart of Our City is a multi -step process that will culminate in a shared :community vision for downtown Dubuque. The process ,. ' will include a citizen questionnaire, community meetings and a validation ,t4 survey, all designed to together ensure '.; 4, that the product is truly a shared 01- .„5`;`• community vision and therefore a 44' 0 credible and legitimate •'� O� foundation on which to build a comprehensive master plan for our downtown. The first opportunity to participate in is to complete and return a citizen questionnaire to help the Downtown Planning Committee initially assess overall community sentiment regarding general attributes to be considered in .,the visioning and planning process. The questionnaire ,.will be distributed through the July issue of City Focus • .;;in a convenient tear -out and mail format, no postage "required. The Downtown Planning Committee asks that pall citizens who receive the questionnaire complete and ;;mail it per the instructions. For any who, for whatever "reason, do not receive City Focus, copies of the iquestionnaire will be available at City Hall and at the ::Carnegie -Stout Public Library beginning July 2. �" A second opportunity to participate in Vision .Downtown is to attend the initial community meeting ,;scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon, July 14, in the Five Flags 'Civic Center Arena. We will hear from a nationally recognized urban planning executive who will challenge :lis to think openly and boldly about our downtown and ;then break out into discussion groups to "envision" a ',future for our downtown. The results of the citizen questionnaire and first :community meeting will form the first draft of Vision Downtown. An additional community meeting, reactor, ,group session and validation survey will later result in.' 'additional drafts and, ultimately, in a final shared ;community vision for our downtown, Vision Downtown: A Future for the Heart of Our City. r The Downtown Planning Committee asks that all our ;citizens watch for developments and announcements regarding additional opportunities to participate in the «downtown planning effort in the local media as the ;process further unfolds. In the meantime, we remind all to •complete and mail questionnaires and attend the community meeting on July 14. It's our downtown; let's all :be a part of its future. Rusk is chairman of the City of Dubuque Downtown :Planning Committee. RUSK 2340 Coates St. vA Vinion - owntown. LOCAL/AREA BRIEFS Group requests help with downtown survey Dubuque's Downtown Planning Committee is asking citizens to complete and return the ques- tionnaires distributed in the July issue of City Focus. The group hopes to create by the end of the year a vision for the area stretching from 14th Street to the Locust Street Con- nector and Bluff Street to the Mississippi River. Eventually, that vision could be developed into a comprehensive plan. Additional copies of the ques- portunities to offer input to the tionnaire are available at city hall future of our downtown." and the Carnegie -Stout Public Li- brary. Citizens are encouraged to at- tend a community meeting from 8 a.m. to noon July 14 at the Five Flags Center. There also will be an opportunity to exchange views on the future of the downtown. According to Dave Rusk, chairman of the Downtown Plan- ning Committee, "Vision Down- town, A Future For the Heart of Our City, is intended to be a highly participative and inclusive process and we hope citizens will take full advantage of these op- .iJ OUR OPINION 7— /'O 'Downtown' vision can't be short-sighted Demolition: Commission is right to freeze plans to knock down historic buildings for parking lot Attention swirls around the historic area of downtown: the opening of Main Street. the future of the Town Clock Plaza, a tie-in with the America's River project. a vision dor the downtown. the closing of businesses in the area, the demolition of buildings for parking. historical preservation of buildings and even what the area should be called. Suddenly. it seems, the place is awake and the focus of all sorts of interest. Already ideas are forming for the rejuvenation and revitalization of the area. Everyone in the community has the opportunity to become involved in this visioning process. However, the process will take a little time. say. until the end of the year. Hopefully no permanent changes will take place that will hinder the eventual implementation of the resulting vision. There needs to be a halt to changes of all types in the area'until the community has spoken. "Downtown Dubuque" is an outdated historical description — neither an attractive nor accurate term. While the area is lower in elevation than most residential areas. it will probably be outshone by the development lower and closer to the ice harbor and river. It is no longer the city's central business district, nor is it likely to be again. Physically the area does hot have the space to compete with the increasing number of plazas. malls and businesses with free and ample parking on the west side. Moreover. Americans have seen too many downtowns that have metamorphosed into T-shirt shops and boarded storefronts. They often see downtowns as dirty, abandoned, even dangerous places with no particular attraction. When the vision and plans are in place, the area should have an identity that is apt and attractive. The recent proposal to demolish two buildings and convert the surface into parking lots flies in the face of preserving the integrity of the area. The Fischer Cos. has asked to raze the buildings that once housed Betty Jane Homemade Candies Inc.. 965 Main St.. and Vi's Nutrition, 957 Main St.. to provide more parking for tenants of the nearby Fischer Building. Wisely. the Historic Preservation Committee said not so fast. and tabled the demolition. Meanwhile local preservationists are proposing to buy the buildings and save them from the wrecking ball. Here the city shouild step in and develop strict parameters for controlling parking facilities and blending them into the tone and theme of the areas. The city needs to enact some controls to prohibit inconsistent changes to the area. The community must take action to sort out its priorities. stop irreparable changes and move quickly and judiciously to make downtown or whatever we choose to call it — all it can be. Survey drawing responses Vision Downtown: Panel expects crowd at Saturday meeting By ERIN COYLE TH staff writer Participation in Dubuque's Vi- sion Downtown initiative has started strong, according to David Rusk, chairman of the Downtown Planning Committee. The committee said Monday it has received 822 completed survey ques- tionnaires, nearly 3 per- cent of those distributed in the city newsletter. The survey is the first step in collecting data on ways residents envi- sion improving David Rusk downtown Du - Happy with turnout buque. People who have not already completed and returned. questionnaires can get copies at City Hall and the Carnegie -Stout Public Library. "Two -and -a -half percent is the average for typical mailings and we're approaching. 3 percent al- ready," Rusk said. Rusk expects the response rate to grow as the initiative con- tinues. On Monday, committee members combed through logis- tics for as many as 500 people to gather at 8 a.m. Saturday at Five Flags Center for the first of two public meetings for community input on the vision project. An independent consultant will use feedback from the -meetings and the survey results to draft a mission and a downtown vision document by the end of the year. The city of Dubuque has con- tributed $30,000 for the vision process. The project budget in- cludes an estimated need for up to $20,000 matching money. The budget does not address costs for the planning phase. "Unless we get further funded, we're not going to have a plan, just a vision," said Dan Lo - Bianco, executive director of Du- buque Main Street. 4A Amu GILLIGAN CITY Eouron 563/588.5671 800/553-4801 Downtown is everyone's business Future: Recent questionnaire and upcoming meeting are part of plan to assess community sentiment AU of us with a stake in the future of Downtown Dubuque have a special opportunity and,.I think, obligation to exercise our privilege of participatory citizenship through involvement in Vision Downtown, A Future for the Heart of Our City. Whether we live or work downtown, own or rent property downtown, or simply recognize that downtown is truly the heart of our community, we are all stakeholders in its future. Our downtown belongs to all of us. Our downtown is the touchstone of our community. Within itis the mother lode of our heritage and the identity which it has nurtured since our earliest days as a Mississippi River settlement. RUSK RUSKan, city of There is no other precinct or ChairDubuque neighborhood in Dubuque that holds Downtown Plan. more of what we have been, what we ning Committee are and what we can be than our downtown. Our downtown embodies *View the unique character that is our Dubuque on the Mississippi: With the ambitious transformation of our historic Ice Harbor and waterfront peninsula under way, we have a unique window of opportunity to capitalize on the ' synergies that that effort brings to the overall downtown. Vision Downtown offers the opportunity for eaeh of us to lend a voice to the creation of a shared community vision for what our downtown can be. Your return of the completed citizen questionnaire distributed recently in City Focus will help the Downtown Planning Committee initially assess overall ,Z,tiq community sentiment G1~ �•� regarding the number of ".4 attributes reflected in it. (If you did not receive or J� misplaced your copy, '1 4'' you can pick one up at 0`4,P the Carnegie -Stout 151011 Library or City Hall.) ©o\l tlto\vl1 Plan also to attend the community meeting from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday at the Five Flags Civic Center Arena. This gathering offers a unique opportunity to share and exchange views on our downtown with other stakeholders. We will together 1 probe and explore our hopes and dreams for our downtown after hearing from Dave Feehan, executive director of the International Downtown Association, headquartered in Washington, D.C. The morning promises tobea stimulating and provocative one that will lead to a first draft of Vision Downtown, so don't miss it. Vision Downtown is the foundation of a planning process for Downtown Dubuque that will further unfold in the months to come. The entire process is rooted in the commitment by the Downtown Planning Committee to ensure that it is open and inviting to all citizens and that consequently it is highly participative and inclusive. All this makes one thoughtful of the values and principles.at the core of our democratic society. The aforementioned questionnaire and community meeting are exemplary of the spirit and vitality of our participatory system of governance and community decision making. Further, while in fact a citizen's voice is most often heard primarily through his or her representative (elected or otherwise), the questionnaire and community meeting approach offer a more direct avenue of participation. All of us, as stakeholders of our downtown, need to take advantage of this wonderful privilege. Involving ourselves in Vision Downtown is our best assurance that our downtown of the future is one that we can he proud of. Please return your completed questionnaire and attend Saturday's meeting. It's your downtown; be a part of its future. DAVID AMY GILLIGAN CITY EDITOR 563/588-5671 800/ 553-4801 OUR OPINION add your voice to the vision Downtown: People from all corners of the community should participate in Saturday meeting. Are 15 preferences too many to chose from? That's the number of choices on Vision Downtown's survey. 'You need only circle the numbers preferred. A second section asks you to rank your first five preferences. A third section seeks a bit of demographic information that does not invade your privacy or identity. A few lines are available for you to say o�° whatever you prefer to make J 44� known. e- That's all it takes to become Itilnt7 a part of shaping a vision for downtown. Surveys, inside July's City Focus, also are available at City Hall and the Carnegie -Stout Public Library. A few moments of your time can help determine the direction of downtown's future. The area of the vision is generally from the river to Bluff Street and from Jones to 14th Street. Those who own property in that area or have businesses there are likely to send in their preferences and ask their families and friends to add theirs. If your life's activities are generally outside that region and you do not state your ideas, the owners and businesses will make the decisions for you. Why default on decisions that can make life in Dubuque much better for yourself, your children and grandchildren? Wouldn't it be a more accurate vision if the planning group heard from all walks of life, from all corners of our community? A true vision should have the voices of the south -side homeowner, the west -end business owner, the farmer, the teenager. Only by getting involved can such a vision be realized. Another opportunity to add your voice to the vision comes from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday when local residents are invited to participate in a meeting at Five. Flags Center. - The group of volunteers who are trying to bring about a great improvement for Dubuque are enthusiastic and eager for your input. Most did not realize what the America's River project was about until the plans were presented. But this project is different. Your ideas can be incorporated into the vision. As the recruiting posters, with eyes on you, finger pointing to you, would say, "Dubuque needs you" Dubuquers discuss ciowntolivn vision Community meeting: Speaker says the city 'has a lot to work with' By JOHN EVERLY TH staff writer City of Dubuque officials are asking Dubuquers what they want in a down- town. They heard the first round of an- swers Saturday. The first community meeting on a vi- sion for downtown Dubuque was held at the Five Flags Center, hosted by the city's Downtown Planning Committee. The committee is seeking public consensus on the direction for Dubuque's down- town. Downtown suggestions Some items Dubuquers at Saturday's meeting said they would like to see: ✓ Marketing to draw people downtown. ✓ New businesses. / Dollars for development projects. / More services for downtown visitors. ✓ Ambassadors to answer visitors' ques- tions. ✓ Housing. ✓ More attractions. ✓ A cohesive development plan. "It must be founded in broad commu- nity input and participation," said com- mittee chairman David Rusk. "Truly, downtown belongs to all of us." About 100 were in attendance Sat- Downtown: Rusk said turnout Continued from Page 1A downtown. The city's bluffs and the Mississippi River are an "ex- traordinary opportunity" Feehan said. "Dubuque has a lot to work with," Feehan said. "It has water, it -has hills, it has historic architec- ture and it has a very good down- town organization. With those elements, there's no reason why it .couldn't succeed." - Feehan offered some suggestions 'for improving downtowns. Down- towns should consider their unique features as assets. "You need to create places where people want to be," he said. That means downtowns that are safe, attractive and memorable, he said. "You've got to think of downtown as a total experience." Some successful downtown ele- ments include retail businesses that offer unique product lines and cafes, he said. Green space, color and activities draw people because those things make downtowns in- teresting, he said. Rusk said that although Satur- day's attendance was light, he was encouraged by the enthusiasm shown. "They're committed people that really care about our downtown," Rusk said. Another public meeting is sched- uled for Sept. 15. Downtown resident Suzie Wright was glad the city was asking her opinion. "I thought it was a very positive thingto happen," she said. "I would encourage other people to urdav and came up with a wish list for downtown ranging from new businesses and attractions to ambassadors that could answer visitors' questions. A downtown - development expert also gave the audi- ence some food for thought. David Feehan David . Feehan, Downtown expert president of the Washington, D.C.-based International Downtown Association, told those at the meeting that Dubuque is already on its way to developing a great Downtown/Please turn to Page 2A was small but enthusiastic show up in September." Bill Barrick, who is opening a business at Main and First streets. was hopeful the process would not end at the idea stage. "I'm inspired and I only hope that we have the ability and en- durance and enthusiasm to bring these ideas to fruition," he said. Barrick said he fears there will be no follow-up on the ideas presented at the meeting. The results of the citizen ques- tionnaire and first community meeting will form the first draft of a "Vision Downtown" document. Results of the community meet- ings, a review session and valida- tion survey will be summarized in a final document. Rusk said this final document could be used by city of- ficials to plan and budget for downtown development projects. Vision Downtown questionnaires were sent to Dubuque households in the July City Focus newsletter and also are available at the Carnegie -Stout public library. Questionnaires are due July 23. AMY GILLIGAN CITY EDITOR 563/588-5671 800/553-4801 Telegraph Herald 15A SUNDAY, JULY 22, 2001 To contact us with: Iowa news: 800/562-6035 Wisconsin news: 800/562-6021 Illinois news: 800/562-6031 Riverfront Froj e ct prove s you have to America's River: Grassley is working to secure the plan another $1 million By MARY RAE BRAGG TH staff writer Old timers will tell you it's true: Them what has, gets. That was the case last week; as U.S. Senate committees put together their appropriation bills for the corning fiscal year. and Dubuque projects found them- selves in line for S1.3 million. A city whose dreams have garnered 2178.5 million in public and private sup- port is drawing new financial backing s its plans for a riverfront tourist and education attraction expand into the larger community. Thanks to the efforts of Sen. Charles Grassley. R -Iowa, the Americas River project is slated to receive another $1 million. this time from the Depart- ments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development. The money is designated for the Mis- sissippi River Discovery Center, a mu- seum that is part of the $188 million America's River project taking shape on Dubuque's Fourth Street peninsula., To complement that development, the 2002 fiscal year appropriations also in- cludes $300.000 for the city to study the feasibility of having a light rail system, running from the peninsula throughout the downtown area. That grant was spurred by Grassley and Sen. Tom Harkin, D -Iowa, who en- couraged the city to put in a bid for in- clusion in the Senate's Transportation Appropriations bill. The appropriations still have to go through congressional channels, but it is generally understood that inclusion at this stage indicates the expenditures will be approved. Mayor Terry Duggan, Mississippi River Museum Executive Director Jerry En- zler and the project's development di- rector, Teri Goodmann, were in Washington in the spring when Grass- ley's" and Harkin's staff members en- couraged them to apply for the transportation grant. "They told us about this money that can'only be used for light rail projects," Goodmann said. "We were encouraged by them to pursue this because it would fit so well with the plans for the river - front." David Rusk, chairman of Dubuque's Downtown Planning -Committee, envi- sions a trolley as a way to capitalize on a synergy coming from America's River. "America's P.iver is going to set Du- buque apart and make it unique, but the opportunity to expand upon that is there before us with the light rail," Rusk said. A trolley system has the potential to not only entertain tourists but to cap- ture the imagination of Dubuquers who might move their residences and busi- nesses downtown, he said. The influx of federal money for the downtown projects began in 1998, when Harkin was able to get $800,000 included in a VA -HUD appropriation for plan- ning and development of the Fourth Street peninsula. Since then, with help from Harkin, Grassley and Rep. Jim Nussle, R -Iowa, 12 federal agencies have contributed grants toward America's River. By far, the largest single contribution has been the 540 million from the state's Vision Iowa fund. But Goodmann said en investment that size was possible only because the Vision Iowa trustees saw the huge number of contributions, both large and small, that private and public supporters have made to the cause. "We've realized that private dollars ve to et leverage public dollars and public dol- lars leverage private dollars," Goodmann said. "When private contributors like the Key Club at Senior High holds a dance and donates the money they make, that speaks volumes about the community commitment," she said. Donors range from corporations that contribute millions of dollars to elderly people who give $10 or 550. Recently, Goodmann said she was con- tacted by young parents who wanted to show their children the importance of community involvement. They did that by committing to a $5,000 donation over five years, which the children will help them save for. "How lucky can we be to be on the re- ceiving end of such generosity?" Good - mann asked. "Governors, senators. representatives, business, families, se- nior citizens — they're all key to the suc- cess." IIelp Plan a F'uture for Downtown Dubucue There have been many plans and programs toward fostering the revitalization of Downtown Dubuque over the years. More recently, many voices in our community have suggested that now is the time to begin anew a comprehensive effort to guide the heart of our city toward a future we can all be proud of. The explosive growth and development just beginning on our waterfront brings with it the need for thoughtful dialogue on the impacts, opportunities and synergies that will doubtless arrive with it. It is our downtown, nestled below the magnificent bluffs that shape its western border, and proximate to the great river that runs just to its east, that is the true heart of our city. It best reflects our community character and heritage. It best defines the sense of place that is Dubuque. The downtown belongs to our entire community and is a key source of our community pride. The City of Dubuque has embarked on a comprehensive planning process for its downtown and all our citizens are invited and encouraged to participate in what is expected to be a highly inclusive effort. The Downtown Planning Committee, comprised of a cross section of community leaders and planners, has been assigned by the City Council and its Long Range Planning Advisory Commission to lead a comprehensive downtown planning process. The overall downtown planning process is to include four essential elements: • Develop a Shared Community Vision for Downtown Dubuque • Assess that Vision relative to Today's Reality • Assess the Vision and Reality relative to Existing Plans • Create a Comprehensive Downtown Master Plan The creation of a shared community vision for our downtown is appropriately and necessarily the foundation to the entire downtown planning process. We have learned from the community -wide Vision 2000 and comprehensive planning process of the 1990's, that broad citizen engagement is a powerful engine. It is a commitment to an open and inviting visioning and planning process that lies at the heart of the work strategy of the Downtown Planning Committee and, in particular, its sponsoring of Vision Downtown, A Future for the Heart of our City. by David Wm. Rusk Vision Downtown, A Future for the Heart of our City, is a multi -step process that will culminate in a shared community vision for Downtown Dubuque. The process will include a citizen questionnaire, community meetings and a validation survey, all designed to together ensure that the product is truly a shared community vision and therefore a credible and legitimate foundation on which to build a comprehensive master plan for our downtown. The first opportunity to participate in Vision Downtown is to' complete and return a citizen questionnaire to help the Downtown Planning Committee initially assess overall community sentiment regarding general attributes to be considered in the visioning and planning process. The questionnaire comesto you in this issue of City Focus in a convenient tear -out and mail format, no postage required. Please complete and mail the questionnaire per the instructions. A second opportunity to participate in Vision Downtown is to attend the initial community meeting scheduled for Saturday, July 14, 8 a.m.-noon in the Five Flags Civic Center Arena. We will hear from a nationally recognized urban planning executive who will challenge us to think openly and boldly about our downtown and then break out into discussion groups to "envision" a future for our downtown. The results of the citizen questionnaire and first community meeting will together form the first draft of Vision Downtown. An additional community meeting, reactor group session, and validation survey will later result In additional drafts and, ultimately, in a final shared community vision for our downtown, Vision Downtown, A Future for the Heart of our City. Watch for developments and announcements regarding additional opportunities to participate in the downtown planning effort in the local media as the process further unfolds. In the meantime, complete and mail your questionnaire and attend the community meeting July 14. It's your downtown...be a part of its future! CITY FOCUS AUGUST 2001 Note: The author is chairman of the City of Dubuque Downtown Planning Committee esiients asked to help draft do town vision Saturday morning: The meeting will focus on reviewing survey information By ERIN COYLE TH staff writer Community members are asked to help revise the first draft of a vision for the future development of clowntown Dubuque on Saturday, morning. The Vision Downtown Committee wants Dubuque residents to ensure that a vision statement meant to identify priorities for future development accurately captures collective community desires. The community meeting Saturday morning will focus on reviewing the data gathered from 1,411 surveys, and an ear- lier community Meeting. The Downtown Planning Commission will host the'second community meeting from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday at Five Flags Center. "Part of our strategy here on gathering people on Saturday, we're hoping to give them a first look together of the docu- ment," said Dave Rusk, chairman of the Downtown Vision Committee. Laura Carstens, manager,of Planning Services for the city of Dubuque, said the survey results were interesting, but not sur- prising. The priorities for future clown - NEWS town development identified contributed You can 2652 to the downtown vision statement draft, which will be available Saturday. The second Carstens said there is a correlation be - community meeting tween the six dimensions of the proposed a.m. Saturday at Five will be from 8 to 1vision statement and the features most Flags Center. people ranked highest in the survey. imarainneammissagersom "There were some definite features that were really high," Carstens said. The survey indicated that 75 percent of respondents ranked six features as important or of high importance. The features are: unique shopping, restaurants, entertainment and tourism amenities; maintain historic character; increase employment opportunities; cultural arts and recreational opportunities; public open areas and green spaces; and parking. Carstens said the data collected through the survey and com- munity meetings will create an accurate representation of what the community wants clowntown to be. She called the vision statement a foundation for future development. "It forms a framework for the next steps of the downtown planning process," said Carstens. Rusk said this is an ideal time to plan the future development of clowntown as the America's River project is revitalizing the riverfront. "We really need to rise to the challenge to be sure that this - wonderful moment in Dubuque's growth and development is not restricted to just the waterfront," said Rusk. "If we are ever going to have an opportunity to do so, this is it." Dubuquers share views on suture of city with Vision Dowtown Parking Transportation topics dominate Saturday's discussions By M.D. KITTLE TH staff writer Dubuque citizens certainly weren't shy about their ideas of what the city's down- town should look like and what it should be in the coming years. About 50 Dubuquers, including a number of local government officials, on Saturday morning gathered at the Five Flags Center to help the Vision Downtown Committee revise the first draft of the body's vision statement. And there was no shortage of ideas and suggestions on the, future of downtown Dubuque. From the monumental to the minute, the topics of discussions were a mixture of inspiration and pure Dubuque pragmatism. ",`We need a meaningful identity to the community, not only for tourists but for residents, too," said committee member Chris Wand, following the three-hour work session. The vision statement, which garnered data from more than 1,400 surveys, found that residents ranked six top priorities, or "dimensions," for downtown Dubuque. The dimensions, which have no order of priority, include: residential living; com- merce; culture and education; public space and open areas; transportation; and his- torical features. Saturday's meeting featured a number of amendments to the first draft. But no issue seemed to raise more ire than parking in downtown Dubuque. "We don't think the city has a vision on parking," said Dave Stuart, spokesman for one of seven working groups. "We think that the city's parking ordinances are very destructive to Historic Main." But parking wasn't the only transporta- tion issue to dominate discussions. "We would like to see an accessible transit system that is more expansive, both geographically and schedule -wise, that connects downtown with the rest of the community," said Laura Carstens, man- ager of Planning Services for the city and spokeswoman for her group. While many agree that preserving the downtown's historical features is impor- tant, some said that need must be tem- pered with a progressive development plan. "Just because it's old doesn't mean it's valuable," said Charlie Glab, spokesman for his work group. Pablo Ramirez, a Dubuque police of- ficer, said the cost of repairing some of downtown's older buildings has created a real challenge for future development. "People aren't buying these properties because they're deteriorated," he said. The wide-ranging discussion was ex- actly what David Rusk, the commission chairman, was looking for. At the begin- ning of the session, Rusk reminded those in attendance that "a vision is not a plan." "A vision in this context is a target. It is a description of a destination," he said. "It's more about values and ideals than about bricks and mortar." Saturday's ideas will be put into a working final draft, which will be reviewed at an October meeting. The meeting will only include selected vision committee rep- resentatives. An approved final draft is expected to be submitted to the Dubuque City Council in November, Rusk said. Vo[. 12. Vo. ' October 2001 David Rusk Commissioner ress Continues e community visioning process known as Vision Downtown continues to engage Dubuque residents in developing a shared vision_for the heart of our city_ Spearheaded by the City of Dubuque Planning Committee Vision Downtown has been the topic of two community meetings and the focus of a citizen questionnaire A reactor group session and a validation study are planned for this fall As each step ofthe visioning process is completed; a draft of the Vision Downtown document is updated. The committee will. publish and distribute a final version of the. Vision Downtown document by the: end of the year and will forward a copy to the City Council to consider when exploring downtown planning issues. Additional steps in thelanning process include comparing the completed Vision Downtown document with the current downtown planand future plans. The final step is the creation of a downtown master plan. Vision Downtown survey underway The telephone survey for the Vision Downtown document is under way, ac- cording to the Dubuque Downtown Plan- ning Committee. The committee is encouraging parties that are called to provide confidential an- swers to the survey. The Center for Busi- ness and Social Research at Loras College is performing the telephone validation survey for Dubuque. The city plans to initiate a comprehen- sive downtown master plan based on the Vision Downtown document, which will be released by January. XVI. Budgetary Accounting 1 Vision Downtown Project: Budget Estimates November 14, 2001 Vieion Downtown Protect Component r x ' 1 # = l iF S S Protect Sk „ Expenses^ Actual or 1 0,,,,,,,,,,,:,,L Estimated City Funds H frS lig �f<= �, r Matching F t p ds f=uns Public Relations/Set upCommiiiii ee iii Set up of logo Printing of memos and letters for mailing Vision Downtown stickers Mailing to property owners and stakeholders Y /y� Public l?elaiio`ns 'Comrnumt�'Meetlri2 rr S "�`4�Yr..n Printing of memos and letters for mailing Mailing to property owners and stakeholders iVleyetm SFaciliator t ,:,Ft�, s ,,x, E n w4 u : .a la,' - Citizen Glu st�onnaire s, tz 0 . „ ,..,, ,.. #"A,t . ,; N< ' � � _.e a.� z s: 4 City Focus printing of extra copies City Focus mailing to businesses and P.O. boxes City Focus mailing to property owners and stakehdiders City Focus postage pre -paid return Tabulation and analysis of Questionnaire responses ommuni Meetiri 1 �, a ra: �s tY...1,, .... g.., g ,...,Y..,; � 1t _..,_.01.r r_ 'rr s; , ..1 ..4$4,391 Keynote Speaker - honorarium & travel expenses Five Flags Civic Center - labor HyVee Catering Supplies ,tt F t , sr 3 d,, y3. 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Actual Actual Actual Wa5 �x#x" _ � t Sc'�r4,.�::..�4a1»c-,�i Actual Actual a,�yf ES!ma ed ..a»r r1,.�nrYs,a � }l�r. .1'5 i n Estimated Actual Estimated Estimated Estimated Estimated S$825 19 $46.75 $472.00 $186.44 $120.00 ti $376 65 ,,.a f-u`aSU. .nt.ni,YL .n r.,, $256.65 $120.00 ,,� s�, `Y� 9 356 0,..,, $3,811.00 $425.40 $120.00 $1,200.00 $3,800.00 x$2,391 d6 ;.�`„ ,1,., .sit., $1,250.00 $469.50 $527.00 $144.96 $85 C 60� $469.50 $151.10 $231.00 @i i+^ tt$8 f40 50 .).•�„, .45� ..SFt �L,i $8,395.00 $45.50 ({n1 1 ¢"1r� y►o.:._YU4 $6f45 QO 1..,2, x SL.ri�it .4.. $500.00 $214.00 $5,000.00 $200.00 $425.00 $120.00 '41 } , s� �r �,�44.,!'-4,�n. t xr 5 r;? $2,00 OU „s u orr,r„A.., 1. $2,000.00 f7. r -y, r- 5' 6 -l`[�.rt Y,p 1 %S w '' , tul��rsi�u.i§,i zrf a'S�!. 7 ',v'�=?�+,s :'u 4 .akn..~�b �, 4�3�rua�: f Y2:?..S ', ' id''''..Ch"if es f, -4"'. '"�gy xa z.M .1' '4 iwU._3csse:a�r�,3i�4z'vy;?.' 7 W" 1 'P d Y 'i q 1 D �"Sfyr; / .:: ,>a�,. ,,Slyt.Ltl stribufi�on of 1/asionDowr�foan►rt docu►tnentmw� Public Relations for Vision Document Printing/Distribution of Vision Document - draft Printing of Vision Document - final Compilation of Archive Binders City Focus Mailing to businesses and P.O. Boxes City Focus mailing to property owners and stakeholders Total Project Costs - Estimated $39,400.80 $29,900.80 $9,500.00 RojecrBuet,um, ,° ,,_ r71 ��,vli £, $,000.0<r', T, $3AOOU'00 $rb100• 1�0.M" Remaining Balance per Project Budget $10,599.20 , $99.20 $10,500.00 1