FLORIDA PLANNING A Publication of the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association
Spring 2017
www.floridaplanning.org
City of Alachua:
How to Use Your Community Redevelopment Agency for Economic Development in a Rural Community By Adam Hall, AICP Located in northern Alachua County, the City of Alachua (pop. 9,892) has historically been a rural community whose economy was based primarily on agricultural production. Because of its proximity to both the University of Florida and I-75, the city has begun transitioning to sectors like biotechnology and logistics, but agriculture is still an important component. Similar to many small, rural communities, one of its greatest assets is its historic downtown. Located off of US Highway 441, it has been home to many local businesses over the years. Like most places, the Great Recession resulted in the closure of some of these businesses, continued on page 3
OTHER FEATURES
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
6
Florida’s Land Trusts
8
Rural Land Stewardship Area Lessons Learned
9
Small Towns Have Networks Too
11
Creating Safe Routes to School in Rural Communities
12
13
Three Comp Plans APA Florida Garner National 2017 Conference Recognition
16 17
APA Ambassadors
2 Planners 1 Challenge
President’s Message - p. 3 Planner Q&A - p. 18 APA Florida Working for You - p. 19 Planners on the Move - p. 20 Consultants Directory - p. 21 Events - back page
The Florida Chapter of APA provides statewide leadership in the development of sustainable communities by advocating excellence in planning, providing professional development for its members, and working to protect and enhance the natural and built environments.