WHAT WE'RE WORKING ON RIGHT NOW

ALL TOGETHER ALTOONA

Altoona, PA Comprehensive Plan

HOW CAN A SMALL CITY ON THE REBOUND BOOST ITS MOMENTUM?

SUMMARY

A lot has happened since Altoona’s last comprehensive plan was adopted in 2012—the same year the City was designated “financially distressed” by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Its financial outlook has improved. High-quality housing opportunities have been added to the city’s landscape. There are more glimmers of activity downtown, including new restaurants and shopping. And, the city finds itself in the heart of a region increasingly known for—and now taking advantage of—its natural and recreational assets.

With an eye on boosting this momentum and not losing ground, the City of Altoona hired czb to facilitate a community-based process that will deliver an implementable comprehensive plan by spring 2024.

VISIT AllTogetherAltoona.org

Engaging the community in the conversation

czb is using a series of methods to engage the community and to help project representatives engage with their neighbors, friends, and colleagues. During July 2023, three open house events, an online survey, small group discussions hosted by steering committee members, and engagements with project stakeholders provided vital information on the community’s perceived trajectory, its utmost priorities, and the values and attitudes that influence local decision-making.

This mixed-method approach to engagement is a critical driver of czb’s comprehensive planning process and ensures that the final product resonates and has people ready to champion its implementation.