Session C1 - City of Wilson: City Center Revitalization Comprehensive 2030 Plan
Roger Lentz, AICP, Chief Planning & Development Officer
Kimberly Van Dyk, Planning & Community Revitalization Director
Ellen Crain Høj, AICP, CZO, Senior Planner
The Wilson 2030 Comprehensive Plan process intentionally engaged a diverse group of community stakeholders and provided extensive opportunities for participation and involvement throughout the process.
The project had dual focus: a future growth strategy focused on efficient and sustainable development patterns to enhance economic opportunities and local quality of life, as well as a focus on the Center City, with close attention paid to design, preservation of community character, and appropriate redevelopment.
The implementation of this plan over the past 8 years has lead the community to some interesting places, including having art, design and technology central to the mission of revitalization. Wilson provides an interesting case study on how inclusive planning and out of the box creativity can drive private investment, community pride and redevelopment in a small rural city.
Session C2 - Aquatic Play in the Park: Smart Design Practice for Every Space
Kyle Rieger, CPO
Whether the park you are designing is preparing for its first splash pad, upgrading an existing facility or exploring new play solutions, this session provides a foundation for smart aquatic design in any space.
You know a well-designed aquatic space builds community, fosters healthy outdoor recreation and provides stimulating play experiences for park goers of all ages and abilities. But navigating the modern aquatic play environment can be a challenge. This session will equip participants with a roadmap to key design elements, from feature selection and inclusive play theory, to water management and operations. Participants will then learn how these considerations are applied and synthesized as part of a practical project design. This session will leave participants with a holistic understanding of how to turn any space into a thriving aquatic attraction for years to come.