The Center City 2040 Vision Plan process began in the late summer of 2019. The planning process is organized in five phases (as explained below), and by March 2020, significant progress on the plan had been made through Phase II and work on Phase III had begun.

However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the decision was made to take a step back, regroup and reflect on the impact this new reality would have on the growth and development of a post-COVID Center City.

And, following the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and so many others…it was imperative to determine how the challenges and realities of systemic racism and injustice could be also addressed by the plan.

So, the Project Team paused and adjusted the process to re-focus, re-engage and take the pulse of the community and stakeholders….to do some more listening….and then, to incorporate what they heard and learned into the plan recommendations.

Revised Planning Process

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Phase I:  Visioning      

Discover the community’s vision for Center City growth and development for the next 20 years. By participating in a kick-off workshop held at Camp North End and by attending pop-up workshops at festivals and events, the community and Steering Committee will identify issues and contribute ideas for their vision.

Phase II:  Ideas, Opportunities and Strategies

Based on community values and input, generate and refine ideas for long term Center City growth and development. Advance, refine, and document the ideas, opportunities, and strategies into a set of policies, projects, and programs that will comprise the Plan Framework.

Phase III:  DRAFT Recommendations

Develop draft plan recommendations for review by stakeholders and the community at large.

Phase IV:  DRAFT Plan

Create a draft plan that combines the overall vision and broader Center City strategy supported by maps, photos, sketches, and illustrations that convey the development concept for Center City. This draft plan will be reviewed by the community and key stakeholders.

Phase V:  Final Plan & Adoption

Produce a final draft plan incorporating feedback and comments from a review of the initial draft by the community and key stakeholders.  Present a final plan to relevant public bodies including the Charlotte City Council and Board of County Commissioners for review and adoption.