Amazing Historic Arcola, Illinois: A Downtown Enhancement Plan

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Historic Downtown Introduction p. 4 Existing Conditions Analysis p. 8 Community Character p. 14 Implementation Plan p. 20

a Downtown Enhancement Plan

Action Plan P. 24

Created March 2014 Adopted by City Council ________________

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Executive Summary March 2014 Amazing Arcola has a unique downtown which has attracted visitors and tourists for years. Though with the passage of time, and changes in how people shop and do business, the City recognized the need to make changes which would adjust to these times. Currently no policies or guidelines exist with the purpose of enhancing or moving the downtown forward in a way which will also celebrate the past.

This document seeks to put policies and guidelines in place which will bring out the best of Arcola’s Downtown and which will make the changes necessary to make it an even better place to shop and conduct business.

After the Introduction, the Downtown Enhancement Plan is divided into 3 Chapters. The first, the Existing Conditions Chapter, gathered existing data from public meetings, special interest groups, and surveys. This data provided the base from which the downtown currently stands and started the vision to which the Downtown aspires.

The Community Character Chapter created objectives, policies and programs to identify characteristics and qualities that make downtown Arcola unique and that are important to the downtown’s heritage and quality of life.

The Implementation Chapter provided both short and long-term recommendations for the redevelopment of private and public properties with the goal of creating a more vibrant and sustainable downtown. This section contained a compilation of the various actions recommended throughout the plan to translate the vision to reality.

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The final Chapter, the Action Plan, gives a specific time line, funding source and responsible party for completing each action item identfied in the Implementation Chapter. The crucial chapter takes the plan off the shelf and puts it on move to making real changes in Downtown Arcola.

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Downtown Arcola

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Introduction Historic Arcola In the mid 1800s, a group of pioneers established a settlement along the Okaw River and named it Bagdad. Here, they constructed a brickyard, mill, general store and blacksmith shop.

When the railroad was built just eat of Bagdad, Illinois Central Railroad plotted a new city and called it Okaw. However, an Okaw already existed in Illinois, so local citizen James Kearney, proposed the name Arcola. Business boomed in Arcola, and in the winter of 1856 the residents of Bagdad loaded the entire town, buildings and all, on wooden sleds and moved the whole settlement of Bagdad to Arcola.

In 1860, the Presbyterians built the first church in Arcola, a singlestory wooden structure located on the same lot as the current church. Five years later in 1865, The Arcola Herald, Arcola’s first newspaper, was established by John Gruelle. At about the same time, a local gentleman named Col. Cofer experimented by planting 20 acres of broom corn on his land. The crop did so well that the popularity of broom corn took off. Soon after, nearly half of the broom corn grown in the United States came from the Arcola area putting it on the map making it the “Broom corn Capital of the World”. During the 1950s, a tariff was put on imported brooms which saved the American broom industry from cheaper ones made overseas. Arcola has celebrated the broom corn with a festival since 1970.

long artwork strives to say something about the artist’s life and the era during which he lived. Then, in 2012 over 130 artists from across the United States as well as Canada, New Zealand, Scotland and Australia descended upon Arcola leaving behind 15 historic murals throughout the town. Known as the Walldogs, the loose affiliation of sign painters, graphic artists and other talented individuals left a lasting impression upon the City.

Intent of the Plan The Arcola Downtown Enhancement Plan is intended to address current issues and improve and protect the appearance, value, and function of properties in the downtown area, especially including those commercial and civic uses. This comprehensive approach to revitalization planning considers the physical, economic, social and political dimensions of a downtown. In all the plan strives to identify issues and opportunities of the downtown, to frame the community character, analyze existing conditions, and give action and implementation steps to address any negative conditions.

This planning document is intended to be a “living guide” for the future overall development of Historic Downtown Arcola. It serves to meet the following objectives: Objective 1: Identify and analyze the issues and opportunities specific to downtown Arcola.

Perhaps the most famous Arcola resident is Johnny Gruelle, born in Arcola in 1882. Gruelle is best known for his beloved children’s stories of Raggedy Ann.

Objective 2: Identify policies and programs which will work to enhance the characteristics and qualities that make downtown Arcola unique and that are important to the downtown’s heritage and quality of life.

In more recent history, the world’s one and only Hippie Memorial was built in 1992. Created by the late Bob Moomaw, the 62 feet-

Objective 3: Identify and analyze existing conditions of downtown Arcola.

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Objective 4: Create and implementation plan which addresses the policies and programs in a way that allows downtown Arcola to achieve the goals of the plan.

Guiding Principles Urban communities are complex, made up of many interrelated space. The spaces within which we live our lives are formed and changed over time by the interplay of economic, environmental and social forces. Decisions are made each day that impact the quality and function of these spaces, sometime improving our live and sometimes making it more difficult to meet our needs. In a sustainable community economic prosperity finds balance with environmental protection and quality of life considerations, and this balance is maintained over time. In a sustainable community, businesses thrive and people are out in public throughout the day and through the year, working, socializing and recreating. It is with these principles in mind, this Plan is created.

Public Participation Public participation is essential to any good plan and Arcola has ensured a quality plan by involving stakeholders from the beginning. Because this downtown plan was done in conjunction with the Arcola Comprehensive Plan, public participation was strong. This facilitated involvement engaged input, feedback and discussion from downtown property owners, business owners, local developers, and downtown residents. The empowerment derived from the citizens of Arcola ensured this plan was tailored specifically for Arcola by Arcola. This plan was discussed and developed over three Public Meetings and all were traditionally noticed as such.

Project Milestones June 2013

Downtown Merchant Survey

October 2013

Public Meeting #1 Assets and Liabilities

January 2014

Public Meeting #2 Draft Plan Review

March 2014

Steering Committee Draft Plan Review

May 2014

Plan Adoption by City Council Downtown Arcola

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Introduction Downtown Planning Area

Church Str eet

Pine Street

t Locust Stre e

Water Stre et

Oak Street

State Route 45

Walnut Str ee

t

Jefferson S treet

Main Stree

t

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Existing Conditions A crucial early step toward establishing a vision and promoting redevelopment in downtown Arcola is analyzing the existing environment. What assets currently exist and are they being utilized to their full potential? What are the current shortcomings and how are they hindering redevelopment? This plan seeks to answer these questions.

Past Planning Efforts No previous downtown plans have been officially adopted by the City of Arcola. However, many groups have existed and do exist with the best interest of Downtown Arcola in mind. The City of Arcola recognized the need for a downtown strategy as the passage of time and changes in consumer habits, transportation patterns, and economic conditions have put stress on the future of the Downtown.

Assets and Liabilities On October 15, 2013, residents and business owners/leasers took part in an exercise to gather their opinions of the downtown’s current conditions. The information gathered was divided into five categories: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Parking & Traffic Sidewalk Amenities Existing Businesses & Uses Events & Happenings Downtown Character & Niche

For each of these categories Assets and Liabilities were discussed in regards to Downtown Arcola. The following is a summary of those results:

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Parking & Traffic The participants felt that downtown provided ample parking for both businesses and residents. They also felt that the brick streets were a huge asset to the downtown which provided a beautiful and historical aesthetic. However, they felt the brick streets could be better maintained in regards to repairs and updates. It was also noted that the brick streets do ice over in inclement weather more so than asphalt or concrete.

There are currently no time limits for parking spaces and some do take advantage of parking spaces throughout the work day.

Lastly, participants found some visibility issues due to parking and landscaping at several downtown intersections.

Sidewalk Amenities Among the assets in Downtown Arcola, the participants felt the sidewalks were among the top. The sidewalks have adequate and aesthetically pleasing lighting, there is ample pedestrian space, the sidewalks and crosswalks appear to be ADA compliant, and the pedestrian environment is safe and manageable.

As for liabilities, the participants felt that some of the pedestrian amenities were missing. They desired more trash receptacles near memorials and tourist attractions. They also stated there was a lack of resting areas for patrons and citizens to sit and enjoy the surrounding environment. While they did appreciate the existing landscaping, the participants did cite a current lack of maintenance of that landscaping.

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Existing Businesses & Uses

Downtown Character & Niche

Participants felt that there was a nice mix of existing downtown businesses which included antiques, home decor, several restaurants and miscellaneous retail shops. However, they cited the need for a coffee chop, a successful used clothing store, a brewery, a wine shop, and an Amish business. They said there were ample amounts of empty storefront which need filled with these type businesses. Another liability of the Downtown is that many businesses are closed on Mondays and by 5:00pm, making it difficult for working individuals to shop downtown.

Participants were asked to use a word or phrase which described their Downtown today. This was the final list:

Events & Happenings The most celebrated event is the annual Broom corn Festival which occurs the weekend after Labor Day. This event draws in crowds from all over Illinois and beyond. In addition to this festival, Arcola also hosts two annual Antique Shows, many Auctions, tours of the murals, car shows, and events at Rockome Gardens. All of which draw in tourists and citizens year round.

On the downside, participants cited a lack of retails sales captured during the car shows and other similar events. They also felt that there was a need for a marketing and advertising plan to help promote events throughout the community and surrounding markets. Advertising through wayfinding signage is also desired.

For example, to light the murals at night and add explanatory plaques would allow tourists to partake 24/7, not just when there was daylight and a brochure was available. They also feel the digital world could be capitalized on with smartphones, apps and QR codes having endless possibilities. Lastly, they would like to see a Farmer’s Market become a staple in the Downtown.

• • • • • • • •

Quaint Historic Tourist Destination Architecture -- Including several Mesker buildings Murals Amish area Shopping - Diversity A Central Destination for the Prairie

Vision The participants also were asked to use a word or phrase to describe Arcola in the future. These words were put together to form a Vision Statement for the Downtown.

Vision Statement Historic Downtown Arcola is a quaint business community where residents and tourists enjoy the charm of Arcola through a unique variety of opportunities housed under the beauty of architecture. The local culture celebrates a long, diverse heritage which is visible throughout the friendly community.

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Existing Conditions Downtown Business Survey In June 2013, the City of Arcola walked around Downtown and distributed surveys to downtown property owners and tenants to help gather additional opinions regarding improvements to the downtown. Sixteen surveys were completed and returned.

Results

Q1

The participants were asked to list five words which they would use describe Downtown Arcola to someone who has never visited. The graphic below visually represents the responses.

Q3

If participants could bring one thing to the downtown which would have a long-lasting impact, they responded almost unanimously with a Bakery/Candy/Coffee/Ice Cream Shop. Others pointed toward more retail in general while some responded with some sort of historic museum.

Q4

The participants were asked if they could reinforce one strength of Arcola’s Downtown, what would that be. Most responded with continuing and strengthening the historic look through the buildings and streets. They would also like to add more small businesses aiding in the variety of retail.

Q5 HISTORIC quaint charming

How would you rate the condition of the non-brick streets in Downtown Arcola?

friendlymurals interestinglovely ��lc���n�

unique RaggedyAnn worthwhile

small town home townPRIDE antiques old fashion variety primitive picturesquewalkable brick streets unusual pretty country

Q2

peaceful

The participants were asked to name one thing which they like would change or fix which would have a long-lasting impact on the downtown. Many answers focused on improving and maintaining the brick streets and historic brick structures. Others pointed to improving and coordinating tourism efforts.

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Poor

Fair

Good

Excellent 0.0%

10.0%

20.0%

30.0%

40.0%

50.0%

60.0%

70.0%

A majority of participants rated the condition of the non-brick streets as “Fair” and gave comments indicating a number of potholes.

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Q6

How would you rate the condition of the brick streets in Downtown Arcola?

Poor

Fair

Good

Excellent 0.0%

10.0%

20.0%

30.0%

40.0%

50.0%

60.0%

70.0%

A majority of participants rated the condition of the brick streets as “Fair” and gave comments indicating the need to keep and maintain the streets as they were a huge asset to the aesthetics and character of the Downtown.

Q7

How would you rate the condition of the sidewalks in Downtown Arcola?

Poor

Fair

Good

Excellent 0.0%

10.0%

20.0%

30.0%

40.0%

50.0%

60.0%

70.0%

A majority of participants rated the condition of the brick streets as “Fair” and gave comments indicating the need to keep and maintain the streets as they were a huge asset to the aesthetics and character of the Downtown.

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Existing Conditions Q8

Streetscape elements are an important, vital part of a downtown.

How would you rate the following elements in Arcola’s Historic Downtown?

Q9

Overall, how would you rate the condition of the buildings in Downtown Arcola?

Poor

Crosswalks Signage

Fair Streetlights

Excellent Good

Pedestrian Streetlights

Fair

Trees

Poor

Planter/Landscaped Areas

Excellent

Street Furniture/Benches

0.0% 0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

The participants rated the majority of streetscape elements as being in either “Excellent” or “Good” condition. Some areas of concern are for “Trees”, “Planter/Landscaped Areas”, and “Signage”. Maintenance of existing trees and landscaped areas may be the reasoning behind the lower rating. Directional signage into town was cited as needing to be more uniform and clearer.

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Good

5.0%

10.0%

15.0%

20.0%

25.0%

30.0%

35.0%

40.0%

The buildings as a whole came up rather unfavorably by the participants. Comments focused on many needing maintenance, rehabilitation, facade improvements and occupants. While buildings in good condition were praised, those lacking tended to outweigh. However, participants saw the need to invest in the dilapidated buildings as opposed to demolition.

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Q10

How would you rate parking in Downtown Arcola?

Poor

Fair Off-Street Parking On-Street Parking

Good

Excellent 0.0%

20.0%

40.0%

60.0%

80.0%

Arcola seems to have a good if not excellent parking arrangement.

However, comments from the participants indicated the need for enforcement of current parking regulations.

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Community Character Community Character This section contains objectives, policies and programs to identify characteristics and qualities that make downtown Arcola unique and that are important to the downtown’s heritage and quality of life.

Many factors can influence how citizens and visitors perceive the downtown of a community. These factors combine to create the urban fabric, which can be simplified into three categories: districts, streets, and individual parcels/buildings. Studying the existing urban context provides insights on what properties are assets to be enhanced versus those that are strong candidates for redevelopment in order to revitalize the downtown.

District

Walldogs Mural

A district is a cohesive area with an identifiable character. Building uses, types, and styles establishes this character. Historically, downtown districts have the city’s largest concentration of jobs.

In the early and mid-1900s, these were primarily retail/service jobs with some light industrial uses. However, over the last few decades a majority of these jobs have moved out of the downtown; industrial jobs have closed and retail/service jobs have moved onto highway corridors. Downtown Arcola has several vacant storefronts and several vacant lots where structures have been demolished. While many specialty stores and civic uses exist Downtown, a larger mix of uses is desired (i.e. residential, retail, office, civic and public). Disadvantages of this district are the lack of restaurant/bars and the extensive vacant ground- and upper-floors. A strength of the downtown is the public and civic buildings which provide strong anchors to the downtown as they employ many people and are destinations for other members of the community.

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Streets A street is a public thoroughfare, but it is also a public space that evokes a feeling. Arcola’s Downtown has one main thoroughfare, but it is much more than a place for vehicular traffic.

The streetscape is simply the landscape of the street - it can be barren or inviting. Common streetscape improvements include features that break up the harsh hardscape that exists within a downtown (e.g. trees, shrubs, benches, planters, crosswalks, fountains, and special light fixtures).

Strengths & Weaknesses Based on the current street conditions, the following statements can be made: Strengths • The sidewalks in the downtown are sufficiently wider than the standard 5-foot sidewalk and in good condition.

• The themed light fixtures add character and a historic feel.

• There are some planters and benches.

• The brick streets are desired and add character.

• There is ample parking.

Weaknesses • The bricks streets are in need of repair in places.

• There are not enough trash receptacles.

• More seating is needed throughout the downtown.

• More trees and landscaping are needed.

• Time enforcement is needed on parking spaces.

• Vision clearance is needed at a several intersections.

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Community Character Jefferson S treet

Example

Pine Street

Locust Stre et

Water Stre et

Oak Street

State Route 45

Walnut Str eet

Example

Church Str eet

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Building has good architectural features in tact.

Needs tuckpointed and good fitting replacement windows as well as ground floor rehabilitation.

Main Stree

Building t has been beautifully rehabilitated and Mesker detailing highlighted. Good use of awning and hanging signage.

Example

Example

Washingto n

Street

Building does not contribute to the historical significance of the downtown but is well maintained.

Contributing Structure & Good Condition Contributing Structure & Fair/Poor Condition Non-Contributing Structure & Good Condition Non-Contributing Structure & Fair/Poor Condition MSA Professional Services

Building does not contribute to the historical significance of the downtown and is in fair condition.

Architectural detailing could help it blend with the character of the downtown.

STUDY AREA Building Survey

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Buildings & Parcels Individual parcels/buildings can have a lasting impression on a person’s perception of an area, both positively and negatively.

For instance, a building could be so well-designed, unique, or historically significant that it is the first thing someone thinks of at the mention of the City of Arcola. Examples of a parcel/ building that can leave a negative impression would be a poorly designed or dead public space, a rundown/falling apart building, and a large vacant parcel.

Building Conditions The map on the previous page illustrates the condition of the downtown buildings based on a visual survey. This is not an evaluation of the structural integrity of the building, rather a subjective opinion of the condition based on the exterior appearance as viewed from the street.

The first and largest category of buildings are those classified as a Contributing Structure in Good Condition. Of approximately 30 buildings in the downtown, 17 or 57% fall within this category.

Contributing structures are those which have maintained their original, historic architectural features and details. These are buildings from a similar time period--late 1800s to early 1900s-have been well maintained or recently updated. They are the buildings which give downtown Arcola it’s unique character.

The second category of structures are those which have been classified as a Contributing Structure in Fair/Poor Condition.

There are buildings which were built during the same time period, 1890s-1920s, but whose condition is deteriorated or deteriorating. They still add to the historic character and charm of downtown Arcola, but could use some exterior updates such as window replacement, tuck pointing, new awnings, first floor renovations, and a new paint scheme. There are two buildings in

this category or 6.6%.

The third building category contains Non-Contributing Structure in Good Condition. These are buildings which were built well after 1920 and do not contribute to the historic character of the downtown. This category may also include buildings built during the time period, but have had so many alterations that they no longer contain many of the distinct architectural features. The buildings, however, are well maintained. There are 9 structures in this category or 30% of the building stock downtown.

The final category is the Non-Contributing Structure in Fair/ Poor Condition. These buildings to not add to the historic character of the downtown and are in a deteriorated/deteriorating condition. Of the 30 structures in the study area, only 2 or 6.6% fall within this category.

Overall, many of the buildings in Downtown Arcola are in good condition and still contain the original architectural character and charm. When making future changes to the buildings and sites within the downtown, the existing historical and architectural character should be considered and certain elements from those should be incorporated into the new or rehabilitated structure.

The recommended Design Standards on the following pages will help to give more direction.

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Community Character Downtown Design Standards A healthy downtown boasts of a unique mix of uses such as commercial, residential, public and related uses all within a pedestrian-friendly environment. It is expected that Arcola’s Downtown area will continue to include a mix of retail and service commercial, office, institutional, higher density residential, public uses and/or park and recreation uses.

Uses in the downtown are expected to be integrated both vertically and horizontally.

Land Use Strategies 1. Older buildings with architectural character and historical interest are important to the image of the entire community. The City encourages and supports adaptive reuse projects that retain and restore the historic character of the structure.

of the ground floor level, awnings or canopies over entrances, etc.

C) It is not necessary to replicate historic architectural styles with new buildings, but there should be some consistency of the scale and rhythm of design features, such as windows and floor heights, that help fit a new building within a block of older buildings D) Building materials should be consistent with other nearby buildings. Brick and stone are strongly encouraged in most parts of downtown, but other quality, long-lasting materials may be appropriate in some places.

Building Height: Multi-story buildings (2-3 floors) are strongly encouraged on all downtown sites.

2. Wayfinding signage to key downtown locations is critical, especially for visitors. The City will develop a signage system from primary downtown entry points to key locations, including City Hall, the public library, and the tourist attractions (antiques, murals, etc.).

Relationship to the Street: Buildings and sites should be designed to establish visual and physical connections between the public realm of the street and the private realm of the building.

Design Strategies The City encourages all new development in the downtown area to maintain the urban fabric and character.

A) In most cases there should be no setback from the sidewalk, though occasional partial setbacks to create usable space, as for an outdoor seating area, are acceptable.

Design Context and Architectural Character: New buildings should fit their context.

Consider the following techniques: A) The surrounding context, especially adjacent buildings, should always be documented and considered before design begins. City reviewers should require photos of this context during the review process.

B) Buildings should incorporate architectural elements that provide visual interest and human scale, such as differentiation MSA Professional Services

Consider the following techniques (see side bar on opposite page):

B) The front door should face the primary street.

C) There should be clear vision windows on the street facade.

Retail and service spaces should have large, clear windows that provide good visual connection between the building interior and the sidewalk.

Garages: Street-facing garages doors should be avoided whenever possible.

Parking: Front yard parking is not permitted. Side yard parking

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should be separated from the sidewalk by a low fence or landscape buffer to partially obscure views of parking while retaining visual connections to maintain personal safety.

Landscaping: In places where the building is not building at the front property line, hardscape improvements and native plants should be used to provide visual interest and a comfortable pedestrian environment.

Lighting: Exterior lights should be full-cut-off fixtures that are directed to the ground to minimize glare and light pollution, and especially to avoid light trespass to residential uses. Limited uplighting is acceptable for architectural accentuation, flag lighting, and to highlight key civic features (e.g. church steeples).

Above are examples of landscaped street edges where the building is set back from the street. In some instances, the set back area includes outdoor seating areas.

Signs: Signs should be pedestrian-scaled. Desired sign types include building-mounted, window, projecting, monument and awning.

Signs should not be excessive in height or square footage. (See side bar) Service Areas: Trash and recycling containers, street-level mechanical, rooftop mechanical, outdoor storage, and loading docks should be located or screened so that they are not visible from a public street. Screening should be compatible with building architecture and other site features.

Stormwater: Green roofs, permeable pavement and other stormwater management technologies should be utilized as feasible to filter pollutants and infiltrate or delay runoff.

Preferred pedestrian-scaled sign alternatives.

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Implementation The Downtown Enhancement Plan seeks to provide both short and long-term recommendations for the redevelopment of both private and public properties with the goal of creating a more vibrant and sustainable downtown. This section contains a compilation of the various actions recommended throughout the plan to translate this vision to reality. Each action is a designation of responsible parties, recommended time-frame for completion, and potential funding sources, in addition to, or in replace of, general tax revenues. Since many of the recommendations rely on coordination with the private market it is likely that the full breath of this Plan’s vision will take many years to achieve.

Parking & Traffic Action #1: Enforce On-Street Parking Regulations The City should enforce existing parking ordinances and ensure their enforcement. If problems with parking persist after enforcement, then a review of the ordinances should occur. An alternative option would be to investigate the option of an off street lot for employees and tenants of downtown.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola Time-frame: Ongoing Action #2: Maintain Brick Streets The existing brick streets have held up remarkably well throughout the downtown. However, the sections that do need repair should be repaired and not filled in with alternative materials (i.e. asphalt or concrete).

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola Time-frame: Ongoing Action #3: Increase Visibility at Intersections Intersections where visibility is compromised or diminished MSA Professional Services

should analyzed and addressed. Barriers to visibility should be removed. Where they cannot be removed, the on-street parking should be altered to allow for increased visibility.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola, Private Property Owners Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2016)

Sidewalk Amenities Action #4: Install Benches/Rest Areas in Downtown Benches are essential to the vitality of a downtown as they provide places to meet and rest. Benches are also an easy item to have sponsored by a variety of entities including the City, private businesses and non-profit organizations. Alternatives to benches would also be welcome. These could include seat-walls, picnic tables or functional art pieces.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola, Private Businesses, NonProfits, Chamber of Commerce, Local Artists, High School Students Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2015) Action #5: Enhance Landscaping Landscaping can frame and enhance the beauty of a downtown.

Arcola currently has planters but maintenance of the planters has been an issue. The City should create a planter adoption program which allows private businesses and/or non-profit organizations to adopt and maintain planters throughout the downtown year round.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola, Private Businesses, NonProfits, High School Agriculture Department, Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2015)

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Action #6: Adopt a Right of Way Ordinance The City should maintain a function and pleasing sidewalk environment by adopting and implementing a right of way ordinance which would regulate the form and function of sales and display within City owned and maintained sidewalks. The ordinance should limit the number of days for sidewalk sales, the location limits of the merchandise, and ensure a safe and clear walking path for pedestrians.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2015)

Existing Businesses & Uses Action #7: Reinvest in or Redevelop Sites There are several sites in the Downtown which have potential for redevelopment (or at least reinvestment), as they have low property values and/or poor building conditions. The City may supplement private financing through use of development incentives. This redevelopment should lead to filling the retail void cited by residents.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola, Private Developers Time-frame: Long-Term (2021+) Action #8: Extended Hours Program Most retail services are closed on Mondays and after 5:00pm during the week making it difficult for working individuals to shop downtown. Eating establishments are typically closed on Mondays and after 7:00pm. An extended hours program would encourage shop owners to extend business hours during events held downtown (e.g. Open late during an antique car show or outdoor concert).

Responsible Parties: Downtown Business Owners, Performers, Event Hosts Time-frame: Long-Term (2021+)

Walldogs Mural

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Implementation Events & Happenings Action #9: Install Wayfinding Signage Wayfinding is a good way to capitalize on tourism by allowing tourists to navigate the downtown with ease. By creating attractive signage that is color coded by destination type (e.g. antiques, restaurants, monuments, history, etc.), the downtown will become more user friendly and inviting for both residents and visitors.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola, Downtown Retailers, Marketers, Chamber of Commerce Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2015) Action #10: Organize More Events Unique to Downtown Live music, a Farmer’s Market, wine tastings, car shows, antique shows, holiday events, etc. were all mentioned as ways to bring residents and visitors downtown throughout the year. The idea of making some events more frequent, like live music or a farmer’s market, would help bring a steady stream of customers to the downtown adding to the vibrancy.

Action #11: Murals as Tourism Opportunity While much has been done to market Arcola’s unique murals, some ideas surfaced which would take the marketing to the next level. The murals should be dimly lit at night so as not to interrupt the quaint feel of downtown. Descriptive plaques should also be added to give context and the history behind each mural. Lastly, the murals should be geocoded and an application created so the murals’ stories can be told by the digital world.

Responsible Parties: Marking Team, Convention and Visitors Bureau Time-frame: Short-Term (2014-2015)

Responsible Parties: Everyone Time-frame: Mid-Term (2015-2019)

Hippie Memorial in Downtown Arcola MSA Professional Services

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Downtown Character/Niche Action #12: Continue to Support Downtown Marketing Plan Branding and marketing Downtown Arcola has gone a long way in continuing and increasing the success of the district. Many events occur in and around Arcola throughout the year and the Downtown should always work to capture dollars from these events. The marketing plan should not only address ways to market downtown during an event but year round and events specific to downtown. The plan should also work on a cohesive brand for the community which focuses on the character of the downtown. The continuation of “Amazing Arcola� is encouraged, and should be added upon to identify the uniqueness and niche of the downtown.

Responsible Parties: Downtown Retailers, Marketers, Event Holders, Chamber of Commerce Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2015) and Ongoing

Gazebo and Clock Tower

Action #13: Adopt Downtown Design Standards To continue to have an aesthetically pleasing and historic downtown, the City should adopt Design Standards which would ensure the character of the downtown is preserved and enhanced.

The guidelines suggested in the Community Character Chapter of this Plan would make a good starting point to setting standards for the form of buildings such as height, setback, materials, and architectural style.

Responsible Parties: City of Arcola Time-frame: Short Term (2014-2015)

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Action Plan Action Item

ShortTerm

MidTerm

2014-2015 2016-2020

LongTerm 2021+

#1 Enforce On-Street Parking Regulations

*** On Going ***

#2 Maintain Brick Streets

*** On Going ***

#3 Increase Visibility at Intersections #4 Install Benches/Rest Areas in Downtown #5 Enhance Landscaping #6 Adopt a Right of Way Ordinance #7 Reinvest in or Redevelop Sites #8 Extended Retail Hours Program #9 Install Wayfinding Signage #10 Organize a More Events Unique to Downtown #11 Murals as Tourism Opportunity #12 Continue to Support Downtown Marketing Plan #13 Adopt Downtown Design Standards MSA Professional Services

*** On Going ***

Completed