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Effingham's draft comp-plan map emphasizes mixed-use corridors, downtown expansion and implementation steps
Summary
Planners presented a proposed future land-use map that adds mixed‑use zones and more agricultural designation on the periphery; attendees urged the plan to better reflect tourism assets and corridor funding strategies and were asked to review the implementation chapter before the planning commission hearing.
Presenter (S6) and the moderator (S1) walked through the existing and proposed future land‑use maps, showing where the plan moves agricultural land to preserve rural areas and identifies mixed‑use and business‑park corridors to encourage redevelopment and more housing options.
Staff explained residential density categories (low to moderate, moderate to high) and said the intent is to remain flexible so the city can respond to parcel-level proposals and future market conditions. The plan highlights corridors such as South Banker Street and the Jefferson Avenue corridor and recommends possible adjustments to zoning (for example, a B‑3A option with different parking or design standards) to support downtown expansion and mixed-use redevelopment.
Participants asked for clearer tourism language: the convention center and major tournaments generate thousands of overnight stays and should be more prominent in the plan. Attendees also emphasized corridor funding tools already in use (TIF, business districts, enterprise zones) and recommended that implementation tables clearly identify funding sources and 'champions' (the responsible boards or departments) for each action.
The meeting closed after a motion to adjourn carried; staff will incorporate feedback and prepare the plan for the upcoming public hearing process.
