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HomeMy WebLinkAbout030424 - 03.3 - Downton Master PlanDowntown Master Plan Catalyst Project The original Downtown Master Plan was adopted in 1986, supported by policies to accommodate commercial growth, respond to evolving community needs, and retain the feel of Danville’s uniqueness through showcasing its historic roots. The intent of the Danville 2022 Downtown Master Plan Update is to carry this vision into the future while adapting to changing community needs brought about by the onset of the pandemic. Specifically, it introduces new strategies that respond to the highest priority needs: more community gathering space with enhanced ambiance; stronger east/west connections to and through the downtown; improvements that enhance pedestrian Prospect Park Plaza safety, primarily through reducing vehicle speeds; and opportunities to play, recreate, celebrate and appreciate art and culture. Consequently, the update focuses on a set of nine primary implementation components. The initial phase of implementation, called the Catalyst Project, would construct two of these components which includes creating safety features at five intersections on Hartz Avenue (Linda Mesa Avenue to School Street). To create more public gathering spaces, the Town will upgrade the public seating area near Starbucks, officially designated as Prospect Park Plaza in the Danville General Plan. The enhancements will include a small stage, more seating, and a focal point art piece that is a tribute to the valley’s grand Oaks. Furthermore, the parking area between the Village Theatre and Town Meeting Hall will be transformed with decorative pavement, artistic panels, and café lighting. This redesign will allow it to serve as a versatile space for temporary performances and gatherings, with the ability to close off to through traffic. The Town of Danville’s historic downtown, the heart of the community, is a product of three decades of careful planning. Updates will be provided through the Town’s project page at www.danvilletowntalks.org/downtown-master-plan, as well as through in-person meetings and visits with local businesses. . . . . .. Seating Opportunity & Intersection Improvement at Linda Mesa Ave.Village Theatre Plaza Improvement (Flexible Space) Prospect Park Plaza & Intersection Improvement Hartz Ave. & Church St. Intersection Improvement Hartz Ave. & Diablo Rd. Intersection Improvement Clocktower Shopping Center Primo’s Pizza Hartz Ave. & School St. Intersection Improvement 600 Hartz Driveway As with any construction project, everyone wants to have it finished, but no one wants to live through the actual construction. We also don’t know what we may discover underground during construction that might affect progress. The Town plans on taking the project in phases to minimize impact on local businesses and people passing through the area. The project is out for bid now, and construction is expected to begin in late spring 2024. The contractor will also use the initial project areas to determine conditions they may find elsewhere. “With streets that are more than 150 years old, even with surveying and research, you are bound to find some unexpected elements,” said Tai Williams, Assistant Town Manager. “We’ll work with our construction partner to discover and mitigate those challenges as we go along, to keep the project moving forward.”