Urbana looks for public input on strategic future plan

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The city of Urbana is planning for the future and they want the public’s feedback on their policy guide.

The city released the draft of its Imagine Urbana Plan Thursday night. It includes list of ideas, moves, and potential land usage for the future of Urbana.

Urbana’s mayor says the guide will serve as a roadmap for infrastructure and provide a framework for innovative growth and development.

“When finalized, Imagine Urbana will serve as the City’s guide for City policy, infrastructure, and planning decisions in the years ahead,” Urbana mayor Diane Wolfe Marlin said in a statement. “It provides the framework to promote quality of life for residents through innovative, sustainable, and fiscally responsible growth and development.”

The full plan can be found on this website. Physical copies can be found at the Urbana Free Library and the City of Urbana Clerk’s Office.

The city is looking for feedback from residents. There are multiple opportunities for the community to weigh in on the plan.

First, the Urbana Plan Commission will be holding a Study Session on Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. Then in September, the city is holding six informal neighborhood meetings. The dates and times for the Imagine Urbana information sessions are:

• Thursday, Sept. 12: 25 O’ Clock Brewing Co., 208 W. Griggs St. at 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 13: Vineyard Church, 1500 N. Lincoln Ave. at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: ILEAS Training Center, 1701 E. Main St at 12 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Light lunch will be provided as available)
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: The Urbana Free Library, 210 W. Green St. at 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, Sept. 18: USD #116 Tiger Academy, 1106 S. Vine St. at 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 19: St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 2200 Philo Road at 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

After gathering public input, the plan will be recommended to the City Council for approval.

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