Earlier this spring, we asked for community input as part of our “Downtown Roadmap” planning initiative, and your voices were heard. After engaging in meaningful discussions and shaping a vision for downtown Hattiesburg, we’re now ready to share the results with you.
Join us as we unveil the transformative strategies and goals of the Roadmap Vision Plan, guiding the next steps in downtown’s evolution.
Strategic Vision for Downtown Hattiesburg: The Downtown Roadmap
The Downtown Roadmap for Hattiesburg is a strategic guide developed to enhance downtown economic development and physical revitalization efforts. Created by experts with experience in over 800 Main Street communities, the Roadmap fills a gap between traditional planning services by combining a rapid community assessment with immediate, actionable deliverables. Conducted over three days, the process included stakeholder input and produced a “Visual Strategic Plan” to drive future downtown projects and initiatives. This innovative approach ensures that Hattiesburg’s downtown development is both thoughtful and efficient.
UNLOCKING THE MARKET
A comprehensive market assessment of downtown Hattiesburg was conducted to guide strategic investments in infrastructure, beautification, and revitalization. This analysis, centered on retail dynamics, utilized surveys, drive-time data, interviews, and market statistics to gain insights into the local economic landscape. The findings offer an executive summary, key statistics, and targeted recommendations for retail retention and recruitment.
CRAFTING THE MESSAGE
Highlights the importance of a cohesive branding system and consistent messaging to enhance downtown’s appeal and solidify its identity in the minds of potential consumers.
MAKING THE PLACE
Offers a vision for balancing this growth while preserving downtown’s historic character. Recommendations focus on optimizing buildings, streetscapes, parks, and parking to ensure downtown remains the preferred destination for residents and visitors.
WORKING THE PLAN
Partnerships are key to successful downtown revitalization. Without collaboration between public and private sectors, even the best plans may falter. The City of Hattiesburg, Downtown Hattiesburg Association, and its citizens have shown strong commitment to partnership during the Downtown Roadmap process. With this roadmap and unified support, downtown Hattiesburg is poised for transformative success.