The Housing and Redevelopment Department for the city of Carlsbad had a very busy, but very good year. A number of goals were accomplished and exciting new projects and programs are moving forward. Here are some of the key accomplishments:
• The Village Master Plan and Design Manual amendments were approved by the City Council Nov. 6. These amendments are intended to help in the effort to further revitalize the Carlsbad Village area by enhancing the flexibility of the development standards and encouraging greater residential density. The flexible standards also will assist in the effort to provide more retail and restaurant space in the Village.
• A Business Development and Marketing Plan was completed for the Village. The three recommended market development strategies for the area are to strengthen its role as a neighborhood commercial center that provides basic goods and services, make the Village into a vibrant arts, cultural and entertainment district and cultivate several clusters of specialty businesses that offer unique products and services.
• As part of the recommendations set forth in the Business Development and Marketing Plan, a working group, comprised of individuals from all segments of the Carlsbad community, established a neutral nonprofit organization to oversee implementation of the plan. The Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, or Carlsbad VIP, will coordinate all business revitalization efforts in the area without duplicating any other work. The Carlsbad VIP board is working to develop a budget, obtain funding and address various organizational issues.
• The Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan was approved by the City Council Nov. 13. The plan was developed with input from property owners, Carlsbad residents and other interested parties over approximately two years. An environmental impact report was then prepared for the project and recently certified by the council. The plan provides a guide for development and project design within the area. It also ensures that the city can be more proactive in the provision of public or community amenities, such as walking trails, parking and beach access. The vision is for an active pedestrian- and bicycle-oriented area that will feature a nature and art center, restaurants and shops.
• Two new apartment complexes with affordable rents for low-income households were completed in Carlsbad. These complexes provide a total of 134 additional affordable housing units.
It was a very good year in 2007. Thanks to all who have assisted with these great projects. Best to each of you in 2008!
Editor's note: The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce is pleased to have participated in each of the city of Carlsbad's 2007 redevelopment efforts and is a strong supporter of Unity in Community.
• The Village Master Plan and Design Manual amendments were approved by the City Council Nov. 6. These amendments are intended to help in the effort to further revitalize the Carlsbad Village area by enhancing the flexibility of the development standards and encouraging greater residential density. The flexible standards also will assist in the effort to provide more retail and restaurant space in the Village.
• A Business Development and Marketing Plan was completed for the Village. The three recommended market development strategies for the area are to strengthen its role as a neighborhood commercial center that provides basic goods and services, make the Village into a vibrant arts, cultural and entertainment district and cultivate several clusters of specialty businesses that offer unique products and services.
• As part of the recommendations set forth in the Business Development and Marketing Plan, a working group, comprised of individuals from all segments of the Carlsbad community, established a neutral nonprofit organization to oversee implementation of the plan. The Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, or Carlsbad VIP, will coordinate all business revitalization efforts in the area without duplicating any other work. The Carlsbad VIP board is working to develop a budget, obtain funding and address various organizational issues.
• The Ponto Beachfront Village Vision Plan was approved by the City Council Nov. 13. The plan was developed with input from property owners, Carlsbad residents and other interested parties over approximately two years. An environmental impact report was then prepared for the project and recently certified by the council. The plan provides a guide for development and project design within the area. It also ensures that the city can be more proactive in the provision of public or community amenities, such as walking trails, parking and beach access. The vision is for an active pedestrian- and bicycle-oriented area that will feature a nature and art center, restaurants and shops.
• Two new apartment complexes with affordable rents for low-income households were completed in Carlsbad. These complexes provide a total of 134 additional affordable housing units.
It was a very good year in 2007. Thanks to all who have assisted with these great projects. Best to each of you in 2008!
Editor's note: The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce is pleased to have participated in each of the city of Carlsbad's 2007 redevelopment efforts and is a strong supporter of Unity in Community.