Last night, the Urbandale City Council approved a master planning initiative to transform downtown Urbandale. Stemming from the Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan adopted last December, this plan aims to breathe new life into the downtown area, making it a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. This decision marks a significant step forward in implementing the Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan and the City Council’s strategic plan.
The Urbandale Downtown Master Plan aims to transform the downtown area into a vibrant destination that attracts investment in both commercial and residential buildings. It is designed to make Urbandale’s downtown a focal point for the community and a draw for visitors from across the metro area. Key aspects of the plan include enhancing the area’s accessibility and navigability for pedestrians and all modes of transportation.
This planning initiative is expected to finish by mid-2025, with input from downtown stakeholders and the wider community.
“Urbandale’s Downtown Master Plan is a pivotal project that will guide our efforts to revitalize the downtown area,” said A.J. Johnson, City Manager. “We’re building on the public and private investments where our community first had its start.”
The Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan identified downtown Urbandale, along with Douglas Avenue/Parkway and the Northpark and Plum Drive corridors, as focus areas requiring further study and strategic direction. The plan emphasizes three primary focus areas: land use and development opportunity sites, sense of place, and access and mobility.
“Stakeholders in the downtown Urbandale area are seeking forward momentum,” said Aaron DeJong, Economic Development Director. “Everyone is eager to see a transformation that will bring more businesses, housing, and amenities to the area. This master plan will outline how the City will assist in the effort.”
The Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan provides a broader context for this initiative. The plan sets the direction for the next decade and beyond, focusing on environmental stewardship, community health and wellness, and inclusivity. This Downtown Master Plan is a key step in realizing those goals and enhancing the quality of life for residents. For more information on the Forward Urbandale Comprehensive Plan, please visit https://www.urbandale.org/1218/Comprehensive-Plan.