Roanoke, Virginia – Roanoke city officials are seeking community engagement in the development of the Evans Spring area. LPDA Landscape Architecture Land Planning of Charlottesville has been hired to examine the land and determine how it can be developed. Along with this group, Community Engagement and Charrette Associates have been brought in to engage the community in the planning process. The city council and the city staff have been very clear that community engagement is the most important part of this plan going forward.
Chuck D’Aprix, the Principal of the group, has been responsible for handing out over 3,000 surveys throughout the city, as well as talking to various neighborhoods near the site. D’Aprix and other consultants held their first public meeting for neighbors to come and share their thoughts.
Residents are excited about the potential of the area but are also concerned about being displaced. Some residents have expressed concern about developing a beautiful piece of area. However, Chuck D’Aprix appreciates hearing all types of input. Hearing the many voices and opinions of people living in or around the area can help his team and the city come up with a game plan.
Roanoke city officials want to ensure that the community has a say in what is developed in the Evans Spring area. The city has wanted to develop the area for years, but nothing much has changed over time. The city hopes that this development project will help bring about change. The city plans to continue with community meetings over the next couple of months, and the public can also fill out a survey to give their thoughts on what they want or do not want to see done.
