City of Anderson draft comprehensive plan released

The City of Anderson has released a draft comprehensive plan as part of Plan This City, the city's initiative to develop a new comprehensive plan and Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to better manage growth and address community needs.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DRAFT FROM THE CITY'S WEBSITE

A comprehensive plan is the visionary tool that guides future development and redevelopment over the next decade, while a UDO actually implements the vision through zoning and land management regulations. Although the recommendations included in the comprehensive plan are not legally binding, the plan sets the stage for priorities and projects to come.

Here are a few highlights from the City of Anderson's draft comp plan

• Zoning and development: The plan recommends updating zoning codes to prioritize projects — such as missing middle housing — that promote higher-density, walkable communities. This ensures the city will be in a better position to meet the needs of a growing community.
   
• Transportation and mobility: Wish Anderson was more walkable? This plan supports walkability by encouraging land development patterns that enhance connectivity, which helps give users of all ages and abilities more options for mobility and transportation. 
   
• Economic development: In addition to encouraging mixed-use development near commercial centers, the plan recommends prioritizing the development of pedestrian-oriented streets featuring connected sidewalks and trails.
   
• Natural resources: Calling all park lovers! The plan recommends that the city strategically acquire land to develop neighborhood and mini parks in areas where community parks are not in walking distance.

How you can get involved

Comprehensive plans should be a true reflection of community needs and priorities, so it is incredibly important that your voice is heard as we near adoption!

Upcoming ways to engage in the process:

• Drop-in at a "Plan This City" open house (102 N Murray Ave, Anderson, SC 29625)
  • Wednesday, February 19 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm
  • Thursday, February 20 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
     
• Submit comments, questions, or concerns on the draft
   
• Speak at the public hearing before the planning commission on Thursday, February 20 at 6:00 PM (401 S Main St, Anderson, SC 29624)
   
• Join Upstate Forever's Anderson Land Planning & Policy Updates email list to receive updates on opportunities to engage with the Plan This City initiative