Plan-It Emphasizes Mixed-Use

Plan-It Allen! lets public see proposal
The steering committee has created a set of principles to guide development decisions for the county, as well as its cities and towns.
http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/16525499.htm

From the article:

"“The plan shows really strong need for mixed-use facilities,” Holocher said. “We can’t just build a subdivision in the middle of a cornfield.”
Holocher said Harrison Square, a $160 million mixed-use development proposed for downtown, of which a $30 million baseball stadium is the centerpiece, is a perfect example."

Check out the report for yourself:
Allen County/Fort Wayne Comprehensive Land Use & Development Plan (PDF)

The guiding principles are especially enlightening. Here is a sample of a few taken directly from the report:

"The visual character, historic features and natural assets inherent within the community should be retained and enhanced. "

"Neighborhoods, downtowns, commercial centers and towns should be compact, pedestrian friendly and mixed used; and districts of single use should be the exception. "

"Housing with a diversity of values and types should be encouraged to provide housing choices within neighborhoods and throughout the community. "

"Infill development and revitalization initiatives should be encouraged. "

"Civic, institutional and commercial activity should not be isolated in single-use districts, but be integrated into the neighborhood fabric. "

"The use of opens spaces, such as parks, plazas and squares, should be encouraged to promote gathering places within neighborhoods, downtowns, commercials centers and towns. "

"Many activities of daily living should occur within walking distance of most dwellings, allowing independence from driving as the only means of travel. "

So what does this all mean?
These principles show that not only does the City of Fort Wayne support mixed-use development, but so does Allen County. Reading these guiding principles is like reading a blueprint for Harrison Square. Mixed-use development is the goal of the future, a result of learning from the mistakes of single-use zoning of the past.

What do you think of the County's plan for the future?