Morgantown leaders discuss community input for housing and small area study plans
September 26, 2025 | Morgantown, Monongalia County, West Virginia
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The Morgantown Land Reuse and Preservation Agency convened on September 25, 2025, to discuss critical housing initiatives and community engagement strategies that could shape the future of the city. A key focus of the meeting was the importance of aligning housing projects with community desires, emphasizing the need for thoughtful planning before moving forward.
During the discussions, members expressed a desire to ensure that any housing developments reflect the interests and needs of residents. One member highlighted the strategy of identifying a single project that excites the community, suggesting that the ongoing park project could serve as a model for future initiatives. This approach aims to foster community buy-in and avoid imposing developments that may not resonate with local residents.
The agency also explored the potential for a small area study that would consider both localized neighborhood needs and broader city priorities. This dual focus is seen as essential for creating a cohesive vision that connects different parts of Morgantown, particularly between downtown and the Greenmont area. Members acknowledged the necessity of understanding the costs and timelines associated with such studies, indicating a willingness to allocate funds from the agency's budget if needed.
In addition to housing discussions, the meeting included plans for ongoing collaboration with other land reuse agencies across the state. Members recognized the value of sharing insights and strategies with peers in cities like Charleston and Huntington, which could enhance Morgantown's approach to urban renewal and land reuse.
As the agency moves forward, the emphasis remains on community engagement and aligning housing initiatives with the broader goals of the city. The next steps will involve gathering more community feedback and exploring funding options to support these essential planning efforts. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to play a significant role in shaping Morgantown's housing landscape in the coming years.
During the discussions, members expressed a desire to ensure that any housing developments reflect the interests and needs of residents. One member highlighted the strategy of identifying a single project that excites the community, suggesting that the ongoing park project could serve as a model for future initiatives. This approach aims to foster community buy-in and avoid imposing developments that may not resonate with local residents.
The agency also explored the potential for a small area study that would consider both localized neighborhood needs and broader city priorities. This dual focus is seen as essential for creating a cohesive vision that connects different parts of Morgantown, particularly between downtown and the Greenmont area. Members acknowledged the necessity of understanding the costs and timelines associated with such studies, indicating a willingness to allocate funds from the agency's budget if needed.
In addition to housing discussions, the meeting included plans for ongoing collaboration with other land reuse agencies across the state. Members recognized the value of sharing insights and strategies with peers in cities like Charleston and Huntington, which could enhance Morgantown's approach to urban renewal and land reuse.
As the agency moves forward, the emphasis remains on community engagement and aligning housing initiatives with the broader goals of the city. The next steps will involve gathering more community feedback and exploring funding options to support these essential planning efforts. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to play a significant role in shaping Morgantown's housing landscape in the coming years.
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