On October 18, 2019, a group of eight real estate and land use experts representing the Urban Land Institute (ULI)’s Advisory Services Program presented recommendations for parks and open spaces in DowntownFTL. The DDA sponsored the ULI panel as a way to bring objective perspective and ideas to our community regarding enhancements to our public realm.

Over the course of a week, the panelists toured DowntownFTL by foot and trolley, interviewed more than 80 community stakeholders, and spent two days synthesizing input to develop their recommendations which were presented to a large audience of civic leaders, residents and interested parties.

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Their recommendations boiled down to six key conclusions:

• There is potential for existing public land to augment Downtown’s public realm.

• New and remodeled parks should include climate-adaptive components, demonstrated at Huizenga Plaza.

• A pedestrian and bike network should be initiated.

• There should be a public manager and engagement process for allocating the City’s Parks Bond funds.

• Additional resources should be identified to supplement to the City’s Parks Bond for acquisition of additional open space.

• A public/private partnership is proposed to manage and fully activate Downtown’s public realm.

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The panel's recommendations are included in the final report. The DDA will be meeting with Downtown partners to get feedback on the recommendations and see where there are opportunities to move any forward. Please contact our office if you have any questions or would like more information.