NEW ALBANY — It took almost two years, but officials now have a clear picture of what residents think Floyd County should look like in the next decade.
While commercial and residential growth is inevitable, residents want smart growth in order for Floyd County to maintain its rural character and appeal, according to the new plan recently approved by the Floyd County Commissioners. Better roads, more farmers and artisan markets and new parks are also high on the priority list of those who responded to surveys or attended one of the public meetings on Floyd County's 2017 comprehensive plan.
"I was amazed at the information we gathered," said Floyd County Commissioner John Schellenberger. "Don [Lopp] and his staff did a good job putting this together and it's like any plan, we will have to tweak it. It reflects community needs and residents expectations."
The last comprehensive plan was taken in 2004, and after a decade, it was time for an update, according to Lopp, director of operations/county planner. He said it's important to have a comprehensive plan "to guide public policy" when it comes to future development and redevelopment. Quality-of-life issues also were addressed.
Lopp put together a committee of 75 members of different backgrounds, who held a variety of meetings during the two-year span. There were also four workshops, which included expert speakers, and 2,500 surveys were mailed to residents looking for more input. Lopp said he received 614 responses through the mail. Information was gathered over the two-year span and reflected in the comprehensive plan.
Of those surveyed, 91 percent of county residents want to see more farmers and artisan markets, and 83 percent would like Floyd County to have more locally owned businesses, including restaurants. Coming in third in the survey was the importance of land-use policies and the promotion of conservation and sustainable development, at 82 percent, which was tied with improving public infrastructure. Fifth on the survey was to maintain Floyd County's rural character. Overall, 88 percent said they were satisfied living in Floyd County.
"This is a guiding document," Lopp said. "Our next step will be to review the subdivision control and zoning ordinances."
The last time the subdivision control ordinance was changed was in 2003, and the zoning ordinance in 2006.
"We would like to combine those two documents into one," he said.
The future of development and redevelopment is also being addressed. Lopp said there will be a need for more senior housing as a higher percentage of the population ages. In the next 15 years, 21 percent of Floyd County's population will be 65 years old or older. Eighty-percent surveyed said more housing options should be available for senior citizens. Lopp said Floyd County is older than other metro averages in the state.
He also said future conservation subdivision developments where homes and public green space are combined will be part of future growth to "create a true neighborhood." Residential development with minimum density of one dwelling unit per .85 acres should occur in areas outside the highest residential development areas, according to the new plan.
Redeveloping existing areas is also high on the priority list. With only so much room for businesses to locate and build, using existing buildings and infrastructure will be key in growing the business community. The same holds true for residential development.
"Are there vacant lots within existing neighborhoods?" Lopp said. "My hope is we will be able to work with the building community."
Growing local businesses and inspiring future business owners and entrepreneurs will be important as the county moves forward.
"We want to make sure they have the tools to be successful," he said.
The county intends to place more emphasis, too, on creating walking, running and bike trails. Of those surveyed, 71 percent of the residents would like to see more trails while 74 percent want to see more recreational and park activities.
"Ten years ago that was not as high on the priority list," Schellenberger said."People want more public green space."