In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the future of downtown development, particularly focusing on the south side, which has seen limited progress compared to other areas. The conversation highlighted the need to revitalize this section, identified in a 2007 master plan as a potential convention area, but which has remained stagnant while other projects, like the farmer's market to the north, have flourished.

City planners emphasized the importance of this area as a gateway to downtown, linking it to the interstate and Front Street. They believe that enhancing this part of the city could serve as a catalyst for further development, particularly through the introduction of entertainment and sports venues that would create a vibrant \"18-hour district.\" This shift aims to transform downtown from a primarily business-focused environment into a lively area that attracts visitors throughout the day and evening.

The discussion also touched on the necessity of public-private partnerships and the role of willing sellers in advancing these plans. Officials acknowledged that while there are many ideas for development, the success of these initiatives hinges on identifying key drivers that will attract private investment and community engagement.

Additionally, the city is preparing to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) aimed at addressing parking concerns, which have been a significant barrier to downtown accessibility. The RFP is expected to provide a comprehensive solution to improve parking awareness and convenience, thereby encouraging more visitors to the area.

As the meeting concluded, officials outlined the next steps in the development process, which include prioritizing actions detailed in a forthcoming report and assigning responsibilities to various stakeholders, including city departments and private developers. The overarching goal is to build on the existing momentum of downtown revitalization, ensuring that the area continues to evolve and thrive.