Envision Youngsville - Town of Youngsville, NC
Transcription
Envision Youngsville - Town of Youngsville, NC
ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE “Just because something has always been this way doesn’t mean it should stay that way. Growth and prosperity can be achieved, while still retaining the small town charm.” Quote from community survey 1 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Town of Youngsville faces many challenges to accomplish the goal of revitalizing its downtown, which are outlined in this report. These include the following: There is a high vacancy rate, and many buildings are in poor condition. (See “Downtown Business/Economic Development”, beginning on page 9.) Pedestrian accessibility is uneven along Main Street, and bicycle safety is a concern. (See “Pedestrian/Bicycle Accessibility”, beginning on page 10.) Traffic is significant and potentially counterproductive to revitalization efforts. (See “Traffic”, beginning on page 11.) A unified design and public amenities are lacking along Main Street. (see “Streetscaping”, beginning on page 13.) While these challenges may appear daunting, the report’s authors found a lot to suggest that the town is in a good position to focus on downtown revitalization. There was significant enthusiasm for the idea among town residents (both long-time residents and newer ones), as expressed at the “Envision Youngsville” community meeting and through one-on-one interviews. The town’s needs are on the radar of a number of regional government agencies, charged with helping the area with its planning needs. The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO), for example, is in the process of working on design concepts to improve traffic conditions in downtown. The town itself has hired a part-time professional planner, who is helping the town both update neglected ordinances and develop a long-range plan, of which downtown will be a part. Vital to the success of downtown revitalization will be a strong organizing body, to coordinate myriad interests, to prioritize project goals, and to move the project forward. The organizing body is to be made up of community members representing a diverse cross section of the community, who can leverage diverse skills as well as provide diverse perspectives to the revitalization effort. Priority recommendations are made for short-term and achievable steps, related to the coordination of existing efforts, to the development of the organizing body, and to continuing to engage the community at large in the effort (page 14). A template for a suggested action plan, with long-term steps, is also provided (page 17). 2 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Table of Contents INTRODUCTION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................................... 4 STUDY TEAM BACKGROUND .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 PROCESS ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis Downtown Youngsville .......................................................................................... 7 GOALS AND KEY ISSUES ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 9 Downtown Business/Economic Development........................................................................................................................................................... 9 Pedestrian/Bicycle Accessibility ............................................................................................................................................................................... 10 Traffic ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Streetscaping ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 NEXT STEPS .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 14 Priority Recommendations ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Suggested Action Plan.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 17 APPENDIX ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21 A - STREETSCAPE BEST PRACTICES ........................................................................................................................................................................... 21 B - LIST OF POTENTIAL RESOURCES ......................................................................................................................................................................... 26 C - LIST OF THOSE INTERVIEWED FOR THIS REPORT ............................................................................................................................................... 29 D - COMMUNITY FEEDBACK..................................................................................................................................................................................... 30 E - COMMUNITY SURVEY ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 33 F - MAP OF DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES, WITH VACANCIES (AS OF JULY, 2013)....................................................................................................... 39 G - YOUNGSVILLE AREA RING REPORT ANALYSIS .................................................................................................................................................... 41 H - INFLOW/OUTFLOW DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS .................................................................................................................................................. 47 I - YOUNGSVILLE TRAFFIC COUNT ............................................................................................................................................................................ 48 3 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT INTRODUCTION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Town of Youngsville engaged two graduate students, Eric Breit and Robert Looysen, to develop a plan for the revitalization of its downtown. The work took place over a two month period, in June and July, 2013. Downtown, as define for this work, was the .3 mile length of Main Street, between College Street and Cross Street in Youngsville, North Carolina. The town requested the students (study team) to do the following: fact finding for viable businesses and strategy for downtown revitalization; develop model for downtown improvement; prioritize choices, as related to impact, cost, and risk; survey community; recommend strategies; develop action plan, with implementation dates and resource allocation; and identify sources of funds to implement plan. The purpose of this document is to help provide and prioritize development plans for Downtown Youngsville, through a summary of the findings during the project, along with a suggested set of action steps. The study team would like to thank the following for their support of this project. Without their significant involvement, commitment of time, and words of advice, this work would not have been possible. Cat Redd, Commissioner, Town of Youngsville Richie Duncan, Existing Industry Coordinator, Franklin County Bill Tatum, Manager, Town of Youngsville The study team would also like to thank all of the residents and business owners of Youngsville whose have taken the time to provide their insights about the town. 4 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT STUDY TEAM BACKGROUND Eric Breit is a graduate student, pursuing a Master’s of City and Regional Planning from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Prior to graduate school, Eric worked for twelve years in community development and nonprofit management. From 1999 to 2006, he was program manager for the Nonprofit Finance Fund, a national community development financial institution, based in New York City. From 2006 to 2011, he was development director for Housing for New Hope, a homeless service provider and housing developer serving Durham and Orange Counties. Robert Looysen is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s of Business and Administration from North Carolina State University. Prior to graduate school Robert worked in the biotechnology industry in manufacturing at GlaxoSmithKline from 2006 to 2008, and as a process engineer biotechnology consultant with ADVENT Engineering Services Inc. from 2008 to 2011. While working as a consultant, he was responsible for process equipment and utility qualification, process automation qualification, and quality systems review projects for multiple companies in the biotechnology industry. 5 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT PROCESS The work of the study team involved a combination of demographic and economic research, in person interviews with community leaders and stakeholders, in person and phone interviews with downtown planning experts and governmental support agencies from throughout the region and state, and research on downtown revitalization best practices. This included academic research through reading case studies regarding downtown economic development in rural towns. Early on, the study team organized its work around the planning model knows as the Main Street Four-Point Approach, which is favored by the North Carolina Main Street Program, a program of the North Carolina Department of Commerce. This report reflects this approach. (For more information about the Main Street Four-Point Approach, please see: http://www.nccommerce.com/cd/urban-development/main-street-program) Community input was key to the study team’s planning process. In addition to its one-on-one interviews, the study team organized a community visioning meeting, Envision Youngsville, which took place June 27, and which was attended by more than forty residents and local and county officials. 6 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis Downtown Youngsville Key to an understanding of what is possible in downtown Youngsville is an understanding of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This was compiled based on interviews with community stakeholders, a review of community input provided at the Envision Youngsville meeting, the community survey, and personal observations of study team. Downtown Youngsville Strengths Demonstrated community interest in revitalization of downtown Long-term and committed residents with a stake in the community Opportunities are available, with high percentage of downtown real estate available for rent and purchase Town is home to a number of regular events (youth sports leagues and churches) that attract a high volume of people from outside of town Regional interest in biking through Youngsville Town needs are attracting the attention of regional governmental support agencies County interest in the project Town's location: population growth coming from Wake County/Triangle Area Strong infrastructure in town, developed for industrial areas Youngsville is a low crime area More people commute into town than away from town for work Downtown Youngsville Weaknesses No official revitalization organizational group nor strategic plan in place Volunteer support historically lacking Lack of means of communication of downtown-related development activities Large community organizations haven't shown interest in supporting the effort (Faith Baptist Church) Some buildings are in poor condition Sidewalks are not level Traffic issues along Main Street (particularly truck traffic), impacting quality of life along this corridor, with no immediate solution possible Lack of commercial businesses on Main Street to draw people/business, particularly businesses with evening hours Events are not held on or near Main Street Non-residents are unaware of what Youngsville can offer, and many simply use Main Street as a thoroughfare, without considering stopping High building vacancy rate on Main Street 7 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Downtown Youngsville Opportunities Use of cash grants (a percent of the tax valuation of the investment in equipment, machinery, property and building) to draw businesses to and to repair vacant buildings Engaged community members will patronize new businesses Arts council grants for street beautification Urban forestry grants for streetscaping initiatives Revised and new town policies can drive building maintenance and area improvement Bike tourism may bring in business to downtown Opportunity to serve the youth sports that are active in the community Commitment of town to hire planning consultant (from N*Focus) to provide expertise for downtown policies Vacant lots on Main Street offer opportunity for development New growth of housing developments within three miles of downtown Youngsville Attention to traffic and truck concerns and pedestrian and bicycle accessibility from CAMPO and the county could result in measurable improvements in Main Street The current collaborative environment between Youngsville and Wake Forest High vacancy rate and relative scale suggests that big improvements can be made Downtown Youngsville Threats Cannibalization of business from similar businesses in the surrounding area Organizational group never materializes Small scale of community results in burnout and loss of momentum of community members Long-term aspects of the project lessens community engagement due to time-frame Long term sustainability for funding Building facades may yet detract from drawing new business Main Street is not easily walkable Bypass may lessen the amount of people going downtown Possible economic downturn may slow growth Decrease in availability of state funded resources 8 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT spruce up their exteriors by fixing broken windows and keeping junk out of view through their front windows.” o From stakeholder interviews: “Youngsville has changed. The buildings haven’t.” GOALS AND KEY ISSUES Four development aspects were identified through the downtown revitalization project undertaken by the study team. These aspects are emphasized for priority based on observations from the study team; from input from community members provided at the meeting in June 2013, and through a mailed survey in December 2012; and from information learned from interviews with community stakeholders and downtown planning experts. Downtown Business/Economic Development Regarding types of businesses desired on Main Street, the most requested from Youngsville residents were restaurants and attractions open in the evenings, and places that act as destinations. o From community survey: “We have to make it more inviting and keep people wanting to come Goals To draw businesses that will be viable and successful to Youngsville’s Main Street. To promote the Main Street business district as a cultural and retail center for the Town of Youngsville. Key Issues According to the U.S. Census, 98 percent of people employed in Youngsville live outside of town, suggesting significant opportunities to capitalize on workday commercial business. (See appendices G and H for more information about commuting, demographic, and spending patterns in the town.) Currently, the downtown is characterized by vacancy and many buildings in poor condition. o From community survey: “I would like to see some of the downtown businesses made to Main Street, Youngsville, looking east, with dilapidated building exterior 9 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT and visit, not just drive through. I have been here five years, and if it wasn’t for the baseball, I wouldn’t know anything about the town.” o From stakeholder interview: “People will travel for good food and eateries.” At the same time, the study team cautions against believing in the “build it and they will come” strategy. As one stakeholder commented, “People must be realistic about what businesses will move into downtown Youngsville…the level of expectation should be low.” A common assumption made related to the promotion of downtown for economic development purposes is that having more events will attract more people to the area. This strategy should be examined closely. As one downtown planning expert said, “I do not recommend having more than one event per season.” Creative financial instruments, such as cash grants, are becoming increasingly popular among jurisdictions interested in attracting businesses. Franklin County offers such incentives. At the community meeting, one resident suggested, “Give $200 tax breaks to those who help to start businesses and watch it multiply.” This strategy should be examined closely, before being committed to. As one downtown planning expert said, “It isn’t the tax breaks that will bring prospective businesses owners in. The building has to make money.” (The following link has more information about Franklin County’s incentive policy: files.www.franklincountync.us/services/edc/taxes-andincentives/FRANKLIN_COUNTY_INCENTIVE_Marketing _sheet_may_2012.pdf). Pedestrian/Bicycle Accessibility Goals To promote accessibility via alternative sources of transportation to Main Street. To make Main Street an enjoyable, safe, and walkable area of Youngsville. Key Issues Currently, there are no pedestrian cross walks across Main Street, between College Street and Cross Street; and much of Main Street along this stretch lacks sidewalks on both sides. Sidewalks that do exist are impacted by rough terrain, elevation changes, and traffic signage that obstructs clear progress and accessibility for all. Many at the community meeting expressed concerns about pedestrian safety. In line with the broader societal desire for more exercise, residents expressed a desire to walk more in town—for exercise and to take their children to school—but an unwillingness to do so for fear of it being unsafe. This was particularly the case in the walk to the elementary school from the downtown area, where the lack of sidewalks, lack of cross walks, and uneven terrain were cited as barriers 10 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT to safe pedestrian access for parents and children. (More information related to safe pedestrian access to schools can be found at Safe Routes to Schools, a national resource on the topic: www.saferoutesinfo.org.) Bicycle accessibility was also cited by many at the community meeting as very important. There were comments about how the area, broadly, was an increasingly popular destination for weekend cyclists and questions as to how Youngsville could promote itself as a safe destination for these riders. There was also surprise among residents upon learning that Main Street through Youngsville is part of the state’s 700 mile Mountains to Sea bike trail (NC bike route 2). According to a planning consultant with Stantec Consulting, 20 percent of traffic on Main Street is truck traffic. (The average truck traffic on interstates is 13 percent.) The study team observed a large truck (more than two axils) an average of every ninety seconds, over two thirty minute periods during non-peak travel times. Traffic Goals To address issues resulting from Highway 96/Main Street being a primary route for commercial and commuting vehicles. To provide a traffic pattern that is safe for patrons of Main Street businesses, and allows for vehicle accessibility to Main Street businesses. Key Issues According to a 2009 traffic count, 11,000 vehicles travel through downtown Youngsville on Main Street each day. (See map of Youngsville traffic count in Appendix I of this report.) Main Street, Youngsville, looking west, showing barriers to pedestrian accessibility at the intersection with Cross Street 11 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT The significance of the traffic, particularly the truck traffic, on Main Street, made one town official wonder whether this issue supersedes all others. “The truck traffic could be a deal breaker.” A consistent theme heard from residents at the community meeting was the need for more parking and a concern that a lack of parking and parking accessibility was preventing drivers from stopping in downtown. o From the community survey: “I would go downtown more if there was better parking. It’s so busy and confusing that I hate stopping.” While a seemingly obvious solution, the idea of a bypass is not without its critics. (For a critique of the bypass strategy, see “Beyond the Bypass,” a report written by the Southern Environmental Law Center (www.southernenvironment.org/uploads/publications /NC_Rural_Report_LR_F.pdf).) It should also be noted that a by-pass would not likely be built for at least thirty years, so alternative solutions will need to be found. (Good information about planning efforts related to traffic in the area can be found at the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Northeast Area Study website: www.neareastudy.com.) The study team recommends that this assumption be studied further, before committing resources to increase the number of public parking spaces. As one downtown planning expert said, “Very often in downtown planning, parking is a red herring.” The most common solution suggested by residents and stakeholders to the traffic on Main Street was the development of a by-pass around downtown Youngsville. o From the community survey: “The traffic through Main Street and Winston Street is extremely heavy. A Rt 96 bypass is much needed to avert the big, loud trucks.” Main Street, Youngsville, looking east, with a tractor trailer truck making the left turn from Cross Street 12 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT used for parking, there is value in considering how the town’s open spaces could be better utilized to attract more business downtown. Streetscaping Goals To provide an aesthetic environment to draw people to patronize Main Street businesses, and make Main Street a more walkable area. To improve the quality of public spaces and amenities downtown. Key Issues There is only a single public garbage can and no recycling bins along Main Street, between College Street and Cross Street. One professional planner noted that, “design is the most overlooked, yet most important, aspect of downtown revitalization.” From the community survey: o “Get a bigger park made so children will have a place to enjoy in the town and meet new friends.” o “This town needs benches on its sidewalks.” A common theme heard at the community meeting was that efforts made to date (the sidewalk pavers and large planters were frequently cited) were not undertaken in a comprehensively planned way. As one downtown planning expert put it, “New sidewalks alone do not bring in folks.” The planters are a reminder that expectations and responsibilities of community partners need to be clearly articulated and understood. One town official noted that there was miscommunication with a North Carolina State University group as to who was responsible for the ongoing upkeep of the planters. The study team notes the potential made available by the large percentage of open space along Main Street. While much of this is privately owned and currently Garbage can and steps along sidewalk, Main Street, Youngsville 13 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT NEXT STEPS Next steps related to downtown planning include priority recommendations and a suggested action plan. Priority recommendations are recommended to commence immediately and are suggested to be accomplished in the next six months. Regarding the action plan, the study team has provided a template with suggested actions to take. The study team believes, though, that a more concrete action plan—with timeframes mapped out—should be developed by the organizing body, after its formation. A better understanding of organizational capacity and resource allocation will be known at that time. This will also allow the organizing body to establish priorities and to have greater ownership over the process. As one community stakeholder said, “Do not dictate in advance what the committee should do. They need to own it first.” Priority Recommendations 1) Attend to immediate opportunities with CAMPO and its design proposal for Main Street, through the Northeast Area Study, and with Alta, and the planning grant application due to NCDOT in December, 2013. 2) Establish an organizing body made up of a cross-section of the community to work in partnership with the town to help drive the downtown revitalization effort. The study team heard multiple times, from every downtown planning expert interviewed, that, “the key ingredient to a successful downtown turnaround is to have an organization in place, to create and carry out the implementation plan.” Initially, this body should be considered a steering committee, comprised of nine to fifteen representatives. Committee members should be chosen by the town, and work in conjunction with the town’s planning board on downtown revitalization issues. The committee should be comprised of a mix of business leaders and concerned citizens. One downtown planning expert said, “I used to believe that these committees should be made solely of community stakeholders and business leaders. I have come around to the value of ordinary, concerned residents being on the committee, too.” The organizing body should be realistic with the planning timeframe and the ongoing commitment of people’s time and energy. It took three years for one downtown planning expert to renovate his first facade. Be mindful that committee members may rotate off and new ones may be needed. The value of such a downtown planning organizing body is reflected by the comments of a woman from Shelby, who participated in that town’s process, and who said that it 14 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT provided a feeling that they were in control of their own destiny. (A potentially helpful example of a recommended organizational structure for another town, Pinehurst, can be found at: www.ncdda.org/wpcontent/uploads/2011/12/NCDDA-Pinehurst-FinalReport.pdf, beginning on page nine.) 3) Ensure that the responsibilities of this organizing body be clearly articulated, with tasks related to meeting agendas, work to be accomplished, and communication to the town and to the community at large being clearly defined and understood by all committee members. Have written “job descriptions,” to prospective committee members know what they are committing to and the time commitment required. The relationship between the organizing body and the town government needs to be made explicit. The study team heard various things from downtown planning experts regarding the role of the town in the committee. One said, “The town needs to staff it.” Another said, “The structure is led out of town hall.” It is possible that the organizing body’s tie to the town can be made through a revamped planning board, charged with playing a greater role in forward planning. At the same time, a clear distinction needs to be made with the town planning board. As one downtown planning expert said, “Downtown’s plan is not necessarily the town’s plan. There could be conflicts.” 4) Establish relationship with existing 501c3 nonprofit organization, which could act as fiduciary agent, to provide opportunities for private grant opportunities. This could be the Youngsville Area Business Association or the county’s Committee of 100. 5) The study team recommends that the organizing body consider hiring a follow-up short-term downtown planning consulting team, to further develop recommendations made in this report, to assist with the implementation of the organizing body moving forward, and to provide tactical next steps. North Carolina Downtown Development Association could provide guidance with this. While on the surface duplicative of the study teams work and appearing unnecessary, with the hiring of N*Focus, this recommendation is made to ensure that momentum continues and that expertise is in place to support the organizing body. The cost of such work could range from $3,000 to $5,000. It is recommended that the organizing body solicit private funds from the community for this work and not rely on town funding. Based on an intuitive assessment of fundraising capacity and enthusiasm, this is highly possible. It also will bring more community ownership over the process, and shift the expectation away from the feeling that it is Town government’s responsibility. It also begins to plant the seeds for the inevitable need to raise 15 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT private financial support for downtown development efforts. A number of downtown planning experts shared that, in the end, downtown successes come from private investment and not government or foundation support. b) After updating the community, encourage public input into the revitalization efforts by giving an opportunity to give opinions regarding the next steps in the revitalization effort. 6) The organizing body needs to clearly define the boundaries of “downtown.” For this report, downtown was defined as Main Street, between College Street and Cross Street. Improvements should be consistent along the defined downtown area, however “downtown” is defined. c) Schedule volunteer work days for civic and church groups and businesses, to clean up Main Street and to promote active participation in the downtown revitalization effort. This could be accomplished at minimal cost and be led, possibly, by the Kiwanis Club. Hold a downtown revitalization celebration (which could become an annual update event), highlighting a symbolic early improvement, such as bench or tree. 7) Consider starting a “snow ball effect” by contacting one property owner downtown with the proposition that they would commit to improving their property if the design work was done for them. As one downtown planning expert put it, “Small town downtown revitalization often is accomplished one building at a time.” The North Carolina Small Town Main Street program has pro bono design services for towns for this purpose, even ones not enrolled in the formal Small Town program. 8) To generate and maintain momentum within the community at large: d) Invite guest speakers from outside the community— town managers, government officials, city planners— to help educate and encourage Youngsville residents as to what works and what does not, in terms of downtown revitalization. This will encourage local participation in the process. It will also expose Youngsville and all of its potential to many from the outside, who might not know about it a) Create a means of updating the community as to the ongoing developments of the planning process. This could be accomplished by using the town website or a newly created list serve. 16 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Suggested Action Plan Downtown Business/Economic Development Plan Strategies/Recommendation 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.7 1.8 1.9 Develop a Downtown Development Plan prioritizing identified projects (Short-term and Long-term goals). Work in conjunction with Franklin County to determine what businesses might be successful. Draw identified businesses to Youngsville's Main Street, through creating and promoting local economic development incentives, and coordinate with county and state agencies to recruit businesses. Develop and implement façade grant program or property value reimbursement plan to improve Main Street buildings. Work in conjunction with YABA to determine what role they can play in marketing downtown businesses and to coordinate event activities downtown. Market Youngsville and its downtown area to potential businesses and investors - create a marketing and recruitment package and web site. Continue to implement land use policies and development regulations that are consistent with targeted economic development areas Resources Timeframe Steering committee NC Small Town Main Street NC Downtown Development Association NC Department of Community Assistance NC STEPS Franklin County Economic Development Office Youngsville Area Business Association (YABA) Franklin County Economic Development Office Steering Committee YABA YABA Steering Committee Town of Youngsville 17 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT 1.10 1.11 1.12 Strategies/Recommendation Protect and promote the historic character of the town through the designation of Historic Buildings along Main Street, and compile a historic resources inventory. Perform building assessments for preparation for discussion with potential new businesses (Repairs Needed, Estimated Investment Required to Improve Building) Provide information to small business and potential start-ups on business financing options (small business loans) and resources Resources Timeframe Town of Youngsville Town of Youngsville Pedestrian/Bicycle Accessibility Plan 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 Strategies/Recommendation Work with ALTA to submit an application for a NCDOT bicycle and pedestrian planning grant. Develop a comprehensive plan that identifies the community needs for bicycle and pedestrian accessibility. Implement bicycle and pedestrian plan. Work with Wake Forest on bicycle path extension into Youngsville. Communicate with local schools regarding parent involvement in pedestrian accessibility planning efforts. Resources Timeframe ALTA Town of Youngsville ALTA CAMPO Steering Committee Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce Town of Youngsville Parent/Teacher Association 18 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT 2.6 Strategies/Recommendation Coordinate with other town in region to consider joint promotions directed at bicyclists and others using the area for recreational purposes. Resources Timeframe Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce Traffic Plan 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Strategies/Recommendation Partner with CAMPO to further develop the proposed bypass plan and other possible solutions for traffic congestion on Main Street Discuss possibility of roundabouts and sidewalk bulb-outs to slow or redirect traffic from Main Street Look into potential new parking areas off Main Street using the downtown business inventory map Assist in traffic research by exploring creative ways to get at the origins and destinations of truck traffic. Resources Timeframe CAMPO CAMPO CAMPO CAMPO Steering Committee 19 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Streetscaping Plan Strategies/Recommendation 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 4.10 Partner with CAMPO and Stantec consulting on streetscape design. Apply for Urban Forestry Grant for urban forestry initiative funds. Develop a comprehensive plan that identifies the possibility for pocket parks and open spaces on Main Street Partner with "Trees Across Raleigh" to obtain help with a pocket park design and tree planting. Plant trees and other street-scape features based off of the identified design elements. Identify funds and implement streetscape design. Improve the image of Youngsville through landscaping and signage ordinances in order to be a desirable business location. Identify potential public spaces (Fountains, Community Gardens, etc.). Promote public education and awareness on community image issues, including property maintenance, littering, and dumping. Enforce applicable property maintenance regulations and the minimum housing code. Resources Timeframe Steering Committee CAMPO Stantec Consuting Urban and Community Forestry Program Steering Committee NC Small Town Main Street Trees Across Raleigh Trees Across Raleigh Steering Committee Town of Youngsville YABA Steering Committee Steering Committee YABA Town of Youngsville 20 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT APPENDIX A - STREETSCAPE BEST PRACTICES Reason for Streetscapes: Streetscaping is an important aspect of downtown revitalization because if properly designed it creates the environment for a public place to walk and gather. This is achieved by creating a balance for the needs of pedestrians, bicycles, and vehicles. The elements used to create this balance include providing attractive pedestrian streetscapes, traffic calming, attractive window displays, parking areas, building improvements, street furniture, signs, sidewalks, street lights, and landscaping. A positive impression of the commercial district can be conveyed through correct design. 21 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Streetscape Goals: (1) Goal 1: Achieve a consistent and coordinated look through streetscape elements such as: Sidewalks Streetlamps Traffic signals Street trees Public signage Benches Trash receptacles Use consistent materials, color, scale of elements, proportion of components, and architectural style. Goal 2: Establish a pedestrian orientation through use of distinctively designed crosswalks, narrower streets to naturally calm traffic and ease pedestrian crossing, and adequate sidewalk space to support high volume and possible outside seating. Goal 5: Create a place to linger: Street oases are located at major street corners and other significant locations. Seating and small tables can be used to encourage sociability. Large cast concrete planters with shade trees provide good places to sit. Integration of temporary artwork could provide visual interest in a social area. (2) Goal 6: Maximize streetscape value: (3) 1. Achieve economies of scale with consistent elements 2. Understand the costs of visible and non-visible elements to account for all costs 3. View as a long-term amenity, as such maintenance is a key element of streetscape design: “An unkempt planter can bring down an entire street just like an unkempt yard” 4. A maintenance agreement should be in place between the city and the property owners to ensure maintenance tasks and their associated costs are accounted for, and so there is not confusion about who is responsible for a given task. Goal 3: Facilitate continued private reinvestments through strategic public investments such as adequate parking or proper public landscaping. Goal 4: Ensure public involvement: Citizen involvement is fundamental to the development of a Streetscape Master Plan. Comments and feedback from residents and landowners should be taken seriously. This will result in a true sense of ownership by those who participate. 22 1 Urban Resource Group, Downtown Cary Streetscape Master Plan, http://www.townofcary.org/Assets/Planning+Department/Planning+Department+PDFs/Cary+Streetscape+Master+Plan.pdf 2 Elizabeth Conner, ARCADIS, Master Plan and Design Development: Integrated Landscape, Hardscape and Art, (September 2008) 3 Kansas City Downtown Streetscape Master Plan, http://ww4.kcmo.org/planning/downtown/streetscape/bestpractices.pdf ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Streetscape Elements: (1) 1. Landscape Trees and shrubs Tree Guards Paver-Grate Suspension System: For areas with existing building and narrow sidewalk width to maximize walking surface, the Paver-Grate system allows for the placement of pavers directly over the planting area, manufactured by Ironsmith. Planter Bowls, Pots & Urn 2. Sidewalks Ramps (ADA federal requirements) Signage: Bikes, Pedestrians, Consistent Business Signs Street Signs: Decorative 4” OD aluminum pole with finial, 9” x 36” street signs Enhanced Pedestrian Crossings: o Paved o Bulb-outs o Mid-block crossings Café Seating Bike Lanes (On-street) 23 1 Urban Resource Group, Downtown Cary Streetscape Master Plan, http://www.townofcary.org/Assets/Planning+Department/Planning+Department+PDFs/Cary+Streetscape+Master+Plan.pdf 3. Street Furniture Pedestrian Seating Planters Trash Receptacles Bike Racks Benches Public Art (invite participation of the Arts Commission) ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT 4. Lighting Street Light 35’ high street light pole Pedestrian Lighting: large lighting projects should pursue a “lighting district designation” 24 1 Urban Resource Group, Downtown Cary Streetscape Master Plan, http://www.townofcary.org/Assets/Planning+Department/Planning+Department+PDFs/Cary+Streetscape+Master+Plan.pdf ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Streetscape Element Maintenance: (1) 1. Landscape New trees and shrubs should be watered for the first two years until firmly established New trees and shrubs should be pruned to remove dead or damaged wood annually Mulch in planting beds should be maintained at a depth of 3” All planting beds and tree mulch beds should be weeded regularly Perennials and herbaceous shrubs should be pruned before the onset of new growth 2. Sidewalks Sidewalks should be regularly power washed Sidewalks should be sealed every 5 years Gum removal should occur regularly 3. Street Furniture All damaged glass, metal or stone elements should be replaced immediately Metal elements should be reviewed yearly and refinished as required All glass should be cleaned at least four times a year All graffiti should be removed promptly 4. Lighting All light outages should be repaired promptly Metal elements should be reviewed yearly and refinished as required 25 1 Kansas City Downtown Streetscape Master Plan, http://ww4.kcmo.org/planning/downtown/streetscape/bestpractices.pdf ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT B - LIST OF POTENTIAL RESOURCES Funder name and contact Area of interest/applicability to information Youngsville needs North Carolina Arts Council, Janie Wilson, [email protected], 919-807-6508 Urban & Community Forestry Grant Program Jennifer Rall U&CF Program Assistant 1616 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27606 Phone: 919-857-4849 Fax: 919-857-4805 Street Decoration near the railroad crossing Application process/restrictions Need to Apply through Franklin County Arts Council (the Designated County Partner (DCP) who administers the programs funds for Franklin County), 501(c )(3) organizations get preferred for subgrants, community organizations are third priority for grants Funding for organization responsible - Eligible for any unit of for Youngsville’s Urban Forest and local or state government, Community Understanding of Benefits or approved non-profit of Tree Cover - First-time municipal applicants seeking Tree City USA status are given priority for funding - Grants used to assist meeting requirements for TreeCity USA or implementing urban forestry programs Examples and sizes of relevant awards Franklin County Allotment 201112: $16,731 ($4,256 for Multicultural Art), Allotment must be matched dollar for dollar Application deadline Requires matching funds Grant cycle opens January 1 of each year $1,000 to $15,000 (>$15,000 possible) Applications due by March 31st at 5 pm Application Due First Business Day of March by 5 pm (online forms available mid-January) www.ncarts.org/elements/d ocs/DCP3_ 2010.pdf Projects begin Sept 1st and must be completed by August 31st the following year 26 Funder name and contact Area of interest/applicability to information Youngsville needs Application process/restrictions Franklin County Unrestricted Endowment Fund Funding for any project associated with enhancing the quality of community life. Katie Crumpler 919-256-6914 (direct) 4601 Six Forks Road, Suite 524 Raleigh, NC 27609 -Streetscaping - Bicycle Accessibility The Franklin County Unrestricted Endowment Fund enables the Franklin County Community Foundation to respond to changing community needs and to enhance the quality of community life within the county. NCDOT Enhancement Grant (Used for Street Scaping in Wake Forest) Projects on Main Street Contact NCDOT Pedestrian and Bicycle Accessibility NCDOT: Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Grant Projects Initiative ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Examples and Application deadline sizes of relevant awards Usually $250 to The 2013 grant application $500 period for the Franklin (Up to $980) County Community Foundation will be open from March 15, 2013 to April 30, 2013. Need to apply through NCDOT Not Given Need to apply through NCDOT Average: $27,000 http://www.nccommunityf oundation.org /page/franklin-applying-forgrants-40 On-going Issue Call for Proposals due September 5. Application Submission Deadline is December 5 at 5:00 pm. Contact NCDOT Helen Chaney 919.707-2608. 27 Funder name and contact Area of interest/applicability to information Youngsville needs Jandy Ammons Foundation, Gina Teague, Executive Director, gina@thejandyammonsfo undation.org, www.thejandyammonsfo undation.org The Jandy Ammons Foundation seeks to make grants to nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities where a significant volunteer base can be demonstrated to help implement project-driven initiatives. The Foundation intends to make grants to the following types of organizations and projects: Wildlife/park/hunting/conserv ation projects Educational projects/artistic installations Christian church mission endeavors Other organizations and projects within the scope of the Foundation's mission ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Examples and Application deadline sizes of relevant awards The Jandy Ammons 2013 was the See application Foundation requires a first year of process/restrictions Letter of Inquiry (LOI) on operation for or before Monday, July the foundation, 15, 2013, from with its first interested grant grants to be applicants. The awarded in the Foundation will issue fall. As a result, letters of invitation or no examples are denial to applicants on or available. before Monday, September 16, 2013. Application process/restrictions Gina emphasized in a phone conversation the importance that the grant request fund a “community project.” The foundation was started by Andy and Jan Ammons, developers based in Wake Forest. The study team learned that a number of Youngsville residents have connections to Andy and Jan. 28 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT C - LIST OF THOSE INTERVIEWED FOR THIS REPORT Community stakeholders: Name Janis Cyrus Sam Hardwick Neil Holden Joe Jones Wendy Jones Jim Moss Matthew Winslow Organization Youngsville Area Business Association Town of Youngsville Holden’s BBQ Covenant Trucking Covenant Trucking Winslow Custom Homes Title Executive Director Mayor President Vice President Community Member Community Member Local and regional planning experts: Name Sherry Adams Oliver Bass Mike Ciriello Bob Clark Jason Epley Scott Hammerbacher Art Jackson Scott Lane Bob Murphrey Shelby Powell Tammy Ray Mike Rutkowski Gina Teague Organization NC Small Town Main Street Office of Community Planning, Department of Community Affairs Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments N’ Focus NC Downtown Development Association Franklin County Title Coordinator, Western N.C. Chief Planner E-mail Address [email protected] [email protected] Planning Director Consultant Executive Director Planning Director [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] NC Rural Center, Small Towns Initiative J.S. Lane and Company NC Small Town Main Street Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) Town of Franklinton Stantec Consulting Jandy Ammons Foundation Director Consultant Coordinator, Eastern N.C. Senior Transportation Planner Town Manager Planning Associate Executive Director [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 29 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT D - COMMUNITY FEEDBACK Suggestions and comments made by the public at the Envision Youngsville community meeting, held June 27, 2013 Business needs Most popular business idea Restaurants Other ideas Incentives: give $200 tax breaks to those who help to start [businesses] and watch it multiply/tax breaks Artist Co-op/Art Gallery Martial Arts Studio Drug Store Dance Studio Sporting Goods Family Friendly Options Quilting Shop Music/Open-Mic Night/Karaoke Boutique (Clothing, Accessories, etc.) Designated Historic District High-End Antique Shop Hobby Shop/Music Store Used Bookstore/Coffee Shop Farmer's Market Gym Community Garden Small Theater (live performances/outdoor music) Senior Activity Center Florist Swimming School Yarn Shop Local grocery with butcher for custom cut of beef, etc. (like Moss Foods in Louisberg) Make Youngsville the Mayberry!! Antiques (more) and sit down night restaurants Most requested restaurant type Brewery/Pub with Bar Food Other types of restaurants requested Coffee Shop with Meeting Space (or Art Displays) Lunch/Dinner Sit Down Restaurant Bakery Coffee/Icecream Shop Chain Restaurant (Burger King, Taco Bell, Starbucks) Shorty's (Hot Dogs) Tea Room Bojangles (Out at the Food Lion Plaza) Eclectic Restaurants (something more upscale) 30 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Pedestrian and bicycle accessibility Traffic Ideas suggested more than once Bike trails/cross walks/pedestrian friendly Sidewalks/more sidewalks Publicize that Youngsville is on the Mountains to Sea trail Ideas suggested more than once More convenient parking lots, so you're not trying to parallel park in traffic Need a Bypass Other ideas Continuity through town, end to end Continue bike trail from Wake Forest Bike trails from neighborhoods More cycling/walking paths/greenways Community bike racks Additional parking lots My daughter wants bike lanes Parking for a greenway area Other ideas Redirect Big Trucks (Unspecified) Slow Traffic on Main St. Need Crosswalks Sign for Youngsville on Capital Blvd. Left Turn Lane and/or stoplight @ Tarboro Road and Cedar Creek Road Anti-bypass 3-Way stop sign on Winston St. & N. Cross St. Traffic Circle on Main Pedestrian Crossing at the Railroad Sidewalk to School from Main St. Left Turn Light at East Main going left on Cross St. Commuter Bus 31 Streetscaping and open space Ideas suggested more than once Historic lamp posts/decorative street lights Benches on Side Walks Coordinated landscape planning/cohesive looking landscaping Put signs on Capital pointing to Historic Youngsville -- from both directions Designated historic district Green spaces/community garden Barriers to pedestrian movement: traffic and no crosswalks!/Sidewalks and cross walks Other ideas Small Park Better town; limit entrance signs Updated town ordinances and master plan to include guidelines for building renovations and new construction Business signs perpendicular to building facades ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Outdoor theater for plays, concerts, etc. Downtown shops often look run down, abandoned. Empty shops can look clean, at least. It is hard to cross the road downtown. Kid friendly park areas that are well-publicized Two quick and easies: 1) cut off the old telegraph pole stumps in the RR right of way; and 2) have a trash can and recycle can in each of the towns four quadrants Underground utilities Provide information to property owners about grants to use in improving their properties. Need to keep buildings in good repair (painted), and improvements should be in keeping with the character of the buildings and surrounding properties Bump outs to create more space on sidewalks and to slow down cars turning into parking lots No more murals 32 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT E - COMMUNITY SURVEY Results from community survey, mailed to Youngsville residents in December, 2012 Question 1: # of Answers How would you rate Youngsville as place to live? Excellent Good 16 36 Question 2: Satisfied with overall quality of life # of Answers Question 3: # of Answers Question 4: # of Answers Question 5: # of Answers Fair 6 Poor 3 No Opinion 2 Strongly Disagree Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree 13 35 8 7 Neutral Somewhat Dissatisfied 20 10 Too Slow 16 No Opinion 15 How do you feel about growth in Youngsville? Somewhat Very Satisfied Satisfied 8 21 Over past 5 years, growth has been Too Fast 5 Just Right 29 How has rural character been affected by recent development? No Significant Positively Negatively Change 19 20 7 Very Dissatisfied 3 No Opinion 15 33 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Question 6: How often do you patronize business in downtown per month? More than 5 2-5 times 1 time 22 18 15 never 6 How would you rate the quality of services provided by Town? Excellent Good 19 23 Fair 13 Poor 3 No Opinion 3 # of Answers How would you rate the quality of Town government? Excellent Good 12 19 Fair 15 Poor 6 No Opinion 10 Question 9: As a resident, I can have an impact on community to make better place to live # of Answers Question 7: # of Answers Question 8: # of Answers Question 10: # of Answers Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree 9 24 20 3 3-5 years 8 5+ years 32 How many years have you lived in or around Youngsville? Less than 1 1 - 3 years 8 11 Strongly Disagree 2 34 Single most important part of Youngsville Most frequently given (six times) Small town feel Cited more than once People Police the security of living here / safe for children Low crime rate Clean and quiet the elementary school is the best part of Youngsville Quality of life Being close to church as well as businesses in the area Comfort, safe, friendly Downtown Cited once Hess gas station / Foodlion Market Growth The care I receive from the town and the warm friendly atmosphere it used to be the schools, but my kids are grown now It’s a friendly place to live. People that you don't know will speak to you or smile unlike other towns or cities like Raleigh or Cary Police, Fire, Rescue, Honest "so called" town leaders, a mayor that is worth a damn neighborhood Close proximity to stores Small place without much crime sweepstakes ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT keep as a safe bedroom community. Only add businesses to Industrial Park. Keep downtown area small Quaintness Location my neighborhood is quiet and safe. People are friendly. Town Hall employees are very helpful and courteous and provide good customer service. town friendliness - employees and people in general the history and keepting the charm but bring in the people to grow the local businesses not the huge companies for the USA as well conveniently located with very little traffic close proximity to other places that I need to go home privacy Three Things you would like the Town to increase emphasis on over next 5 years Most frequently cited (thirteen times) Building up and encouraging small businesses Cited more than once More restaurants More sidewalks / walking trails Eliminate truck traffic on 96/Main - reroute them Appearance of some of the store outside areas / appearance of downtown Community Events Police (more at night since the town is growing) to site on US 1A for free downtown revitalization emphasize growth in the town proper rather than the outskirts 35 School system Bringing in more high tech/white collar jobs so people don't have to travel to RTP Economic growth Speeding in low limit zones better government, better people in government clean up the town - too much garbage around especially in people's yards Infrastructure development (sewer system / water system) Increase tax base so tax rates can go down develop ad campaign to fill vacant buildings in Industrial Park place of entertainment for kids not raising town taxes Also cited Senior Center More get togethers as a town keep good judgement on growth keep up family atmosphere not raising garbage prices for hampton village as seniors have no more than 1 bag a week safety - mostly drivers who drive carelessly clean up the town - too much garbage around especially in people's yards better pet control - dogs barking at all hours and running loose Take steps for a commuter route to avoid downtown traffic Safety and timely matter in which EMT's answer calls Entertainment/Restaurants, for families or places to eat besides fast food Shopping, if you need anything besides food, you have to go into Wake Forest to get it Address traffic and future traffic ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Maintain clean, interesting town no more gas stations downtown better leaf / yardwaste pickup lower water bill / lower garbage bill *Note: I could carry my little amount of garbage push the water issue with the county to lower our water bills keep drain covers cleaned cut grass / keep weeds out of flowers Trash off of streets - #1 - Main Street looks horrible DOT Needs to repair drop off on cross street at light get away from "good ole boy" mentallity and narrow minds more responsive, professional government Safety of residents Neighborhood watch Better finances Sweepstakes gyms set and uphold appearance standards for downtown Commercial / Industrial development Increase residential (single & multifamily) development upgrade maintenance vehicles and equipment Better Police. They are incompetent. Public safety is a joke. Better Town Leaders. They don't even know current ordinances more government transparency Better equipment for Police Department, less money spent on Fire Dept. Bring well qualified policemen on board, not someone who has never been a former policeman. Don’t' hire them because they knew the right person to bring them to the police force streets including curbs natural gas all over the city Community - missions - downtown events 36 lower living expenses work to provide some reason to come to town in the evening (Restaurants) communication to residents, possible hotline - also a timeframe for leaf pickup, yard waste pickup and waste disposal, etc. more information on website eliminating the fee for recycling as town should absorb cost given the high tax rate Bypass to quickly get past railroad tracks more parks more recreation increase buffer space between industrial and residential areas develop a plan to maintain "rural" feel of the area Additonal Comments This is good Youngsville is becoming a more attractive little town. We appreciate the recycle center (dump) being cleaned up and maintained by someone. Wish we did not have to pay for trash pick-up. We can take our to dump for free Youngsville needs to do better enforcing town ordinances and traffic I would go downtown more if there was better parking. It's so busy and confusing that I hate stopping. I would like to attend meetings to get to know those who make this town operate and plan for the future. I would like to hear what plans are now in the works. How can a mayor keep his job with all that went on with Brenda and Joey? How much did we pay for the truck that was sold and ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT what did we sell it for. In other words, who many miles did we put on truck and how much money did we lose (paid for / sold for). How many paid Holidays do town employees get? What is mayor and town council members paid for doing othing? How can a mayor sell sewage service without residents voting. Comments made on survey questions were that we did not want to see people showing up to our planning sessions / town government was rated "very" poor / for Question 9 response was only people with money and power will rule, nobody wants to hear what regular residents have to say or what they think The traffic through Main Street and Winston Street is extremely heavy. A Rt 96 bypass is much needed to avert the big, loud trucks. We love living in town. Thank you for enforcing a leash law. A few barking dogs around town are nuisances and the owners could use a gentle reminder from the town. Youngsville is a great place to live! I don't see as many police officers as I used to. They are stretched too far I know. I wish the town could enforce owners to keep their property up. The letter helped but that didn't last long because the town did not follow through. That to me is a problem the town has. Leaders do not keep up with matters like the letters as they should. Just because something has "always been this way" doesn't mean it should stay that way. Growth and prosperity can be achieved while still retaining the small town charm but our leaders need to be more forward/modern thinking too bad Wake Forest couldn't annex Youngsville and drag it kicking and screaming into the 21st century get a bigger park made so children will have a place to enjoy in the town and meet new friends we would love to see more restaurants and shopping I have only lived here since June 2012. So far 3 different friends from out of state vistited just to play sweepstakes. On average, 37 each friend spent $500.00 on local businesses such as restaurants, nails, grocery, pizza, lottery tickets, etc. as well as spending $100.00 a day at the sweepstakes. Let’s figure out a way to keep going in Youngsville!!!! would like to see some of downtown businesses made to spruce up their exteriors by fixing broken windows and keeping junk out of view through their front windows. Perhaps redo covered boardwalk at downtown intersection (or remove it) I have only been living here a little over 3 weeks, thus the amount of neutral/ no opinion answers the employees at the Town Hall are always very pleasant and helpful with questions. I think they do an excellent job. The two girls that run the ABC store in town are especially awesome. They are so much nicer than the employees at Wake Forest ABC store. Dealing with public is not always easy. I think all the town staff do the best that they can taxes are too high for what we receive in return. The town is financed on the back of property owners. businesses don't want to come here. If I could sell the property I own in Franklin County for what the town and county say it's worth, I would and move to a place with fair taxes and decent public services and leaders. why do we have a surplus of fire dept equipment yet the PD is driving old cars w/ dated equipment. it is not equitable use of my high tax dollars. (Note: the Town of Youngsville does not give money to the fire department - it is funded by Franklin County) set an age limit on Town Commissioners - we have a couple serving now who are far too old don’t change rules and regluations once a business has set up business in Youngsville. Treat everyone the same. For example: certain people receive letters about their grass being too tall. others never receive a ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT letter and the grass is knee high. It's who you are and who you know in this town. these tenants will always get by and others don't. It's not fair (there were some issues with bad writing and I am not sure I got all of the words correct. See EH if you wish to see the original to figure it out) I love Youngsville. I wish younger residents would take a more active part in our local government I don't think there is much I would recommend changing. A 96 bypass to reduce large truck traffic would be good. thank you for being a wonderful place to live I think the town leaders have done a great job with dealing with very difficult issues over the past year. add to that the very difficult economic times that all of us in America are dealing with. But when you look at what has come to Youngsville over the past couple of years, both in new business and residential growth, I have to say great job Youngsville. I know they are about Youngsville and what is happening, as I see the Mayor and hear him urge all of the citizens to enjoy what we have here and get involved. it is important for the town to remember current residents and their concerns despite the town's growth (for example East Woods of Patterson issues) I also would like to see more information on how town uses tax money and eliminate government waste given the high city taxes imposed on residents. there does not sem to be a lot of consideration on the part of the town toward the needs of the residents v/s business development. Often development is allowed without taking into consideration what impact that has on already existing neightborhoods. More considerations to residents' needs would be appreciated. 38 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT F - MAP OF DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES, WITH VACANCIES (AS OF JULY, 2013) East Main Street Businesses Vac Vac Private Home Vac Vac A+ Church Vac Vac Vac Shops on A Beautiful Main Tan Vac Charron’s Deli Wine & Beer Shop Vac Vac Woodliefs Vac Strickland Auto Inc. Griffin’s Parking 39 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT West Main Street Businesses Wiggins Inv. HESS Station Patriot Shooting Ruff Cuts Vac Vac Vac Vac Old May Hotel Antiques Vac Sportsman Clipper Salon 111 Private Home Private Private Home Home 40 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT G - YOUNGSVILLE AREA RING REPORT ANALYSIS Youngsville Area Spending Annually $1,000,000 $900,000 $800,000 $700,000 Major Appliances Lawn and Garden $600,000 Women's Apparel Furniture $500,000 Event Fees and Admissions Housekeeping Supplies $400,000 Cable and Satellite Television Services TV/Video/Audio $300,000 Maintenance and Remodeling Services Snacks and Other Food at Home $200,000 Food Away from Home $100,000 $0 Source: Esri forecasts for 2012 and 2017; Consumer Spending data are derived from the 2010 and 2011 Consumer Expenditure Surveys, Bureau of Labor Statistics. 41 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Current Youngsville Retail: Spending Leaving Youngsville (1 Mile Radius) $1,200,000 $1,000,000 Drinking Places - Alcoholic Beverages $800,000 Shoe Stores Furniture Stores $600,000 Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical Instr Stores Auto Parts, Accessories & Tire Stores Clothing Stores Electronics & Appliance Stores $400,000 Full-Service Restaurants Health & Personal Care Stores Limited-Service Eating Places $200,000 Grocery Stores Other General Merchandise Stores $0 Source: Esri and Dun & Bradstreet 42 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Current Youngsville Retail: Spending Drawn into Youngsville (1 Mile Radius) $0 $50,000 $100,000 Bldg Material & Supplies Dealers $150,000 Direct Selling Establishments $200,000 Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers Home Furnishings Stores $250,000 Beer, Wine & Liquor Stores $300,000 Florists $350,000 $400,000 $450,000 Source: Esri and Dun & Bradstreet 43 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Current Youngsville Retail: Spending Leaving Youngsville (3 Mile Radius) $16,000,000 $14,000,000 $12,000,000 Drinking Places - Alcoholic Beverages Shoe Stores $10,000,000 Sporting Goods/Hobby/Musical Instr Stores Auto Parts, Accessories & Tire Stores $8,000,000 Electronics & Appliance Stores $6,000,000 Full-Service Restaurants Clothing Stores $4,000,000 Limited-Service Eating Places Health & Personal Care Stores $2,000,000 Other General Merchandise Stores $0 Source: Esri and Dun & Bradstreet 44 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT Current Youngsville Retail: Spending Drawn into Youngsville (3 Mile Radius) $0 $200,000 $400,000 Other Miscellaneous Store Retailers Grocery Stores Direct Selling Establishments $600,000 Bldg Material & Supplies Dealers $800,000 $1,000,000 $1,200,000 Source: Esri and Dun & Bradstreet 45 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT How Youngsville Spends Money 80.0% Restaurants (Adults) Went to family restaurant/steak house in last 6 mo 70.0% Telephones & Service (Households) HH owns in-home cordless telephone Pets (Households) HH owns any pet Percentage of Households 60.0% 50.0% Entertainment (Adults) Attended movies in last 6 months Convenience Stores (Adults) Shopped at convenience store in last 6 months Restaurants (Adults) Fast food/drive-in last 6 mo: take-out/drive-thru 40.0% Home (Households) Purchased bedding/bath goods in last 12 months Pets (Households) HH owns any dog 30.0% Convenience Stores (Adults) Spent at convenience store in last 30 days: $40+ 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Source: These data are based upon national propensities to use various products and services, applied to local demographic composition. Usage data were collected by GfK MRI in a nationally representative survey of U.S. households. Esri forecasts for 2012 and 2017. Home (Households) Any home improvement in last 12 months Home (Households) Purchased any HH furnishing in last 12 months Restaurants (Adults) Went to fast food/drive-in restaurant 6-13 times/mo Restaurants (Adults) Went to fast food/drive-in restaurant 14+ times/mo Restaurants (Adults) Went to family restaurant/steak house last mo: 2-4 times 46 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT H - INFLOW/OUTFLOW DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS 47 ENVISION YOUNGSVILLE – FINAL REPORT I - YOUNGSVILLE TRAFFIC COUNT 48