Comprehensive planning to begin soon: Surveys to be implemented

LAUREL — A Laurel Comprehensive Planning Program is being conducted under the direction of the Laurel PlanningCommission,with the assistance of Hanna:Keelan Associates, P.C.

The Planning Program will include an update of the Community’s current Comprehensive Plan, Zoning and Subdivision Regulations and a new Housing Study.

The Planning Program is funded in partnership by a Housing Study Grant provided by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority and matching funds from the City of Laurel.

The Comprehensive Plan will include a review and projection ofexistingand future land uses, public facilities and economic development opportunities in Laurel.

The Housing Study will include a review of important population, income and economic data, a housing stock analysis,strategiesforaffordable housing development, a “10 Year Housing Action Plan”, for both new and rehabilitated housing, and funding options for both future owner and rental housing developments.

Once completed, the Comprehensive Plan and Housing Study will provide direction for the future growth and development of Laurel, so as to attract both public and private investment in new and improved housing, business and industry .

TheLaurelPlanningProgram will include a comprehensive citizen participation program, consisting of a Community Planning “Open House” and both a “Citizen Survey” and a “Workforce Housing Needs Survey.”

Hanna:Keelan Associates, P.C. is a Nebraska based community planning and research consulting firm. The Firm works extensively in northeastern Nebraska preparing comprehensive plans, zoning regulations, housing studies, downtown and redevelopment plans and assisting communities in building both family and elderly housing.

Questions or comments regarding the City of Laurel Comprehensive Planning Program can be directed to Christine Rasmussen, City of Laurel Economic Development Coordinator, at 402-256-9614, or laureled@abbnebraska.com.