Outstanding Plan

Imagine Jamestown Mall Market Analysis and Feasibility Study

For the first time in over a decade, there is strong community support for the direction and future of the Jamestown Mall site because of the “Imagine Jamestown Mall” planning process. The vacant 140-acre Jamestown Mall site has been a blight and concern in north St. Louis County for many years.

The St. Louis County Port Authority conducted a Market Analysis and Feasibility Study in 2022 (the “Imagine Jamestown Mall” planning process) that combined a comprehensive market analysis of a wide range of realistic redevelopment scenarios with extensive community engagement. Six land use scenarios were initially developed for analysis. Based on the initial market analysis and input from the community, three land use scenarios were chosen for the final analysis.

Of the three final scenarios evaluated by the consulting team, the Advisory Committee, and the public, the Ag-Food Technology Campus scenario emerged as the preferred direction for the Jamestown Mall site. Positioning the Jamestown Mall site as part of the St. Louis region's AgTech ecosystem goes beyond individual jobs on the site. Along with other upcoming North St. Louis County investments like the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, the Jamestown Ag-Food Technology Campus will elevate the perception and brand of North County.

The final plan recommendations garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community, particularly those adjacent to the Jamestown Mall site. Nearly 90% of surveyed residents living adjacent to the site expressed their approval, rating the final recommendations as either "Very Favorable" or "Favorable." This level of acceptance marks a significant shift from a few years ago when a logistics center proposal faced strong criticism from neighborhood residents.

KC Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2032

The Kansas City Parks and Recreation Master Plan stands out for its innovative approach and use of advanced technology. Under Landworks Studio's leadership, the project utilized Social Pinpoint for interactive mapping and real-time crowdsourced SWOT analysis. This dynamic method enabled us to gather extensive community feedback and tailor the plan to meet the city's evolving needs.

The plan is structured around four strategic pillars: Social Equity, Health & Wellness, Conservation, and Organizational Stability. This comprehensive framework not only addresses a wide range of community needs but also introduces new concepts in park planning. The integration of these innovative strategies demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that sets a new standards in urban planning.

The engagement strategy for this project was robust and inclusive. We organized multiple open house events accessible via public transit, conducted statistically valid surveys of both staff and residents, and offered online feedback opportunities. This multi-faceted approach ensured diverse public participation and allowed us to capture a broad spectrum of opinions.

Special effort was made to engage historically excluded groups, ensuring that the plan reflects a wide range of community voices. The successful public engagement resulted in high levels of support and demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusive planning practices. By involving stakeholders throughout the process, we achieved broad-based endorsement and increased public awareness of the planning process.

Employees at Landworks Studio played a pivotal role in shaping the Master Plan. Their expertise in employing advanced tools and methodologies ensured a data-driven, community-focused process. The project underscores the impact of skilled planners in creating effective solutions and enhancing public understanding of urban planning.

The teams’ involvement was crucial in defining the plan’s direction and addressing community needs. Their work not only contributed to the plan’s success but also highlighted the value of planning professionals in achieving meaningful outcomes and fostering public awareness.

Since its adoption, the Kansas City Parks and Recreation Master Plan has made significant strides. Key initiatives, such as the development of new walking trails, improved restrooms, and enhanced nature preserves, have been prioritized and are currently in progress. The plan’s emphasis on social equity has directed investments to underserved areas, promoting community support and effective implementation.

The plan’s impact is already evident in the improved recreational facilities and positive community feedback. By addressing critical needs and providing lasting value, the Master Plan exemplifies successful planning and outreach. The ongoing implementation efforts demonstrate the plan’s effectiveness and its potential for long-term benefits.