Evans, Giuffrida: Citizens lead the way in Norman’s AIM infrastructure plan

At the heart of all great communities are local residents and public officials who come together to engage in meaningful dialogue toresponsibly and sustainably move the community forward.

The goal of the City of Norman's Area and Infrastructure Master Plan, AIM Norman, is to draw from the input of Norman residents and previous planning documents to guide our city. AIM Norman will capture the visions and goals for seven distinct municipal elements: land use, water, wastewater, stormwater, housing, transportation, and parks.

City leaders entrusted a steering committee comprised of Norman residents from every city ward with guiding the development of the plan, which encompasses specific objectives for each of these seven elements. It’s our goal to create a set of comprehensive master plans with complementary elements to benefit our community. As a committee, we’re honored to help shape the future of our great city.

Our efforts to incorporate resident input are intentional: AIM Norman is a citizen-led initiative that began in Fall 2023 and is fueled by community engagement. To date, the planning team has hosted two dozen listening sessions and seven community workshops across the city. Our website has received over 15,000 visits, and our monthly surveys have elicited over 2,000 responses.

We are applying what we have learned, and we encourage continued feedback and insight from our fellow residents.

As our city continues to evolve, we have received questions about two high-profile projects. The AIM Norman planning team has no influence on the proposed entertainment district or potential turnpike expansion. We do not approve or reject proposed projects. The document we create will, however, help guide Norman’s growth in a way that benefits the entire community and will aid in addressing environmental concerns associated with development.

We are working to protect the vibrancy and diversity of the community, our essential water supply and air quality, and the green space and wildlife habitats deeply valued by our residents; to ensure our community is a wonderful place to live and work and play.

Normanites can follow along with our progress by visiting AimNorman.com to sign up for updates and take our monthly surveys. AIM Norman is anticipated to be complete by the end of the year.

Shavonne Evans and Inger Giuffrida are co-chairs of the AIM Norman Steering Committee.

Copyright © 2024 BridgeTower Media. All Rights Reserved.