HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Ideas concerning issues of importance in Downtown Hutchinson were shared Wednesday night during a community open house at Memorial Hall. Currently under development is a master plan for the downtown area.
The Downtown Hutchinson Master Plan will help to guide the growth, development, and improvements for the foreseeable future.
Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Debra Teufel said they have come up with a list of what people consider critical issues. “The main theme is that we need to make spaces that are walkable, pedestrian friendly, and appealing for families and people to congregate downtown,” Teufel explained.
Information was shared on what focus groups earlier identified as wants, desires, and needs, along with barriers, obstacles, and annoyances. Several people commented about under-utilized spaces, and code compliance issues, including costs involved.
Teufel told Ad Astra News that developing and implementing a master plan is a long-term effort. “Obviously we can’t do all of this out of the gate,” she said. “This should be looked at as a generational effort to build on the progress of Downtown Hutchinson.”
Olson Studios, which is working with the city on the master plan, will compile all comments into a report to be delivered later this year.
An online survey is available for residents to complete through April 28th. Stay in the loop with important dates and what is happening with the Downtown Hutchinson Master Plan at https://www.downtownhutchmasterplan.com/.
