River Valley Regional Work Program

Transcription

1 River Valley Regional Work Program Natural Resources 1 L Use 7 Housing Neighborhood Development 13 Transportation Infrastructure 17 Economic Development 21 Education 27 Community Facilities 33 Human Services 37 Intergovernmental 41 Areas Requiring Special Attention 44 Evaluation Monitoring Report 52 Regional Priorities List 54

2 River Valley Regional Work Program Natural Resources Vision Statement The will not only promote the protection of natural resources within the Region by encouraging sustainable development practices, but will also work to educate local governments citizens on the importance of protecting natural resources within individual communities, the Region as a whole. Guiding Principles NR. 1 Adopt appropriate Part V. Environmental Ordinances NR. 2 Work with local planning commissions, Georgia Trust, DOT, SHPO, private property owners to designate scenic byways. NR. 3 NR. 4 Educate local governments to ensure soil erosion, sedimentation pollution control measures practices conform to the minimum requirements outlined by the Georgia Soil Water Conservation Service. Promote adopt a stream activities on all streams not meeting water quality stards NR. 5 NR. 6 NR. 7 NR. 8 Support promote funding for the study protection of the region s surface groundwater resources. Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program Celebrate the region s agricultural heritage by continuing economic assistance efforts to rejuvenate agricultural industries within the region. Work with the federal, state, regional, county city agencies to conserve enhance our valuable water resources as an economic, recreational natural asset.

3 Activity 1. Educate local elected officials, industries, developers, youth, the public on the importance of natural resource protection, including scenic views, by utilizing brochures, maps, nature trails, /or outdoor learning centers. Category Time Frame Responsible Party(ies) Partners Local Gov'ts DNR EPD GDEcD Cost Funding Source(s) $20,000 Member DNR EPD GDEcD Guiding Principles NR.2 Issues / Opportunities Addressed CF.I.1 CF.I.9 I.I.1 I.I.2 ED.O.9 I.O.5 LU.O.10 T.O.3 LU.I.2 LU.I.3 LU.O.1 Performance Stard(s) Addressed NCRE.15 NCRE.16 Accomplishments CY Promote the development of Keep America Beautiful affiliates regular "Clean up" campaigns in each county. Review 2015 KAB EPD $15,000 KAB EPD NR.3 NR.4 LU.I.1 LU.I.3 L1M.4 NCRE.2 NCRE.3 NCRE.15 NCRE Promote safe disposal of potential hazardous materials encourage recycling activities within the Region. Review 2015 KAB EPD $15,000 KAB EPD NR.1 NR.5 LU.O.5 CF.I.9 L1M.4 NCRE.4 NCRE Assist local governments with development adoption, as needed, of DNR Part V Environmental Planning Stards. KAB EPD $40,000 KAB EPD NR.1 LU.O.5 L2M.1 NCRE.1 POSTPONED surveyed communities 2014; will assist with adoption 2015 River Valley 2 RWP 2015

4 5. Market local products to other parts of the state through programs such as Georgia Made, Georgia Grown. 6. Support the development of value added processing industries, farmer s markets neighborhood groceries supplied by local farmers to provide fresh food in the region. 7. Develop ordinances to protect the Chattahoochee Flint River corridors for proper l use, implement/enforce the Flint River Drought Protection Act, Flint River Basin Water Development Conservation Plan, the Georgia Stormwater Management Manual, Tier 1 4 non farm water agricultural conservation practices. Planning 2015 Dev Auth GDEcD GDAg GDEcD Local HD Planning 2016 ACOE Water Councils EPD GDAg GA Conserv TPL $12,000 $1350 Member Dev Auth GDEcD $50,000 Member GDAg GDEcD $50,000 Member ACOE EPD GDAg GA Conserv TPL NR.7 NR.7 NR.5 NR.6 ED.O.9 I.O.5 CF.I.11 LU.O.4 ED.O.9 LU.O.4 LU.I.15 I.I.1 POSTPONED lack of staff financial resources. River Valley 3 RWP 2015

5 8. Support the development of Green Belts along the Flint Chattahoochee Rivers. 9. Support promote activities actions that maintain the navigation of the Chattahoochee River from south Columbus to the Florida state line. Review 2015 ACOE DNR GA Conserv TPL ACOE RWS $40,000 Member ACOE DNR GA Conserv TPL $30,000 Member ACOE NR.5 NR.6 LU.O.10 I.O.2 POSTPONED lack of staff financial resources. NR.8 LU.I Identify assess non point stressors in watersheds with the objective to monitor provide data Best Management Practice strategies to local governments that will reduce sources of pollution. 11. Investigate the feasibility of developing a wetl bank conservation l program to increase stream buffers in perpetuity. Planning 2015 EPD EPA Planning 2015 DNR EPD GA Conserv TPL $60,000 Member EPD EPA $60,000 Member DNR EPD GA Conserv TPL NR.4 NR.5 NR.8 NR.1 NR.6 NR.8 LU.I.10 LU.I.16 LU.I.20 LU.I.21 H.O.7 LU.I.19 LU.O.4 CFE.21 LUE.11 POSTPONED lack of staff financial resources. River Valley 4 RWP 2015

6 12. Encourage studies to improve water resource management information, water return ratios for l application septic systems, modeling scenarios under extreme conditions. Review 2015 Water Councils EPD $50,000 Member EPD NR.5 LU.I.16 LU.I.19 LU.I.21 I.I.2 POSTPONED current lack of local initiative 13. Evaluate storage options for flow augmentation in dry periods by considering direct pumping from aquifers, Aquifer Storage Recovery, farm ponds /or additional storage reservoirs. 14. Educate nonparticipating communities of the advantages of the National Flood Insurance Program assist them with applications for enrollment flood damage prevention ordinances. Review 2015 Water Councils EPD USGS $50,000 Member EPD $30,000 Member USGS NR.5 NR.8 LU.O.8 LU.I.15 LU.I.18 LU.I.19I.I.2 UNDERWAY Pending completion of ASR study NR.6 CF.I.8 LUE Encourage all water providers to consider conservationoriented rate structures at the time of refinancing or recapitalization. GA RWA GEFA $20,000 Member GEFA NR.5 NR.8 I.I.1 CFE.4 River Valley 5 RWP 2015

7 16. Encourage use of point discharges for wastewater treatment effluent disposal for major facilities (greater than one million gallons per day). 17. Increase education outreach programs directed toward improving water quality. 18. Encourage interconnection of regional supply systems for reliability. 19. Encourage local providers to prepare drought contingency plans. 20. Utilize improve upon reservoir release quantity timing in the Chattahoochee River to maintain /or improve water quality in the Chattahoochee River below the Columbus Planning Node. Review 2015 Review 2015 Review 2015 Water Councils EPD Svc Providers Water Councils ACOE $40,000 Member EPD $20,000 Member Svc Providers EPD $20,000 Member $40,000 Member EPD $50,000 Member ACOE NR.5 NR.8 NR.3 NR.4 NR.5 NR.5 NR.8 NR.5 NR.8 NR.5 NR.8 LU.I.16 LU.I.20 LU.O.4 I.I.8 LU.I.1 LU.I.15 LU.I.19 L1M.3 ICE.4 ICE.6 ICE.4 ICE.11 POSTPONED no new developments during period POSTPONED pending further water negotiations/study River Valley 6 RWP 2015

8 L Use Vision Statement The will employ both proven modern planning techniques to encourage facilitate sustainable development practices; compact development; strong traditional alternative transportation options; housing choices for all citizens; green space protection/development; et al. These different elements will in turn work together to foster sustainable healthy communities. Guiding Principles LU. 1 Promote the development, adoption implementation of l use regulations that will result in a fiscally responsible quality living environment. LU. 2 Develop design guidelines make available to local merchants, builders, etc. LU. 3 Provide alternative transportation in new development retrofit for alternative transportation in developed areas. LU. 4 Update zoning ordinances to allow mixed uses higher density development where appropriate. LU.5 Encourage create innovative design practices that preserve open space. LU. 6 The River Valley Regional Commission will work to preserve the region s cultural historic resources use these assets to develop sustain the tourism industry. River Valley 7 RWP 2015

9 Activity 1. Provide zoning technical assistance by updating zoning ordinances to comply with current laws to allow for more compact mixed use development. 2. Provide zoning administration technical assistance training to local governments. 3. Develop recommended l use stards to be adopted by the local governments, to include but not be limited to subdivision regulations, sign ordinances tree ordinances. 4. Host strategy/visioning workshops /or leadership programs at the county level involving community stakeholders the general public. Category Time Frame Planning 2015 Responsible Party(ies) Partners CVIOG Cost $20,000 per year Funding Source(s) $40,000 Member $40,000 Member Member $10,000 Membership Guiding Principles Addresse d LU 1 LU.2 LU.4 LU.5 LU.1 LU.4 LU.1 LU.2 LU.4 LU.5 Issues / Opportunities Addressed LU.I.5 LU.I.11 LU.O.11 LU.1.12 LU.I.12 LU.I.11 T.I.4 Performance Stard(s) Addressed HE.9 HE.10 LUE.1 LUE.4 LUE.6 LUE.7 LUE.8 LUE.21 LUE.7 LUE.8 LUE.21 LUE.1 LUE.12 NCRE.9 NCRE.15 Accomplishments CY 2014 POSTPONED prepared for training rescheduled for January UNDERWAY Schley zoning ordinance scheduled for adoption 2015 LU.1 LU.0.10 LUE.14 River Valley 8 RWP 2015

10 5. Facilitate regional l banking 6. Work with communities to incorporate planning tools such as traditional neighborhoods, stream buffers, etc. into existing regulations. 7. Encourage the use of resource management planning when siting new developments to protect resources (i.e. natural, agricultural, environmental, historic cultural resources) from encroachment. 8. Work with local governments to improve the quality of alternative transportation options, including sidewalks, trails, bike lanes, transit promote their use. SWGA United EPD DNR EPD $40,000 Member $50,000 Member EPD $20,000 Member EPD $40,000 Member LU.1 LU.1 LU.4 LU.5 LU.1 LU.4 LU.6 LU.3 LU.4 LU.I.6 H.O.7 H.I.4 LU.0.2 LU.O.3 LU.I.1 LU.I.2 LU.I.3 LU.O.5 LU.O.7 LU.O.9 LU.O.10 T.I.12 LU.I.7 EDE.22 HE.3 HE.9 HE.10 TE.1 TE.10 LUE.5 LUE.9 LUE.12 LUE.17 LUE.18 NCRE.1 NCRE.11 NCRE.13 L2M.1 CFE.21 LUE.17 LUE.18 LUE.8 NCRE.15 TE.1 TE.7 TE.10 TE.11 UNDERWAY Schley zoning ordinance scheduled for adoption 2015 River Valley 9 RWP 2015

11 9. Exp the Safe Routes to School program to encourage the development of safe walking environments for children. 10. Support marketing campaigns that promote bicycling pedestrian activities opportunities within the community, such as available trails bike plans, bike races events. Local BOE $20,000 Member Local BOE $1,500 Member Sponsors LU.3 LU.4 LU.3 LU.I.13 T.I.1 LU.I.13 LU.I.7 TE.5 TE.3 TE.2 TE.6 TE.7 TE Ensure that infrastructure provides necessary accessibility for people with disabilities such as parking ramps. 12. Promote development assist with implementation of historic preservation ordinances design guidelines; promote facilitate historic resource inventories. 13. Provide information present programs educating the general public of the benefits of historic preservation. Review 2015 DNR DNR $10,000 Member $30,000 Member DNR $10,000 Member DNR LU.1 LU.3 LU.1 LU.2 LU.6 LU.1 LU.6 LU.0.7 LU.I.3 LU.I.4 LU.0.6 NCRE.5 NCRE.6 NCRE.7 NCRE.8 NCRE.5 NCRE.6 River Valley 10 RWP 2015

12 14. Assist interested parties with tax credits other historic preservation incentive programs. 15. Create an ongoing active education program about historic cultural resource conservation protection for the public, local elected officials, developers, etc. 16. Assist communities secure Better Hometown/Main Street designation provide technical assistance to implement revitalization programs. 17. Encourage communities in their efforts to obtain Certified Local Government designation; provide training technical assistance to historic preservation commissions. DNR DNR DNR DNR $10,000 Member DNR HUD $15,000 Member DNR $15,000 Member DNR HUD $15,000 Member DNR LU.6 LU.1 LU.6 LU.1 LU.2 LU.5 LU.6 LU.1 LU.6 LU.O.6 H.I.5 LU.O.6 LU.O.6 LU.O.7 ED.O.2 ED.O.13 CF.O.3 I.O.4 T.I.2 LU.O.6 EDE.17 EDE.10 NCRE.5 NCRE.6 EDE.17 River Valley 11 RWP 2015

13 18. Encourage conservation of the Old Federal Road DNR $15,000 Member DNR LU.1 LU.6 LU.O.6 NCRE.5 NCRE.6 River Valley 12 RWP 2015

14 Housing Neighborhood Development Vision Statement The will promote development of sustainable neighborhoods that provide a variety of housing choices, parks, green space, schools retail opportunities interconnected with a well developed traditional alternative transportation infrastructure. Guiding Principles H. 1 H. 2 Educate residents on home ownership. Also create, adopt regularly update an affordable housing strategy that examines the tools mechanisms to facilitate affordable housing. The strategy should be developed in partnership with local citizens developers, should be implemented monitored. Promote a higher density range of housing choices a variety of dwelling types in all neighborhoods that have appropriate infrastructure. H. 3 Develop in areas already served by municipal or county utilities streets. H. 4 Change zoning ordinances to accommodate loft living mother in law suites. H. 5 Work with other counties cities in the region to implement residential code enforcement including health safety stards for manufactured homes. H. 6 Tax manufactured housing as real property where appropriate. H. 7 H. 8 Utilize federal, state non profit rehabilitation loan grant assistance programs for maintenance assistance, home equity conversion mortgage programs, shared housing programs smaller affordable low moderate income housing units to meet housing challenges. Work with state agencies, federal agencies, local governments to help preserve existing housing stock promote the development of quality affordable housing in the region by seeking local, state federal funding. River Valley 13 RWP 2015

15 Activity 1. Promote intergovernmental agreements between governments that have existing code enforcement staff those that do not. 2. Develop a general maintenance program for the Region s existing housing stock coordinating with community outreach volunteer organizations targeting at need populations. Categor y Time Frame Responsibl e Party(ies) Partners GICH SWGA United Neighbor Works Habitat House of Heroes Fuller Center Cost Funding Source(s) $5,000 Member $40,000 Member SWGA United, Neighbor Works, Habitat, House of Heroes, Fuller Center Guiding Principle s Addresse d Issues / Opportunities Addressed H.5 I.I.8 LU.I.12 H.I.2 H.1 H.5 H.7 H.O.6 H.I.5 Performance Stard(s) Addressed ICE.7 HE.4 HE.6 Accomplishments CY 2014 River Valley 14 RWP 2015

16 3. Support continue to partner with ROSS Elderly/Persons which is the Resident Opportunities for Self Sufficiency program. The program promotes our mission for self sufficiency independence by allowing people to remain in their home age in place. DHS GICH SWGA United Neighbor Works Habitat House of Heroes Fuller Ctr $20,000 Member DHS SWGA United Neighbor Works Habitat House of Heroes Fuller Ctr H.1 H.2 H.3 H.4 H.7 H.8 H.I.5 H.I.6 CF.I.7 HE.6 4. Provide educational seminars counseling for residents on subjects related to home ownership, such as credit mortgages, home maintenance, financing. Review 2015 SWGA United Neighbor Works $20,000 Member SWGA United Neighbor Works H.1 LU.I.12 H.I.7 HE.7 5. Seek opportunities to diversify the housing mix to include quality multi family single family attached units. GICH $20,000 Member SWGA United H.7 H.I.2 H.I.5 HE.8 River Valley 15 RWP 2015

17 6. Support, where possible, coordinate housing efforts with housing organizations such as NeighborWorks, Habitat for Humanity, House of Heroes, the Fuller Center. SWGA United Neighbor Works Habitat House of Heroes Fuller Center $20,000 Neighbor Works Habitat House of Heroes Fuller Center River Valley 16 RWP 2015

18 Transportation Infrastructure Vision Statement By encouraging proper maintenance efficient expansion of existing transportation infrastructure development of alternative transportation options, the will promote a varied versatile transportation system within communities the region. Guiding Principles T. 1 Concentrate activities where possible. Encourage pedestrian transit travel by creating nodes of high density, mixed development that are linked by convenient transit service. Retain strong downtowns CBD s by concentrating commercial activities in these areas. T. 2 Encourage shared parking T. 3 Create a network of well connected lots, blocks streets paths. Keep streets narrow use traffic calming measures to minimize vehicle speeds. T. 4 Participate in support the regional transit system. T. 5 Identify potential transportation programs to meet public transportation needs. T. 6 T. 7 T. 8 T. 9 Work with local governments, state agencies federal agencies to implement TIA other programs to improve the transportation network in the region. Assist local government s efforts with RC staff support, including GIS support, to receive state federal funding to provide maintain transportation facility infrastructure capable of meeting community needs. Promote initiatives aimed at the development implementation of alternative transportation options as a means of increasing connectivity, walkability, bike ability health. Work with local telecommunication provider to identify telecommunication issues enhance the level of telecommunication services within the Region. T. 10 Provide alternative transportation in new development retrofit transportation infrastructure in existing developed areas. River Valley 17 RWP 2015

19 Activity 1. Inventory map all available l buildings to evaluate possible infill redevelopment opportunities within the region. Category Time Frame Responsible Party(ies) Partners Dev Auth EDA Cost Funding Source(s) $60,000 Member Dev Auth EDA Guiding Principles Addresse d T.1 T.3 Issues / Opportuniti es Addressed H.O.7 LU.O.1 LU.O.5 H.O.3 Performance Stard(s) Addressed EDE.10 EDE.16 LUE.5 LUE.8 Accomplishments CY Make transportation infrastructure GIS information readily available through a website or other digital media. 3. Work to exp the Pataula Transit System into other counties by introducing new routes exping operational hours to better serve the communities. 4. Work with transit providers to identify operating inefficiencies promote coordination between metropolitan rural systems to enhance service delivery. FTA LCRTA Svc Providers $30,000 Member $20,000 Member FTA LCRTA JARC $20,000 Member Svc Providers JARC T.7 I.0.1 LUE.22 LUE.23 LUE.24 T.4 T.5 T.6 T.4 T.5 T.6 T.O.1 I.I.3 I.I.5 I.O.1 I.I.5 T.O.1 T.I.12 ICE.4 ICE.6 ICE.10 TE.10 ICE.4 ICE.6 POSTPONED posting such data on regional website delayed indefinitely River Valley 18 RWP 2015

20 5. Encourage the reestablishment of intercity passenger rail service (Columbus Atlanta), preservation of existing interstate rail line right ofway to facilitate passenger rail service, the preservation/expansio n of rail freight service. 6. Assist local governments to comply with FHWA traffic sign restoration reflectivity requirements. 7. Work to coordinate local regional bike, multi use, walking trails with larger regional systems. 8. Exp the Safe Routes to School program to encourage the development of safe walking environments for children. Review 2015 FTA Planning 2013 FHWA Local BOE $30,000 Member FTA $20,000 Member FHWA $50,000 Member $30,000 Member T.6 T.I.8 T.I.9 T.I.11 T.5 T.6 T.1 T.3 T.1 T.3 T.5 T.8 T.10 T.I.3 T.I.5 I.I.3 T.I.1 T.I.6 H.O.4 LU.I.7 T.I.1 T.I.6 TE.10 LUE.20 TE.3 TE.4 TE.6 TE.7 TE.5 TE.2 TE.1 TE.3 POSTPONED In 2013 USDOT suspended mate indefinitely River Valley 19 RWP 2015

21 9. Conduct marketing campaigns that promote bicycling pedestrian activities & opportunities within the community, such as available trails bike plans, & bike races & events. 10. Support work with DHS Coordinated Transportation continue to provide educational information on Medicaid transportation services. 11. Exp transportation services for hospitalized discharged patients through Care Transitions. RECOMMEND DELETION 12. Identify address telecommunications deficiencies in the region. AAA DHS AAA DHS SWGA United $25,000 Member $25,000 AAA DHS $25,000 AAA DHS $30,000 Member SWGA United T.1 T.3 T.8 T.10 T.1 T.6 T.7 T.1 T.6 T.7 T.7 T.9 T.I.1 T.I.6 I.I.3 I.I.5 I.I.3 I.I.5 CF.I.2 ED.O.7 ED.I.10 TE.5 TE.11 TE.6 TE.7 TE.10 TE.10 L1M.6 DELETED from work program; need has been addressed via other means River Valley 20 RWP 2015

22 Economic Development Vision Statement Through implementation of a variety of comprehensive diverse economic development initiatives, coordinating the efforts between different sectors, such as agriculture, industry, tourism retail, the will support the creation of a stable economic base for the region, creating communities that are self sufficient equitable. Guiding Principles ED. 1 Assist local governments business efforts with federal, state financial aid staff assistance to diversify coordinate the region s economic base provide employment opportunities for regional residents. Grow the Revolving Loan Fund. ED. 2 Partner with representatives leverage resources from military installations, both within the Region surrounding the Region, including Fort Benning in Columbus, the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Robins Air Force Base, in Warner Robins, to study plan for the impact on future growth patterns economic development opportunities within the Region. ED. 3 ED. 4 Ed. 5 Support the development marketing of tourism initiatives, such as U. S. Highway 27 Association, campaigns within the Region to capitalize on the many strengths assets found within the Region. Utilize state, regional local staff to promote the development rehabilitation of downtowns neighborhoods. Market downtown neighborhood redevelopment campaigns initiatives within the River Valley region. Capitalize on the rich agricultural natural resources of the region to enhance agri tourism by marketing said resources developing agri tourism ordinances. River Valley 21 RWP 2015

23 Activity 1. Support the economic importance of the in l port in Cordele by promoting multi modal transportation within the region as a way to import export manufacturing goods stimulate growth. 2. Coordinate efforts with local broadb providers cities/counties/local organizations to identify address key issues. 3. Identify communities in the Region with current access to broadb services refer back to Georgia Technology Authority. Category Time Frame Responsible Party(ies) Partners SWGA United GTA GTA Cost Funding Source(s) $50,000 Member SWGA United $30,000 Member GTA $15,000 Member GTA Guiding Principles Addressed ED.1 ED.6 T.10 Issues / Opportunities Addressed T.I.7 T.I.8 T.I.9 ED.O.2 ED.I.11 I.I.7 ED.0.7 ED.O.11 Performance Stard(s) Addressed EDE.22 Accomplishments CY 2014 ED.6 ED Coordinate in l port activities with barge traffic along the Chattahoochee River as another way to transport goods throughout the Region. Review 2015 SWGA United $40,000 Member SWGA United ED.1 T.I.7 T.I.8 POSTPONED pending market dem River Valley 22 RWP 2015

24 5. Work to broaden the CEDS stakeholder group to diversify input increase coordination between organizations. Private Citizens $40,000 Member ED.1 ED.I.2 ED.I.6 ED.I.7 6. Assist local communities in the development marketing of available industrial facilities. Dev Auth $40,000 Member Dev Auth ED.4 H.O.7 LU.O.1 L.O.4 EDE.15 EDE Provide assistance such as business research market analysis to potential entrepreneurs within the Region to support the development of successful businesses. GDEcD SBA SBDC $50,000 Member GDEcD SBA SBDC ED.4 LU.O.7 H.I.3 EDE.16 EDE.18 EDE.19 EDE.20 EDE Increase local job opportunities that do not require access to transportation by supporting in fill development in existing urban areas. MS/BHT $50,000 Member MS/BHT ED.4 ED.O.1 ED.O.5 H.I.1 ED.O.2 LUE.5 LUE.8 EE Increase the visibility of the River Valley Region as a location for film/video production. MS/BHT GDEcD $20,000 Member MS/BHT GDEcD ED.3 ED.O.8 ED.O.6 ED.O.5 ED.O.2 ED.O.13 CF.O.3 EDE.26 River Valley 23 RWP 2015

25 10. Aim to provide a local, skilled workforce to meet the needs of commercial growth related to local regional military contractors. 11. Encourage the nomination of Scenic Byways in the region assist with designation MARKETING Corridor Management Plans. WIA Bd MS/BHT $50,000 Member GOWD $30,000 Member MS/BHT ED.2 ED.3 P.O.1 ED.I.13 ED.O.12 T.I.4 ED.O.4 ED.O.6 ED.O.13 CF.O.3 EDE.21 NCRE.17 EDE.25 NOT ACCOMPLISHED USDOT s decreased support has made it more difficult to generate local initiatives for Scenic Byways. 12. Promote the use of current new technologies to increase tourism (e.g. geocaching). MS/BHT GDEcD $5,000 Member MS/BHT GDEcD ED.3 ED.5 C.F.O.3 LUE Promote partnerships among various jurisdictions organizations to increase tourism (i.e. regional tours or trails). MS/BHT GDEcD $5,000 Member MS/BHT GDEcD ED.3 ED.5 C.F.O.3 ICE.8 ICE Promote the use of the region by film, music digital entertainment agencies. MS/BHT GDEcD $5,000 Member MS/BHT GDEcD ED.4 LU.O.7 ED.O.4 ED.O.5 River Valley 24 RWP 2015

26 15. Support the White Water Project in Columbus. 16. Promote encourage the use of State Parks in the River Valley Region. 17. Support/assist with the development of a Marina in Georgetown Quitman County. 18. Support/assist existing businesses within communities, especially those in downtowns through marketing campaigns programs, such as a buy local initiative, the Georgia Made, Georgia Grown initiative. 19. Market/promote after hour s activities in downtowns, such as extended hours, art walks, sidewalk festivals to increase community involvement support locally owned businesses. Planning CVB RWS HCC RWS HCC RWS HCC MS/BHT Dev Auth GDEcD MS/BHT GDEcD $5,000 Member CVB RWS HCC $5,000 Member RWS HCC $5,000 Member RWS HCC $15,000 Member MS/BHT Dev Auth GDEcD $10,000 Member MS/BHT GDEcD ED.5 LU.O.9 River Valley 25 RWP 2015 ED.3 ED.5 LU.O.9 NCRE.16 ED.5 LU.O.9 POSTPONED lack of staff financial resources ED.4 ED.4 ED.O.9 LU.I.3 ED.I.3 ED.I.4 ED.I.11 ED.O.2 ED.O.13 CF.O.2 CF.O.3 ED.O.6 LU.I.6 LU.O.1 EDE.2 EDE.4 EDE.5 EDE.10

27 20. Market downtowns as attractive places to start new businesses by coordinating with the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Development Authorities, or Better Hometown Mainstreet Programs, Economic Development Authorities. 21. Assist communities with preservation adaptive re use of downtown buildings through programs such as façade improvements, etc. 22. Support the Georgia Made, Georgia Grown initiative assist local businesses pursuing designation. MS/BHT Dev Auth GDEcD MS/BHT GDEcD Dev Auth GDEcD GDAg $20,000 Member MS/BHT Dev Auth GDEcD $10,000 Member MS/BHT GDEcD $20,000 Member Dev Auth GDEcD GDAg ED.4 ED.4 ED.3 ED.5 LU.O.1 LU.O.6 LU.O.7 L.O.4 ED.O.6 LU.I.3 LU.I.6 LU.O.1 EDE.2 EDE.4 EDE.16 EDE.17 EDE.18 EDE.19 EDE.20 EDE.10 LUE.3 ED.O.9 EDE.3 River Valley 26 RWP 2015

28 Education Vision Statement By fostering programs initiatives that aim to increase educational opportunities within the region, the will promote increased educational attainment among citizens of the region, which will lead to a stronger workforce, greater economic development opportunities, opportunities to attract new citizens to the region, resulting in more sustainable healthy communities. Guiding Principles E. 1 Work with local school officials, colleges, chambers of commerce, etc. to develop programs/activities to elevate the region s educational attainment to a level comparable with the State of Georgia. E. 2 Participate with agencies to develop workforce training activities. River Valley 27 RWP 2015

29 Activity 1. Coordinate with Family Connections other local partners to raise high school graduation rates prevent later social problems by improving basic literacy levels of elementary students through home visits after school programs. 2. Coordinate with local technical colleges to create technical training programs dual enrollment programs within the Region s high schools. 3. Support local community s efforts to attain designation as Certified Literate Community. Category Time Frame Review 2015 Review 2015 Review 2015 Responsible Party(ies) Partners Fam Conn Local BOE WIA Bd Local BOE Local Colleges Cost Funding Source(s) $20,000 Member Fam Conn Local BOE GOWD $40,000 Member Local BOE Local Colleges GOWD $15,000 Member Local BOE Guiding Principles Addresse d Issues / Opportunities Addressed E.1 P.I.5 I.O.3 ED.O.3 ED.I.2 E.1 I.O.5 ED.I.2 E.1 ED.I.1 ED.I.2 Performance Stard(s) Addressed EDE.1 EDE.11 EDE.12 EDE.21 EDE.11 EDE.12 Accomplishments CY 2014 River Valley 28 RWP 2015

30 4. Provide funding to expose students to cultural fine art subjects such as art, music, literature, religion through partnerships with cultural organizations. Local BOE Local Colleges $20,000 Member Local BOE Local Colleges E.1 ED.I.1 P.I.5 5. Work with local 4 H Programs Chambers of Commerce to encourage the development of Youth Leadership Programs. Review 2015 Ext Svc $15,000 Member Ext Svc E.1 ED.I.1 ED.I.2 ED.O.3 ICE Promote broadb development within the Region to support distance learning, dual enrollment virtual learning centers. Local BOE GTA Local Colleges $30,000 Member Local BOE GTA Local Colleges E.1 ED.O.7 I.I.7 7. Support assist in finding additional funding to perform Work Ready testing in high schools to better prepare students for the workforce, by providing skills assessments, if necessary, gap training. Local BOE Local Colleges $30,000 Member Local BOE Local Colleges E.2 ED.I.2 ED.I.12 ED.O.3 EDE.1 River Valley 29 RWP 2015

31 8. Assist with development of facilities to address literacy, computer skills technical skills for people in the region Local BOE WIA Bd Local Colleges $50,000 Member Local BOE GOWD Local Colleges E.2 ED.O.3 ED.O.7 EDE.1 9. Establish literacy training ( learning centers) throughout the region. Review 2015 Local BOE WIA Bd Local Colleges $80,000 Member Local BOE GOWD Local Colleges E.1 E.2 P.I.5 ED.I.1 ED.O.11 EDE.11 EDE Establish (learning centers) throughout the region. RECOMMEND CONSOLIDATION WITH #9 ABOVE Local BOE WIA Bd Local Colleges $50,000 Member Local BOE GOWD Local Colleges E.1 E.2 ED.I.1 ED.O.11 No known activity in 2014 RECOMMEND CONSOLIDATION WITH #9 ABOVE 11. Develop programs within the local school systems that prepare students for the workforce. Review 2015 Local BOE WIA Bd Local Colleges $30,000 Member Local BOE GOWD Local Colleges E.2 ED.I.1 ED.I.2 ED.I.4 EDE.1 River Valley 30 RWP 2015

32 12. Support the efforts of regional technical colleges high schools to provide work force/vocational training in high schools for youth. Review 2015 Local BOE WIA Bd Local Colleges $30,000 Member Local BOE GOWD Local Colleges E.2 ED.I.1 ED.I.2 ED.O.11 ED.O.3 EDE Educate local industries on the existing training education programs. 14. Establish classrooms for area technical training. RECOMMEND CONSOLIDATION WITH #8 ABOVE WIA Bd Local Colleges WIA Bd Local Colleges $30,000 Member GOWD Local Colleges $50,000 Member GOWD Local Colleges E.2 ED.O.3 CF.I.8 E.1 E.2 EDE.5 ED.O.3 EDE.1 No known activity in 2014 RECOMMEND CONSOLIDATION WITH #8 ABOVE 15. Encourage Technical Colleges to offer training programs in the communities. WIA Bd Local Colleges $30,000 Member GOWD Local Colleges E.1 E.2 ED.O.3 EDE Support the establishment of preschool adult day care centers in the region. Review 2015 Fam Conn DFACS DHS $60,000 Member Fam Conn DFACS DHS E.1 P.I.5 CFE.25 POSTPONED no such initiatives this period River Valley 31 RWP 2015

33 17. Support advocate workforce training for medical healthcare professionals to address critical shortages in rural areas. 18. Promote the development of additional leadership programs. Review 2015 Local Colleges WIA Bd Ext Svc Local Colleges $40,000 Member Local Colleges $40,000 Member Ext Svc Local Colleges E.2 ED.I.2 P.I.6 E.1 ED.O.10 ED.O Utilize Plan Assessment meetings to reactivate regional meetings of city county clerks managers. 20. Support the development of children's day care centers with "extended stay" where needed. Review 2015 Fam Conn DFACS $10,000 Member $60,000 Fam Conn DFACS ED.O.11 I.I.8 ICE.5 E.1 P.I.5 CFE.25 POSTPONED no day care initiatives this period River Valley 32 RWP 2015

34 Community Facilities Vision Statement Guiding Principles CF. 1 CF. 2 Conduct infrastructure facility expansions assessment to support future dems. Keep Hazard Mitigation Plans current to help ensure continued protection of public health safety. CF. 3 CF. 4 Use existing facility systems to direct growth to appropriate areas. Utilize state, federal, local funding sources to fund infrastructure projects, (e.g. water, sewer, gas, streets, parks) for city county governments. River Valley 33 RWP 2015

35 Activity 1. Using GPS technology, capture the various visible underground components of the region s water, sanitary sewer storm sewer infrastructure 2. Assist local governments in their pursuit of funding to maintain extend utility services, as needed. 3. Work with local governments to implement best management practices in relation to storm water management. 4. Promote the adoption utilization of Capital Improvement planning budgeting in all communities within the region. Category Time Frame Review 2015 Responsible Party(ies) Partners GA RWA GEFA EPD Cost Funding Source(s) $100,000 Member $50,000 Member / Contracts GA RWA GEFA $20,000 Member EPD Guiding Principles Addresse d CF.1 CF.1 CF.4 CF.1 CF.3 $15,000 CF.1 CF.3 CF.4 Issues / Opportuniti es Addressed LU.I.1 LU.O.4 CF.I.1 CF.O.1 CF.O.1 CF.I.1 LU.I.9 CF.I.6 CF.I.1 Performance Stard(s) Addressed L1M.3 CFE.1 CFE.2 CFE.3 CFE.4 CFE.20 L1M.3 CFE.3 CFE.24 CF.I.4 Accomplishments CY 2014 River Valley 34 RWP 2015

36 5. Provide technical assistance to local governments in the development of infrastructure improvement plans supported by grant loan assistance $25,000 Member Contracts CF.1 CF.4 CF. I. 8 I.O.1 P.I.2 6. Provide grant assistance to local governments in the provision of needed governmental facilities. 7. Provide planning technical assistance to local governments in the development of community regional parks. 8. Provide planning technical assistance in the planning, development financing of new library facilities. 9. Advocate regional infrastructure planning through the Service Delivery Strategy process during comprehensive plan updates Plan Assessment meetings over the planning horizon. $15,000 Member Contracts $20,000 Member Contracts Regional Library Rural Library Project $10,000 Member Contracts CF.1 CF.4 CF.1 CF.4 CF.4 CF. I. 8 I.O.1 P.I.2 CF. I. 8 I.O.1 P.I.2 CF. I. 8 I.O.1 P.I.2 $25,000 Member CF.1 ED.O.11 I.0.1 I.0.4 POSTPONED no library activity this period River Valley 35 RWP 2015

37 10. Provide planning for special infrastructure needs in identified target areas. $10,000 Member CF.1 CF.2 CF.3 I.O.1 River Valley 36 RWP 2015

38 Human Services Vision Statement Promote safe healthy communities by maintaining infrastructure, supporting health public services, encouraging walkable development patterns that promotes healthy lifestyles for its citizens. Guiding Principles HS. 1 The River Valley Regional Commission will support the establishment maintenance of essential public safety, medical, emergency services to serve the region. It will do so by assisting local government s efforts with state federal grant funding sources to provide maintain community recreational facilities/programs services within the Region to promote healthy lifestyles of its residents, including seniors children. River Valley 37 RWP 2015

39 Activity 1. Coordinate with local governments to apply for funding to purchase necessary equipment, make repairs, update facilities. 2. Assist local governments with disaster preparedness activities such as predisaster mitigation plans. 3. Promote broadb development within the Region to allow for telemedical services, as well as to exp educational opportunities for local medical professionals. 4. Partner with local colleges universities, as well as technical colleges, to build capacity in existing health medical programs to allow more residents to enter available educational programs. Category Time Frame Review 2015 Responsible Party(ies) Partners FEMA GEMA FEMA GTA Local Colleges Cost Funding Source(s) Guiding Principles Addresse d $60,000 Member HS.1 I.I.8 P.I.1 FEMA Issues / Opportunities Addressed Performance Stard(s) Addressed ICE.6 $40,000 Member HS.1 CF.I.1 LUE.25 L1M.5 GEMA FEMA $50,000 Member GTA HS.1 I.I.7 ED.O.7 ED.I.10 Accomplishments CY 2014 $30,000 Member HS.1 ED.O.9 Local Colleges River Valley 38 RWP 2015

40 5. Provide information, assistance referrals for older adults, persons with disabilities caregivers. 6. Provide information educational material to caregivers through designated senior centers in the region. 7. Develop teach programs on health wellness that are evidenced based: including CDSMP (Chronic Disease Self Management Program), Powerful Tools for Caregivers Fall Prevention (Matter of Balance). 8. Partner with the Area Agency on Aging to develop walking trails in safe environments for citizens. RECOMMEND DELETION 9. Promote identify community lay leaders for the advancement of Tai Chi AAA Fam Conn DHS RRCAAA DHS AAA DHS AAA AAA DHS $40,000 Member Fam Conn DHS $40,000 Member DHS $40,000 Member DHS $20,000 Member DHS Member DHS HS.1 CF.I.8 HS.1 HS.1 HS.1 HS.1 CF.I.8 ED.O.7 ED.O.9 P.I.5 LU.O.10 I.O.3 CF.I.7 CF.I.7 CF.I.8 TE.1 TE.3 TE.4 DELETED evidence based research supports participant choice rather than programmed sites UNDERWAY anticipated completion 2017 River Valley 39 RWP 2015

41 10. Support senior farmers markets in providing fresh foods to seniors within the region. Identify additional farmers in the region willing to participate in the senior farmers markets. 11. Coordinate with the Area Agency on Aging local hospitals on implementing the Care Transitions program to prevent hospital re admissions within 30 days of discharge with the same diagnosis. RECOMMEND DELETION 12. Provide planning technical assistance to local governments in the development of community regional parks, recreational facilities community centers. 13. Support local health fairs, festivals, bike rides other wellness initiatives. AAA Fam Conn DHS AAA DHS DNR 2015 DHS $40,000 Member Fam Conn DHS $40,000 Member DHS HS.1 HS.1 ED.O.9 CF.I.11 LU.I.14 I.I.8 I.O.3 CF.I.7 $50,000 Member DNR HS.1 LU.O.10 T.O.3 T.I.6 CF.I.4 T.I.14 $30,000 Member DHS EDE.3 ICE.8 HS.1 CF.I.8 TE.5 TE.11 DELETED from work program; need has been addressed via other means River Valley 40 RWP 2015

42 Intergovernmental Vision Statement Guiding Principles I. 1 Update Service Delivery Strategies to help ensure the efficient delivery of services. I. 2 Share information between local governments to enhance efficiency. I. 3 Train local government officials through opportunities offered by the Carl Vinson Institute, Georgia Municipal Association, Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, Georgia Planning Association, Georgia Association of Zoning Administrators or others to enhance their leadership abilities. River Valley 41 RWP 2015

43 Activity 1. Support the update of the Service Delivery Strategy to help ensure the efficient delivery of services. 2. Utilize Plan assessment meetings to improve upon the sharing of information between local governments for greater efficiency intergovernmental coordination. 3. Notify local government officials on training opportunities offered by the Carl Vinson Institute, Georgia Municipal Association, Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, Georgia Planning Association, GAZA or others to enhance their leadership abilities. Category Time Frame Review 2015 Responsible Party(ies) Partners Cost Part of comp plan update fee Part of AAA Admin funding Funding Source(s) Guiding Principle s Addresse d I.1 CF.I.1, I.O.1 $25,000 I.2 I.O.1 I.I.4 I.I.5 Issues / Opportuniti es Addressed Performance Stard(s) Addressed CFE.4 CFE.17 CFE.20 ICE.4 ICE.5 ICE.6 ICE.7 ICE.8 Accomplishments CY 2014 $1,000 I.3 I.O.1 CFE.5 CFE.16 River Valley 42 RWP 2015

44 4. Establish a fee forservice business plan for sustainability. This plan will be established for options counseling consumer choice. RECOMMEND ADDITION TO WORK PROGRAM Division of Aging Services AAA X Factor Consultants Carl Vinson Institute Fanning Institute Private Consultant $40,000 DAS Added to 2015 work program River Valley 43 RWP 2015

45 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) A REAS R EQUIRING S PECIAL A TTENTION D ESCRIPTIONS The Areas Requiring Special Attention on the Future Development Map includes: Possible Fort Benning Expansion Area Areas of Disinvestment Areas of Resources Potentially Impacted by Development Potential Redevelopment/Areas of Infill Areas of Development Conservation other RIR Mapped Resources (See Regional Development Pattern Narrative) The Defining Narrative for each Area Requiring Special Attention Includes: Area Description Quality Community Objectives to be Pursued Recommended Development Patterns Types of L Uses Steps to Implementation As regional conditions change The River Valley Regional Commission will update the Regional Plan as needed to describe depict the most logical long range development patterns for the River Valley Region. Factors affecting changes to the Future Development Map may include but are not limited to: Additions or deletions of Regionally Important Resources Changes to Areas Requiring Special Attention Developments causing large scale l use shifts Local/Regional Transportation Plans, County/City Comprehensive Plan Updates Other Regional, State or Local Plans or studies Natural or manmade disasters River Valley RWP

46 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) Proposed Fort Benning Expansion Area It is important to note that Fort Benning is considering a possible expansion of up to 216,365 acres in Stewart, Marion, Webster, Counties. The expansion could also occur in Russell County, Alabama. Within these counties the number of acres proposed to be included in the expansion varies, though the acreage proposed to be added from Stewart County is the greatest, at 123,003 acres. In both Chattahoochee Marion Counties the proposed acreage to be acquired is very close at 38,034 38,021, respectively. The l proposed to be included in the expansion from Webster County is considerably less at 17,307 acres. No one knows when or if the Fort Benning base expansion will take place. However it is prudent to review future development in the proposed Fort Benning Expansion Area for consistency with base expansion compatibility the impact or affect it will have on the local tax base of River Valley s communities. Update: Although the prospect of additional physical expansion of Fort Benning remains in limbo, there is discussion that the base may lose troops in the Army 2020 Force Reduction Structure Realignment. The Supplemental Programmatic Environmental Assessment (SPEA) recommends a reduction in active duty, civilian defense contractor personnel. The assessment calls for 13,858 fewer personnel/jobs, resulting in the loss of 27,111 residents when family members are included. The overall annual economic loss to the region is estimated to be approximately $1.3 billion. This loss of population revenue will be devastating to the region in terms of economic development l use. A final decision on SPEA has not been made as of February, Areas of Resources Potentially Impacted by Development Areas of resources potentially impacted by development include growth areas that could encroach upon natural or cultural/historic resources, such as a state park, historic structure, river or groundwater recharge areas. Update: Two large-scale development projects continue. Groundbreaking for the ±$25 million, 475 acre, multi-faceted motorsports complex on Americus north city limits was delayed until Navigation of a lengthy, rigorous, regulatory process the complexities of investment financing have been much more time-consuming than envisioned, but the developer continues to persevere. A 2013 agreement between Cordele Intermodal Services the Georgia Ports River Valley RWP

47 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) Authority enhanced the facility s service capabilities. Operating initially from a 40-acre tract in Cordele s industrial park with 1,200 adjoining acres available for expansion, the volume of industrial freight containers through the state s only (dry) inl port continues to increase. Neither of these two developments will have significant, adverse impact on known natural or cultural/historic resources (state park, historic structure, or river). Both will; however, affect prime farml jurisdictional wetls. Physical development of virtually any significant size in either of the affected counties will entail conversion of at least some prime farml acreage or other agricultural l of statewide importance because of the prevalence of the natural resource. Impacts on agricultural ls will be mitigated somewhat by the fact that both sites are extensions of developed areas rather than leap-frog developments into pristine areas. In accordance with applicable law regulations impacts on jurisdictional wetls, another natural resource common across the region present on both sites, will also be mitigated. River Valley Regional Commission communities continue to employ enhance their l use regulations to guide development mitigate potentially adverse impacts of development at the jurisdictional level. Schley County is in the process of developing adopting a zoning ordinance for the first time the Town of Pine Mountain is completely reworking their zoning ordinance to enhance this development tool. Areas of Disinvestment BEFORE Areas with significant levels of poverty, /or unemployment that is substantially higher than average levels for the region as a whole. Most communities throughout the state of Georgia have some areas of disinvestment, or areas in need of AFTER improvement, the River Valley region is no exception. However, these areas also provide opportunities for redevelopment reinvestment in the community. Both residential commercial redevelopment opportunities exist in the region. In terms of commercial redevelopment, many of the cities in the region have vacant retail space available in their traditional downtown areas. Reinvestment in these buildings could lead to new residential options, such as loft apartments/condos. In addition to available commercial space in downtowns, many communities also have greyfields that could also be redeveloped or improved. These commercial buildings that have been vacant or aboned have a negative River Valley RWP

48 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) impact on the community as a whole. Reinvestment in these spaces would be a positive economic impact help to improve the overall aesthetics of the community. UPDATE: Every incorporated area in the region has, or is itself, a pocket of poverty /or unemployment. The economy in the smaller of these communities is too depressed return on investment typically so marginal the local private sector cannot reverse these economic conditions unilaterally. In the past couple years Americus, Butler, Cordele, Cuthbert, Richl Vienna adopted urban redevelopment plans in conformance with the Georgia Urban Redevelopment Law. This tool can be used to develop stronger pubic initiatives private sector incentives in commercial residential areas officially designated as slum areas than is possible using only conventional redevelopment tools. These six cities applied the new tools to commercial residential redevelopment activities in Columbus voters with a near 60% approval rate passed a referendum on Redevelopment Districts Harris County is using Planned Unit Development stards to facilitate new commercial residential development. An even stronger redevelopment tool is gradually gaining momentum. Americus Sumter County have appointed charter members to a l bank authority; Cordele Crisp County are in serious discussions, the city having already resolved to create a joint authority. Other communities have inquired about this redevelopment tool. In addition, each year there are fifteen-twenty applications submitted from the region for highly competitive Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). These funds are typically directed into areas with high levels of disinvestment are designed to benefit low moderate-income residents. Current CDBG projects in Cordele Cuthbert are being implemented in previously designated urban redevelopment areas. Potential Redevelopment / Areas of Infill Areas in need of redevelopment /or significant improvements to aesthetics or attractiveness which include a significant amount of vacant sites, vacant buildings/houses environmentally contaminated commercial/industrial sites. Redevelopment efforts will be most prevalent within the existing traditional neighborhoods that surround downtowns. In many communities, the condition of these properties varies from pristine to dilapidated. However, assistance support for the renovation of these historic structures can be found at both the state national level. Many communities offer tax freezes, job tax credits, other incentives to encourage redevelopment within targeted areas. River Valley RWP

49 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) In addition to commercial areas, older homes that are in disrepair could be restored or replaced with compatible new construction that would maintain the historic character of the many cities within the region. There are many infill development /or redevelopment opportunities throughout the River Valley Region. However, due to the rural nature of the region, most of these will occur in the developed cities. While most re-development will occur in city centers downtowns, as you move away from the city core, potential for infill development increases. Due to more sprawling more widespread development patterns, developers will have the opportunity to build within these areas to increase density create more pedestrian-oriented development. These areas could include strip commercial development, as well as housing infill opportunities in newer subdivisions, or as older multi-family structures need renovation or replacement. Other areas of potential infill development include brownfield sites located throughout the region. In general terms, brownfields are aboned or underused industrial or commercial River Valley RWP

50 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) properties where redevelopment is complicated by actual or perceived environmental contamination. Some examples of brownfields include aboned gas stations unused former manufacturing plants. Redeveloping brownfields can restore property to productive use, increase property values, improve public health the environment, utilize existing public infrastructure, increase job opportunities local tax revenues. Throughout the River Valley region, there are a number of potential brownfields, mostly from aboned gas stations. As these properties are often in prime locations, they provide excellent cidates for highly visible redevelopment opportunities within the community. UPDATE: The region s largest example of redevelopment for 2014 was Darton State College in Cordele. A three-story, 60,000 square foot building was constructed on half of one of the deteriorated city blocks in Cordele s commercial historic downtown. The ribbon-cutting ceremony in January, 2015, capped-off the previous year of construction facilitated by the cooperative efforts of both the city county. Columbus is the region s other best example of redevelopment/infill with numerous economic spin-offs anchored by one of the state s major recreational venues. The economic dynamic success of Whitewater Columbus has attracted numerous commercial enterprises, retail service, in Columbus large historic commercial area. This activity is hastening Columbus State University s development of an exped off-campus footprint in this area. On a smaller scale two downtown buildings in Richl have been converted for use to make store a single estate Georgia rum, Richl Rum, an old school building in the Omaha community has been converted into a brewery. Area of Development Areas where rapid development or changes of l uses are likely to occur, especially where the pace of development has /or may outpace the availability of community facilities services, including transportation. While the River Valley region is predominately rural, there are several counties that have recently experienced significant growth development, are expected to continue to grow in the near future. For example, both Dooly Crisp County have seen growth related to the business expansion along I-75. The in-l port in Cordele will result in tremendous economic development opportunities for that portion of the region, as a result, will attract new business residents to the area. On the western side of the region, the city of Columbus its neighboring jurisdictions have seen growth related to the, as troops from the Armor School at River Valley RWP

51 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) Fort Knox are relocated to Fort Benning. The preparations made for the BRAC process have resulted in new jobs an estimated 23,000 or more new residents in the Columbus area. UPDATE: In general, areas identified as most likely to attract development, concentrated along the jurisdictional boundaries of towns cities, saw little if any activity during The recession that began in 2007/2008 crept along making it even more difficult for an economically disadvantaged region to develop positive momentum. Development of the Americus Motorsports site has been delayed, while some improvements have been made at the inl port site in Cordele the adjoining, unincorporated area may still be a few years developing. In both cases; however, the scale complexity of development had a greater affect on the slow rate of progress than the weak economy. Virtually all such areas are located on the periphery of incorporated areas. Construction was underway on a Planned Unit Development off of Veteran s Parkway Williams Road in the City of Columbus in 2014 in early 2015 sewer is being extended into Harris County in order to serve another Planned Unit Development that will be located in Harris County off HWY 315. Partnerships between neighboring communities Fort Benning are essential to create efficiencies through economies of scale to enhance the regional environment. Quality Community Objectives Descriptions Traditional Neighborhoods Traditional neighborhoods typically follow development patterns common to the time period prior to World War II, which offers residents a variety of housing options. These neighborhoods are often located within easy walking distance of a community s downtown, town center, or other commercial areas, providing easy access to commercial recreational activities. The resulting community is one that is pedestrian friendly allows residents to easily work live within a compact environment. River Valley RWP

52 2014 Update of Areas Requiring Special Attention (2015-) Infill Development Infill development is an effective revitalization strategy for communities to maximize underutilized buildings, vacant lots, brownfield/greyfield sites within the community. This strategy takes advantage of existing infrastructure community facilities such as streets, sewer, other utilities. Sense of Place A community s sense of place is created by its unique combination of natural setting, architecture, history, cultural resources. Local governments can work to ensure that the character sense of place of their community are preserved though a variety of different channels, such as the creation of historic districts, the development of design guidelines, open space preservation ordinances. Transportation Alternatives Transportation alternatives refer to a variety of means of traveling within a community, as opposed to solely using automobiles. These alternatives include walking; cycling; using buses, trains or River Valley RWP