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Commissionors advance inventory idea for underutilized storefronts; riverfront concept remains preliminary
Summary
Commissioners discussed an initial inventory approach for underutilized storefronts and previewed a conceptual riverfront framework showing mixed‑use development, hotel nodes and possible cruise‑line access; staff cautioned the renderings are exploratory, not final approvals.
A planning commissioner summarized work to inventory underutilized storefronts as an initial step toward targeted downtown revitalization. The proposed inventory would capture business name, building owner, years of ownership and other key indicators; commissioners discussed phasing the effort and starting with a Main Street pilot to manage staff time.
Separately, staff shared a conceptual, preliminary riverfront framework plan (non‑final imagery) that shows a north‑to‑south transition from more intense commercial uses toward residential and senior living, pedestrian shoreline access, and a hotel node that could support cruise‑line calls. Staff stressed the concept is preliminary, that parking and infrastructure remain unresolved, and that the presentation was intended to spark discussion rather than signal any formal approval. One staff speaker said the conceptual footprint suggested roughly 200 mixed living units in that iteration, but cautioned the image is illustrative and not a development approval.
Commissioners suggested phased, targeted effort for the storefront inventory and careful public messaging to avoid raising unwarranted expectations about the riverfront concept. Staff said they will follow up on inventory methods and report back with a proposed scope and timeline.
