Time for Results!
We have been hearing about “Beaverdale revitalization” for three years now, and all agree: it is time for results that you can see and touch and sit on! The question on the street, in the coffee shops and pubs is “When is something going to happen? When will we see something?” The current plan calls for the first phases of the streetscape to be under construction by next fall, but for that to happen a number of things have to happen first. The tentative goal is for the financing options to be in place Summer of 2006.
The most important element that must be in place before construction can begin is a financial commitment from Beaverdale residents, commercial property owners and business owners. In a survey of Beaverdale residents in March 2005, respondents made it clear that they would make annual investment if:
- They knew what they were getting
- They had input in the development
The final design process will deliver both of these. At this point we have a concept, a broad-brush design. A process that includes input from all the area’s stakeholders - going from conceptual design to construction documents - will garner the margin of support needed. If the final design process can take place this spring, it not only will position our existing project to start next fall, the activity alone will be a motivating factor speeding the City process!
The estimated cost of the final streetscape design for phase one is $80,000 to $120,000. Architects and landscape architects who live in Beaverdale have expressed interest in providing some of the design work on a volunteer or in-kind donation basis. We believe that could reduce the cost by as much as one third. The expected sources for funding the streetscape design include internal fund raising, Polk County, City of Des Moines, Main Street Iowa “Harkin Grant” and Prairie Meadows.
So far our efforts have focused on gathering community input and positioning ourselves for data-based decision making. Over 1000 neighborhood residents have been involved. While you can’t see the work that has been done, literally thousands of man-hours have been invested into the preliminary work that is required in a project of this scope.
Working with Main Street Iowa we have learned that we must focus on more than improving the physical appearance of the commercial district. We must work to:
- Help existing businesses help themselves become stronger and more profitable.
- Organize a sustainable leadership and volunteer base.
- Promote and market Beaverdale as a fun place to come for entertainment, dining and shopping.
Thirty-six months ago there were roughly 20 retail or commercial vacancies in the heart of Beaverdale. Today there are two or three. More than a dozen new businesses have opened their doors in Beaverdale, and there are more on the way.
A vital commercial district that is as unique as the homes that define Beaverdale will be pedestrian friendly: a neighborhood that welcomes walkers, bikers and runners. It will be a fun +street scene, a music scene, public art and a funky feel. It will be the heart of the neighborhood but not its only organ. With your continued support, we will soon be seeing the fruits of our labors.
